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Trial Bay Gaol Campground, South West Rocks NSW

Trial Bay Gaol Campground

If you’re looking for South West Rocks Camping or Caravan Park head to the Trial Bay Gaol Campground.

Trial Bay Gaol in the Arakoon National Park at South West Rocks is our new favourite Campground in Australia.

South West Rocks is a fantastic beachside town approximately halfway between Brisbane and Sydney on the NSW coast.

Overhead view of Trial Bay Gaol Campground
Trial Bay Gaol Campground

We really enjoyed our time at the Trial Bay Gaol Campground in the Arakoon National Park and were lucky as we were able to stay in the overflow area.

We were directly overlooking the ocean therefore we watched Whales and Dolphins swim by and turtles as the popped up right in front of us.

Kangaroos also came right up to our Motorhome.

The overflow is only available if the campground is full.

The Trial Bay Gaol Campground has skyrocketed its way to the top of the list as our favourite Campground in Oz!

Read more: Our 29 Best Low Cost Campgrounds in Australia

Sunset from Trial Bay Gaol Campground
Sunset at South West Rocks

About the Trial Bay Gaol, South West Rocks

The Trial Bay Gaol is located on the point of the Arakoon National Park in South West Rocks NSW.

The stunning sheltered bay of Trial Bay is on one side and the open ocean waters of the South Pacific Ocean is on the other.

Construction of the Trial Bay Gaol began in 1877 but due to financial reasons the works progressed slowly.

It wasn’t until 1899-1900 that most of the Gaol was completed.

The Trial Bay Gaol was closed soon after efforts to build a breakwater ceased.

The History of Trial Bay Gaol is on full display within the grounds with information boards and videos telling all about life within the compound.

Today the Gaol operates tours and the grounds surrounding it are available for camping.

Trial Bay Gaol Campground Facilities

There are 3 toilet blocks, showers, BBQ’s and drinking water available. A great camp kitchen is there for campers to use.

There is also a Dump Point and bins on site.

A choice of powered or unpowered sites are both available at the Trial Bay Gaol Campground.

Camping at the Trial Bay Gaol Campground
Camping Trial Bay Gaol

If it’s the beach you like then this is the place for you.

Surf beaches, Rocks, several beautiful Bays, Rivers and a Creek, there’s everything for swimming, snorkeling and fishing.

Offshore, South West Rocks has some of the best diving in the country.

During Humpback Whale season you can watch them pass on by very close to shore as they migrate north around May and June and return around October to November.

We had great phone coverage with both Telstra and Vodafone networks at the Trial Bay Gaol Campground.

I saw all sorts of fish caught including Kingfish and more. It is also very popular for Spear fishing.

Are Pets allowed at the Trial Bay Gaol Campground?

It is National Park so no pets are allowed and therefore dogs are not permitted.

You can see why with so much wildlife wandering around the campground.

Read more about: Travelling Australia with our dog MACKS

Dining at Seasons at the South Wests Rocks Country Club
South West Rocks Country Club

We highly recommend a night out and dinner at the South West Rocks Country Club, a fabulous place for drinks, meals and entertainment.

There’s always something great happening at the Club with sport, fun or food.

5 Essentials – Camping Accessories

A good Tent or Swag is the first decision for going camping. We like the Coleman Tent from Tentworld or the Wanderer 7 Man Tent from BCF. For a Swag, we were so close to buying the Kings Double Swag from 4WD Supacentre .

We like our BCF Wanderers Camping Chair which gets a lot of use as we travel Australia.

No more lugging around a huge BBQ and gas bottle now that we have a brilliant Gasmate Dual Burner Butane Cooktop from Tentworld

A good Portable Fridge Freezer we have found to keep the beers cold and steaks frozen are the Kings 70 L Fridge Freezer in the budget range, the Waeco 75L Dual Zone Fridge Freezer or the ever popular and long lasting Engel 75L Fridge Freezer.

A good quality Hand Held UHF is ideal and I like this Uniden UH750 5 watt UHF for long range and quality. The 5 watt range will give you maximum distance, especially if you need help!

Trial Bay Gaol

Trial Bay Gaol

You can also take a walk through the old Gaol, cost is $11 for Adults.

It is definitely worth stepping back in time and exploring the historic ruins of the gaol and learning about its history.

With the gaol situated on top of the hill overlooking Trial Bay, the views from the Sentry tower are breathtaking.

