Discover the best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Tamworth, New South Wales with campfires

Australia
—
New South Wales
—
Tamworth

96% (446 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Tamworth

Star Hosts in Tamworth

Under $50

97%

(31)

Edgecote Camping

6 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Duri, NSW

Our family have lived at ‘Edgecote’ for eighteen years. We are predominantly horse breeders and trainers, however have some cattle and many dogs. We love the great outdoors and especially enjoy this ‘bottom paddock’ because of all the trees and the bird life. The dam gives the space a cool feel and a place for dogs to swim and retrieve.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(111)

Temple Court, Murrurundi

4 sites · RVs, Tents800 acres · Pages River, NSW

600 acres on the outskirts of the picturesque town of Murrurundi.On the property you can enjoy scenic bushwalks, a seasonal creek, a large dam and plentiful native wildlife including kangaroos, deer, birdlife and more.Depending on where you set up camp, you can walk or drive into the quaint village of Murrurundi. Situated on the New England Highway, Murrurundi is 30 minutes drive from Scone, 1 hour from Tamworth and 3 hours from Sydney. A picturesque town, nestled on the eastern side of the Great Dividing Range and boasts natural beauty, rich farming land and plenty of character. In town you'll find the recently opened Magpie Gin Distilery, art galleries (including Michael Reid and David Darcy), pubs, historic buildings and every May the King of the Ranges Stockmans Challenge.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(322)

Riverside Escape Off Grid Camping

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Manilla, NSW

A beautiful, off grid, riverside campground with amazing swimming hole on private property. This private campground is located in North West NSW. 50 minutes from Tamworth. Conveniently located 20 minutes outside the pretty town of Manilla and right on the river banks of the Namoi River. Also 20 minutes from beautiful Warrabah National Park. The campground is tucked away in a little valley overlooking an idyllic stretch of windy river with an amazing swimming hole, sandy beach, tranquil rapids and a beautiful, mesmerising, majestic rock. We have four primative campsites suited to all types of large and small, self sufficient campers in RV's, caravans, camp trailers, vans and tents. All sites are unique and positioned to enhance space and privacy as well as proximity and views of the river. They all showcase the varying, natural beauty and characteristics of the landscape. You can also book our amazing, award winning glamping tent. We are not a party campsite. Our little slice of paradise is for peace and relaxation. We also need to respect and encourage the presence and abundance of birds and animals and continue to ensure it is a peaceful and quiet home for them. You can enjoy your music just as long as other campsites and the local wildlife can't hear it. Manilla, only 20 minutes away has two dump points and water refill stations as well as a good number of shops to cater to all your needs during your stay. We are not in a high traffic area so you may get to enjoy having the place all to yourself. Our campsites have good access for all types of camp set ups and are not impacted by flooding. Nor do they become boggy in wet weather due to the high sand content in our soil. You could be sitting on the warm sandy bank overlooking the river and being captivated by the surrounding beauty and the magnificence of the swimming hole. This secret little piece of paradise has been untouched for 40 years and is home to an abundance of birdlife. Birds include the colourful Rainbow bee eaters, Kingfishers, Superb Fairy Wrens, Eastern Yellow Robins, Red Browed Finch and many more. A magical place that will delight your senses and make you feel relaxed and at peace. BYO camp toilet and leave no trace. Fish in the river; cod, cat, golden perch and carp. Well behaved dogs on leash and supervised at all times are welcome. If you would like to enquire about having the place to yourselves send me a message. ACCESS CONDITIONS: To help you decide if your set up is suitable you can google Riverside Escape Camping Manilla and find 2 videos on 23 and 25 May 2022 taken of me driving up and down the track to the campsites in my old Ford Courier that is NOT 4x4. There are lots of other useful videos to get a good sense of our campsite. You will also get a sense of the distance between each site. We recognise the Kamilaroi / Gomeroi people as the traditional custodians of this land.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(6)

Spring cart Farm ( Swamp Oak creek)

