The best farm glamping near Mudgee, New South Wales

On the banks of the Cudgegong River and surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Mudgee’s name originates from the Indigenous word Moothi, which means “nest in the hills,” an apt way of describing it. As well as its many wineries, the area produces honey, olives, and cheese while also providing a range of nature experiences for lovers of the outdoors. It’s an ideal getaway for an authentic bush break in Australia with day trip options and myriad overnight stays for campers, including holiday parks and glamping.

98% (751)

Top-rated campgrounds

On the banks of the Cudgegong River and surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Mudgee’s name originates from the Indigenous word Moothi, which means “nest in the hills,” an apt way of describing it. As well as its many wineries, the area produces honey, olives, and cheese while also providing a range of nature experiences for lovers of the outdoors. It’s an ideal getaway for an authentic bush break in Australia with day trip options and myriad overnight stays for campers, including holiday parks and glamping.

98% (751)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Dalli's Campground

94%

(480)

77km from Mudgee · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Capertee, NSW

Located in the beautiful Capertee Valley, approximately 3 hours north west of Sydney, we would love to welcome you to Dalli's Campground. Flat, shady camping areas, plenty of wildlife, particularly birds, suitable for bush walkers and nature lovers. Get some friends together, bring your dog (we are pet friendly), throw your tents and bedding in the car and come visit! Accessible for all types of vehicles, including caravans, motor homes, camper vans. Toilet (flushing) and hot shower facilities available. Full use of GAS BBQ & Gas Oven and Pizza oven(Must advise manager if you intend to use). Gas supplied. Camp kitchen area has servery with sink and hot water. Cutlery, crockery and saucepans provided. WIFI - available on request Campfires permitted in designated areas (subject to fire bans) and must be in supplied firepits or bring your own. Firewood can be brought onto site or purchased from the campground . Access to the orchard welcome (seasonal). Our campground is a great base to explore the Capertee Valley, including Garden of Stones, Turon and Capertee National Parks. Discover the famous Captertee Valley Bird Watching Trail. Only an hour away from historic Rylstone, Mudgee or Dunns' Swamp, and 20 mins to the old shale mines at Glen Davis.

2. Murrungundy South

100%

(31)

74km from Mudgee · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Dubbo, NSW

We run a sheep farm on our property located north east of Dubbo. This is the land of big sky country. The sunrises and sunsets are spectacular here along with starry nights, beside the campfire especially when the full moon arrives. It is nothing short of amazing as you marvel at the sights from the verandah of The Tiny Home or from your campsite. Not far from our property you’ll find the Goonoo CCA Zone 1 National Park. CCA Zone parks are Community Conservation Areas reserved as national parks. The greater Dubbo region offers many activities for tourists, adventure seekers and nature lovers. The Tiny House is fully self-contained with a fold out double bed and a little kitchenette featuring a fridge, cookware and utensils and a BBQ. The bathroom/laundry are separate. We also offer a campsite for additional family members or friends. You're welcome to go for a swim in the dam which is a short walk away, or take a stroll to the top of the rocky hill to see 360 degree views. Meet the locals (emus) or see the sheep being shorn if your booking coincides at the same time. Pets are by special request only.

3. Bellandre Park

98%

(43)

70km from Mudgee · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Molong, NSW

We are Marilyn and Peter, we own, live and run a mixed farming business from this beautiful land, located in the Central Tablelands NSW. The country varies between undulating and steep land and has 7 km of double frontage Bell River running through it. The river can range from rapidly flowing to the more usual steady flowing and is most often very clear. The river has numerous swimming spots, some with a rocky base, and some with sand. The winding river and the varying countryside is incredibly peaceful and beautiful and is a perfect retreat for those looking to disconnect and relax. The river has its origin near Orange and is also fed into by many springs. Weandre Creek runs in the backcountry and winds into the Bell River. Our comfortable Hut is situated on an elevated spot looking down on the river with a graduated road leading down. It has everything you need for a relaxing, recharging stay in nature. The Hut can accommodate up to 4 people, however, you also have the option for up to 6 additional guests to set up swags, tents, or a camper trailer nearby. There is space next to the Hut, or for those with a 4WD, there are some lovely camping sites down by the river. We also offer sites for those looking for a self-contained camping site, in a beautiful location. We love the solitude, the endless bush walks, swimming, and being immersed in nature. We are confident you will too. We also have a lovely art gallery on the property, and for a small fee and prior arrangement, you are welcome to come and take a look. From our farm, it is 60 km to Orange with all its wineries, food festivals, and many attractions. Wellington is 40 km and boasts the Wellington Caves. Dubbo is 90 km and is a big inland city and boasts the Western Plains Zoo. We are so glad to let you know we have a new (but intentionally rustic) structure which houses a shower powered by gas and solar with gravity fed water. Showers need to be short because water supply is limited. In a separate space is a gas BBQ and sink. This is pictured in our latest photos. This building also looks down on the Bell river which looks sensational at the moment due to all the rain.

