The new free camping area at Warragamba the eastern edge of the Blue Mountains in New South Wales has been declared a hit with the travelling public.
Just one month after opening, dozens of grey nomads have visited the area and many, many more are expected as word spreads. Since opening its boom gate on February 26, the Warragamba Recreation Reserve has already had an average of 5 to 10 visitors per week.
The site was opened on a 12-month trial basis, but Wollondilly mayor Judith Hannan told the Wollondilly Advertiser she was delighted with its early popularity.
“The short stay area aims to provide additional tourism opportunities in Warragamba and help to strengthen the local economy by giving visitors the option of free overnight accommodation,” she said. “This site is the first of its kind in our area and the trial will help inform a shire-wide RV friendly strategy.”
Self-contained motorhomes, caravans and campervans can be parked for a maximum of two nights at the reserve and there is a dump point, and a toilet which is locked at sunset. Access to the eight parking bays is via Farnsworth Ave, with an automatic boom gate installed at the entrance.
There is no booking system in place, and travellers wishing to access the free camping area should dial the Well Done Group on (02) 8579 0315 to register their vehicle details and mobile phone number to get an access code to use on the boom gate pin pad.
The site is a short walk or drive to the Warragamba shopping precinct, as well as the picnic area and BBQ facilities.
Infrastructure and environment director Michael Malone told the Advertiser that he was pleased the site had attracted tourists to the town.
“We are happy that the facility is already being utilised and creating additional economic activity in Warragamba,” he said. “Given the nature of this kind of activity, we fully expect visitation to increase as word gets out to the wide network of RV users about the marvellous opportunity.”
Dogs allowed?
This sounds like a great place for a stop over. We will try in June.
tried to get information for parking facilities and bay numbers still waiting for phone call after 2 weeks
Is it dog friendly?
Top spot! very pleasant place to stay for a couple of nights. Good amenities, website said boom gate would be closed at night, don’t think it was. Walking distance to dam wall for viewing and also to limited shopping area.
Dogs are allowed in Warragamba Reserve, provided they are on lead and owners collect doggie’s waste.