Camping at the Trial Bay Gaol Campground right beside the old gaol

It gets very busy here at the Trial Bay Gaol Campground during peak season, we would recommend booking early.

Review a map of the Campground to choose the best location for your stay as there are varied spots throughout the park.

There are spectacular sunrises and sunsets to enjoy from here also. It’s worth an early morning to witness the magic of a new day dawn.

Sunrise from we were camping in the Trial Bay Gaol Campground overflow area
Sunrise

Cost to Stay at the Trial Bay Gaol Campground

Cost to stay at Trial Bay Gaol Campground is $31 for unpowered or $36 for a powered site.

Prices vary depending on where you camp and the time of the year when you stay.

Update February 2022:
General Unpowered Site – From $34.85 per night
Bay View Unpowered & Powered Site – From $45.10 per night

Our stay here was 4-13th November 2018

We loved South West Rocks and it is one of 7 towns in Australia we could live!

Other Nearby Camping Areas

Other great places to stay in the region:

Contacts Details for Trial Bay Gaol Campground:

Address: 63 Trial Bay Goal Road, Arakoon, NSW
Phone: 1300 072 757
Website

Smoky Cape Lighthouse

How to get to the Trial Bay Gaol Campground:

Turn off the Pacific Highway on to the Macleay Valley Highway.

Then turn East in to Plummers Lane and follow it beside the Macleay River and over the bridge until you reach the T Junction.

Turn left into S W Rocks Road and follow it to Arakoon Road.

Follow Arakoon Rd to Phillip Drive before turning left in to Cardwell Street and follow Cardwell St until you reach the Trial Bay Gaol Campground.

Check out other great places for: Camping NSW North Coast

North Smoky Beach

What is there to see and do at South West Rocks

Smoky Cape Lighthouse

The walk up to the Lighthouse is steep but really worth it.

The outlook is amazing and there’s lots of history to learn from the top.

On your walk up to the Lighthouse check the views from the Captain Cook Lookout over North Smoky Beach.

Hat Head National Park

Hat Head

Just south of South West Rocks is Hat Head located in the Hat Head National Park.

This is a stunning small town with gorgeous beaches and great short walks.

Take the walk to Connors Beach, on the way stopping at the lookout to admire the coastline.

Walk past The Gap, an opening in the cliff face with a long steep drop either side.

Hat Head is fantastic and a must stop destination when visiting South West Rocks.

South West Rocks Country Club

Enjoy a great meal at the South West Rocks Country Club or have a round of Golf with some mates.

There’s plenty to do at the Country Club including barefoot bowls and ten pin bowling or you can catch a band play or watch a great show.

There’s always something happening at the South West Rocks Country Club so be sure to visit during your stay.

Little Bay

Little Bay

Take a drive to Little Bay where you can have a picnic.

There’s plenty of parking and it’s an easy walk on to the beautiful beach in this tiny bay.

It’s also a perfect spot to go beach fishing.

Read more other great blogs:

Pin – Trial Bay Gaol Campground!

Trial Bay Gaol Campground

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Have you experienced a great stay at the Trial Bay Gaol Campground?

We sure can highly recommend staying there!

Safe travels

Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave

We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.

Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.

___________________________________________________________________________

Photography and Socials

Our camera equipment we use for all of our photos and videos are:

Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.

Samsung s21 Phonehttps://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.

Canon 800dhttps://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.

Nikon Coolpix p1000https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.

Lenses

Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG  This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lenshttps://ebay.us/br9MeO This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lenshttp://ebay.us/zWvfuI  – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.

Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC  –  is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.

Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo  This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.

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Where to Find Us

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/indefiniteleav3

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Adventurers Diary

Dalmeny Campground, Dalmeny NSW

Dalmeny

The Dalmeny Campground is perfectly located overlooking spectacular Dalmeny Beach.

This is a very popular camping spot for Caravans, Motorhomes, Campervans and Tents.

With it’s spectacular ocean views, fantastic surfing opportunities and excellent fishing along the beach it’s a perfect place to relax and unwind.

If you’re looking for the ideal Narooma camping location, the Dalmeny Campground is your escape from chaos.

About Dalmeny

Dalmeny is just 5 mins drive from the beautiful nearby town of Narooma on the south NSW coast and is 340 kms south of Sydney.

