The best camping in Mann River Nature Reserve, NSW

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100% (1)

The best camping in Mann River Nature Reserve, NSW

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Jindalee Bush camping

99%
(168)
15km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
"Jindalee" is located on a 500 acre property, 26kms east of Glen Innes. Being situated only 2kms off the Gwydir Highway, access is very easy. We have moved our camping area to a new position on “Jindalee”. This area is in a sheltered glade with views out to the north. There is a clean pit toilet with hand washing water. - bring your own drinking water. It is a large open space suitable for even the biggest rig. We have camp fire areas and offer a supply of wood, more wood can be purchased off Bob the caretaker. We are 40kms from Gibraltar Range National Park, pet friendly, and offer secure camping and a place to leave your pets so you can explore the area. We offer a pet minding service during the day for a small fee for those who want to visit the National parks. There is a bitumen road to the boundary and then an all-weather gravel road to the site. Our camping sites are grassy and have a lovely view. We offer campfire pits and free wood - limited amount collected beside each fire pit. More firewood can be purchased from Bob, our Caretaker.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$31
 / night

2. "Glendawn"

99%
(75)
31km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
"Glendawn" is a small farming/ cattle grazing property with many beaut spots for camping. There are 2 sites with access to power and a few others without. It's a great place to get away but not too far from town. Fire pits and some firewood provided. We have a powered site in the old Woolshed. The Woolshed has had some modifications. It has a camp kitchen, hot and cold running water, toilet & shower. There is a fridge, toaster, kettle, microwave, gas BBQ, outdoor fire pit, chairs, power and lighting. Large central area indoors. Its a delightful spot in the paddock to enjoy being "in the country". The woolshed itself is 2WD accessible. In the winter months its really quite cold overnight. There's a great outdoor firepit and I provide firewood for $10. There's a patio heater too and its 8kg gas cylinder costs $30. I will provide the first one. This venue has been popular for families 'plugging in' their vans and for others to roll their swags out either inside the shed or under the stars. Privacy and peace and quiet in abundance here. We also have unpowered camping in the paddocks. There are a few places with shade near a dam, by the old hayshed, or on a hill with views over the valley, excellent sunsets and a clearing for camping, 4WD accessible. Children under 12 stay for free on unpowered sites!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$19
 / night

5. Redbank

99%
(69)
44km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We have a stunning 640 acre cattle farm nestled in the hills of the Northern Tablelands, overlooking the Wellingrove Valley. Redbank has many beautiful places and things to see, including two natural gullies full of native birds and wildlife, native woodlands, four beautiful dams and wild fallow deer. Redbank also has about 140ha set aside under Biodiversity Conservation Trust. This is a "no drive" area but always open to walking. There is a map available to show where everything on the property is located. Redbank features diverse terrain, from secluded forests and woodlands to open undulating paddocks with excellent views and sunsets. A campfire is allowed, however it needs to be kept at a reasonable size, especially during fire restriction periods. Please keep the fire within the allocated fireplace provided. At times we provide guests with firewood when we are able, but they are permitted to use nearby timber collected themselves. We have multiple campsites available, however we realise that you may want to be independent and camp in a unique place! We understand this, however we will direct you to a spot which best suits the campers' and their vehicle type, as some of our tracks are 4x4 only. We limit numbers of groups to the number of campsites available. In this way, we protect the environment and wildlife. We will be here to help you decide on the best campsite on arrival. There is some access to water (not necessarily drinking), but you will need to bring your own shower. There are no rubbish facilities or showers and limited access to toilet facilities. Pets are welcome but must be kept under your control at all times as we have cattle on the property. We have a friendly Maremma guardian dog who can turn up unannounced. He will most probably lick you to death.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$25
 / night

