The best camping in Washpool State Conservation Area, NSW

·

Discover the natural splendour of Washpool State Conservation Area.  

Camper favorites near Washpool State Conservation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Top-rated campgrounds

Harper Farms

100%
(129)
12km from Washpool State Conservation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Cangai, NSW
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

Westbury Downs

100%
(168)
23km from Washpool State Conservation Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Jackadgery, NSW
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.
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$61
 / night

Timbarra Valley

100%
(242)
24km from Washpool State Conservation Area · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · Rocky River, NSW
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

BAJIMBA Eco Camping and Farm Stay

100%
(46)
32km from Washpool State Conservation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Sandy Flat, NSW
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$31
 / night

‘The Hut’ on the Clarence (4WD)

100%
(39)
34km from Washpool State Conservation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Newbold, NSW
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$236
 / night

Winegrove

99%
(122)
36km from Washpool State Conservation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Winegrove, NSW
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

Jindalee Bush camping

99%
(168)
39km from Washpool State Conservation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Dundee, NSW
"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

Splitters Swamp Creek Waterfall

91%
(140)
39km from Washpool State Conservation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bolivia, NSW
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

Copmanhurst

100%
(65)
44km from Washpool State Conservation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Copmanhurst, NSW
Hacketts Haven is our 68 acre property, located near Copmanhurst which boasts your own exclusive panoramic view overlooking the Clarence River. The site is approximately 14 metres clear/elevated from the river (which makes it very safe if the river was to rise above minor or moderate flooding). A truly unique camping experience overlooking the wide spanse of the Clarence only a short distance from the small village of Copmanhurst, perfect for a group booking of up to 20. Enjoy your own private site with a sandy beach @40m below site, east of the Copmanhurst boat ramp. Take a walk down the steepish soft sandy cattle tracks to the waters edge and enjoy yourself. Note: Sand can be very hot! Obedient dogs 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. NOTE: No treated wood to be brought or burnt on the property The Rest Point Hotel sells bags of firewood. As per Hipcamp guidelines, be fire safe, dispose of garbage responsibly and leave no trace. The grass is left lush for the roaming cattle to enjoy, however we will endeavour to slash the 40+ acres and/or whipper-snip around firepits when possible. It was originally listed under our Winegrove location, but we have since separated it to its own listing/location. Reviews: Aaron left a review on October 7th, 2020 If you're after a picturesque view of the river, your own private beach and peace and quiet look no further! An absolute gem of a spot to camp! Very lovely kind welcoming hosts. Great spot for kids to swim an kayak, great fishing spot, relaxing and quiet, with an amazing view. Highly recommend! We will be back. Christian left a review on October 19th, 2020 Nice high camp overlooking the river, convenient short drive to village. Good for boating, kayaking. Sara left a review on November 1st, 2020 We had an absolutely amazing weekend away at Hacketts Haven!! The peace and quiet is just what we needed. The property is perfectly cared for and absolutely picturesque. Imagine lush green paddocks that ease onto the beautiful Clarence River. It is the swimming spot of our dreams! We will be back for sure! Mykel left a review on November 23rd, 2020 Great host, great spot, could not be more accommodating. Definitely return in the future. Yvette left a review on November 29th, 2020 Sandy waterfront was fantastic but access was steeper than we expected, still well worth the effort. Joanna left a review on December 23rd, 2020 We loved every minute, extended once and tried to extend again! What a fabulous location, spent the days kayaking on river and nights taking in the stunning sunsets. What a beautiful part of the world. Host was so helpful. We will definitely be back. Camped on lush green grass overlooking the river, dog loved it too. Emily left a review on January 1st, 2021 Lovely spot on the river with great views. There was a somewhat sandy 'beach' below the camping area which makes for a good place to swim. The host was easy to communicate with and very helpful. Only suggestion to improve camp comfort would be to bring a ground sheet as the grass was a little long (not a bad thing, for the cows - looking forward to coming back again. Emily left a review on January 1st, 2021 Lovely spot on the river with great views. There is a little 'beach' below the campsite, which makes for a good spot to swim. We took our tinny as the river is quite big in this area and there is a public boat ramp about 300m upstream. The host was easy to communicate with and very helpful. Only suggesting to improve camp comfort would be to bring a ground sheet as the grass was a little long (not a bad thing for the cows. Would 100% recommend this spot. Wayne left a review on January 5th, 2021 Great location. Wonderful vista over the Clarence. Solitude. And if you want - 800m through