Camping in Parkes, NSW, AU: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

Australia
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New South Wales
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Parkes

97% (489 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Parkes

Dog-friendly getaways

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Star Hosts in Parkes

100%

(13)

Serendipity - a fortunate discovery

3 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Parkes, NSW

We are situated 10km out of Parkes which is home to the famous Dish and the annual Elvis Festival. Set on a gentle slope, it boasts picturesque views of the surrounding farmland, tranquil dams and lush native vegetation. Guests are offered access to stroll around our 18acre property by foot only. Vehicles are to be kept at the camp site however. Pets are allowed but must be on leash at all times. We do have a dog, chooks and guinea fowls and the nature of the property abundant wildlife may be present. Guests are welcome to enjoy a camp fire in the designated area during the winter months when the local regulations permit. The statutory Bush Fire period is from 1st October to 31st March. A camp table and chemical toilet in a rustic shed is available for your convenience.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(487)

The Orchard

13 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Nashdale, NSW

Our property is situated on a working apple and cherry orchard at the base of Mount Canobolas, 10 minute drive from Orange. The region has much to offer including amazing wineries and cellar doors, quaint villages with artisans shops, hot air balloon rides, waterfalls, the Arch Cave and more. Here at The Orchard visitors are welcome to pick their own fruit in season, at a cost. Please speak to your host if you are interested. There are plenty of local food and wine venues in the surrounding area for you to enjoy. Lake Canobolas is close by for swimming and there are a number of walking/ hiking trails in the beautiful Mount Canobolas National Park. Pets are welcome but we do have livestock on the property to please keep them under control. Campfires are allowed as long as there are no fire restrictions in place. Amenities are available for campers. A shower and toilets are also available to campers.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(10)

Bellandre Park

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3060 acres · Molong, NSW

We are Marilyn and Peter, we own, live and run a mixed farming business from this beautiful land, located in the Central Tablelands NSW. The country varies between undulating and steep land and has 7 km of double frontage Bell River running through it. The river can range from rapidly flowing to the more usual steady flowing and is most often very clear. The river has numerous swimming spots, some with a rocky base, and some with sand. The winding river and the varying countryside is incredibly peaceful and beautiful and is a perfect retreat for those looking to disconnect and relax. The river has its origin near Orange and is also fed into by many springs. Weandre Creek runs in the backcountry and winds into the Bell River. Our comfortable Hut is situated on an elevated spot looking down on the river with a graduated road leading down. It has everything you need for a relaxing, recharging stay in nature. The Hut can accommodate up to 4 people, however, you also have the option for up to 6 additional guests to set up swags, tents, or a camper trailer nearby. There is space next to the Hut, or for those with a 4WD, there are some lovely camping sites down by the river. We also offer sites for those looking for a self-contained camping site, in a beautiful location. We love the solitude, the endless bush walks, swimming, and being immersed in nature. We are confident you will too. We also have a lovely art gallery on the property, and for a small fee and prior arrangement, you are welcome to come and take a look. From our farm, it is 60 km to Orange with all its wineries, food festivals, and many attractions. Wellington is 40 km and boasts the Wellington Caves. Dubbo is 90 km and is a big inland city and boasts the Western Plains Zoo. We are so glad to let you know we have a new (but intentionally rustic) structure which houses a shower powered by gas and solar with gravity fed water. Showers need to be short because water supply is limited. In a separate space is a gas BBQ and sink. This is pictured in our latest photos. This building also looks down on the Bell river which looks sensational at the moment due to all the rain.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(32)

Wendouree Creek Camp

8 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Parkes, NSW

Wendouree is owned by the Hood family who operate a mixed farming enterprise on Wendouree, and neighbouring properties Glenora and Cherry Gardens. The Wendouree Creek Paddock mostly remains unused but may have stray sheep on it from time-to-time. The property has been owned and operated by the Cunich / Hood family for five generations.

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(99)

Cargo Road Wines

5 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Orange, NSW

16 Ha of grapevines on 40 Ha of land. We also have a cherry orchard so people can pick their own cherries in December. We have stunning views, dedicated sites that can be powered, close to the amenities in the winery or very isolated. We also make some fantastic wine. We have 4 EV chargers for all your electric car needs. We have Fire wood for sale bigger better than servos bags $25/bag. Close by is the Orange Mountain Bike Club with dedicated downhill trails and events year-round. We are just next to the Lonely Mountain Ultra which runs in October. Mount and Lake Canobolas offer wonderful walk, swims, paddles and fishing. The region has incredible produce, restaurants and wineries.