4. BIG4 Mudgee Holiday Park

2km from Mudgee · 75 sites · RVs, Lodging · Mudgee, NSW

Welcome to BIG4 Mudgee Holiday Park Set on 15 acres of landscaped grounds, BIG4 Mudgee is conveniently located close to the center of town and all of the region's outstanding attractions. The Mudgee Region exudes country charm yet offers sophisticated food, wine, heritage, and year-round event experiences. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a central township boasting boutique shopping and exquisite dining options surrounded by beautiful landscapes and award-winning wineries.

5. The Stockyard Experience

99%

(49)

47km from Mudgee · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mumbil, NSW

Stockyard Farm is a working farm that was established in 1858. Our 4,000 acre undulating property is an area that lots of animals also call home such as kangaroos, deers, wombats, goannas, echidnas, goats, sheep and cattle. Looking for some fun activities during your stay. We are located 5 minutes from the Burrendong Arboretum, only 7 minutes from Lake Burrendong where you can try your hand at activiites such as fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking, canoeing and much more. If you book one of our bell tent sites you can select to get a free access card to Lake Burrendong which lets you enter the Park as many times as you like totally free. If you don't mind a little drive we are only 1/2 an hour from the iconic Wellington Caves, 1 hour from Dubbo and Orange where you can visit wonderful attractions such as the Dubbo Western Plains Zoo, Old Dubbo Gaol, Orange Ophir Gold Mine, 1.5 hours from beautiful Mudgee wineries and much much more. There are plenty of tourist activities which surround our beautiful property that you can visit, that is if you wish to leave the serenity of Stockyard.

6. Artisans Park

98%

(68)

57km from Mudgee · 3 sites · Lodging · Turondale, NSW

Artisans Park is a farm set on top of a mountain which is sometimes windy sometimes snowing and being a farm we have animals and spiders and everything that nature includes note we can not control the weather or nature, there are no local coffee shops, we are not connected to the electricity. This is a camping site and our stays are like camping all heating is wood hot water is gas and lights are solar, No TV no power points no fancy appliances. If you like camping and staying in something unique Artisans Park is the place for you, If you want a luxurious five star stay we are defiantly not the place our stays are basic and clean. 1949 London Bus, WW2 Army Tower, 1885 Trig Hut Artisans Park is located 45 minutes from Bathurst and is the closest city for food and fuel. We do not have local shops or fuel stations. The London bus is suitable for children as the upper deck houses the bedroom. The lower deck houses the kitchen and bathroom with a front deck complete with barbecue and amazing views. Relax and watch the kangaroos and eagles from your private deck. Summer swimming in the crystal clear river and winter camp fires where you can toast marshmallows. The lower level has a cooktop "no oven or fridge share fridge at entrance of park", outside gas BBQ and tables. You will need to bring your own drinking water. There is a toilet and shower downstairs. The top deck has two small single beds and one double, quilts and pillows however BYO linen sheets and towels. This bus has featured on many TV shows and is often featured in travel magazines, including on Better Homes and Gardens television in 2013 and in many magazines shoots. No pets please. once again no pets including dogs.