It is known for it’s many stunning beaches which provide excellent swimming, fishing and surfing opportunities.

With a population of around 2000 people Dalmeny is a peaceful laid back community which thrives during the summer tourism season when travellers and holiday makers visit Dalmeny, Narooma and nearby winery regions such as Tilba Tilba.

Brou Beach, which is commonly called Dalmeny Beach, is located in the Eurobodalla National Park where there are lots of fantastic walks and you can visit Brou Lake which is the perfect spot to swim, kayak and throw in a line.

This is one of our favourite regions within the NSW south coast.

Dalmeny Campground Location

The Dalmeny Camping area is some amazing real estate given the panoramic outlook from the position of each Caravan and Motorhome.

The campground is located on a hilltop of sloping grounds so most sites are not level but they do provide spectacular views.

Remember to bring your levelling chocks and enjoy some of the most exquisite views you’ll ever have whilst camping here at Dalmeny Campground.

Don’t forget your camera and binoculars to witness the amazing Humpback Whale season as they make their way north and back again, playing and breaching along the Eastern coastline.

Dalmeny Campground
Dalmeny Campground

Dalmeny Campground Amenities

There is a large amenities block located here which includes toilets, hot showers and a laundry which are all modern and clean.

A dump point is also available onsite just near the amenities block. Bins are also located at the campground.

A children’s playground is located in the park next to the Campground.

An IGA for all your groceries and a fuel station are located directly across the road.

There’s also a great Fish and Chips shop which is popular with other campers.

An aerial view of Dalmeny
Dalmeny Beach
Dalmeny Beach

Fire pits are available for hire along with firewood, just see the caretakers who will look after you.

The beach is excellent for swimming although not all beaches have lifesavers and can be subject to rips and dangerous surf conditions.

Surfing the beaches surrounding Dalmeny is very popular with plenty of great wave action.

There’s lots of good fishing along the beach in the gutters and we saw a few fish being caught during our stay.

You may even spot the resident Emu’s that often wander along the beach.

We had good Telstra coverage and I also had 1 bar of Vodafone network during our stay at Dalmeny Campground.

Are pets allowed at Dalmeny Campground?

The Dalmeny Campground is pet friendly and therefore dogs are allowed.

Read more: Travelling Australia with our dog MACKS

Dalmeny Campground
Drone view of Dalmeny
Dalmeny Campground

Cost to stay at Dalmeny Campground

Cost to stay is $33 per night for 2 adults for powered site. Children 5-16yo are $6 each per night.
* Updated 27/12/2022 Prices vary throughout the year depending on season. Off peak is $31, Shoulder season is $37 and Peak season is $56 a night for a powered site.

Unpowered sites are available and are $26 a night for off peak, $34 a night during the Shoulder season and $45 a night in peak times.

Check the Dalmeny Campground website for more details.

Also look for Stay 7 nights and pay for only 6 deal or any other offers they may have throughout the year.

Our stay was 22nd February and 28th February to 6th March 2019.

For video reviews on hundreds of other Caravan Parks, Campgrounds and Free Camps around oz, simply click on the Where to Stay Button above or here to search by category. Alternatively you can click on the Destinations Button above or here to search by State.

Check out these other great places to stay near Dalmeny NSW:

Pretty Beach Campground

Congo Campground

Ulladulla Headland Holiday Park

Nearby Narooma
Narooma NSW

Contact Details for Dalmeny Campground and Caravan Park:

Phone: 0428 635 641
Address: 1 Noble Parade, Dalmeny NSW
Website
Facebook

Emus on Dalmeny Beach
Emus on Dalmeny Beach

How to get to Dalmeny Campground:

From the Princes Highway turn in to Mort Avenue at Dalmeny to Dalmeny Beach until you come to the Dalmeny Campground on your left.

The entrance is on the ocean side, it is a one way road in and out of the campground.

5 Essentials – Outside RV Accessories

  1. To plug your RV with standard 15amp in to standard residential 10amp power source you will need a converter. We love our waterproof Ampfibian and after over 4 years it’s still perfect.
  2. Most people carry a Generator for back up power. 4wd Supacentre has a good low cost and popular generator while the Yamaha 2000w is a robust yet quiet excellent performer.
  3. A 20m 15amp Power Lead will ensure you reach your power source in Caravan Parks and Campgrounds.
  4. You will want a good blue Drinking Water Hose. Your typical green garden hose is not suitable for drinking from.
  5. A 4 way tap handle will help you find water whenever you need it

Things to see and do in and around Dalmeny Campground

1. Dalmeny and Narooma Beaches

Dalmeny and Narooma are a stunning beachside location and there is so much to see and do.

