Plans to allow camping at Lake Canobolas near Orange in New South Wales that have been mothballed since 2006 could finally be about to be acted upon.
The artificial lake that sits beneath Mount Canobolas has long been a popular spot for day trippers. As well as hiking up the extinct volcano to enjoy spectacular views and to spot a multitude of wildlife, visitors to the area can also enjoy a more leisurely stroll around the lake itself or fishing or swimming.
Although picnic facilities have long been established here, overnight camping has been a no-no.
Orange City Council did adopt a plan in November 2006 to allow for the development of accommodation and camping facilities at the lake, pending approval from Cabonne Council.
However, Orange City Council city presentation manager Nigel Hobden said the council hadn’t previously pursued the camping concept because of ‘higher priorities’..The $900,000 plan would see the establishment of six tourist cabins and caravan facilities. An additional $300,000 plan would also see 23 camping pods established in a woodland setting.
According to the Central Western Daily newspaper, the council is now ready to look again at the proposals in a bid to boost tourism to the region … and to lure more grey nomads.
The operator of the kiosk at Lake Canobolas, Ben Crawley, said camping at the site would be a good idea only if it were closely monitored.
“I’m in support of trying to get more activities out at the lake, but it needs to be controlled,” he told the Great Western Daily. “There needs to be a lot of thought put in to it and campers will need to respect the reserve.”