6. Splitters Swamp Creek Waterfall

91%
(140)
45km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
We are located just 30 minutes from Tenterfield, an historic town in the rolling New England region. Here you will find a superb wilderness. Splitters Swamp Creek runs out of the hills, crystal clear water pours over the very beautiful granite rocks - creating a stunning waterfall and a shallow pool at the bottom. It then meanders gently down the valley surrounded by timber. Visitors are welcome to walk a distance exploring the granite rock formations in and around the creek. The campsite is located in a very private location, surrounded by a mix of vegetation and tall trees. There is a variety of native wildlife around, including bird life and a variety of wallabies. The native flora is beautiful, too. In town you will find shops and suppliers for all your camping needs. While you're there, check out the heritage architecture, great cafes, interesting shops. If you're up for an adventure further afield, the nearby national parks are perfect for outdoor adventures, from bushwalking to swimming and you can take the Boonoo Boonoo Falls walking track to a waterfall that drops 210 metres into a gorge, and enjoy eye-popping panoramas in Bald Rock National Park. Don't forget to bring your camera! PS: If you require a quicker response to questions than via the inbox message my mobile number; zero four zero seven five nine four two zero one . Thanks
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$49
 / night

8. Harper Farms

100%
(130)
46km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Harper Farms is a fourth generation, family owned cattle property out of the small township of Cangai; just 50 minutes west of Grafton. Located along the Mann River, just one kilometre off the Gwydir Highway, campers will find easy access to our riverfront site. The property is bordered by the Dandahra Creek and the Mann River, and boasts a variety of native bird and wildlife; peacocks, platypus, ducks and the occasional pelican to name a few. The Mann River is open to fishing November - July; and is a local favourite as a kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding and swimming destination. Beef cattle and stock horses have been run continuously on the property since the early 1900s, and our friendly horses and cows will often pay a visit to the campsite. Along with our working dogs, we also run a small breeding kennel of Golden Retrievers and Border Collies. Dogs are always welcome on the farm, and we simply ask that camp visitors keep them under their control during their stay. A small shop with basic amenities (groceries, camp supplies, fishing bait, fuel) is located at Jackadgery; a 15 minutes drive east on the Gwydir Highway. To the west of Harper Farms lies the Gibraltar Range which hosts Washpool National Park with walking trails, waterfalls, rainforest and swimming areas. Away from the city lights, the Cangai area offers exceptional stargazing and is popular with keen astronomers and photographers. Our property currently hosts one large campsite; ideal for family and large group gatherings. Booking the site includes complete privacy for your group whether large or small. Our family and friends have gathered at Harper Farms for over a century to enjoy the beauty of the Cangai area, and we are excited for you to come “Camp Cangai” too!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$109
 / night

9. BAJIMBA Eco Camping and Farm Stay

100%
(47)
48km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bajimba Eco Camp is part of our stunning family property nestled in the surrounds of Mt Bajimba in the Northern Tablelands of NSW, 40 minutes south east of Tenterfield. Historically known as a resting point for bullock teams hauling timber from the surrounding forests on their way to a saw mill in the lower valley, Bajimba is now home to Merv & Carey. We are just over 1080 metres above sea level, with 57 acres of eucalypt & grass tree forests, grass pastures, and a small (but mighty) organic farm. Accommodation options include "West View “situated at our highest elevation with incredible views from the deck, and "Bullock Camp" which can accommodate tents, caravans or motor homes. When making travel arrangements, note we are in NSW and therefore are 1 hour ahead of QLD during day light savings months. It is encouraged if possible that guests arrive before 6pm to ensure a smooth and stress free check in to camp. Being able to experience the sunset is all a part of your Bajimba stay! Amenities for both sites include an ablution block with hot shower and composting toilet, with steam sauna and wood-fired hot tub available by appointment. Please call at time of booking if hot tub and sauna facilities are required (especially for same-days bookings). Wood fired hot tubs require four hours to heat appropriately. Also note that all toiletries are provided to ensure that our critical farm ecosystem is maintained. When staying at “West View”, we supply Tea, Coffee, Muesli, Full Cream Milk, fresh Eggs from our Hens, Salt & Pepper, Olive Oil, Cast Iron cook ware and a portable sink for cleaning Utensils etc. Also supplied are Plates, Knives & Forks etc. Portable Gas Cooker also supplied if not using the Fire Pit. First Aid kit. Bajimba backs on to Washpool National Park, providing thousands of acres for 4wd exploring, with fishing, hunting, hiking, bird watching only a stones throw away.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$31
 / night

