Camping along the Darling

we traveled the east rd last year on our way home from explore oz get together about 40 ks from wilcannia on the left is the horse & coach camping grounds [national park] right on the darling rv so good we stayed a couple of extra days swampy

We have done it a few times with a camper trailer and more recently with an off-road van and yes the Coach & Horses is great, but also a diversion to Gundabooka NP and Ben Lomand is well worth it. There is good camping around the Louth Township, either under the bridge on the Western side, or on the east side just north of the Pub.Tilpa Pub is well worth a visit. There are various camp sites, but best to ask at the Tilpa or Louth Pubs. We have done both sides of the river, but the last time we did it, almost 2 years ago, we didn't have a choice because of flood damage. Not sure if both sides are open at the moment as there have been floods again recently. It is a great trip so hope you enjoy it. Don't go through Wilcannia or Bourke without driving up the side streets. Some of the architecture is great. Lovely old sandstone buildings and the wharf on the Darling at Bourke is a must see. If there has been rain, or likely to rain, be careful as the roads become impassable and not worth the stress of slipping and sliding. Normally the councils close the roads at the drop of a hat.

cheers, Nomads

Hi Graham

We travelled the south east side. You can cross the river at Louth and Tilpa to try the other side. There was a bend in the river with easy access to an area which would have been a good campsite in dry weather. I recall this was nearer the Bourke end of the road, but it was some years ago and was our lunch stop.

Motherhen

Live Traffic NSW indicates that Menindiee to Wilcannia (east side) and Wilcannia to Tilpa (both sides) is currently closed. Keep an eye on this site when on the way there to check the current conditions.

Hi Graham

Boyh sides were open 11 days ago when we came through. We stayed at Coach and Horses campground ($5 per person per night). The turnoff into the campsite was obscured by long grass so keep an eye out (about 44km from Wilcannia next to and just before a cattle grid turn left). Make sure you have plenty of insect repellent for the mozzies. We then stayed next at Tilpa Weir, (also lots of mozzies), about 100kms from Coach and Horses on the way to Bourke and it is OK for a night (or more if you want to fish in the weir of downstream). There is no real camping at Tilpa Pub but you could pull up across the road next to the Community Hall and playground. I don't think there would be any problem with that but check with the pub first. Happy travels.

Snolly

We also stayed at the Coach & Horses Camp Ground in Sept 2010, great spot, lots of wild life & flowers everywhere. Hope you enjoy your trip.

When do you intend to go

Hullo Graham
Just back from there today
Try Idalia Stn on the west bank about 40 kms SW of Louth.
Good camping on the bank of the Darling River - grassed area with power if needed, good clean amenities, fire pit and wood
Jane Murray is the contact person - 02 6874 7401
And would second Gundabooka NP - first drive/walk after entering off Mitchell Hwy was very good.
Cheers
Andrew