National Park

The best camping in Watsons Creek National Park, NSW

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100% (2)

Discover the natural splendour of Watsons Creek National Park.  

The best camping in Watsons Creek National Park, NSW

Kingfisher's Hut Nature Retreat

1. Kingfisher's Hut Nature Retreat

100%
(11)
9.3mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 1 site · Lodging
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 (bring your own linen and pillows) 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 with current Fishing Licence), 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. The hut sleeps two but there is plenty of room for those who wish to bring a camper trailer or van or pitch a tent. As a working property, you may need to navigate around the odd cow pat! We do ask that you carefully read our rules (see link) to avoid any conflict with neighbouring properties or our attempts at retaining a relatively undisturbed, healthy river environment and not to impact upon our surrounding community.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$194
 / night
Namoi Valley Escape

2. Namoi Valley Escape

100%
(15)
12mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
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. All waste must be removed. 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 stay near the river or in a hidden valley. But again stress the need for self contained removable toilet facilities. 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 is 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-contained toilet/shower. Well behaved pets welcome.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
AU$31
 / night
Muluerindie

3. Muluerindie

97%
(47)
13mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Located just outside of 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
AU$43
 / night
Riverside Escape Off Grid Camping

4. Riverside Escape Off Grid Camping

100%
(374)
15mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 27 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$20
 / night
Figtrees @ Moonbi

5. Figtrees @ Moonbi

95%
(10)
17mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
400 acres of fields and bushland set in the Moonbi Ranges, 20km north of Tamworth. The property boasts amazing views of the surrounding area, plus an array of wildlife to enjoy, including Kangaroos, Echidnas and Wedge-Tailed eagles. Secluded location away from the crowds in close proximity to many highlights of the New England region including Bendemeer, Uralla and Armidale. Figtrees is ideally suited to the self- contained traveller who wants to stop and rest en route to the many highlights of the New England region and beyond.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$34
 / night
Bimbivale Caravan & Camp Sites

6. Bimbivale Caravan & Camp Sites

100%
(16)
18mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$49
 / night
Balaka Farm

7. Balaka Farm

100%
(15)
22mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 7 sites · RVs, Lodging
Situated just 20 mins from the regional city of Tamworth, home of Australia's largest Country Music Festival, Balaka Farm offers a family friendly stay. Sit and relax on the verandah of our converted shearing shed and enjoy the views of the hills. There are so many activities to enjoy in the local area with dams and creeks for fishing or swimming or head into Tamworth and visit the myriad of galleries and museums, playgrounds and parks on offer.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$31
 / night
Merridale

8. Merridale

91%
(22)
26mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Our beautiful property is located near Inverell, featuring 1,850 acres of gently sloping farmland edged by mountains with beautiful eucalyptus bush. There is a big dam and yabbies in the creek. We have a range of fruit trees which you are welcome to help yourself to fruit when in season. Farm Rules - clean up after yourself - The hut and the yard up on the hill are out of bound. - Fishing is welcome however we run a catch and release. - Shut the gates when passing through. - Dogs are welcome but must be under control/on lead as we do run cattle on the property. - No hunting. - Fires are welcome but must be contained and kept under control. Activity's - Being a kayak or something to float around on. - Bring your metal detectors - Horses are welcome with the addition cost. Enjoy scenic horse rides around the valley. - Fishing (catch and release) - Yabbies (welcome to eat what you catch). - Panning in the creek for gems. - hike Sites - we run a undesignated system meaning you can set up and camp anywhere you would like however some ideas below. Anywhere around the dam You have an option to camp at the shed where there is a generator for power (lighting) and toilet amenities. This area is generally flat and can accommodate any type of camping vehicle. There is a shed to provide shelter for your food prep etc. There is a sink under the awning but you will need to carry water in a container to wash dishes. Outside there is wood-burning BBQ the camping paddock is fully fenced in . For 4WD enthusiasts, there are good camping spots at the top of the mountain ridge however need to be self contained eg toilet. You will need to bring your own fresh drinking water supply and unleaded fuel to run the water pump and generator. We have secure cattle yards as a holding space if holidaying with your horses (please see Extras for horse facility fees). Enjoy scenic horse rides around the valley and relax in front of the campfire by night. Dogs on leashes are welcome. There is no phone reception on site There is a pub in Bundarra where meals hospitality and spending time with the locals and a corner store 25km away at Bundarra, and all shops and amenities are available 75km at Inverell.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$49
 / night
Royal Oaks

