The red mystic desert of Outback New South Wales is full of scenic views waiting to get explored. The seven national parks, World Heritage-listed wilderness and beaming birdlife, are just part of its charm. Enjoy stargazing in the middle of the desert, go on hikes, cycle around the picturesque parks and stay at the rural campgrounds. The Outback is home to the largest number of unique campgrounds that are both convenient and free!
- Thegoa Lagoon
- Four Mile Reserve
- Brewarrina Boat Ramp Barwon River
- May’s Bend
- Lake Pamamaroo
- Potch Gully
- Darling River Block Dam
- Pooncarie Camp
- Merbein Common
- Popiltah Lake Rest Area
- Cobar Old Reservoir
- Glenhope Camp
- Tilpa Weir
- MacCulloch’s Rest Area
- Louth Town Common
- Alex Trevallion Rotary Park
- Walgett Campground
- Toorale National Park
- Warrego Hotel Fords Bridge
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Thegoa Lagoon
Camp right on the water and stay close to town at the same time. What Thegoa Lagoon lacks in facilities it sure makes up for in great views, water activities, huge open area and peaceful atmosphere. Mostly shaded spots suitable for all vehicle sizes. Toilets are available 500 metres away at the Lock Weir daytime area.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Generators Allowed; Walking Tracks; Swimming; Fishing; Boat Ramp Nearby; TV Reception; Wildlife.
Time Limit: 72 Hours.
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Four Mile Reserve
A serene riverfront campground with plenty of facilities available for free. There’s enough space for larger vehicles and to stay private. Unbeatable quiet, clean and excellent stargazing location.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets and Showers.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Non-drinking Water; Open Fire Pits; Picnic Tables; Walking Tracks; Swimming; Fishing; Boat Ramp Nearby; Wildlife.
Time Limit: None.
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Brewarrina Boat Ramp Barwon River
The free camp along Barwon River in Brewarrina is a sweet escape from the crowd but still a walking distance to town. There are enough facilities for a pleasant stay and a ramp for those bringing their boat. Beware not to camp under the gum trees; limbs might fall off occasionally.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Non-drinking Water; Open Fire Pits; BBQ; Picnic Tables; Swimming; Fishing; Boat Ramp Nearby; Wildlife.
Time Limit: None.
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May’s Bend
Located only 15 minutes from Bourke, this camp lies right on Darling River and is subject to floodings. You can easily find a private spot. It’s ideal if you’re on the road with kids – they will love the open area for sure!
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Non-drinking Water; Generators Allowed; Open Fire Pits; Swimming; Fishing; TV Reception; Wildlife.
Time Limit: None.
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Lake Pamamaroo
A camper’s dream come true, this campground offers jawdropping scenery, lakeside spots and a calm atmosphere. Located on the shore of lake Pamamaroo, you can spend your days on your own private beach! It can get crowded on weekends.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Non-drinking Water; Generators Allowed; Open Fire Pits; Picnic Tables; Walking Tracks; Swimming; Fishing; Boat Ramp Nearby.
Time Limit: None.
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Potch Gully
One of the most memorable campgrounds you’ll visit on your Big Lap. It’s located in the former active mining town since opal was discovered here in the 1880s. Ideal for a short stay on your way to exploring the rest of White Cliffs.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 4WD.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Wildlife.
Time Limit: None.
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Darling River Block Dam
There are many camps on Darling River, but this one is the most secluded one of all. Suitable for those looking for privacy and are self-sufficient. There are limited facilities, so stock up on drinking water.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Generators Allowed; 4WD Tracks; Fishing; Wildlife.
Time Limit: None.
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Pooncarie Camp
Wonderful spot beside the river with limited amenities but close to town for anything you might need. Quiet, peaceful and a real hidden gem. You might even be the only ones there! Hot showers are available behind Pooncarie Hall.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Generators Allowed; Open Fire Pits; Walking Tracks; Swimming; Fishing; Boat Ramp Nearby; Wildlife.