You will also be able to see the resident Dalmeny Emus regularly wandering along the beach!

Josh’s Beach is nearby and is another popular place for swimming and fishing.

Yabbara Beach is a bigger beach and more preferred for beach walks and is similar to Duesburys Beach next to it.

Kianga Beach is popular for surfing and fishing and there are BBQ’s and picnic area overlooking the beach making it a favourite Sunday lunch position for locals and visitors.

2. Kianga Point

Take a drive out to Kianga Point off Dalmeny Road and enjoy a picnic lunch with spectacular views.

The circular drive around Kianga Point provides stunning sweeping views along the beaches and across to the islands offshore.

Kianga Point
Kianga Point

3. Australia Rock

See Australia Rock, a rock formation in the shape of the map of Australia. It is located at Wagonga Head and you can drive there along Bar Rock Rd.

Be sure to check out Australia Rock, it’s one of the most popular attractions close to Dalmeny Campground.

4. See the Seals

While at Australia Rock, take the walk along the Bar rock wall and see the Seals as they laze about and swim in the waters of the entrance to Wagonga Inlet.

Here you can witness the Australian and NZ fur seals in their own habitat, sunbaking and playing in the waters and catching some lunch throughout the day.

Australia Rock is one of the popular attractions close to Dalmeny
Australia Rock Narooma

5. Feeding Stingrays

Watch the stingrays being fed at the Apex Park Boat Ramp.

When the charter boats come in from their day out fishing the Stingrays school around the boat ramp in hope of a free feed.

Sometimes if you are lucky the fishermen help you to feed the Stingrays.

We were fortunate and one of the guys brought over a fish frame and showed Adele how to attract a Big Stingray to take the fish from her hand.

He also helped key the pelicans at bay who were also keen on an easy feed.

Feeding Stingrays at nearby Narooma
Feeding Stingrays Narooma

6. Montague Island Tour

We highly recommend the Tour to Montague Island called Montague Island Tours with Wazza.

The tour leaves from Narooma and takes you for some amazing snorkelling with the Seals before a tour around the lighthouse and keepers cottage.

It was a great day out, swimming with seals and enjoying tour of Montague island.

Seals at Montague Island is one of the other more popular attractions close to Dalmeny Campground
Seals at Montague Island

Pin – Dalmeny Campground

Pin It!

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Safe travels

Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave

We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.

Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Photography and Socials

Our camera equipment we use for all of our photos and videos are:

Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps.

Samsung s21 Phonehttps://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.

Canon 800dhttps://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.

Nikon Coolpix p1000https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.

Lenses

Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG  This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lenshttps://ebay.us/br9MeO – This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lenshttp://ebay.us/zWvfuI  – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.

Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC  –  is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.

Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo  This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.

_______________________________________________________________________

Follow us, Subscribe, Like, Share, and Comment on our website and social media here:-

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/indefiniteleave/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indefinite_leave/

Website: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/indefiniteleave

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com.au/indefiniteleave/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/indefiniteleav3

___________________________________________________________

This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through a link on this page we may receive a small commission. It will not cost you any more, in fact we’ve sourced out some great deals for you. Thank you for supporting us.

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Camp Grounds

Mount Gambier Camping, South Australia

Mount Gambier Showwground

In Mount Gambier we chose to go camping at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds.

The Mount Gambier camping area at the Showgrounds is close to town and within easy driving of the local landmarks.

The Umpherston Sinkhole is a short walk away and Blue Lake is only a short driving distance from this Mount Gambier camping ground.

There is no Free camping in Mount Gambier so the Showgrounds are an excellent alternative.

Umpherston Sinkhole is just 1.7kms from Mount Gambier Showgrounds Camping Area
Umpherston Sinkhole is just 1.7kms from Mount Gambier Showgrounds Camping Area

About Mount Gambier

Mount Gambier is in the very south east of the State of South Australia.

It is approximately 435 km drive from Adelaide to Mount Gambier which is just 17 kms to the Victorian border.

The population of Mount Gambier is 29,940 making it the city with the second highest amount of residents in South Australia.