9. Royal Oaks

99%
(41)
28mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Great location for Tamworth Country Music Festival, walk or cycle into Tamworth CBD. 20 acres on the Peel River. There are unpowered campsites next to the river but the amenities are about a 300m walk. We have a couple of horses, a few chooks and lots of avian wildlife live on the property. Peaceful and with abundant trees. Hot water shower, flushing toilet and 10 amp power available at the sites next to the amenities. Good access for caravans and all types of vehicles. Dogs or other pets not accepted. No campfires, total fire bans often in place here.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$31
 / night
Dales Do Drop Inn

10. Dales Do Drop Inn

100%
(12)
28mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Westdale 10mins drive west of Tamworth's main street. A larger than normal suburban backyard with no neighbours. Access for large vehicles. Can accommodate tents, caravans, buses, RV's of all sizes. Flat level all weather block. Dale enjoys Happy Hour most evenings and loves a chat. Or she can leave you to your own devices. There is one site with power and water and plenty of room for those who are self sufficient.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$19
 / night
Adela Park

11. Adela Park

91%
(40)
28mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
A quiet property on the outskirts of Tamworth, a seven-minute drive to the town centre or the Country Music Capital festivities. Walking distance to the local pub and general store. We offer a flat block, with options for shade by the large pepper and gum trees. There are sweeping mountain views, no street lights, and plentiful birdlife to enjoy. We provide on-site power and bore water (which is drinkable) and also unpowered sites however we DO NOT have toilet or shower facilities so all campers must be self-sufficient in this regard. Dogs are welcome but must be under control or on a leash at all times. Horses welcome also. Children under 12 stay free - please just ensure they're added to the booking so we can keep on top of the numbers. (you will not be charged).
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
AU$31
 / night
Hillside Farmstay

12. Hillside Farmstay

96%
(627)
29mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 99 sites · Tents, RVs
A 200 acre horse breeding property on the outskirts of Tamworth. 6 minutes to the Country Music Capital CBD. Lots of shady trees to camp or park your van/RV. Hills that you can see forever from the top of.... Some outdoor seating. There's two flush toilets, two hot showers. Dogs are welcome but must be strictly on a lead at all times. There is a dog run available if you want to leave your dog and go to town or the Country Music Festival. Generally most people stay and camp near the horse barn. Indoor shower and toilet available and there is a outdoor hot shower and a sink and a tub to rub a dub dub. Laundry is available. Ask for the key ($5) The outdoor shower is private but has no roof so you can shower under the stars. Picnic table provided and a fire pit to barbecue in winter (fire bans in summer) Transported horses are also welcome...yards available. Price is per person. Children under 12 are free.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$16
 / night
Oakey Farm

13. Oakey Farm

99%
(82)
30mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Oakey Farm is situated 15km from Tamworth's CBD, on a 180-acre farm. Take in the beautiful lights of Tamworth and views of the Peel Valley. The camping is spacious , with a powered modern bathroom facility with a flushing toilet and shower and large rain water pool. As the pool is rain water, we kindly request no booming and splashing (excessive amounts of water out of the pool) We have plenty of space and tranquility.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$61
 / night
Sheffield B&B Farm stay Tamworth

14. Sheffield B&B Farm stay Tamworth

99%
(80)
32mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in a quiet rural setting upon 30 acres, overlooking the city of Tamworth, just a quick 10 minute drive from the CBD. As I wake in the morning you will find yourself surrounded by horses, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and you welcome to feed the ponies a carrot or two. We cater for all your accommodations and camping needs with grasses powered camp sites for hooking up your caravans & horse floats or we provide self contained units and B&B style accommodation. Offering toilets, showers and drinking water. Accomodation options include powered and unpowered sites - suitable for set-ups from tents to big rig RVs. Located close to amenities and a campfire. Sheffield runs a unique hands on farm experience join us to come feed and communicate with the friendly horses, pigs, goats, chooks, Guinea fowl and cats . Enjoy walking through our beautiful gardens and have a picnic. Follow Debbie around and learn why the guniea fowl are in the trees or how the horses sleep while standing up? Collect the chook eggs and feed the pigs, horses and goats.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$49
 / night
Ascot Park (currently unavailable)

15. Ascot Park (currently unavailable)

100%
(10)
33mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Stunning views of Tamworth city lights and mountains and valley. Only 12km from Tamworth on a quiet unsealed road with great access for caravans. Have power and water available but no amenties. Take in the outstanding views and relax in rural setting or take advantage of close proximity to AELEC (equestrian center).
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
AU$43
 / night
Ranjen Farm Stay

16. Ranjen Farm Stay

97%
(17)
34mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 1 site · RV
10 sites with Electricity Located on the edge of Tamworth, we are a quiet and tranquil place to stay with good facilities, plenty of space, and lots of wildlife. Birds are here in abundance and our sunrise and especially our sunsets are to be seen to be believed. Campers have access to toilets, hot showers, camp kitchen and power (if booking a powered site). 10 to choose from. We're dog friendly too! We are a working farm with cattle and horses. We are close to all that Tamworth and surrounds have to offer, a safe and friendly base camp for your travels in the area, or equally as ideal as an easy stopover on your way through. We are only 10-15 minutes to town, and near to the local IGA, pharmacy, butcher, bottle shop, and Taven and a Hotel
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
AU$43
 / night
Edgecote Camping

17. Edgecote Camping

98%
(51)
38mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$55
 / night
Bramwell.