7. Athenry, Bush Camp Retreat

96%

(23)

11km from Mudgee · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mullamuddy, NSW

Then property is set 600 metres back from a quiet rural road, accessed via a gravel driveway. It is nestled at the foot of Mount Knowles, and includes over 300 acres of bushland in addition to approx 30 acres of formal gardens and mown paddocks, one of which has a pretty dam. All areas have expansive rural views. We offer a basic bush site for self-contained campers and a fully-contained caravan. At Bushman's Camp we welcome self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower, and drinking water. You must have your own amenities. Campsites are accessible for 2WDs and we welcoming camping vehicles. You may need to level your vehicle for a comfortable night’s sleep. There are a few options for camping. The land is undulating with flat spots, with open grassy areas peppered with gum trees. Other parts are more heavily wooded with gums and natives. Our caravan comes complete with water, electricity, toilet, 2 double beds, dining area and kitchen. The caravan can sleep 4 guests. Next to the caravan there is room for a further tent, van, trailer or motorhome if desired, for a $35 flat fee. Please add extra guests when booking. Outside the caravan, there is a beautiful sandstone ringed fire pit, BBQ, covered picnic tables, chairs, lighting and some firewood available. You will need to bring your own bed linen and towels. Campfires are permitted at all our listings when not in fireban season so bring your marshmallows! There are lovely views of the valleys and mountains beyond, and you’ll really enjoy the sunsets. No pets please.

8. Round Mountain - The Bridle Track

77km from Mudgee · 1 site · Lodging · Duramana, NSW

“A place you can go to find perspective.” Our beautiful 400 acre property is the perfect place to be off grid & get back to basics with our tent accomodation, luxury linen sheets on a king size bed await. Cook on the wood fire with the luxury of a drop loo & Engle fridge. We also offer package meals & guided cooking experiences. Why not try a bush walk on the beautiful yet challenging rugged mountains. Then return to a hot soak in the tub & snuggle by the fire. We also have swag or single bed options for extra sleeping spaces for kids at an additional cost. Swags are only suitable for 10yrs+ Please note that this is a working property that has all the risks of the outdoors in Australia. We hold full permission to cancel bookings if there is a fire or storm risk at anytime.

9. Odd Frog Lodges - Country Escape

25km from Mudgee · 3 sites · Lodging · Lue, NSW

Our lodges offer the perfect rustic retreat to escape the busy hustle and enjoy a relaxing weekend or mid-week getaway to the country. They are ideal for a romantic escape and are perfect for small or large groups. You can book one lodge or the entire farm. From Sydney: Located in the village of Lue, 3 ½ hours northwest of Sydney. Travel north and follow the signs to the Blue Mountains, then Lithgow. The turn-off for Mudgee is just past Lithgow. Continue for another hour, and after passing through Ilford, make a right-hand turn. Follow the signs to Rylstone, and approximately 5 minutes out of Rylstone, turn left onto Lue Road. Turn right at The Lue Hotel, and we are just past the hotel on your right—Peel Street. From Newcastle: Take the scenic Bylong Valley Way for a 4-hour drive via Denman and Sandy Hollow. At Sandy Hollow, turn towards Rylstone. As you approach Rylstone, turn right at the sign for Mudgee via Lue on Lue Road. Turn right at The Lue Hotel, and just past the hotel, make a right at Peel Street.

Camper favorites near Mudgee

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

BIG4 Mudgee Holiday Park

2km from Mudgee · 75 sites · RVs, Lodging · Mudgee, NSW

Welcome to BIG4 Mudgee Holiday Park Set on 15 acres of landscaped grounds, BIG4 Mudgee is conveniently located close to the center of town and all of the region's outstanding attractions. The Mudgee Region exudes country charm yet offers sophisticated food, wine, heritage, and year-round event experiences. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a central township boasting boutique shopping and exquisite dining options surrounded by beautiful landscapes and award-winning wineries.

The Stockyard Experience

99%

(49)

47km from Mudgee · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mumbil, NSW

Stockyard Farm is a working farm that was established in 1858. Our 4,000 acre undulating property is an area that lots of animals also call home such as kangaroos, deers, wombats, goannas, echidnas, goats, sheep and cattle. Looking for some fun activities during your stay. We are located 5 minutes from the Burrendong Arboretum, only 7 minutes from Lake Burrendong where you can try your hand at activiites such as fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking, canoeing and much more. If you book one of our bell tent sites you can select to get a free access card to Lake Burrendong which lets you enter the Park as many times as you like totally free. If you don't mind a little drive we are only 1/2 an hour from the iconic Wellington Caves, 1 hour from Dubbo and Orange where you can visit wonderful attractions such as the Dubbo Western Plains Zoo, Old Dubbo Gaol, Orange Ophir Gold Mine, 1.5 hours from beautiful Mudgee wineries and much much more. There are plenty of tourist activities which surround our beautiful property that you can visit, that is if you wish to leave the serenity of Stockyard.

