Desert trails, rustic camping grounds, and wild bushlands await discovery in NSW’s most remote region.
With its sun-scorched desert plains and dusty highways that stretch to the horizon—exploring Outback NSW makes for an epic road trip. Discover Australia’s heartland as you tour ancient Aboriginal heritage sites, visit old mining towns, and enjoy 4WD treks and bushwalks in the region’s seven national parks. Camping in the outback is all about getting back to nature. Stay at remote homesteads, sleep out beneath the stars, or pitch your tent along the banks of the Darling River. March through November is the best time to travel, avoiding the blistering heat of summer.
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The southwestern corner of Outback NSW is home to some of its most impressive sights. Hike through the unearthly landscapes of the World Heritage Mungo National Park, visit the shearing sheds and lakes of Kinchega National Park, and marvel at the Living Desert Reserve. The former mining town of Broken Hill is the main hub, where you’ll find plenty of options for camping.
North of Broken Hill, the Mutawintija National Park is rich in Aboriginal heritage and has remote campgrounds where you can enjoy stargazing from your tent. The gold mining town of Tibooburra is the gateway to Sturt National Park, where the red desert stretch into outback Queensland. This is as remote as NSW gets, so fill up the gas tank and set out to explore the final frontier.
To the east, the outback towns of Bourke and Brewarrina lie along the Darling River. Follow the Darling River Run from Bourke all the way to Wentworth—one of the region’s most rewarding road trips. Highlights along the way include Paroo-Darling National Park and the opal fields of the White Cliffs.
The riverside town of Hillston marks the start of the outback, and it’s a safe bet for those wanting to explore without venturing too far off the beaten track. Head into nearby Willandra National Park to camp in the bush, visit the shearing sheds, or cycle the scenic Merton motor trail.