1 site · RV, Tent1600 acres · Tamworth, NSW

1600 acre farm approximately 1 hour drive from Tamworth located half way between Limbri and Weabonga. 3 campsites. Swamp Oak creek pergola with toilet. Bottom and top dam campsites with access to toilets showers and fresh water. The Pergola This is our most popular site located 2km from the farm house. Featuring a covered dinning area with magical views looking over Swamp Oak Creek, only a few metres from your kitchen we have our custom made fire pit with a selection of cooking methods for those hearty meals, secluded swimming holes reserved for this site and your own compost toilet. Due to this site being kilometers from anyone it is perfect for the relaxing get away without coming in contact with a sole. NOTE: 4WD DRIVE ACCESS ONLY NO FRESH WATER Top Dam - Site 1 Nestled among the trees on the top side of our 3 acre dam this amazing location has another of our custom fire pits for those nights around the fire and also features various accessories for different cooking styles. Enjoy a swim in the dam or a relaxing afternoon of kayaking then cast in the fishing line and try your skills at reeling in one of our rainbow trout or silver perch, you can even throw out a yabby net to catch a few yabbies. Why not spend an hour or two stolling around the various walks we have on offer, or join us for the afternoon feeding of our petting animals. This site has access to rain water, shower and toilet. NOTE: PRE APPROVAL FOR WATER ACTIVIES MUST BE OBTAINED BEFORE ARRIVAL Bottom Dam - Site 2 This site is located on the lower side of our 3 acre dam this great location has another of our custom fire pits for those nights around the fire and also features the same accessories for different cooking styles. All of the features of site 1 are accessible from this site - swimming, kayaking and fishing. This site is the closest to the toilet and shower. NOTE: PRE APPROVAL FOR WATER ACTIVIES MUST BE OBTAINED BEFORE ARRIVAL. THIS SITE DOES NOT HAVE SHADE SO A GAZEBO IS A MUST HAVE

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(36)

Muluerindie

4 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Bendemeer, NSW

Located just outside Bendemeer, our property features 21 peaceful acres with frontage to the beautiful McDonald River and a nice flat shaded area for camping. This is the perfect getaway spot to relax, complete with platypus, wombats and amazing bird life, fishing for trout and yellow belly. Lots of kayaking and swimming in summer, and plenty in winter too if you're brave!). We're around 30 mins from Tamworth where you can find all the supermarkets and supply stores to meet your camping gear needs, and there's lots of great cafes and restaurants too. Power is available if required but not next to the river. Camp next to the river (4WD access only) with your tent or rooftop set up or park uphill overlooking the river with your caravan or motor home, it's only a little further away (100 metres) with power available. Campfires allowed at both locations ( fire season permitting) you will need to bring your own wood. We welcome self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/ shower. Rain water is available for campers and caravans as required, and there is access to rubbish facilities. Your well behaved pet is welcome to camp with you.

* Before taxes and fees

12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Tamworth with campfires

100%

(322)

Riverside Escape Off Grid Camping

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Manilla, NSW

A beautiful, off grid, riverside campground with amazing swimming hole on private property. This private campground is located in North West NSW. 50 minutes from Tamworth. Conveniently located 20 minutes outside the pretty town of Manilla and right on the river banks of the Namoi River. Also 20 minutes from beautiful Warrabah National Park. The campground is tucked away in a little valley overlooking an idyllic stretch of windy river with an amazing swimming hole, sandy beach, tranquil rapids and a beautiful, mesmerising, majestic rock. We have four primative campsites suited to all types of large and small, self sufficient campers in RV's, caravans, camp trailers, vans and tents. All sites are unique and positioned to enhance space and privacy as well as proximity and views of the river. They all showcase the varying, natural beauty and characteristics of the landscape. You can also book our amazing, award winning glamping tent. We are not a party campsite. Our little slice of paradise is for peace and relaxation. We also need to respect and encourage the presence and abundance of birds and animals and continue to ensure it is a peaceful and quiet home for them. You can enjoy your music just as long as other campsites and the local wildlife can't hear it. Manilla, only 20 minutes away has two dump points and water refill stations as well as a good number of shops to cater to all your needs during your stay. We are not in a high traffic area so you may get to enjoy having the place all to yourself. Our campsites have good access for all types of camp set ups and are not impacted by flooding. Nor do they become boggy in wet weather due to the high sand content in our soil. You could be sitting on the warm sandy bank overlooking the river and being captivated by the surrounding beauty and the magnificence of the swimming hole. This secret little piece of paradise has been untouched for 40 years and is home to an abundance of birdlife. Birds include the colourful Rainbow bee eaters, Kingfishers, Superb Fairy Wrens, Eastern Yellow Robins, Red Browed Finch and many more. A magical place that will delight your senses and make you feel relaxed and at peace. BYO camp toilet and leave no trace. Fish in the river; cod, cat, golden perch and carp. Well behaved dogs on leash and supervised at all times are welcome. If you would like to enquire about having the place to yourselves send me a message. ACCESS CONDITIONS: To help you decide if your set up is suitable you can google Riverside Escape Camping Manilla and find 2 videos on 23 and 25 May 2022 taken of me driving up and down the track to the campsites in my old Ford Courier that is NOT 4x4. There are lots of other useful videos to get a good sense of our campsite. You will also get a sense of the distance between each site. We recognise the Kamilaroi / Gomeroi people as the traditional custodians of this land.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(111)