* Before taxes and fees

12 top campgrounds near Parkes

98%

(487)

The Orchard

13 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Nashdale, NSW

Our property is situated on a working apple and cherry orchard at the base of Mount Canobolas, 10 minute drive from Orange. The region has much to offer including amazing wineries and cellar doors, quaint villages with artisans shops, hot air balloon rides, waterfalls, the Arch Cave and more. Here at The Orchard visitors are welcome to pick their own fruit in season, at a cost. Please speak to your host if you are interested. There are plenty of local food and wine venues in the surrounding area for you to enjoy. Lake Canobolas is close by for swimming and there are a number of walking/ hiking trails in the beautiful Mount Canobolas National Park. Pets are welcome but we do have livestock on the property to please keep them under control. Campfires are allowed as long as there are no fire restrictions in place. Amenities are available for campers. A shower and toilets are also available to campers.

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(96)

Borenore Billabong Field Days site

13 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Borenore, NSW

The 130 acres site hosts Agricultural events during the year. It is also run as a working farm and has grassed areas and power sites with access to showers, toilets and a dump point. The grassed area overlooks a Billabong with trees and wildlife with a background to Mount Canobolas. The site is in closer proximity to Vineyards and Cellar Doors.

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(99)

Cargo Road Wines

5 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Orange, NSW

16 Ha of grapevines on 40 Ha of land. We also have a cherry orchard so people can pick their own cherries in December. We have stunning views, dedicated sites that can be powered, close to the amenities in the winery or very isolated. We also make some fantastic wine. We have 4 EV chargers for all your electric car needs. We have Fire wood for sale bigger better than servos bags $25/bag. Close by is the Orange Mountain Bike Club with dedicated downhill trails and events year-round. We are just next to the Lonely Mountain Ultra which runs in October. Mount and Lake Canobolas offer wonderful walk, swims, paddles and fishing. The region has incredible produce, restaurants and wineries.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(10)

Bellandre Park

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3060 acres · Molong, NSW

We are Marilyn and Peter, we own, live and run a mixed farming business from this beautiful land, located in the Central Tablelands NSW. The country varies between undulating and steep land and has 7 km of double frontage Bell River running through it. The river can range from rapidly flowing to the more usual steady flowing and is most often very clear. The river has numerous swimming spots, some with a rocky base, and some with sand. The winding river and the varying countryside is incredibly peaceful and beautiful and is a perfect retreat for those looking to disconnect and relax. The river has its origin near Orange and is also fed into by many springs. Weandre Creek runs in the backcountry and winds into the Bell River. Our comfortable Hut is situated on an elevated spot looking down on the river with a graduated road leading down. It has everything you need for a relaxing, recharging stay in nature. The Hut can accommodate up to 4 people, however, you also have the option for up to 6 additional guests to set up swags, tents, or a camper trailer nearby. There is space next to the Hut, or for those with a 4WD, there are some lovely camping sites down by the river. We also offer sites for those looking for a self-contained camping site, in a beautiful location. We love the solitude, the endless bush walks, swimming, and being immersed in nature. We are confident you will too. We also have a lovely art gallery on the property, and for a small fee and prior arrangement, you are welcome to come and take a look. From our farm, it is 60 km to Orange with all its wineries, food festivals, and many attractions. Wellington is 40 km and boasts the Wellington Caves. Dubbo is 90 km and is a big inland city and boasts the Western Plains Zoo. We are so glad to let you know we have a new (but intentionally rustic) structure which houses a shower powered by gas and solar with gravity fed water. Showers need to be short because water supply is limited. In a separate space is a gas BBQ and sink. This is pictured in our latest photos. This building also looks down on the Bell river which looks sensational at the moment due to all the rain.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(32)

Wendouree Creek Camp

8 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Parkes, NSW

Wendouree is owned by the Hood family who operate a mixed farming enterprise on Wendouree, and neighbouring properties Glenora and Cherry Gardens. The Wendouree Creek Paddock mostly remains unused but may have stray sheep on it from time-to-time. The property has been owned and operated by the Cunich / Hood family for five generations.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(13)