Artisans Park

98%

(68)

57km from Mudgee · 3 sites · Lodging · Turondale, NSW

Artisans Park is a farm set on top of a mountain which is sometimes windy sometimes snowing and being a farm we have animals and spiders and everything that nature includes note we can not control the weather or nature, there are no local coffee shops, we are not connected to the electricity. This is a camping site and our stays are like camping all heating is wood hot water is gas and lights are solar, No TV no power points no fancy appliances. If you like camping and staying in something unique Artisans Park is the place for you, If you want a luxurious five star stay we are defiantly not the place our stays are basic and clean. 1949 London Bus, WW2 Army Tower, 1885 Trig Hut Artisans Park is located 45 minutes from Bathurst and is the closest city for food and fuel. We do not have local shops or fuel stations. The London bus is suitable for children as the upper deck houses the bedroom. The lower deck houses the kitchen and bathroom with a front deck complete with barbecue and amazing views. Relax and watch the kangaroos and eagles from your private deck. Summer swimming in the crystal clear river and winter camp fires where you can toast marshmallows. The lower level has a cooktop "no oven or fridge share fridge at entrance of park", outside gas BBQ and tables. You will need to bring your own drinking water. There is a toilet and shower downstairs. The top deck has two small single beds and one double, quilts and pillows however BYO linen sheets and towels. This bus has featured on many TV shows and is often featured in travel magazines, including on Better Homes and Gardens television in 2013 and in many magazines shoots. No pets please. once again no pets including dogs.

Athenry, Bush Camp Retreat

96%

(23)

11km from Mudgee · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mullamuddy, NSW

Then property is set 600 metres back from a quiet rural road, accessed via a gravel driveway. It is nestled at the foot of Mount Knowles, and includes over 300 acres of bushland in addition to approx 30 acres of formal gardens and mown paddocks, one of which has a pretty dam. All areas have expansive rural views. We offer a basic bush site for self-contained campers and a fully-contained caravan. At Bushman's Camp we welcome self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower, and drinking water. You must have your own amenities. Campsites are accessible for 2WDs and we welcoming camping vehicles. You may need to level your vehicle for a comfortable night’s sleep. There are a few options for camping. The land is undulating with flat spots, with open grassy areas peppered with gum trees. Other parts are more heavily wooded with gums and natives. Our caravan comes complete with water, electricity, toilet, 2 double beds, dining area and kitchen. The caravan can sleep 4 guests. Next to the caravan there is room for a further tent, van, trailer or motorhome if desired, for a $35 flat fee. Please add extra guests when booking. Outside the caravan, there is a beautiful sandstone ringed fire pit, BBQ, covered picnic tables, chairs, lighting and some firewood available. You will need to bring your own bed linen and towels. Campfires are permitted at all our listings when not in fireban season so bring your marshmallows! There are lovely views of the valleys and mountains beyond, and you’ll really enjoy the sunsets. No pets please.

Round Mountain - The Bridle Track

77km from Mudgee · 1 site · Lodging · Duramana, NSW

“A place you can go to find perspective.” Our beautiful 400 acre property is the perfect place to be off grid & get back to basics with our tent accomodation, luxury linen sheets on a king size bed await. Cook on the wood fire with the luxury of a drop loo & Engle fridge. We also offer package meals & guided cooking experiences. Why not try a bush walk on the beautiful yet challenging rugged mountains. Then return to a hot soak in the tub & snuggle by the fire. We also have swag or single bed options for extra sleeping spaces for kids at an additional cost. Swags are only suitable for 10yrs+ Please note that this is a working property that has all the risks of the outdoors in Australia. We hold full permission to cancel bookings if there is a fire or storm risk at anytime.