Time Limit: None.
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Merbein Common
Peaceful campground located in a State Forest along the Murray River. Beautiful scenery, lots of space and perfect for kayaking and swimming. Beware of the blue-green algae in the water if you’re coming with your fur friends. Lots of wildlife in the river and around!
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Non-drinking Water; Picnic Tables; Walking Tracks; Swimming; Fishing; Boat Ramp Nearby; TV Reception;
Time Limit: None.
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Popiltah Lake Rest Area
Witness some of the most stunning sunsets in the Outback at Popiltah Lake. Stay at this rest area along Silver City Highway, accessible for vehicles coming from both directions.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Wheelchair Accessible; Non-drinking Water; Picnic Tables; Open Fire Pits.
Time Limit: None.
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Cobar Old Reservoir
The perfect setting for a couple of days of relaxation by the water. Very close to the town of Cobar where you can find everything you need from laundromat to delicious food. One of the nicest, cleanest free camps in the Outback surrounded by spectacular forest.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Generators Allowed; Walking Tracks; 4WD Tracks; Swimming; Fishing; Boat Ramp Nearby; TV Reception.
Time Limit: None.
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Glenhope Camp
A handy stop along Barrier Highway with little traffic noise. Trees surround the flat site, so you can score a shaded spot. It’s actually private property, but the owner welcomes campers to stop and recharge before continuing their journey. You can leave a donation in the box on site.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Generators Allowed; Open Fire Pits; Wildlife.
Time Limit: None.
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Tilpa Weir
Great camp with campsites on both sides of the flowing river. Lots of pelicans in the water and a great location to relax for a few days. It’s peaceful, spacious and never crowded.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Picnic Tables; Fishing.
Time Limit: None.
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MacCulloch’s Rest Area
Accessible for vehicles from both directions, this rest area provides excellent facilities for an overnight stay. Large area with lots of space to stretch your legs and let the kids play. It’s a combined car and truck stop.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Wheelchair Accessible; Generators Allowed; Open Fire Pits; BBQs; Picnic Tables; Playground.
Time Limit: 24 Hours.
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Louth Town Common
Good camp right along the river, opposite of Louth Park which offers more facilities, such as free toilets and hot showers. Covered in luscious green grass in spring but very dry in summer. Right across the bridge, you’ll find a local pub.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: None.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Non-drinking Water; Generators Allowed; Open Fire Pits; 4WD Tracks; Swimming; Fishing; Fuel Available; Wildlife.
Time Limit: None.
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Alex Trevallion Rotary Park
Spacious campground in Walgett with filtered tap water and a vast IGA nearby. It provides all the basic amenities you need and a relaxing zone with a pond, fountain and friendly ducks. Plenty of shaded spots and friendly locals around!
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Drinking Water; Wheelchair Accessible; BBQs; Picnic Tables; TV Reception; Dump Spot.
Time Limit: 48 Hours.
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Walgett Campground
A bush camp in Walgett right beside the river and under the gum trees. Nice secluded area with heaps of firewood and picturesque sunsets. A little out of town and ideal for those seeking a quiet spot.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Swimming; Open Fire Pits; TV Reception.
Time Limit: None.
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Toorale National Park
A fantastic calm spot on Darling River with limited amenities but jaw-dropping sunsets. The track to the camp is good in dry weather, but avoid it after heavy rainfalls. You can take lovely walks from the camp into the state forest or admire the abundance of birdlife.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: Yes, book at the council’s website or 1300 072 757. A $6 booking fee applies.
Other Amenities: Picnic Tables; Open Fire Pits; Wildlife.
Time Limit: 7 days per booking.
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Warrego Hotel Fords Bridge
This classic outback pub is welcoming campers to set up in the backyard. Power hookups are available, as well as hot showers at no added cost. Try your luck fishing in the nearby Warrego River. Make sure to drop inside the pub for a cold beer and a chat with the owner.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets and Showers.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: None.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Power Available; Pub.
Time Limit: None.
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