Serendipity - a fortunate discovery

3 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Parkes, NSW

We are situated 10km out of Parkes which is home to the famous Dish and the annual Elvis Festival. Set on a gentle slope, it boasts picturesque views of the surrounding farmland, tranquil dams and lush native vegetation. Guests are offered access to stroll around our 18acre property by foot only. Vehicles are to be kept at the camp site however. Pets are allowed but must be on leash at all times. We do have a dog, chooks and guinea fowls and the nature of the property abundant wildlife may be present. Guests are welcome to enjoy a camp fire in the designated area during the winter months when the local regulations permit. The statutory Bush Fire period is from 1st October to 31st March. A camp table and chemical toilet in a rustic shed is available for your convenience.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(1)

Cedar Ridge

6 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Parkes, NSW

We have a caravan studio which can hold 4 caravans comfortably with 15A power, common area sheltered with kitchen, lounge, pool table, dining, ablutions. Parkes Elvis Festival only 2kms to town held in Jan each year, come join us for the fun. Airconditioned common area/camp kitchen, hot and cold water, washing machine. Now we have introduced a self contained hut with private ablutions and aircon, telly, fridge, kitchenette etc and a great view. We also now have a little 2 person cabin with own ablutions, tv, aircon, kitchenette

* Before taxes and fees

88%

(16)

Hillside Harvest

6 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Borenore, NSW

Hillside is a 75 acre working orchard growing cherries, stonefruit, apples and pears. Amongst the rows of fruit trees is a small block of eucalypts and three dams, one of which is quite large and suitable for swimming, paddling and fishing in. Dawn and dusk brings a variety of birds and kangaroos and skies painted in colour. In summer and autumn you can pick your own fruit. In winter put on your coat and take a walk whilst breathing in the fresh, crisp air. In spring, buds burst open and all the trees are covered in beautiful blossoms. The orchard is in the heart of Cabonne Shire, the fruit bowl of Central West NSW. Orange is renowned for its wineries, restaurants and cafes. At our farm stall you can grab a coffee, light lunch and a great variety of local produce including fruit, vegetables, eggs, honey, olive oil and jams. Just minutes away, Mt Canobolas and Lake Canobolas offer great bushwalking and mountain biking.

* Before taxes and fees

93%

(34)

Canowindra Country Camp

20 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Moorbel, NSW

Come and enjoy this grassy campsite located on the outskirts of Canowindra. Canowindra is known as the Hotair Balloon Capital of Australia, most mornings you wake to find a balloon floating in the sky. Venture to the Main Street and see the historic building’s. Canowindra is also home of the Fish Fossil Museum, so much to explore. Campers are welcome to enjoy a campfire, local regulations permitting. Pet welcome!

* Before taxes and fees

Booked 2 times

Burrill Creek Camping

4 sites · RVs35 acres · Alectown, NSW

Burrill Banks is a 35 acre hobby farm 5 km north of Alectown approximately an hour south of Dubbo on the Newell Highway. We are surrounded by large cropping and sheep farms and have 37 pet sheep 2 dogs and a horse. Burrill Banks is on Burrill Creek which runs down from Harvey’s Ranges to the east and Goobang National Park. The creek however is dry most of the year. The camping area is about 7 acres and has open and treed areas and is on the south side of Burril Creek'. The site can accomodate 3-5 caravans The Alectown area is historically a farming and gold mining area with mine shafts from the 1800’s dotted across the area. Wander down Burril Creek which is beside the camping area , you never know your luck! 10 kms south away on the Newell Highway is the infamous Dish- The Parkes Radio Telescope with a visitors centre. North of Burrill Banks is 10 km south of Peak Hill where you can visit the old open cut gold mine.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(7)

Fana Beag

1 site · Lodging100 acres · Alectown, NSW

Fana Beag is a tranquil country property 30km from Parkes NSW, with a cute farm stay cabin that offers the perfect antidote to life's hectic pace! We are a goat farm, with about 60 goats, and it's the perfect place to unwind and relax. Simply arrive and open the door to your little private cabin. All amenities you will need, including toilet, shower, and camp kitchen, are only 40 metres away. Listening to the gentle sounds of our chickens and goats is a wonderful way to wake up. You can say hello and walk amongst our friendly goats. Or go for walks without anyone around you. Have a drink on your private verandah, admiring the view of the popular Dish (Parkes Radio Telescope) from anywhere on the farm. There is a reverse cycle air conditioner in the van for your comfort. We are also 100 km from Dubbo Zoo - a great day trip!