18. Bramwell.

100%
(44)
39mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Our 25 acre country block is located only 5 km from the CBD, but provides a very rural outlook. We have 2 dams which provide a haven for ducks and waterbirds. We have 6 alpacas that wander around the paddocks, as well as chickens, kangaroos, wallabies and prolific birdlife. The views are quite beautiful to the south and east. We are very close to the World Heritage New England National Park and the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, where bushwalking is abundant, along with spectacular waterfalls. The University of New England is well worth a visit, as well as beautiful churches, Cathedrals and many more historic buildings, and small townships close by. The sites are self-service with no amenities available, so best suited to those happy to be self-sufficient and with a 'leave no trace' approach.
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Back to Nature Bush Camping

19. Back to Nature Bush Camping

96%
(13)
42mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Elderslie lies at the foot of Mount Duval Nature Reserve. We encompass a variety of landscapes from stringy bark Forrest and creek lands to open timber and mountains. We travel through 1.5km of rough terrain that follows the powerlines, steep in parts. 4WD vehicle required. The campsite is a flat, grassy area, the perfect spot to get back to nature and enjoy the tranquillity. Campers are welcome to enjoy a campfire - do not light fires during fire ban. Pets are allowed. There are no facilities here, campers need to BYO camp toilet and leave no trace. Just 15 minutes down the road you'll find yourself in the regional hub of Armidale for all your shopping and supply needs.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
AU$73
 / night
Blue Hole Riverside R&R

20. Blue Hole Riverside R&R

100%
(116)
43mi from Watsons Creek National Park · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Blue Hole Riverside Camp (via Castle Doyle Rd) is located 10 minutes out of Armidale and provides sunny, cleared acres to camp by the riverside with peaceful surrounds and total relaxation. Easy access to the river to swim, fish, kayak or canoe. A short two minute drive (approx 3kms) to the beautiful Blue Hole Picnic Area and Gara Gorge offers swimming, picnic seating, BBQ and bush walking in a scenic bush setting with clean toilets. Armidale is home to many gorges and national parks like no other region. Dangars falls is a stunning waterfall with a picnic area. This rural property suits self sufficient campers only with own drinking water and shower/toilet amenities. All campers must take their rubbish with them leaving no trace - no bins provided. Please note that wifi is limited in this camping area by the river. You will find certain spots around the area that will work more efficiently. We do not offer wifi. Take your time to relax by a fire and enjoy the serenity! Check out our instagram page "Blue Hole Riverside Hipcamp" for more photos of our campground! The "Reynella" Hut is now available to stay in. This well appointed, fully renovated hut is a studio with a queen bed, lounge area, tv, kitchen, bathroom/laundry, front deck with a bbq and views to die for!! This provides all the luxuries with a rustic charm embracing a peaceful getaway with a magnificent outlook.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$61
 / night
100% (2)

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The best camping in Watsons Creek National Park, NSW guide

Overview

About

Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Watsons Creek National Park, a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Established in 2011, this 335ha park invites you to explore its diverse landscapes, from serene creek beds to rugged bushland. Whether you're keen on birdwatching, seeking scenic walking trails, or simply yearning for a peaceful picnic spot, Watsons Creek offers a multitude of activities to satisfy your wanderlust.

When to go

The best time to visit Watsons Creek National Park is during the milder months of spring and autumn, offering pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. Summer brings warmth, perfect for early morning or late afternoon explorations, while winter can be crisp, ideal for those who prefer cooler hiking conditions. Always check local alerts for current conditions before planning your trip.

Know before you go

  • Ensure you have the latest information on park conditions by visiting the official website or contacting the Armidale office from 8:30am to 5pm.
  • Stay safe by adhering to all park safety guidelines, including fire bans and wildlife encounters.
  • Accessibility varies across the park, so check ahead if you require specific facilities.
  • Local alerts may affect your visit; stay informed on closures or restrictions.
  • Remember to pack essentials, including water, as amenities may be limited in certain areas of the park.

100%
2 ratings · 1 review