The best camping near Lake Keepit State Park

It might be miles from the surf beaches of NSW, but this inland dam still provides plenty of ways to get on the water. Head down to the shores of Lake Keepit to swim and fish, set sail on a boat cruise, or take part in water sports such as kayaking and water-skiing. Kids will be in their element here, with a skate park, BMX track, playgrounds, and a water park. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, find a scenic spot for a picnic by the lake. There are also several bushwalking trails to explore, as well as tennis and volleyball courts around the lake. Reflections Holiday Park is the park’s only camping area and has plenty of powered and unpowered sites right by the lakeside. Pitch your tent in the bushlands, check into a hilltop cabin or luxury glamping tent, or park your caravan close to all the amenities.  

1. Camping sites at Lake Keepit State Park can book up quickly. Book at least three months in advance if visiting in peak season or on bank holiday weekends. 
2. You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation.

Outdoor activities and camping are possible at Lake Keepit year-round, and temperatures rarely hit extremes. Summer (December through March) is peak season, when advance bookings are essential for both campsites and activities. However, the summer heat can mean that water levels are at their lowest, so check ahead if activities are still operating. To avoid the crowds, opt for a spring or autumn visit during the week. 

• Lake Keepit State Park is about a 5-hour drive along the New England Highway from Sydney. There’s no public transport to the park, so you’ll need your own wheels. 
• The closest gas station is in Carroll, about a 15-minute drive from the park, where you’ll also find a few small shops. The nearest supermarket is in Gunnedah, a 30-minute drive from the park. 
• The holiday park at Lake Keepit has a kiosk, BBQs, and camp kitchen. Park facilities such as the water park are also open to day visitors, and an admission fee applies.