Wilks Park Free Camping | North Wagga Wagga, NSW

Discover one of New South Wales’ most convenient and popular free camping spots at Wilks Park, nestled on the northern banks of the majestic Murrumbidgee River in North Wagga Wagga. This spacious, leafy reserve offers a fantastic opportunity for travellers in self-contained vehicles to rest and recharge without cost, just minutes from the heart of Australia’s largest inland city. Its prime location combines the tranquillity of a riverside setting with the convenience of nearby urban amenities, making it a favoured stopover for those exploring the Riverina region.

The campground itself is a large, relatively flat grassy area, providing ample space for caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs to find a comfortable spot. While the park can get busy, particularly during peak seasons and long weekends, its generous size means you can usually find a space. The surrounding gum trees offer welcome shade during the warmer months, creating a classic Australian bush atmosphere. The main drawcard is its proximity to the river, providing opportunities for fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. It’s important for campers to be mindful of the weather, as the park is situated on a floodplain and can be subject to closure during periods of heavy rain or when the river level is high. Always check local council alerts or signage before setting up. As a community-provided facility, campers are expected to be respectful, keep the area tidy by using the bins provided, and adhere to the posted length-of-stay limits to ensure the park remains available for everyone to enjoy. It represents the best of community spirit, offering a safe and welcoming environment for travellers on the road.

Campsite Details

• Location: Hampden Ave, North Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650. Located on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River.
• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained RVs, caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs. Not suitable for tents.
• Road Access: Sealed road access right to the park entrance.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt. Can become soft after rain.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted for self-contained vehicles.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 72 Hours (3 nights). Please check local signage for current restrictions.
• Facilities: Basic amenities are available.
• Picnic Tables: Yes.
• Potable Water: Yes, a tap is available. It’s recommended to boil water before drinking.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for major providers (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone).
• TV Reception: Generally good digital TV reception.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, please use them to keep the area clean.
• Open Fires: Not permitted. Use of personal cooking appliances is allowed, subject to fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers and restrict use to reasonable hours (e.g., 8 am – 8 pm).
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, large open area. Can accommodate 30+ vehicles.
• Essentials to Bring: Levelling blocks, insect repellent (especially in warmer months), and your own supplies.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
• Fishing: Yes, fishing in the Murrumbidgee River is a popular activity. A NSW fishing license is required.
• Short Walks: Pleasant walks are available along the riverbank and through the park.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Palm & Pawn Hotel (~2.5 km)
  • The Victoria Hotel (~2.8 km)
  • Romano’s Hotel (~3 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • The Oakroom Kitchen & Bar (~3 km)
  • Thaigga (Thai Restaurant) (~3.1 km)
  • Giuseppe’s Restaurant & Bar (Italian) (~3.5 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens (~5 km)
  • National Art Glass Gallery (~3 km)
  • Wagga Beach (~3.5 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • BIG4 Wagga Wagga Holiday Park (~3.5 km)
  • Wagga Wagga Tourist Park (~4 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Oura Beach Reserve (~20 km East)
  • Yarragourry Rest Area (~25 km West)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Wagga Wagga Showgrounds (~4 km)
  • Some local caravan parks may offer access for a small fee.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple stations within a 3 km radius in Wagga Wagga.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Onsite tap available. Also available at various parks and service stations in Wagga Wagga.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite at Wilks Park.
  • Additional facilities at Wagga Beach and Collins Park (~3 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Wagga Wagga

• Summer (December – February): Expect hot and generally dry conditions. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 32°C, with days frequently exceeding 35°C. Sun protection is essential.
• Autumn (March – May): Mild and pleasant weather with sunny days and cooler nights. Average temperatures range from 10°C to 24°C. A great time for outdoor activities.
• Winter (June – August): Cool to cold with frosty mornings. Average temperatures range from 3°C to 14°C. Rainfall is more common, so be prepared for damp conditions.
• Spring (September – November): Mild days with increasing warmth. A beautiful time of year as the region comes to life. Average temperatures range from 8°C to 22°C.