The best camping in Namadgi National Park, ACT

Parks and reserves make up more than half of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), and Namadgi is the largest of them. Nearby Canberra, defies most preconceptions of what a capital city looks like, and its proximity to the mountains and bush of the Namadgi National Park is another pleasant surprise for campers wanting to escape the city. Three campsites can be found within the park, while many others dot the area just outside. All three can be accessed by vehicle, and walkers in the park are allowed to wild camp in many areas. It’s easy to see why Namadgi is a favourite getaway for Canberrans.

• Best for groups: Honeysuckle Campground has space for small and large groups.
• Best for vehicles: Orroral Campground is suitable for caravans and trailers.
• Best for families: Cotter Campground, just outside the park, is well-equipped.

1. All campsites within the park require a reservation, and fees apply. Some campgrounds have maximum stay limits that make them inappropriate for long stays.
2. Bookings can be made online, via the ACT Park and Conservation Service website. You can book online for tent camping and for up to four caravans or camper trailers.
3. Larger groups may need a permit to camp in Namadgi and should apply to the ACT Government online. This should be done at least 28 days in advance of your intended stay. Very large groups need a lead time of 6 months or more.

The ACT experiences very hot, dry summers and cold winters, with frost and even snow not uncommon in the mountains. Summer brings a high risk of bushfires, which can start and spread very quickly. Most campers will find the conditions most comfortable for camping and hiking in spring and autumn, when daytime temperatures will be warm but not too hot.

• Although wild backpack camping is allowed in most parts of the park, the exception is in the lower and middle portions of the Cotter Catchment area of the park’s northwest.
• Wild camping is allowed in the upper Cotter Catchment area, but you’ll need a permit.
• Generators aren’t allowed at the campgrounds and firewood is not supplied. Firewood can be bought from the Namadgi Visitor Centre.
• Dogs aren’t permitted at the campground within the national park boundaries, but there are dog-friendly campgrounds in a few places right next to the park.
• The Honeysuckle and Orroral campgrounds contain composting or pit toilets that are wheelchair accessible.
• There are some huts within the park, but these are for emergency use only and campers shouldn’t plan to spend the night in them.