The beaches of Port Macdonnell are an easy 28 km drive south from Mount Gambier which are great for surfing, swimming and snorkelling.

There is lots to see and do in Mount Gambier which is why so many travellers base themselves here to explore the region.

Sunset while camping at Mount Gambier Showgrounds

Mount Gambier Camping Facilities

Camping facilities at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds include clean toilets and showers.

Drinking water is available and a basic camp kitchen is provided.

There is a Dump Point on site and laundry facilities include a washing machine but no dryer.

The Camping area at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds can accommodate Motorhomes, Caravans & Big Rigs of 10m+ but camping in tents is not permitted.

I had excellent Telstra and Vodafone coverage.

Mount Gambier Camping at the showgrounds
Mount Gambier Camping facilities at the showground include Dump Point

Cost for Camping at Mount Gambier Showgrounds

It is great value at just $22 per night plus $3 for Matt for a powered site with water. Unpowered sites are $15.

Cost Update November 2022:

Powered Site: $25 per night for 2 people

Pet Friendly Mount Gambier Camping at the showgrounds

Mount Gambier Showground Court Case

In 2020 a Caravan Park took action against the Mount Gambier Showgrounds in their efforts to expand its camping facilities.

In recent years only 8 or 9 fully self contained Caravans or Motorhomes were allowed to stay at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds.

The Magistrate however over ruled the Caravan Park and the Showgrounds have applied for space to increase the numbers to 22.

The Magistrate though ruled in favour of 30 sites, pending dump point being installed and fire hoses.

This work is currently being completed and it is expected the Mount Gambier Showgrounds will be operating with 30 sites in March 2023.

The website Border Watch says the Mount Gambier Agricultural and Horticultural Society president Brian Kerr commented “I hope having that facility there will enable more people to stay locally in the South East and in Mount Gambier and have a look at our region”

This is fantastic news and great that common sense prevailed.

Are Pets allowed at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds Camping Ground?

The campground is pet friendly which was great as we were travelling with our beautiful Golden Retriever MACKS at the time.

Read more: Travelling Australia with our dog MACKS

While we were in Mount Gambier, we visited the spectacular Umpherston Sinkhole and the amazing Blue Lake. Be sure to check them both out when you visit this fabulous region.

Check out the video for all the details on camping at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds.

Our stay was 12-14th March 2017

Mount Gambier Showgrounds is one of our favourites.

View all of our 29 Best Low Cost Campgrounds in Australia here>

Contact Details for Mount Gambier Showgrounds

Phone: 0408 492 182
Address:
1 Pick Avenue, Mount Gambier, South Australia
Website

How to get to the Camping ground at Mount Gambier Showgrounds

Upon entering from South Australia from Victoria, head along the Princes Highway/A1 for 48 kms.

Turn left onto Pick Avenue/C192 and follow Pick Avenue for 500 metres.

Enter the Mount Gambier Showgrounds Camping Ground via Gate 4 off Pick Avenue.

Umpherston Sinkhole

What to do in Mount Gambier

Umpherston Sinkhole

The Umpherston Sinkhole is one of the most spectacular places in the Mount Gambier region.

This amazing sunken garden is a very tranquil setting full of beautiful plants, flowers, ferns and a fountain. At night, the garden comes alive with hundreds of possums as they enter the garden to feed.

Umpherston Sinkhole was once a typical limestone cave and was naturally formed when the roof collapsed.

Named after James Umpherston who transformed the sinkhole into the magnificent garden in 1886.

Phone: 08 8724 9750
Address:
Jubilee Highway East, Mount Gambier, South Australia
Opening Hours:
Open every day from dawn to dusk and until late in the evening

Blue Lake
South Australia’s Blue Lake

Blue Lake

Another one of Mount Gambier’s stunning attractions is Blue Lake. The lake sits on one of the extinct volcanic craters in Mount Gambier.

It’s very distinct cobalt blue coloured water is most prominent from December through to March year whereas from April to November the lake is a more steel grey colour.

There is a 3.6 km walking trail which leads to the various viewing platforms around Blue Lake and to the underpass between Leg of Mutton Lake Crater and Blue Lake.

Address: Lot 391 John Watson Drive, Mount Gambier, South Australia
Opening Hours: 24 hours

Little Blue Lake

Just 11 kms south of Mount Gambier is the Little Blue Lake. Little Blue Lake is a popular place for swimming and diving.