Temple Court, Murrurundi

4 sites · RVs, Tents800 acres · Pages River, NSW

600 acres on the outskirts of the picturesque town of Murrurundi.On the property you can enjoy scenic bushwalks, a seasonal creek, a large dam and plentiful native wildlife including kangaroos, deer, birdlife and more.Depending on where you set up camp, you can walk or drive into the quaint village of Murrurundi. Situated on the New England Highway, Murrurundi is 30 minutes drive from Scone, 1 hour from Tamworth and 3 hours from Sydney. A picturesque town, nestled on the eastern side of the Great Dividing Range and boasts natural beauty, rich farming land and plenty of character. In town you'll find the recently opened Magpie Gin Distilery, art galleries (including Michael Reid and David Darcy), pubs, historic buildings and every May the King of the Ranges Stockmans Challenge.

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(36)

Muluerindie

4 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Bendemeer, NSW

Located just outside Bendemeer, our property features 21 peaceful acres with frontage to the beautiful McDonald River and a nice flat shaded area for camping. This is the perfect getaway spot to relax, complete with platypus, wombats and amazing bird life, fishing for trout and yellow belly. Lots of kayaking and swimming in summer, and plenty in winter too if you're brave!). We're around 30 mins from Tamworth where you can find all the supermarkets and supply stores to meet your camping gear needs, and there's lots of great cafes and restaurants too. Power is available if required but not next to the river. Camp next to the river (4WD access only) with your tent or rooftop set up or park uphill overlooking the river with your caravan or motor home, it's only a little further away (100 metres) with power available. Campfires allowed at both locations ( fire season permitting) you will need to bring your own wood. We welcome self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/ shower. Rain water is available for campers and caravans as required, and there is access to rubbish facilities. Your well behaved pet is welcome to camp with you.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(6)

Spring cart Farm ( Swamp Oak creek)

1 site · RV, Tent1600 acres · Tamworth, NSW

1600 acre farm approximately 1 hour drive from Tamworth located half way between Limbri and Weabonga. 3 campsites. Swamp Oak creek pergola with toilet. Bottom and top dam campsites with access to toilets showers and fresh water. The Pergola This is our most popular site located 2km from the farm house. Featuring a covered dinning area with magical views looking over Swamp Oak Creek, only a few metres from your kitchen we have our custom made fire pit with a selection of cooking methods for those hearty meals, secluded swimming holes reserved for this site and your own compost toilet. Due to this site being kilometers from anyone it is perfect for the relaxing get away without coming in contact with a sole. NOTE: 4WD DRIVE ACCESS ONLY NO FRESH WATER Top Dam - Site 1 Nestled among the trees on the top side of our 3 acre dam this amazing location has another of our custom fire pits for those nights around the fire and also features various accessories for different cooking styles. Enjoy a swim in the dam or a relaxing afternoon of kayaking then cast in the fishing line and try your skills at reeling in one of our rainbow trout or silver perch, you can even throw out a yabby net to catch a few yabbies. Why not spend an hour or two stolling around the various walks we have on offer, or join us for the afternoon feeding of our petting animals. This site has access to rain water, shower and toilet. NOTE: PRE APPROVAL FOR WATER ACTIVIES MUST BE OBTAINED BEFORE ARRIVAL Bottom Dam - Site 2 This site is located on the lower side of our 3 acre dam this great location has another of our custom fire pits for those nights around the fire and also features the same accessories for different cooking styles. All of the features of site 1 are accessible from this site - swimming, kayaking and fishing. This site is the closest to the toilet and shower. NOTE: PRE APPROVAL FOR WATER ACTIVIES MUST BE OBTAINED BEFORE ARRIVAL. THIS SITE DOES NOT HAVE SHADE SO A GAZEBO IS A MUST HAVE

* Before taxes and fees

97%

(31)

