The best camping near Abercrombie River National Park

A sweeping stretch of protected gum and bark forests in the NSW Central Tablelands, Abercrombie River National Park offers plenty of ways to play, from bushwalking through mountainous woodland to lazy days spent swimming in one of the park’s three rivers. It's also a fantastic place to spot wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and more than 60 bird species. If you have a 4WD vehicle, test its off-roading capabilities on rugged mountain tracks that lead to a handful of secluded campgrounds.

• Best for caravans: Bummaroo Ford Campground is the only place inside Abercrombie River National Park that allows trailers and caravans. It’s also great for families and has river swimming access.
• Best for a secluded swim: The Beach Campground is only accessible by 4WD, but this off-the-track campground has amazing shady spots along the Abercrombie River.
• Best for groups: Spread out and socialize among the grassy riverside flats at the Silent Creek Campground

1. Like all campgrounds in NSW, advance reservations are required and can be booked online.
2. Summer holidays and Easter weekend are generally the busiest times, and spots book up quickly. For fewer crowds, aim for spring or fall, or try visiting on a weekday.

Spring is the ideal time to visit, when wildflowers lining the park’s waterways and hillsides burst into bloom. Wintertime is best avoided, as roads become icy and nighttime temperatures can be freezing at higher elevations. No matter what time of year you go, try sitting quietly near a waterhole at dusk for a chance to spot one of NSW’s most elusive animals—the wild platypus.

• Most roads within the park require a 4WD vehicle. More capable cars can explore the steep, rugged tracks accessed through the eastern entrance on Felled Timber Road, while those with lower clearance should stick to the west side from the Arkstone Road entrance. 
• Roads leading from the eastern entrance entrance should not be attempted during wet or icy weather.
• Trailers are only allowed via the western entrance.  
• Flush toilets are available at all campgrounds, and barbecue pits are at all but Bummaroo Ford.