There are plenty of places to camp with your van in the Weddin Mountains Region, NSW
Uncover the best of Central NSW in the Weddin Mountains Region, where history, rugged landscapes and great bush camping await.
Nestled in Central New South Wales, the Weddin Mountains Region offers a serene escape for those who enjoy true bush camping, local history, art and outdoor adventures. Home to the iconic town of Grenfell as well as the surrounding rural villages of Caragabal, Quandialla and Greenethorpe, there’s plenty on offer in this beautiful slice of country NSW.
Steeped in history
Jutting up dramatically amid the flat agricultural plains, the Weddin Mountains have long been a landmark or meeting point for those who have inhabited this area of NSW, including its Traditional Owners, the Wiradjuri people. The name ‘Weddin’ comes from the Wiradjuri world ‘Weedin’, meaning a place to sit, stay or remain, which is quite fitting to this region and its serene mountain range.
Later years saw many arrive in the area to eke out an existence on the gold fields, closely followed by some infamous bushrangers who used the rugged landscape of the Weddin range as their refuge. These bushrangers included Ben Hall, who in 1862 — along with his gang — carried out what was then the largest gold robbery in Australian history, escaping with cash and gold worth more than a million dollars by today’s standards — and legend says it’s still hidden in the mountains.
The region’s heart, Grenfell, is a must-visit for those who love exploring Australian history. This classic country town is the birthplace of one of Australia’s most famous authors, Henry Lawson, and is home to the annual Henry Lawson Festival held in June.
Camping under the stars
There are few things better than setting up camp surrounded by nature, with a campfire to warm you and expansive skies for stargazing each night. While the Weddin Mountains Region might not be a certified dark-sky destination, the clarity of Weddin’s night sky is still one of the best you’ll find. And no matter what your style of camping is, or the season, there are plenty of places to stay with your caravan.
Weddin Mountains National Park
Located just 18km southwest of Grenfell, Weddin Mountains National Park is a natural playground for those who love camping, bushwalking, mountain biking, birdwatching and more. The national park is home to plenty of local wildlife, including emus, grey kangaroos and red-necked wallabies. And twitchers, bring your binoculars for the chance to spot some rare bird species such as the peregrine falcon and turquoise parrot.
Classic bush camping in the Weddin Mountains Region
Seaton’s Farm is a historic site also located at the Weddin Mountains National Park. This is a landmark that was built using only material that was readily available during the Great Depression.
The national park offers several marked walking tracks and hiking trails, lookouts and two main camping areas:
- Ben Halls Campground: Caravan and camper trailer friendly, this is a great base to explore the park, featuring a picnic area with tables, barbecues, parking and toilet facilities. Ben Halls Cave is only a short walk away, and Lynchs Loop offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
- Holy Camp Rest Area (tent sites only): A peaceful spot with easy access to the lookout below Eualdrie Trig Point, perfect for those wanting to catch a spectacular sunrise. It is said on a clear day you can see Mount Panorama.
Weddin State Forests
The Weddin Mountains Region has no shortage of areas to enjoy outdoor adventures, with 11 state forests to explore, nine of which offer free caravan-friendly camping, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the serene natural environment. If you’re planning on having a campfire, please check for fire bans in the area, bring your own firewood or gas barbecue and follow fire safety precautions.
Company Dam (Comps Dam)
Just 2km northwest of Grenfell, Company Dam is another fan favourite for camping (including caravans and other RVs), walking, cycling and birdwatching. Built in 1867 for gold mining operations, it later supplied water for steam trains. These days, it’s a peaceful retreat featuring a mix of woodland and wetland habitats with more than 50 recorded bird species and calm waters that make for a relaxing day of swimming, kayaking and yabbying.
Ben Hall Creek Camp
If you’re looking for a unique place to set up camp, then this 8ha property is a must. Set up camp on the banks of the same creek where Ben Hall frequently stayed with his horses. There are large flat, grassy caravan-friendly camp sites ideal for self-sufficient campers, and the creek is perfect for fishing, yabbying or enjoying a refreshing dip. Check them out on Hip Camp.
Enjoy a campfire and stargazing in the Weddin Mountains Region
Camping options in Grenfell
If you want to stay closer to town, then the Grenfell Historic Railway Station is an ideal spot and only a short walk from the Grenfell Painted Silo — one of the town’s most photographed locations.
The Grenfell Showground, which backs onto Company Dam, is another good option for those who enjoy bushwalks, mountain biking and birdwatching.
If you need power and water, then the Grenfell Caravan Park or Showgrounds can help you out. These locations are only a short walk from Grenfell’s historic Main Street, where you can explore heritage buildings, boutique shops and eateries, and where you can enjoy the welcoming country hospitality of the locals.
Must-visit attractions
Here are some local favourites and hidden gems to visit while you’re in the area:
- Grenfell Silo Art: A stunning mural by Heesco Khosnaran with a nighttime light show.
- Grenfell Motel Mural: A breathtaking nature-inspired mural by Scott Nagy and Mountain Ash Creative.
- Iandra Castle: A rare Australian homestead–castle hybrid (open days only).
- The Cordial Factory: A live music venue in Grenfell.
- Glen Donald Estate: Experience award-winning olive oils, fine produce and a farm experience the whole family can enjoy.
- Caragabal and Quandialla Murals
- Grenfell’s museums and galleries: including Grenfell Museum, Chrysler Car Museum and Grenfell Art Gallery featuring the Grenfell Community Curtain.
For those planning an extended trip to the area, we recommend taking the time to explore the villages of Caragabal, Quandialla and Greenethorpe. Explore the longer hiking trails in the Weddin Mountains National Park and join in local events and markets. Keep an eye on the Weddin Mountains Region website (visitweddin.com.au) for fun upcoming events such as the Caragabal Sheep Races and Weddin Mountain Muster.
Always check fire bans and restrictions in the area before lighting a camp fire
Road trip routes to Weddin Shire
If you’re coming from Sydney, head via Cowra and stop in at the serene Japanese Gardens, the Cowra Prisoner of War Camp site and the Cowra Water Tower Art, which was completed in early February 2023 by Brightsiders, The Zookeeper and DRAPL.
For those coming from Melbourne, take the Hume Highway through Albury, the Olympic Highway through Wagga Wagga and then the Goldfields Way via Temora. If you love history and aviation, then make sure you stop in at the Temora Aviation Museum, which is home to some great historic aircraft displays.
An alternate route from Melbourne is to stay on the Hume for a bit longer to stop in at the Dog on the Tuckerbox outside Gundagai and head along the Olympic Highway via Young, the cherry capital of Australia (great for cherry picking experiences if you visit from early November through to early January). Detour via Harden to view the beautiful Murrumburrah Mill Silo Art by Heesco Khosnaran.
Get back to nature when camping in the Weddin Mountains Region
Upcoming events
- Grenfell Picnic Races (12 April): A must-attend social and racing event.
- Iandra Castle Open Day (20 April and 8 June): A rare chance to explore this heritage estate.
- Grenfell Henry Lawson Festival (June long weekend): A celebration of poetry, music and arts.
Explore the heart of central NSW
Camping in the Weddin Mountains Region is more than just an escape — it’s the opportunity to immerse yourself in history, nature and adventure. From beautiful scenery and landscapes to its rich history, there’s something for every style of adventurer.
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