Edgecote Camping

6 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Duri, NSW

Our family have lived at ‘Edgecote’ for eighteen years. We are predominantly horse breeders and trainers, however have some cattle and many dogs. We love the great outdoors and especially enjoy this ‘bottom paddock’ because of all the trees and the bird life. The dam gives the space a cool feel and a place for dogs to swim and retrieve.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(9)

Bimbivale Caravan & Camp Sites

10 sites · RVs, Tents540 acres · Kentucky, NSW

Bimbivale is a working farm located half way between Sydney and Brisbane on the New England Highway. We grow superfine wool, sheep and beef cattle, and we enjoy working with our Australian Stock Horses, Welsh Mountain Ponies and various working dogs on farm. There are critically endangered White Box - Yellow Box - Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodlands located across the property, making it a beautiful place to experience the great Aussie outdoors. Being granite country, the property offers some special rocky outcrops and features. You may get to see some rare or even endangered species here. At 1100 m elevation, the winters are cold (with occasional snow), and the summers are divine, with daytime maximums reaching a top of around 28-30 degrees. Activities include bushwalking, mountain biking, fishing for trout or yellow belly in the farm dams, watching spectacular sunrises or sunsets from elevated parts of the New England landscape, watching your campfire crackle (fire season permitting), visiting the nearby Dobson's Gin Distillery or Kentucky General Store (10-12 km), or treating yourself to Uralla's many fine eateries or shopping experiences just 20 km up the highway. Bimbivale is also just 45 minutes from Tamworth and its Country Music Festival and AELEC (Australia Equine & Livestock Events Centre), or just 30 minutes from Armidale, host city to the University of New England and base for visiting the many National Parks and World Heritage Wilderness areas the region offers. Our camp sites are located along a central ridge line, which is fully accessible by motorhomes, caravans, camper trailers and two wheel drive cars in dry weather conditions. Most sites have a fire pit and access to water, but we recommend you byo drinking water. We can top up drinking water if required. Currently we prefer visitors who have their own ensuite/toilet facilities, although we will soon offer a toilet on-site. Sometimes we can offer eggs and fruit or vegetables from our orchard and garden. We are happy for your well-behaved dog to visit with you, as long as it remains confined or on a leash at all times. If you have more than 6 guests or 3 cars in your group, please book additional sites and we can ensure you are all able to camp together.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(1)

Kingfisher's Hut Nature Retreat

1 site · Lodging80 acres · Retreat, NSW

Welcome to our river retreat. Ideal for those seeking privacy, peace and solitude away from the socials and technology. Kingfisher's Hut sits on 80 acres of our 240 acre property, on a high bank overlooking the Macdonald River as it makes it way towards the confluence with the Namoi River. Ideally suited for a couple (children and fur babies also welcome) or small groups, and those who are new to a nature escape holiday. A small solar system provides lighting (but not recharging of devices). Our insulated cabin provides a comfortable double bed and pot belly stove for the colder months. Our bush kitchen provides your basic needs with a BBQ, 12 volt fridge, and fully equipped camp kitchen. Our open fire is set up for cooking or for just sitting, relaxing and staring into the flames. Our bush bathroom provides a toilet and wood fired hot shower. Or you might chose to relax in a hot bath overlooking the river. We welcome nature lovers and offer activities such as bush walking, bird watching, native wildlife, swimming, picnicking, kayaking (double kayak provided), catch and release fishing (seasonal), and big open night skies for astronomy enthusiasts. We are a small farming enterprise and currently establishing aquaculture (yabby) ponds and can offer an introductory tour to those who are interested.

* Before taxes and fees

64%

(7)

Fairfield

4 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Tamworth, NSW

Fairfield is a 25-acre property located 10 minutes from Tamworth CBD. Timbumburri Creek runs through the centre of the property, offering multiple locations to fish, sit back and relax with a beer. Fairfield is the ideal location to set up close to town whilst enjoying some peace and quiet, and plenty of open space to set up your camp. Makes a convenient base camp to explore the local area and enjoy local events. Hike to the Flagstaff Lookout, around 15 minutes drive away. The township of Nundle is around 1 hours drive and makes for a great day trip. And in January, the iconic Tamworth Country Music Festival is in town, so it's a great time to visit. All campers to Fairfield must be completely self-sufficient, with their own camp toilet and we kindly ask you take all waste when you go.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(13)

Oakenville Farm, Nundle

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Nundle, NSW

Our property is a small but productive farm in Nundle set up using permaculture principles. We have a large vegetable garden, fruit trees, a medicinal herb garden, chooks, guinea fowl, bees, a couple of dogs and many native birds and other wildlife. Oakenville Creek runs along the back of our property.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(9)

