Quick Overview – Barrington Tops Camping at a Glance
Barrington Tops Region Map & Key Camping Zones
The Barrington Tops region in NSW, Australia, sits on a high plateau within the Gondwana Rainforests. Major camping zones include Polblue Swamp/Falls, Gloucester River, Manning River, Junction Pools, Little Murray, Devils Hole, and Thunderbolts Hideaway. Access points lie via Gloucester (east) and Scone or Dungog (west/south), with 2WD to key sites and 4WD for remote/rugged spots (Junction Pools, Little Murray).
Essential 2026 Rules, Permits & What’s New
As of 2026, booking remains mandatory for major campgrounds (Polblue, Gloucester River, Junction Pools, Little Murray), with fees from $10/adult/night and $5/child. Devil’s Hole Campground remains closed due to 2025 flood damage. No pets permitted. Strict “leave no trace” and fire rules are enforced; only use designated pits, and bring your own firewood. For the latest, check NSW National Parks local alerts prior to your trip.
Top 10 Barrington Tops Camping Areas – Expert Reviews
Best for Families: Polblue Campground
Rating: 4.8/5. Australia’s highest car-accessible site with large, flat grassy areas, picnic shelters, BBQs, composting toilets, and easy walks (e.g. Polblue Swamp Loop). All-season access (2WD), though roads may close in snow or heavy rain. Wildlife frequent, high safety for children; check fire bans and bring own firewood. Fees apply.
Best Riverside Experience: Gloucester River Campground
Rating: N/A (review evidence insufficient). Typical amenities (pit toilets, riverside pitches) and trout fishing (Oct–May). Popular for water access and family groups; booking and typical fees apply.
Secluded Escape: Little Murray Campground
Rating: 4.5/5. Remote, 4WD-only with simple amenities (toilets, picnic tables), grassy sites, river nearby for foot-soaking/fishing. Top pick for solitude, walks, and 4WDers (trailers allowed in drier months). Bring all supplies; access may be walk-in during winter or after rain. No powered sites.
Adventure Basecamp: The Steps Barrington
Rating: 4.6/5. Semi-off-grid private camp by the river. Modern amenities (hot showers, flushing toilets), large sites for tents/RVs, designated firepits, and direct activity access (kayaking, hiking). 2WD-accessible but no mobile reception. Booking required; no pets. Tranquil mid-week, social on weekends. Book here
Top for Wildlife & Bushwalking: Devils Hole Campground
Rating: 4.3/5 (pre-closure). Open grassy camps, access to lookout points, and prime bushwalking. Amenities basic; popular for group setups and proximity to wildlife. Permanently closed due to 2025 flood damage.
Pet-Friendly Choice: Riverwood Downs
Rating: N/A (insufficient direct reviews). This private site is known for pet-friendly stays (check direct with provider), unpowered river sites, showers, picnic spaces, and family facilities. Booking essential. Book Riverwood Downs
Hidden Gem: Thunderbolts Hideaway
Rating: 4.7/5. Rustic, peaceful cabin/camp near Thunderbolts Lookout, best for glamping-style escapes. Fire pits, trails, and stargazing; bring food, as supplies are 40 km+ away. Ideal for small groups/couples.
Popular with 4WD Campers: Junction Pools
Rating: N/A (limited current information). 4WD access only, group bookings via NPWS, no facilities noted. Preferred by anglers and off-roaders; seasonal road closures apply. Fees/permits required.
Free Camping Spot: Manning River Camping Area
Rating: 4.4/5. Basic, riverside, free or low-fee camping in State Forest. Pit toilets, fire rings, no showers or power. Spacious and self-sufficient; check for closures post-flooding. May allow pets outside NP areas.
Glamping or Cabins: Boutique Stays Near Barrington Tops
Rating: 4.8/5. E.g., Hidden Haven, Yeranda. Comfy beds, fire pits, streams, but BYO supplies; suited for those seeking comfort or group/family getaways. Highly rated for tranquility, but distance to core park (20–40 km).
Insider Tips for a Great Barrington Tops Camping Experience
Best Seasons & Weather Patterns for 2026
Best months: late spring (Sep–Nov), early autumn (Mar–Apr). Expect daytime highs of 20–25°C, lows 8–13°C, and moderate rainfall. Summer (Dec–Feb) is warmer (24–33°C) but riskier for storms. Winters can bring frost and snow (lows 5–8°C); access limited. Always check latest BOM forecasts before your trip.
Wildlife Spotting – What to Watch For
Spot eastern grey kangaroos, wallabies, lyrebirds, bowerbirds, echidnas, and—near water—platypus and trout. Polblue Swamp, Blue Gum Loop, and Antarctic Beech Forest are wildlife hotspots. Feral horses frequent Polblue—keep tents near vehicles at night. Birdwatching and trout fishing (license required) are popular activities.
Local Trails & Secret Spots You Shouldn’t Miss
Top walks: Blue Gum Loop (2km), Gloucester Tops Circuit (8km, 2–3 hours), Aeroplane Hill (Lookout), and the Corker Trail (20km, 1,200m ascent). Secret spots include the Pool of Reflections, Andrew Laurie Lookout, and Mossy Cascade Waterfall. For real solitude, try remote bush site at Little Murray or Williams River area—frequently near-empty.
