Riverside Camping 

When it comes to camping, there’s something undeniably magical about setting up your tent by the soothing melody of a river. New South Wales is blessed with an abundance of picturesque riverside campsites, each offering a unique blend of nature’s wonders and outdoor adventures. So, whether you’re a seasoned camper or it’s your first time under the canvas, these 10 riverside havens promise unforgettable experiences for all. 

So, grab your gear, pack your sense of adventure, and let’s explore!

1. ABERCROMBIE NATIONAL PARK

Nestled in the rugged beauty of the Southern Tablelands, Abercrombie National Park boasts pristine riverbanks perfect for a tranquil camping getaway. The Abercrombie River winds its way through the park, providing several designated riverside campsites. However, getting to the best of them will require a 4WD and a healthy dose of low range mountains to contend with. Trust us, it’s worth the effort! 

WHAT TO DO? 

– Explore the park’s extensive network of walking trails, offering glimpses of breathtaking waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. 

– Explore Licking Hole and discover an abandoned goldminers cottage

– Embrace the serenity of Abercrombie by indulging in some stargazing after sundown. Away from city lights, the night sky comes alive with a dazzling display of stars.

Silent Creek campground

The Beach

The Sink campground 

2. DARLING RIVER CAMPGROUND, KINCHEGA NP NSW

Flowing through the heart of Outback NSW, the Darling River is a lifeline amid the arid landscape. Camping along its banks offers a unique opportunity to experience the vastness and tranquillity of the Australian Outback and one of the best places to do that at the Darling River Campground in Kinchega National Park. A surreal place for birdwatching or wetting a line, if you want a true outback experience, this is it. 

WHAT TO DO

– Explore the Kinchega Woolshed

– Explore the Old Kinchega Homestead ruins 

– Take a leisurely paddle along the river

– Catching yabbies in a time-honoured art in these parts!

3. GEORGES JUNCTION

Tucked away in the Northern Rivers region, Georges Junction is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Situated at the confluence of the Mann and Clarence Rivers, this idyllic campsite offers the perfect blend of tranquillity and adventure.

Home of rugged mountains in the backdrop and silky-smooth river rocks, you’ll find it’s hard to take a bad photo here! 

WHAT TO DO

– Spend your days kayaking or canoeing along the pristine waters of the Clarence River. 

– Keep an eye out for platypuses, turtles, and a myriad of bird species inhabiting the riverbanks. 

– Explore local 4wd tracks 

4. BARRINGTON TOPS NATIONAL PARK 

Towering eucalypt forests, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams define the majestic beauty of Barrington Tops. Camping amidst this World Heritage-listed wilderness promises an unforgettable outdoor experience. With several riverside campsites, you really are spoilt for choice, however its Mann River campground and Gloucester River campground that receive the most praise. Both sites offer premium shady campsites, crystal clear water and plenty of room to relax.

Don’t forget to lace up your hiking boots and embark on one of the park’s scenic walking trails, such as the iconic Antarctic Beech Forest Walk. Cool off with a refreshing dip in the pristine waters of the Williams River or set out on a trout fishing adventure.

WHAT TO DO

– Explore a myriad of walking trails including Sharpes Creek Walking Track, and Gloucester River Walking Track. 

– Watch for wildlife such as red-necked pademelons, brush turkeys, and lyrebirds.

– Tommys Rock Lookout

5. THE BRIDEL TRACK, HILL END 

For those seeking a true bush camping experience, the Macquarie River on the Bridle Track delivers in spades. A truly historic area, the Bridle Track was once a bustling thoroughfare during the gold rush era. It linked Bathurst to Hill End for those daring enough to attempt with a horse and cart and provided ample opportunity for gold mining in the process. These days it’s a place to relax and unwind, cast a line into the Macquarie River in search of golden perch and Murray cod, or try your hand at gold panning.

WHAT TO DO

– Explore the historic town of Hill End 

– Fishing for the mighty Murray Cod 

– Explore by 4X4

6. PLATAPUS FLATS, NYMBOIDA RIVER

Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Nymboi-Binderay National Park, Platypus Flats offers a riverside retreat far from the hustle and bustle of city life. The tranquil waters of the Nymboida River provide a perfect playground for paddling enthusiasts with swimming, fishing, canoeing and white-water rafting being popular past times for the area. The riverbanks are lined with rainforest whilst adopting a surreal setting of rugged granite gorges thanks to the prestigious Dorrigo Plateau. Explore the park’s network of walking trails, offering glimpses of towering forests and cascading waterfalls. Thrill-seekers can tackle the exhilarating whitewater rapids on a guided rafting expedition.

WHAT TO DO

– Take a guided rafting or kayaking adventure 

– Spot unique wildlife including Platypus, tiger quolls, gliders and owls

– Daytrip to Ebor Falls and crystal shower falls

– Walk the Misty Creek Lookout, Lyrebird Link Track, New England Wilderness Walk

Australia has some truly spectacular waterways and more importantly, the campsites to match. So do yourself a favour and plan your next camping experience along one of Australia’s best riverside campsites!