Namoi Valley Escape

1 site · RV, Tent2000 acres · Manilla, NSW

We are located near Manilla, which lies 45km northwest of Tamworth. You can purchase all you need at the shopping centres there, or in Manilla where you can can pick up groceries and fuel. We are suitable for caravans or motorhomes with self contained toilets and showers as we have no facilities. It is essential that visitors have these facilities. There is a waste dump station in Manilla. Our property offers flat access from the road, with plenty of room to manoeuvre. We recommend 4WDs - please message us if you are unsure about your vehicle. You are welcome to camp near the river or in a hidden valley. Swim in the river and have a camp fire. Walk in the area, see the abundance of birds and wildlife. This is a hilly and mountainous area to explore, you are welcome to go fishing along the river bank, or bring a camera as it's a photographer's delight. Very private camping areas. Enjoy listening to the crackle of the campfire in the evenings. There is access to drinking water, but no amenities so you need to be a self-sufficient camper and bring your own camping toilet/shower. Well behaved pets welcome.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(3)

The Woolshed

1 site · Lodging650 acres · Blandford, NSW

Escape to this relaxing rustic woolshed, situated in the Upper Hunter region of NSW. Swim in the waterholes that the creek provides, hike over the 650 acers of property, explore the beautiful town of Murrurundi and what is has to offer or relax and spot the wildlife passing by. Guests will love the rustic interior of the old working woolshed, converted by the owner into this idealic accommodation, complete with chic simplicity and a sign of times that once were. Sleeping a total of 5, extra camp sites can be booked for larger groups at a cost. With stunning views of the creek, enjoy the fire pit and cook your dinner under the stars (firewood can be purchased under 'Extras'). There is a full size picnic table and a kids picnic table outside, along with seating on the veranda and inside the shed. The kitchen is complete with a microwave, stove, portable gas oven, kettle, toaster, fridge/freezer and a lovely country-style sink, along with dishware and cutlery. You will find all that you need to relax and enjoy a stress free getaway. The bathroom boasts a comfortable sized shower, free standing clawfoot bath (found on the property and restored by the owner) and a flushing toilet - enjoy the heated flooring on the cooler winter nights! The Woolshed is approximately 200 meters away from the main house, you may see the owners, their children and dog walking around or driving past from a distance, however The Woolshed area will be solely yours during your stay. The Woolshed itself has a lovely veranda with table and chairs, that provides a picturesque spot to sit and admire the view up the paddock. The Woolshed is rustic and open to the elements, so be mindful that it can be cold in winter and warm in summer. The shed has 4 extra large fans and for the cooler months an internal woodfire (firewood can be purchased under 'Extras'). All 3 beds have electric blankets, the 4th bed, a trundle does not so please pack extra blankets. Don't feel like making beds on holidays, let us do it for you (linen hire available under 'Extras'). The Woolshed sleeps 5 - 1 x Queen bed, 1 x single bunk bed, 1 x single trundle bed. If you are a larger group please feel free to book tent sites, available under 'Extras'.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(1)