Odd Frog Lodges - Country Escape

25km from Mudgee · 3 sites · Lodging · Lue, NSW

Our lodges offer the perfect rustic retreat to escape the busy hustle and enjoy a relaxing weekend or mid-week getaway to the country. They are ideal for a romantic escape and are perfect for small or large groups. You can book one lodge or the entire farm. From Sydney: Located in the village of Lue, 3 ½ hours northwest of Sydney. Travel north and follow the signs to the Blue Mountains, then Lithgow. The turn-off for Mudgee is just past Lithgow. Continue for another hour, and after passing through Ilford, make a right-hand turn. Follow the signs to Rylstone, and approximately 5 minutes out of Rylstone, turn left onto Lue Road. Turn right at The Lue Hotel, and we are just past the hotel on your right—Peel Street. From Newcastle: Take the scenic Bylong Valley Way for a 4-hour drive via Denman and Sandy Hollow. At Sandy Hollow, turn towards Rylstone. As you approach Rylstone, turn right at the sign for Mudgee via Lue on Lue Road. Turn right at The Lue Hotel, and just past the hotel, make a right at Peel Street.

Stories from the community

V

Vicki

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Artisans Park

I had the most incredible stay! From the moment we arrived, everything exceeded expectations. The view alone was worth the trip – the kind that makes you stop in your tracks and just breathe it all in. Sunrise, sunset, even the quiet moments in between… every angle felt like a postcard. Our host was absolutely outstanding. Warm, thoughtful, and genuinely passionate about making our stay perfect. Every little detail was considered, and their recommendations made the experience even better. And the activities were unforgettable. Whether we were exploring, relaxing, or trying something new, there was always something exciting to do. It felt like the perfect balance of adventure and ease. I couldn’t recommend this place more highly. If you’re looking for a stay that feels special, memorable, and beautifully hosted – this is the one. I’m already dreaming of returning!

I

Isabella

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Dalli's Campground

Really enjoyed the caravan set up. Lovely location!

L

Lloyd

October 2025

3 nights at The Stockyard Experience

As always, great trip. Love this property. Vicky and Brian go the extra mile for their guests. Will be back

M

Morteza

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bellandre Park

Amazing and very peaceful place. The photos do justice. I definitely recommend this place to others. Thanks for having us Marilyn.

I

Inbo

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at The Stockyard Experience

If you are looking for a perfect glamping experience, look no further. Vicky and Brian have nailed it at the Stockyard Experience - breathtaking scenery, complete privacy, gas bbq and pizza ovens, spacious bell tents with comfy beds with hot showers and flushing toilets - what more could you ask for? Our family thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would love to be back.

b

bradley

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Stockyard Experience

Vicky & Brian were great host , very friendly and knowledgeable and there set up was excellent.

L

Leanne

September 2025

2 nights at Artisans Park

Fabulous old London bus...very comfortable with fireplace inside and out. Magnificent view over the valley.....laying watching the stars through the windows at night. Glenn's creative sculptures around the place. Glenn was so helpful in many ways and great to deal with

V

Vince

September 2025

1 night at Artisans Park

Amazing spot. Incredible views Bus and army hut were great. Host was very helpful

Tobi

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bellandre Park

The property was spectacular and the hut on the hill had stunning views. Cozy space, incredibly comfortable beds and everything was exactly as advertised. Peter and Marilyn were great hosts. We can't wait to get back.

Chestie

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Artisans Park

We were thrilled to see all the historical building that been preserved by Glenn at his land. We get to see all the buildings and all the other art work done to his land. We recommend anyone who likes to have a nice outing to come here and relax.

Mike

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at The Stockyard Experience

Amazing place to stay!!! The Glamping tents are awesome. Beautifully done.Views and the spot are beautiful!!! The host are ready to help and very prompt. And the hoodies are well worth getting.

J

Jeff

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Stockyard Experience

My family and I cannot recommend The Stockyard Experience enough! The property is situated in an amazing area in Mumbil, yet still conveniently located a short distance from Wellington. The camp is well equipped—tents are spacious, the beds comfortable, the amenities clean and well maintained. As other reviewers have mentioned, Vicky and Brian are amazing host; who were prompt and open in their commutation from start to finish of our booking. Not only were they hospitable and warm, but they also incorporated small touches around the camp to make our stay even more welcoming. We thoroughly enjoyed our time and definitely look forward to coming back the next opportunity we get to unplug and unwind. Many thanks again Vicky and Brian! In short: Perfect spot for a family’s first camp!

B

Binit

July 2025

1 night at Artisans Park

**★★★★★ Amazing Getaway Experience with Exceptional Hospitality!** We had the most wonderful experience staying in the London double decker bus, made even more special by the kindness of our host Glen. Not only was the location beautiful and the site incredibly cozy, but Glen also went above and beyond when they found out it was my birthday—upgrading us to a stunning London double decker bus that made the trip unforgettable. The attention to detail, warm hospitality, and serene surroundings made this a perfect getaway. We couldn’t have asked for a better stay and will definitely be returning. Thank you Glen for making my birthday so memorable! Highly recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing and luxurious outdoor experience.