the paddocks to the pub! Wayne left a review on January 7th, 2021 We parked our camper trailer up on the banks of the Clarence River and enjoyed the panoramic views and the quiet seclusion - only [pleasantly] interrupted by the very friendly and inquisitive cows. Could not have asked for a better experience. Plenty of things to do - day trips to Grafton/Maclean/Yamba/Broomes Head - and the Clarence Gorge - as well as canoeing down the Clarence River. Mix it with the locals and other travelers at the Rest Hotel just 800m through the paddocks from the campsite. Verity left a review on January 18th, 2021 Such a beautiful spot, right on the river!!! The site was very private and well looked after. We absolutely loved it. Had a few swims, chatted to some cows and watched an eagle circle right over us. Awesome spot for the paddle boards and sunset (and sunrise) views were epic! Definitely recommend, definitely coming back. A few March flies around but the hosts had left hard core bug repellent out for us, so they weren’t a problem! Richard left a review on April 6th, 2021 What a magical place. Great swimming, great scenery and wonderful location. Peaceful piece of paradise not to far from Grafton and at the doorstep of Copmanhurst. After a few days cooking on the camp fire we decided to walk 1km to the pub for dinner. We will return to this property for sure. Host was awesome and kept in touch with us prior to arriving due to covid, sms us on arrival and then on our departure to wish us safe travels. 10 out of 10. Peter left a review on May 3rd, 2021 Larissa was an amazing host, providing easy communication and direction on how to get to the site but also provided us with some additional while your here info which was amazing and we look forward to using it on a longer stay It is an amazing location and was so nice to have a private space on the river, well just us and the cows and the lone horse that walked amongst them. Got my workout walking down to the river and back but totally worth it The site is described exactly as advertised so if you are camping (ie can't level it out) be prepared as the site is lumpy and bumpy. I am torn giving the site a thumbs up simply as I fear it will be harder for me to book in again Peter left a review on May 5th, 2021 Great private spot with terrific views and access to the Clarence. Larissa was a very friendly and attentive host. James left a review on May 30th, 2021 Awesome spot, will definitely be back Tod left a review on November 1st, 2021 Beautiful camp site overlooking the Clarence, all grass with plenty of room as you're the only one's there. Beach area to launch kayaks. Definitely need a 4WD to access, mainly if damp or raining for one short section just before camp site. Definitely be back. Tod left a review on November 14th, 2021 Easy to access site, magic spot and private. Host Larissa is very friendly, even contacted us on weather conditions as heavy rain was expected. Highly recommend. Nick left a review on November 20th, 2021 Great spot overlooking the river. Trudy left a review on December 22nd, 2021 What a great experience - Amazing views in every direction - very private with nothing to bother you but a few curious cows. Access down to the sandy riverbank was easy and the dogs had an amazing time off lead swimming and wrestling in the sand. The River was a great spot to cool off in the afternoon. Loved every minute!! Jacqueline left a review on January 4th, 2022 We loved our stay here. Very private with gorgeous views. Great swimming and kayaking. The directions worked really well for us. We had a lot of rain which made it hard for us to get our camper out with a 4wd, so definitely 4wd only. Rafael left a review January, 2022 Very nice spot to swim in the river with a beautiful access point, we watched a spectacular sunset from the water. It was fun for the dogs too, they had a blast cooling off and playing in the water. Heather left a review February, 2022 Beautiful, peaceful spot on the Clarence with soft, green grass. Locals at the pub were welcoming and best pizzas. Such a great spot. Kate left a review February, 2022 We loved camping at Larissa’s farm - the kids swam all day in the river and loved exploring the land. We found the walk down to the river easy and perfect sandy area for swimming and launching kayaks etc. Larissa is a deligtful host and nothing is too much trouble.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$59
 / night

The best camping in Washpool State Conservation Area, NSW guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure through the Washpool State Conservation Area, where 100km of horse riding trails beckon equestrians of all skill levels. Immerse yourself in the lush forest landscape, with options to extend your stay at the rustic Four Bull Hut, ensuring an unforgettable outdoor experience.

When to go

The Washpool State Conservation Area is a year-round destination, with each season offering its unique charm. However, the best time to visit is during the milder months of spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Be mindful of the summer heat and winter chill, and always check for local alerts before planning your trip.

Know before you go

  • Check current alerts and safety information before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
  • Office contact hours are from 8:30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, for any enquiries.
  • Remember to bring a detailed map as the provided maps may not be sufficient for all activities.
  • Accessibility may vary across the park, so plan according to your needs.
  • Be aware of the park's conservation efforts and respect the natural habitat during your visit.
Be the first to review
Share your experience here to help other campers.