10. Westbury Downs

100%
(169)
50km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to our working beef cattle property set along the beautiful Mann River, just 35 minutes west of Grafton or 1.5 hours from Glen Innes. Enjoy wide open spaces, peaceful river views, and a genuine taste of country life. We offer seven spacious, grassy campsites overlooking the river. Four sites with easy 2WD access and three long-drop toilets available. Two sites on our island, 4WD accessible only – perfect for those seeking extra privacy. (Self-sufficient campers only – bring your own toilet.) One site “around the bend”, also 4WD access only, BYO toilet required. Each campsite features its own fire pit, perfect for cooking dinner or relaxing by the campfire under the stars. Firewood is available near the gate to the river for $10 per bag. Campers have 2 km of riverfront to enjoy – ideal for swimming, fishing, kayaking, or simply soaking up the serenity. You’ll often see our cattle and horses grazing through the camping areas, adding to the authentic rural charm. If you need to stock up, the Mann River Caravan Park shop is close by for ice, gas, ice cream, and takeaway meals. Come unwind, connect with nature, and experience real country hospitality by the river. There are plenty of great day trips from camp — visit scenic river crossings like Cangai, Hanging Rock, Coombadjha, Lillydale, and Copmanhurst, or head up the Gibraltar Range to explore Washpool and Gibraltar Range National Parks for rainforest walks, birdwatching, and waterfalls like Boundary Falls. Sorry, no pets.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$61
 / night

11. Timbarra Valley

100%
(242)
51km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
The Timbarra or Rocky River is an area of great beauty southeast of Tenterfield with soaring mountains cradling the river flats and undulating hills below and is a renowned cattle breeding region. The Petrie family have been in Tenterfield since 1860 and have owned properties in the valley for over 100 years. Tim’s great-grandfather was known as Rocky Jack because of his extensive holdings. Cattle are still walked up to the Timbarra Plateau property from the river properties ‘Man From Snowy River’ style. The Plateau can be seen rising above the valley to the north from the confluence of Demon Creek and the Timbarra/Rocky River. These flow along the Demon Fault which is clearly visible on a satellite map. The 3 valley properties ‘Corner Camp’, ‘Boundary’ and ‘’Pavels’ combined with ‘Timbarra Plateau’ total over 25000 acres. The whole valley was part of 2 earlier large selections averaging 100000 acres which gradually became broken up in the late 1800s/early 1990s. There is a proud timber history in the valley and the surrounding forested mountains with large sections of State Forest now transferred to Washpool National Park which abuts both the eastern and western boundaries of ‘Boundary’ (which takes its name from Boundary Creek). The National Park and Forestland State Forest can be accessed to the west via the Billirimba Fire Trail. The eastern section of Washpool stretches across to the Clarence River, the largest eastern river in NSW. Washpool is where the Cedar King went missing and was never located. The Timbarra/Rocky River flows into the Clarence at Tabulam and then on to Grafton and out to sea at Yamba. The headwaters of the Rocky are all the way south to the Glen Innes Grafton road so the river can rise quickly if there is a downpour upstream. Interestingly when the Chinese gold miners left the Timbarra Plateau they came down with rickshaws into the Timbarra Valley then scaled the mountains to the west, near Boundary Creek, looking for their next gold diggings towards Glen Innes. The Boundary campsites at Boundary Riverside, The Cockatoo, The China Wall, and the Caves are all suitable for caravans, RVs, Camping trailers, tents and swags as is Timbarra Plateau. Corner Camp and Pavels are suitable for camping trailers, tents and swags. Boundary campsites access are all unaffected if the river rises however we will not take bookings at Corner Camp or Pavels in the likelihood of the river rising as we are committed to safety and avoiding inconvenience for guests. The Rocky is a very special place and we have campers who first came as children and are now bringing their grandchildren. We expect our guests to treat the area respectfully, and only leave footprints and tyre tracks. The valley provides wonderful scenery and settings for bushwalking, birdwatching, photography, painting, bicycle riding, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing, or just kicking back relaxing by the river, listening to the soothing sounds of the water, birds, and the turtles and platypus splashing, or being amazed at the mirror like images on the waters surface on a still day or the flickering light of a campfire at night and the stars above.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$22
 / night