There is a stepped walkway leading to a floating pontoon on the lake for easy access.

The temperature of the water in Little Blue Lake is a constant 12 degrees.

Address: Lot 747 Mount Salt Road, Mount Shank, South Australia
Opening Hours: 24 hours

Kilsby Sinkhole

The last place you would expect to find an amazing and extremely popular diving spot is in the middle of a sheep farm.

Kilsby Sinkhole is located just 10 kms from Mount Gambier.

This unique geological feature was once just a watering hole for travelling stockman but now is an incredible crystal clear 60 metre chamber of water and a divers delight.

It is one of the first sinkholes to be dived in the Mount Gambier region and this world famous dive site is also used as a training site by the SA Police Divers.

Phone: 0408 825 355
Address:
Sisters Road, The District Council of Grant, South Australia
Website
Opening Hours:
Not open to the General Public – a tour booking is required to access the sinkhole

Engelbrecht Cave

Engelbrecht Cave is an amazing cave system right in the centre of Mount Gambier. It winds its way under streets and homes in town and is definitely a cave with a difference.

Take the 45 minute guided tour where you will be able to view the sinkhole before entering the two caverns and also see the clear blue water of the underground lake.

The Engelbrecht Cave is the only cave which is actually a tourist site as well as a cave dive site.

Phone: 08 8723 5552
Address:
26 Chute Street, Mount Gambier, South Australia
Website
Opening Hours:
Open 6 days a week – closed Wednesdays

Mount Gambier weather
Fine weather in Mount Gambier during our visit in March 2017

Mount Gambier Weather

Mount Gambier experiences mild, generally dry Summers, cool Winters and mild temperatures in Autumn and Spring.

There is usually a moderate amount of rainfall in autumn, spring and winter.

August is generally the wettest month with February normally receiving the least amount of rainfall.

Mount Gambier recorded it’s highest ever temperature of 44.9 °C on 2 February 2014. The lowest temperature on record has been −3.9 °C on 20 June 1950 and 2 July 1960.

Other great places for camping in the Mount Gambier region:

Pin – Mount Gambier Camping

Pin - Mount Gambier Camping
Pin - Mount Gambier Camping
Pin - Mount Gambier Camping

Have you been camping at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds? Tell us about your Mount Gambier camping experience.

Safe travels

Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave

We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.

Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.

____________________________________________________________________________

Photography and Socials

Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:

Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.

Samsung s21 Phonehttps://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.

Canon 800dhttps://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.

Nikon Coolpix p1000https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.

Lenses

Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG  This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lenshttps://ebay.us/br9MeO This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lenshttp://ebay.us/zWvfuI  – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.

Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC  –  is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.

Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo  This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.

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Camp Grounds

Longreach Camping Area Qld

Apex Riverside Park

The Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping Area is the perfect location to stay when exploring the area. It is an easy 3 kms out of town. Plus, it is situated right on the Thompson River which we hear is great for fishing.

For a very low cost Longreach Camping option, you cannot go past the Apex Riverside Park at Longreach.

It provides an awesome affordable base to allow you to explore Longreach and all the wonderful experiences it has to offer.

Longreach Camping

Longreach Camping Facilities – Apex Riverside Park

This Longreach camping ground provides Toilets, Bins, BBQ’s and Water. Potable Water is available from the Caravan Day Parking Area on Kite Street in Longreach.

A Dump Point facility is available only minutes away in the town of Longreach.

We had good Telstra and Optus coverage.

There is no power at the Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping area however generators are permitted.

Apex Riverside Park Camping Area Longreach

Is the Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping Area Pet Friendly?

The Apex Riverside Park camping ground in Longreach is pet friendly. Dogs are therefore allowed. You will find chickens, roosters and brolgas roaming freely througout the campground.

We parked near to the toilets as the campground is based on dirt. Therefore given where we were, we didn’t have too many people driving past and fortunately didn’t find it overly dusty. It does get busy in the afternoon.

During our second Longreach Camping stay, it was quite full so we joined others in the overflow area on the opposite side of the road.

Our Longreach Camping in the Apex Riverside Park Overflow on 11 May 2021

Enjoy the video for more details.

The cost to stay at the Apex Riverside Park, Longreach is just $3 per day or $15 per week.
Update 2021: $5 per night per vehicle or $27 per week.

