Willow Tree Recreation Ground Camping | Gateway to the Upper Hunter

Positioned perfectly on the New England Highway, the Willow Tree Recreation Ground offers a fantastic, low-cost camping option for travellers exploring the scenic route between the Hunter Valley and Tamworth. This welcoming community facility provides a spacious and straightforward stopover for self-contained caravans, RVs, and motorhomes. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Upper Hunter’, Willow Tree is a charming village set against the backdrop of the Great Dividing Range, and the recreation ground embodies its relaxed, country spirit. The large, open grassy areas ensure there is ample room for rigs of all sizes, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful night’s rest without feeling crowded.

The key appeal of camping here is the blend of rural tranquillity and town convenience. The grounds are equipped with essential amenities, including powered sites, toilets, showers, and water, making for a comfortable and practical stay. A short walk or drive from your campsite takes you into the heart of Willow Tree, a town renowned for its high-quality grain and beef production. This is reflected in the local dining, with the award-winning Willow Tree Inn offering a paddock-to-plate experience that attracts visitors from far and wide. The recreation ground serves as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding Liverpool Plains and the historic towns of Quirindi and Murrurundi, each offering their own unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re breaking a long drive, visiting the region’s agricultural landmarks, or simply soaking up the authentic country atmosphere, the Willow Tree Recreation Ground is a friendly and convenient choice.

Campground Details

Willow Tree Recreation Ground Camping – NSW Map

• Name: Willow Tree Recreation Ground
• Address: 84 Recreation Rd, Willow Tree NSW 2339
• Website: www.liverpoolplains.nsw.gov.au
• GPS Coordinates: -31.64426, 150.72032

• Location: On the eastern edge of the Willow Tree township, easily accessible from the New England Highway.
• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained caravans, RVs, motorhomes, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed road access to the entry of the grounds.
• Site Surface: Mostly grass, can be soft after rain.
• Camping Permitted: Yes.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Please check local signage; typically 48-72 hours.
• Number of Powered Sites: A number of powered sites are available.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Extensive unpowered areas.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: Yes, available on site.
• Potable Water: Yes, available.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra; may be variable for other carriers.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, toilet and shower facilities are available.
• Ullage (Dump Point): A public dump point is located nearby in Murrurundi or Quirindi.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, provided.
• Open Fires: Strictly prohibited. Check for local fire ban information.
• Generator Use: Permitted during considerate hours.

Activities & Important Information

• Essentials to Bring: Long power leads, water hoses, and levelling blocks.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must remain on a leash and be cleaned up after.
• Fishing: Limited local opportunities; check nearby rivers and dams.
• Short Walks: Enjoy a walk through the quiet streets of Willow Tree village.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Places to Eat

• Willow Tree Inn: A renowned country hotel with a hatted restaurant famous for its steaks, approx. 1 km.
• The Plains Pantry: A popular local cafe for coffee, breakfast, and lunch, approx. 1 km.
• Tourist Hotel, Quirindi: A classic pub with bistro meals in the nearby larger town, approx. 20 km.

Local Attractions

• Who’d A Thought It Lookout: Offers panoramic views over the Liverpool Plains from near Quirindi.
• Australian Railway Monument and Rail Journeys Museum: Located in Werris Creek, a must-see for rail enthusiasts.
• Rock of Ages, Murrurundi: A historic and scenic spot in the nearby town of Murrurundi.

Camping & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks: Commercial parks are available in Quirindi and Murrurundi.
• Next Free Camps: Check for designated rest areas along the New England Highway.
• Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Murrurundi and Quirindi.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Willow Tree township.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available at the recreation ground.
• Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available at the recreation ground and in the town park.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: Willow Tree has a temperate climate with distinct seasons.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days, with temperatures often in the low 30s (°C). Afternoon thunderstorms are possible.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights. A very pleasant time for travelling.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, especially overnight. Days are crisp and cool, while nights often bring heavy frosts and temperatures near or below freezing.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and sunny with pleasant temperatures, ideal for being outdoors.