J

Julie

July 2025

With pets

3 nights at The Stockyard Experience

Amazing glamping spot! All the best parts of camping with luxury thrown in - the hosts have thought of everything. Heated tents. Hot shower. Flushing loo. Gas bbq. Gas Pizza oven. Wood bbq. Solar lighting in kitchen area and tents. Diesel heating in tents. Amazing beds and linens. The location is lovely - private hill top and heaps of space. Sunrises and sunsets. Fabulous few days! Will be back…

P

Priscilla

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Artisans Park

We stayed in the London bus over the weekend and absolutely loved it! Such a unique, fun, and unforgettable experience with the kids they enjoyed every bit of it. The place is full of charm, cozy, and really well looked after. Glen was super friendly and helpful throughout. Highly recommend it and we can’t wait to come back! 💛🚌✨

M

Matt

July 2025

With kids

2 nights at Artisans Park

We loved the Bus! Great spot and the bus had all the basics (plus some more). Loved the park/surrounds and Glenn was a welcoming host. We had a great stay!

T

Timothy

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bellandre Park

We stayed in the hut it was very cosy had a great weekend

L

Lloyd

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Stockyard Experience

This place is awesome. An expanse of beautiful bush bordering state forest, an abundance of wildlife, no other Campers around, and a giant fireplace with loads of wood to burn. Vicky and Brian were super accomadating, and have thought of everything for a glamping trip , without robbing it of the camping experience. I'll be back for sure...

Y

Yaxian

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Artisans Park

This camping place is so unique. All the facilities are very clean and handy

S

Satya

May 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Artisans Park

I stayed at the tower with my daughter.It was really beautiful n cosy with the fireplace.Nice books , very clean and amazing views.We went for a tour around the area .Had a great time,will definitely come back.Highly recommended

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best farm glamping near Mudgee guide

Where to go

The Drip

This beautiful walk meanders along the Goulburn River to “the great dripping wall,” colloquially known as The Drip, where water trickles down the sandstone rock. About 40 minutes’ north of Mudgee, the 2.8-km hike begins and ends at the car park, where there are also picnic tables. While you’re there, visit the Indigenous rock art site Hands on Rock, 2 km north at Ulan.

Ferntree Gully Reserve

Wander through the rainforest admiring the gully of eroded sandstone on one of several walks at Ferntree Gully, an hour’s drive west of Mudgee. You can walk through the fern and orchid-filled valley floor and around the top of the gully admiring the view. Lyrebirds are also regularly spotted here.

Dunns Swamp

Despite its name, this hidden gem on the banks of the Cudgegong River in Wollemi National Park is a gorgeous wilderness area. Enjoy a picnic, hop into kayaks or jump on stand-up paddleboards and meander around the waterway. Southern Cross Kayaking offers guided tours and hire from late spring until autumn, during school holidays and on long weekends. It’s just over an hour’s drive west of Mudgee.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo

There are no fences or cages at this open-range zoo, under two hours’ northwest of Mudgee. Instead, concealed moats divide animals including lions, elephants, zebras, and giraffes from people, creating the feeling of being in the wild. Known for its breeding and conservation programs, the zoo is home to more than 5,000 animals from over 350 species.

When to go

The Mudgee region can be very hot in summer (December to February), and very cold in winter (June to August), so it’s best to visit in spring or autumn when the dry leaves make it even more picturesque. Long weekends and public holidays can get extremely busy. A number of festivals are held throughout the year—the biggest is the Mudgee Food and Wine Festival in late September and early October.

Know before you go

Mudgee is about a 3.5-hour drive northwest of Sydney in Central West NSW.
The town has three supermarkets: Coles, Woolworths, and Aldi.
Mudgee Camping and 4WD stocks a large range of camping, fishing, and outdoor products to help improve your camping experience, as well as 4WD accessories, along with a fully equipped workshop to fit them.
Reverse angle parking is a requirement in the centre of Mudgee.
Fire bans are common in the Mudgee region and in NSW national parks during summer and dry periods. Be sure to check local recommendations before lighting a campfire.