Must-Bring Gear Specific to Barrington Tops
- 45–60L hiking pack with internal frame & rain cover
- Four-season tent and sleeping system (R-value ≥7, rated to –5°C) for subzero nights
- Waterproof, grippy boots plus gaiters; microspikes for late winter/early spring
- Merino baselayers, windproof/waterproof shell, spare dry socks and gloves
- Reliable navigation (Garmin inReach or map/compass); power banks/sat-phones advised for remote zones
- Sawyer or Grayl water filter—do not drink direct from streams
- Headlamp, first aid kit, repair tape, trowel for waste
- Pack all rubbish out!
Barrington Tops Camping Comparison Table – Facilities, Access & More
| Campground | Toilets | Water | Picnic Tables | Fires | Access | Booking | Fees (2026) | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Steps | Yes (flushing) | Yes (bring container) | Yes | Yes (pits only) | 2WD | Required | Private (see site) | Private |
| Polblue | Yes (compost) | Creek (treat) | Yes | Yes (pits/BBQ) | 2WD | Required | $10 adult, $5 child | Public |
| Little Murray | Yes (pit) | No | Yes | Yes | 4WD/Walk-in (wet) | Required | $10/$5 | Public |
| Junction Pools | Limited | No | Basic | Yes | 4WD | Group Only | $10/$5 | Public |
| Manning River | Yes (pit) | No | Yes | Yes | 2WD | N/A | Free | State Forest |
| Riverwood Downs | Yes (hot showers) | No info | Yes | Yes (unpowered) | 2WD | Required | Private | Private |
| Boutique Stays | No (cabins) | No | Yes | Yes (cabins) | 2WD | Required | Private | Private |
Eco-Friendly Camping in Barrington Tops – 2026 Guide
Leave No Trace in Sensitive Environments
Camp only in designated sites. Avoid disturbing vegetation and never cut timber or clear ground. Anything packed in must be packed out, including food scraps. Respect wildlife (do not approach or feed). See NSW Parks for updated eco-guidance.
Sustainable Gear & Camp Setup Tips
Use high-quality, durable gear to avoid waste. Solar-powered lanterns and cookers reduce fuel. Favor multi-use items, merino and natural fibers, and pack reusable water containers and utensils. Choose compact, non-marking tents; avoid setting up near water, especially riparian zones (keep 50m from banks).
Managing Waste & Water Responsibly
Bring your own camp toilet or know how to bury waste (minimum 15 cm deep, 100 m from any water). Never wash dishes or bathe in streams; collect water in a bucket and use biodegradable products away from waterways. Fires only in approved pits. Always check latest fire conditions before lighting any fire.
FAQs About Barrington Tops Camping Areas (2026 Update)
Booking & Park Fee Questions
- Book via NSW National Parks for all main campgrounds. Display permit at camp. Arrive within 24 hours of your booking time.
- Fees: Typically $10/adult/night, $5/child at public sites. Private campgrounds set own pricing.
Safety, Fires & Weather Rules for 2026
- Only use designated fire pits; bring your own firewood.
- Observe total fire bans (seasonal); check park alerts before travel.
- Setup tents near cars at Polblue due to feral horses. Supervise all children near water.
- Watch for sudden temperature drops at night—even in summer. Prepare for rapid weather changes.
Accessibility & Pet Policies
- Most major campsites accessible by 2WD; 4WD required for Junction Pools, Little Murray.
- Gloucester River and Polblue have drive-up, flat, and some accessible toilets. No power at national park sites.
- No dogs or pets permitted within national park boundaries. Some private parks (e.g., Riverwood Downs) might allow pets; always verify directly.
Planning Your Trip – Sample Itineraries & Local Essentials
Weekend Getaway Itinerary
- Friday: Arrive Polblue or The Steps by evening. Set up, explore short walk (Swamp Loop). Campfire dinner (if permitted).
- Saturday: Morning hike (Blue Gum Loop or group activity at The Steps), lunch at picnic table, relax/riverside swim in afternoon. Stargazing in the evening.
- Sunday: Early bushwalk to lookout (Thunderbolts or Polblue Falls), pack up by noon, return home.
Extended Stay Adventure
- Start at Polblue, spend 2 days exploring high country trails.
- Transfer to Little Murray (4WD required) or Manning River for remote nights, fishing, and true wilderness.
- Finish at boutique cabin (e.g., Hidden Haven) for hot showers and rest. Supplies restock on way home via Gloucester or Scone.
Supplies, Services & Emergency Contacts
- Supplies: Stock up in Gloucester (fuel, food, outdoor stores). BYO water and food—no on-site shops at NP camps.
- Closest towns: Gloucester (east), Scone/Dungog (west)
- Emergency: Call 000 in Australia. NPWS alerts via official site.
- Gear Check: Test kit before departure; pack according to checklist above and allow for sudden cold/rain.
For full booking, official weather updates, and facilities info, visit NSW National Parks – Barrington Tops or trusted campground directories. Book early—sites fill fast in peak bushwalking season!