Our Longreach Camping stays at the Apex Riverside Park are 29th August to 1st September 2017 and 11th May 2021. Our second visit was during our Brisbane to Darwin trip.

Read more: Brisbane to Darwin Free Camping

Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping Contact Details:

Phone:  07 4658 4150
Address: Lot 206 Landsborough Highway, Longreach, Queensland
Website:

How to get to the Longreach Camping Area

Take the Landsborough Highway north from Longreach and take the first right before crossing the river.

Follow the road and turn left at the T Junction. The Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping Area will very soon be on your left.

Longreach Camping at the Apex Riverside Park
Longreach Camping at the Apex Riverside Park

5 Essentials – Camping Accessories

A good Tent or Swag is the first decision for going camping. We like the Coleman Tent from Tentworld or the Wanderer 7 Man Tent from BCF. For a Swag, we were so close to buying the Kings Double Swag from 4WD Supacentre .

We like our BCF Wanderers Camping Chair which gets a lot of use as we travel Australia.

No more lugging around a huge BBQ and gas bottle now that we have a brilliant Gasmate Dual Burner Butane Cooktop from Tentworld

A good Portable Fridge Freezer we have found to keep the beers cold and steaks frozen are the Kings 70 L Fridge Freezer in the budget range, the Waeco 75L Dual Zone Fridge Freezer or the ever popular and long lasting Engel 75L Fridge Freezer.

A good quality Hand Held UHF is ideal and I like this Uniden UH750 5 watt UHF for long range and quality. The 5 watt range will give you maximum distance, especially if you need help!

Longreach Camping Area

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What else is there to do in Longreach?

There is so much to see and enjoy at Longreach. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the reinvigorated outback town. We recommend you allow at least 4-5 days.

We thoroughly enjoyed all Longreach has to offer and their unique experiences are some of our favourite experiences in all of Australia.

Read more: Our Favourite Experiences as we Travel Australia

Things to do in Longreach ASHOF

Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame & Outback Heritage Centre

Longreach is known as the heart of the outback Queensland and for the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame. It truly is a magnificent centre and has received a $15m makeover.

We not only looked through all of the amazing exhibits and galleries but also made the most of the opportunity and did the complete experience which included the live show which we thoroughly enjoyed and certainly recommend.

Live Show ASHOF

Qantas Founders Museum

Another of the top tourist attractions in Longreach.

There were two things we wanted to explore while we were in Longreach and the Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach, Queensland was one of them!

We can happily tick it off our list. It was great to wander through the museum and the National Heritage listed Q.A.N.T.A.S. Hanger and see the history of Qantas and the advancement from the 1920’s.

It was an exceptional experience doing the 747 and 707 Jet Tour and Wing Walk in addition to checking out this amazing museum.

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Outback Pioneers Starlight Cruise

Outback Pioneers Tours & Experiences

Outback Pioneers have created 3 fabulous tours providing unique experiences showcasing the pioneering past of Australia’s iconic outback and we thoroughly enjoyed two of them.

The Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience provides Australia’s only stagecoach gallop!

Besides the tremendous thrill of riding in an authentic restored stagecoach, you are treated to a delicious home-made morning tea, an Australian movie in a Retro Cinema and the hilarious old time tent show!

The Starlight’s Cruise provides a sensational sunset cruise along the majestic Thomson River, a traditonal aussie bush dinner, after dinner entertainment including the barefoot poet, a light and sound show finishing with billy tea and damper.

Update October 2022: Sadly Scotty the Barefoot Bush Poet passed away in late October 2022.

The Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience as well as the Starlight’s Cruise Experience are highly recommended and not to be missed when visiting Longreach.

Read more about our: Top 10 Things to Do in Longreach

Outback Pioneers Experiences

Other great places to stay near Longreach:

Thomson River sunset

Pin – Longreach Camping

Have you visited Longreach and stayed at the Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping Area? Tell us about your Longreach camping experience.

Safe travels

Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave

We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.

Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.

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Photography and Socials

Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:

Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – https://ebay.to/2XOjXhi – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.

Samsung s21 Phonehttps://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.

Canon 800dhttps://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.

Nikon Coolpix p1000https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.

Lenses

Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/2yQwPed  This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lenshttps://ebay.us/br9MeO This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/2XlOZ0I – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lenshttps://ebay.to/2TWt0vA  – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.

Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.to/38wMc7V  –  is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.

Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo  This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.

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