13. Llandillo Farmstay

100%
(25)
59km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 2 sites · Lodging
Llandillo is a picturesque 700 acre property located 11 kms from Emmaville, and 55kms from Glen Innes in the northern New England region. It has 2kms of Severn river access along its southern boundary, which offers great fishing and wildlife watching opportunities. We run a small sheep farming enterprise on the northern more open half of the property, and the southern part running down to the river is natural bushland. Activities include fishing, bushwalking, mountain biking, fossicking, bird watching or getting to know some of our much adored farm animals. We offer accommodation in our a two-bedroom cabin. Our homely cabin offers a tranquil place to stay and enjoy the sounds of birds singing in the trees. Our cabin includes one double bed, two single beds and two double lounges that turn into sofa beds. We have a friendly old Wallaroo who lives around the cabin. Many other wallaby’s and kangaroos can be seen from the windows. It is a great place to relax reading a good book, catch up on well deserved rest or use as a base for outdoor activities. The cabin also has a large firepit out the back where our guests are welcome to have a campfire or cook a meal over the coals. Firewood will be supplied. There is a picnic area with a large open firepit and toilet just meters from the waters edge. Many unique animals have been seen at the river, including spotted Quolls, Platypus, fireflies, Deer, Goats, Kangaroos, wallabies and many species of birds. Guests are able to walk the entire 2km of river fishing or just enjoying the free flowing water. Nine times out of ten Murray Cod are caught along any part of the river on our fishing adventures. BYO fishing gear. Catch and release is appreciated however if guests would like to keep one to eat, they are welcome. Thankyou for reading, we would love to see you at Llandillo soon.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$182
 / night

15. Winegrove

99%
(123)
64km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Winegrove is our home base for our working beef cattle properties which includes our small hardwood timber mill. Winegrove consists of 656 acres. The 2 Winegrove campsites are located along 1.2km overlooking the pristine Clarence river exclusively spaced @ 500m apart. P2 and P3 also have great views and are sheltered and private. Note: Fig Tree Lookout P2 is out of flood levels and can be accessed by high clearance 2WD, however we do recommend having 4WD just in case during wet conditions. Boulder Bay P3, which has ONLY 4WD access, can flood during a major flood in the Clarence river, however you can park/camp higher up when wet. [Note: Hacketts Haven is our new property, located near Copmanhurst which boasts your own exclusive panoramic view overlooking the Clarence River. The site is approximately 13-14 metres clear/elevated from the river.] Obedient pets permitted and that they are on a lead or under control with livestock or cattle dogs around. No amenities so campers need to BYO everything they need and leave no trace. Campfires permitted when restrictions aren't in place - check with host. Firewood for sale by the bag at homestead.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$53
 / night

16. ‘The Hut’ on the Clarence (4WD)

