If you’ve already ticked off the Queensland coast or braved the Tassie wilderness, you’ll know that New South Wales (NSW) and the ACT offer a completely different challenge. This region is the king of the “weekend escape,” where you can find world-class Blue Mountains camping just a few hours from Sydney or head south for some of the best showground camping in the country.
- The Coast (Best in Spring/Autumn): Ideal for avoiding the summer humidity. If you’re heading north, the sun can be brutal, so shade is your best friend.
- Blue Mountains & ACT (Best in Autumn): The “Garden City” (Canberra) and the mountains offer stunning colors, but winter nights are legendary. Ensure you’ve got a heavy-duty sleeping bag when the mercury drops toward -5°C.
- The Outback (Best in Winter): This is the time to explore the red dirt of Mungo or Broken Hill without the flies driving you mad.
2. Pests and Safety: Fight the Bite
- Ticks: The NSW coast is notorious for ticks. If you are staying at pet friendly cabins or camping in long grass, check yourself and your dog daily—paralysis ticks are a serious threat.
- March Flies: Common in the Snowy Mountains and the ACT. These big biters are attracted to dark colors, so stick to neutral, light-colored clothing.
- Mosquitoes: A major factor near the Murray River. Use a repellent with DEET or Picaridin and keep those flyscreens shut at dusk!
3. Booking Your NSW Adventure
- Digital Bookings: All NSW National Parks camping must be booked online via the NPWS website. Even the “free” sites now often have a $6 booking fee to prevent “ghost bookings” where people book and don’t show up.
- Peak Periods: Coastal spots like Jervis Bay or Byron book out months in advance. If you’re stuck, check for alternative showground camping or farm stay camping in the hinterlands.
4. Tech on the Road: Staying Connected in the Ranges
- The Gear: A Starlink Mini Mount is perfect for those moving every few days between Blue Mountains camping spots.
- Powering Up: If you’re off-grid, a 12V Starlink conversion allows you to stay online without running your inverter 24/7. It’s a game-changer for checking weather alerts in remote areas.
NSW & ACT: From the Coast to the Capital
5. Top Dog-Friendly Picks
- Wee Jasper Reserves (ACT/NSW Border): A stunning riverside spot that is 100% dog friendly.
- Wingello State Forest: A great (and free!) spot with a “North American” pine forest vibe.
- Coachwood Camping Area: Tucked in the Chichester State Forest, this is a rainforest paradise with a swimming hole your dog will love.
6. Logistics: Towing and Insurance
Before you tackle the steep climbs of the Blue Mountains or the Snowy Mountains, check your Essential Caravan Pre-Departure Checklist. Ensure your caravan sway control is dialed in, and verify that your towing capacity is correctly matched for the heavy gradients you’ll face. Also, double-check that your caravan insurance covers you for unsealed “State Forest” roads!
PRO TIP
Whether you’re climbing the steep gradients of the Blue Mountains or tackling the corrugated tracks of Outback NSW, the diverse terrain can put extreme pressure on your rig’s suspension, brakes, and tow hitch. Before you leave the coast, ensure your setup is truly road-ready. If you need a comprehensive safety check or find yourself with a mechanical issue mid-trip, visit Caravan and Camper Repairs to get back on the road safely.