The Barn at 417

1 site · Lodging1000 acres · Nundle, NSW

The Barn is the perfect place to disconnect from your busy life, reconnect with nature, and watch the world go by. It’s an ideal stay for couples, friends, or families. Make your stay an all-inclusive package by booking a home-cooked, home-grown Dinner Under The Stars or dining inside. Sunsets are amazing, and the dark night skies are incredible. There are chickens and ducks nearby who love being fed by our guests late in the afternoon. Come and enjoy farm life for a night or stay a week. Stay on our 4,000-acre fully working family-run sheep and cattle farm. The Barn is warm and welcoming, decorated in a modern farmhouse style, set within the one-acre garden of our home. It’s far enough away for privacy but close enough if you need us. The Barn is an open-plan area featuring a very comfortable sitting area, lounge room TV with Foxtel connection, and a selection of DVDs, books, magazines, and games for your convenience. The country-style dining area offers plenty of room to sit and chat. Spoil yourself by pre-ordering a home-cooked meal ready for your arrival. The modern farmhouse-style kitchen is equipped with cooking facilities, a small oven, and hot plates. Everything you might need, including a full-size refrigerator, tea, coffee, milk, sugar, bread, cereals, etc., is always in the pantry. The Barn has a brand-new bathroom with a shower. Bath towels, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and a hairdryer are all available for your use. One queen bed and four single beds are made up with good quality linen, blankets, and plenty of pillows. There is a wardrobe if you need to hang up clothing during your stay. The Barn is ideal for couples, perfect for a girls' weekend away, and great for families with children. Guests are welcome to sit outside at the fire pit area and enjoy the amazing views and peaceful surroundings. The fire pit is available for use; the cost is $20 for wood and fire pit essentials. This needs to be booked prior to arrival. Alternatively, you can collect your own wood from the paddocks, which is always a fun activity to do with the kids. A picnic by the Peel River can be organised on request. This will be set up and catered for; you just need to turn up and enjoy it, perfect for the summer months. Both of these extras need to be pre-booked prior to arrival. I also offer a studio space that can be used for various activities such as painting, journaling, sewing, yoga, and meditation. Inquiries are welcome. We have installed a 15-amp outdoor power point for charging an EV. Guests have the entire Barn to themselves, as well as the private outdoor area. Enjoy drinks or meals in the outdoor living area while surrounded by our farming property and stunning scenery around Nundle. Sunsets are amazing from the outdoor area, as well as star watching on a clear night. Guests are welcome to wander around my cottage garden. Birdwatchers might like to sit and watch the array of native birds, take a walk up the paddock, or spend some time under a shady tree on the banks of the Peel River, which runs through our property. Farm tours can be organised at an additional cost. We are happy for guests to take self-guided walks through the paddocks. A picnic by the Peel River is something guests love. For an additional cost, brunch, lunch, or evening picnics can be set up on the banks of the Peel River with all the food catered for. This is a great place to relax with a book, paddle in the river, or simply do nothing at all. Enjoy the serenity of being in nature. This experience is best enjoyed during the warmer months of the year. Guests can enjoy the farm animals just outside the fence, sit by the fire pit, and chat with the cattle and sheep as they wander by.

* Before taxes and fees

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

River, stream, or creek camping near Tamworth with campfires guide

Overview

Country music fans can’t miss a stop in Tamworth—the ‘Nashville’ of Australia. Whether snapping a selfie by the 12-meter-tall Golden Guitar, singing along at a country music festival, or visiting the Country Music Hands of Fame Park, there are plenty of ways to get your music fix. Set amid farmlands and national parks, Tamworth also makes a great base from which to explore the New England tablelands. Combine your musical odyssey with a horse riding tour, a backcountry camping adventure, or a waterfall hike.

Where to go

Western Tablelands

Rolling farmlands and vineyards stretch north and west of Tamworth. Stop by the gold rush towns of Barraba and Bingara, camp out by Copeton Lake, or go hiking in the Horton Falls National Park. Further afield, hike or mountain bike through the volcanic landscapes of Mount Kaputar National Park, or cool off with a dip in the Rocky Creek Glacial Area.

Eastern Tablelands

East of Tamworth, wild rivers and forested gorges blanket the landscapes, and there are seven national parks within reach. Hike through World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest in the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, explore off-road in a 4WD in the Carrai National Park, or pitch your tent at remote campgrounds in the Mummel Gulf National Park.

Nundle

Just south of Tamworth, dive into Australia’s gold rush history in Nundle, take in the views from the Hanging Rock Lookout, or go trout fishing along the creeks. Nearby, Lake Keepit is an idyllic spot for campers, where you can swim, fish, and enjoy water sports in the summer months.

When to go

Tamworth is undoubtedly a festival town, and it’s worth timing your visit for one of its famous events. The Tamworth Country Music Festival is held in January, but there’s also the Hats Off To Country Music Festival in July, the Australian Stock Horse National Show in March, and the Taste Tamworth foodie festival in April. Just book your campsite well in advance—the small city can get crowded at these times.

Know before you go

Tamworth has bus links to the surrounding towns, but you’ll need your own vehicle to explore the tablelands and national parks.

Tamworth has a selection of shops where you can pick up camping gear and stock up on supplies.
Fire bans are common in New South Wales during summer and dry periods, so check local recommendations before lighting a fire.
A permit is required to camp within NSW’s national parks, and campsites must be booked in advance.

Nearby attractions

Well worth the visit for those camping near the Peel Valley, Chaffey Dam is an engineering marvel surrounded by pristine parkland.
An historic venue and an interesting tale in revival, the Tamworth Showgrounds have evolved over the last century to be the impressive event space that it is today.