The Basin Campground
About the Business
Welcome to The Basin Campground, located in Olney, Australia. Situated in the stunning Olney State Forest, our campground offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Watagan Mountains. Surrounded by Wyong State Forest, Watagan State Forest, and Watagan National Park, Olney State Forest is a popular visitor area and the main destination for exploring the State Forests on the Central Coast.
The State Forests of the Watagan Mountains have been recognized for their excellence in adventure tourism. In 2012, 2013, and 2014, they won the Gold Award for Adventure Tourism in the Hunter Central Coast Tourism Awards, earning their place in the Tourism Hall of Fame. In addition, they received a bronze award in the tourist attraction category in 2011 and won the silver award for adventure tourism at the NSW Tourism Awards in 2013.
The forests in this area have a rich history of timber harvesting, spanning over 100 years. However, the forests you see today are regrowth forests that have been harvested multiple times and grown back. Our forest management practices prioritize the protection of biodiversity, soil and water quality, and cultural heritage sites while also allowing for sustainable timber production. We are committed to sustainable forest management and invite you to learn more about our practices.
At The Basin Campground, we offer a range of facilities and activities to enhance your camping experience. The Casuarina Camping Area provides comfortable accommodation for caravans, trailers, and individual campers. Surrounded by forest oaks and various eucalyptus trees, this area is just a five-minute walk from the Pines Forest Park and its walking tracks.
For those looking for a scenic hike, the Abbotts Falls Walking Track starts from the Pines Picnic Area. This track takes you through dry eucalypt forests, moist gullies of bluegum and rainforest, and offers a lookout point at Abbotts Falls before returning via German Point Road. Another popular trail is the Rock Lily Walking Track, which starts from the Basin Camping Area. This delightful walk showcases rock lilies, geebungs, and ferns, passing through a deep rainforest gully and climbing into dry eucalypt forest.
Our camping areas provide a variety of options to suit your needs. The Basin Camping Area offers open grassy sites with easy access and a nearby flowing creek, perfect for swimming in the warmer months. It is also located along the Great North Walk. The Pines Camping Area is shaded by large slash pine trees, remnants of trial plantings from the 1920s and 1930s. This area provides access to three walking trails via a short walk to the Pines Picnic Area. Turpentine Camping Area, nestled among beautiful turpentine trees, is ideal for smaller groups or families.
For day visitors, the Old Mill Picnic Area offers a spacious grassed area surrounded by forest, perfect for family sports activities. Please note that camping is not allowed at this site. Olney Headquarters (Olney HQ) is another great spot to rest and enjoy a meal. Named after its previous use as a forestry building, Olney HQ offers camping facilities, barbecues, picnic tables, and toilets, including disabled access.
In addition to camping and hiking, Olney State Forest is home to a mountain bike track managed by the Hunter Mountain Bike Association. If you're interested in mountain biking, visit their website for more information on the track and membership details.
Before planning your visit, please check for any current closures or notices to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Your safety is our priority, so we encourage you to read our forest tips and stay informed about staying safe during your trip.
Please note that some areas within the State Forest are designated for authorized hunting. If you plan to participate in hunting activities, make sure to familiarize yourself with the regulations and apply for the necessary permits.
As part of our commitment to sustainability, we encourage visitors to minimize their impact on the environment during their stay. Learn more about sustainable practices and how you can contribute to preserving this beautiful natural area.
Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of The Basin Campground in Olney State Forest. Whether you're camping, hiking, or mountain biking, we offer a range of activities to suit all outdoor enthusiasts. Book your stay with us today and create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Watagan Mountains.
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Location & Phone number
Basin Forest Road, Olney, New South Wales 2325, Australia
Reviews
"Such a beautiful place to camp. The native forest and birdlife is great. The dirt bikes are noisy, but looks like so much fun!"
"Great place to camp, just be careful of the speed hump at the entrance and the leeches, a sheltered area with no phone service, check out the bush turkey and the goannas and the wrens, has a long drop toilet don't forget your toilet paper"
"Was very clean and tidy. Peaceful and serene. No riff raff to contend with either. Well worth the trip there."
"Hidden deep in the Olney State Forest this basic campground is located about 5km off the sealed road and can be reached with 2WD car. It’s natural features include a creek suitable for swimming and some walking tracks. The campgrounds are basic but include a couple of drop toilets, fire places and flat areas to erect tents without risk of falling tree limbs. Suitable for campers whom like dirt bikes, mountain bikes, have a dog or just want a quiet place away from the holiday bustle. Just up the road is the picturesque Mangrove Creek Dam, road side cafes or a little further supermarkets in Morisett and the coast for a day at the beach"
"Nice place to camp for free, easy Bush walk follow the great northern walk sign until you come to another sign that points to basin and it loops back to camp site . There is a creek the water was stagnate we did not swim in it there were no other people there when we went."
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