Red Gum campground

Red Gum campground is a tiny, back-to-basics camp on the Clyde River in Clyde River National Park, a short drive from Batemans Bay. Its four marked sites and riverside setting make it very different from a large coastal holiday campground: expect quiet paddling, fishing and birdwatching, but also 4WD access, no water, no bins and only non-flush toilets.

Four sites, two different setups#

NSW National Parks lists just two tent sites and two camper-trailer sites. The grassy vehicle-adjacent choices suit campers who want gear close by, while the more secluded tent pitches involve a short walk from the parking area. Caravans are not listed as a supported camping type, so the legacy caravan tag has been removed from this guide.

The campground accepts online bookings for up to 12 people or two sites. A small footprint means other groups remain noticeable even when everyone is considerate; it also means booking the correct site type matters.

Getting there: 4WD required#

From the park entrance, follow Rotary Drive for about 1.5 kilometres, pass Holmes lookout, then take the second right and continue roughly 2 kilometres to Red Gum. The official visitor information classifies the roads as unsealed and requires a 4WD in all weather. Parking is a short walk from the campground near the toilets.

Allow extra time, arrive in daylight and check local alerts before leaving sealed roads. Park access can close during poor weather or fire danger even though Clyde River National Park is normally always open.

Facilities and packing list#

Facilities are limited to non-flush toilets, marked unpowered sites and fire rings. There is no water and no rubbish collection. Firewood is not supplied and is sparse in the park; bring your own and follow current fire rules. NSW National Parks encourages gas or fuel stoves, particularly during the summer fire season.

Bring all drinking and cooking water, a stove, rubbish bags, insect protection and a torch. Phone reception is limited, so save your booking and route offline. Groceries, camping supplies, medical services and boat hire are available in Batemans Bay rather than at camp.

There are no powered facilities or showers. Plan battery use accordingly and keep the small shared area quiet after dark.

River activities and safety#

The Clyde River is the reason to stay. Campers can fish, launch a canoe or kayak, explore the shoreline and mangroves, watch waterbirds or relax beside the river. Water conditions can change, however, and the site has no lifeguard. Assess currents and weather, supervise children closely, wear a personal flotation device when paddling and follow NSW fishing rules.

What campers say#

There is less public review material for Red Gum than for larger campgrounds. The available reports on Anycamp, WikiCamps and an independent Tall Black Van trip report point to a few useful, qualified themes:

• Campers value the small scale and river setting, especially compared with busier coastal parks.
• The final access feels steeper and rougher than the campground's proximity to Batemans Bay may suggest; official advice requiring 4WD should control planning.
• A compact layout can feel peaceful with considerate neighbours but offers little separation when every site is occupied.
• Riverside shade and still air can bring insects, so screens and repellent are sensible.

These observations are traveller reports, not guarantees, and the oldest detailed trip report predates current booking arrangements.

Booking Red Gum campground#

Use the official NSW National Parks page to check availability and book. Camping itself is currently free, but a $6 booking fee applies. If all four sites are taken, compare the listed nearby alternatives or use CampWatch to monitor supported dates.