100%
(39)
64km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 1 site · Lodging
A working cattle property on the Clarence River. Relax, unwind and enjoy the amazing river views and sunsets. Access to river for swimming, fishing and kayaking. 'The Hut' is fully self-contained, with kitchen, bathroom, TV, ceiling fans. We supply BBQ, Camp oven, Chairs and Tables. It sleeps up to six guests, with 1 Double bed and 2 sets of bunks. All beds have Doonas and Pillows. For groups of more than six, we have the 'Donga' next door, which sleeps up to another four. The Donga has its own bathroom and beds in one large room dormitory style. Doonas and pillows are supplied. 1 double bed and 2 single beds. Tea towels, Bath mats and hand towels supplied. BYO Sheets and Towels. Group bookings of up to 20 are welcome using additional room for tents. We offer capacity for up to 8 people in tents in addition to the 6 guests in the Hut and the 4 guests in the Donga. Access is only possible for 4WD. Our track into Hut is 4WD only. Peak time prices apply. There is no Wifi available however there is very good mobile coverage. Tinny’s or Kayaks can’t be put in directly at hut, however we can show you where you can put them in on our property. We have 2 tandem Kayaks available for your use during your stay - Kid’s must wear life jackets at all times when using the kayaks. Additionally, if you have booked the hut for 6 and under guests, however you would still like some privacy, an option in extras is to book the Donga also for $80 per night. STRA: Exempt
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$236
 / night

17. Bandicoot Bend

97%
(18)
66km from Mann River Nature Reserve · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property is nestled between state forests and nature reserves, near the village of Nymboida which is approx. 44km southwest of Grafton. You will find a variety of bird life and by night our marsupials. Bandicoots, possums and if you have a keen eye, owls. With 1.5km of creek frontage, you can explore away, fish in the waterhole for freshwater catfish or go for a walk along one of the valleys. Situated on 650 acres in hill country. You will certainly find something for your relaxing getaway.Pitch your tent in a variety of places, we have two areas available that offer complete privacy from other campers. Mill Flat (the location of the steam mill that was built when the property was a logging property) is located on around 3 acres of mostly flat grass land with direct access to our creek. Nearby, Fruit Orchard Hill is the location of the original home before the fires, the outlook from here is of the sheer mountain range of the neighbouring National Park. This camping area is elevated.Our third site is not so private but is the most central and conveniently located for exploring the creek and gaining access with big campervans. If staying longer you can go for a white water kayak in the Nymboida River only 15 min away or head the other way to discover endless National Parks that stretch from the property to Dorrigo.We welcome self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower and water. You must have your own amenities.Well behaved dogs are most welcome to join you. Although we are pet friendly, please be aware and courteous to other campers. If your pet needs to be tied up please do so.We recommend 4WDs to access the campsite. Some places can be accessed by 2WD and walk to campsite. Caravan drivers need to be competent for hilly terrain and tight access, some roads are cut into steep ground and have very little give. However Site 1 is easy access for caravans. If unsure about your vehicle please message us.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$43
 / night
100% (1)

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The best camping in Mann River Nature Reserve, NSW guide

Overview

About

Set along the banks of the Mann River, with the bush-clad peaks of the New England Tablelands rising on the horizon, the Mann River Nature Reserve provides an idyllic backdrop for a camping adventure. Pitch your tent or park your motorhome by the riverside at the reserve’s only campsite, then head down to the waterfront to fish, swim, or bushwalk. Hikers have plenty of trails to explore, but the most popular is the climb to Tommys Rock, where views expand over the Great Dividing Range. Keep a lookout for wallabies, blue tongue lizards, and eastern water dragons along the way. 

When to go

Summer is the peak season in the Mann River Nature Reserve, when average daytime temperatures are around 25°C, and you can cool off with a swim when it gets too hot. Spring and autumn are the best times for bird-watching, and the best sightings are in the early morning. The weather is still mild enough for hiking through winter, and it’s the ideal time for stargazing—wrap up warm as temperatures drop after sundown.

Know before you go

  • Mann River Nature Reserve is 37 kilometres east of Glen Innes and about a 50-minute drive along the Gwydir Highway. Access to the reserve is along unsealed roads.
  • Some of the park’s trails (including Tommys Rock) are only accessible by 4WD.
  • There is a reservation fee for the Mann River campground and picnic area, but camping is free.
  • The Mann River Camping Ground has public restrooms and picnic and barbecue areas. The closest shops are in Glen Innes, so bring everything you need with you. 
  • There is limited cell phone reception in the park.
  • Fire bans are common throughout New South Wales during dry periods. Check local regulations before lighting your campfire.
100%
1 Ratings · 0 reviews