* Before taxes and fees

80%

(22)

Getting Away Camp

11 sites · RVs, Tents250 acres · Bocobra, NSW

Approximately 45 minutes from Orange, 4 hours from Sydney. The region between Molong and Parkes offers scenic views, bush walking, bush camping, picnic areas, mountain biking trails, and 4WD touring. To the northwest lies Goobang National Park that includes Caloma lookout, one of the high points in the Wanda Wandong sector of Goobang National Park. The area is a bird watchers' paradise - you can often spot birds of prey, such as wedge-tailed eagles, brown goshawks and brown falcons, soaring across the sky. Black cypress pines, grevilleas, lomandras and heath feature commonly on the landscape. There are many tall grass trees in this area too, some of which are believed to be hundreds of years old. This is a large property that is taking a break from sheep farming. Covered in gum trees and pines and lots of open space. The property has a creek with all year round water holes and dams. You can do almost anything you want. Hiking, fishing, swimming, camping and living the dream. There's emus (bush chooks), kangaroos (hopping dogs), platypus and no drop bears, meaning you can sit back, relax and go back to the way it was. Self sufficient campers only, leave no trace. You must bring your own camping toilet and shower. If booking under the Group listing, you will need to arrange you own portaloos, which I am happy to manage delivery/pick up of with the local hire company. It's 15 minutes to the pub in town if you're up for a coldie or a meal. Our farm is a work in progress.

* Before taxes and fees

Under $50

96%

(99)

Cargo Road Wines

5 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Orange, NSW

16 Ha of grapevines on 40 Ha of land. We also have a cherry orchard so people can pick their own cherries in December. We have stunning views, dedicated sites that can be powered, close to the amenities in the winery or very isolated. We also make some fantastic wine. We have 4 EV chargers for all your electric car needs. We have Fire wood for sale bigger better than servos bags $25/bag. Close by is the Orange Mountain Bike Club with dedicated downhill trails and events year-round. We are just next to the Lonely Mountain Ultra which runs in October. Mount and Lake Canobolas offer wonderful walk, swims, paddles and fishing. The region has incredible produce, restaurants and wineries.

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(96)

Borenore Billabong Field Days site

13 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Borenore, NSW

The 130 acres site hosts Agricultural events during the year. It is also run as a working farm and has grassed areas and power sites with access to showers, toilets and a dump point. The grassed area overlooks a Billabong with trees and wildlife with a background to Mount Canobolas. The site is in closer proximity to Vineyards and Cellar Doors.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(487)

The Orchard

13 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Nashdale, NSW

Our property is situated on a working apple and cherry orchard at the base of Mount Canobolas, 10 minute drive from Orange. The region has much to offer including amazing wineries and cellar doors, quaint villages with artisans shops, hot air balloon rides, waterfalls, the Arch Cave and more. Here at The Orchard visitors are welcome to pick their own fruit in season, at a cost. Please speak to your host if you are interested. There are plenty of local food and wine venues in the surrounding area for you to enjoy. Lake Canobolas is close by for swimming and there are a number of walking/ hiking trails in the beautiful Mount Canobolas National Park. Pets are welcome but we do have livestock on the property to please keep them under control. Campfires are allowed as long as there are no fire restrictions in place. Amenities are available for campers. A shower and toilets are also available to campers.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(32)

Wendouree Creek Camp

8 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Parkes, NSW

Wendouree is owned by the Hood family who operate a mixed farming enterprise on Wendouree, and neighbouring properties Glenora and Cherry Gardens. The Wendouree Creek Paddock mostly remains unused but may have stray sheep on it from time-to-time. The property has been owned and operated by the Cunich / Hood family for five generations.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(10)

Bellandre Park

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3060 acres · Molong, NSW

We are Marilyn and Peter, we own, live and run a mixed farming business from this beautiful land, located in the Central Tablelands NSW. The country varies between undulating and steep land and has 7 km of double frontage Bell River running through it. The river can range from rapidly flowing to the more usual steady flowing and is most often very clear. The river has numerous swimming spots, some with a rocky base, and some with sand. The winding river and the varying countryside is incredibly peaceful and beautiful and is a perfect retreat for those looking to disconnect and relax. The river has its origin near Orange and is also fed into by many springs. Weandre Creek runs in the backcountry and winds into the Bell River. Our comfortable Hut is situated on an elevated spot looking down on the river with a graduated road leading down. It has everything you need for a relaxing, recharging stay in nature. The Hut can accommodate up to 4 people, however, you also have the option for up to 6 additional guests to set up swags, tents, or a camper trailer nearby. There is space next to the Hut, or for those with a 4WD, there are some lovely camping sites down by the river. We also offer sites for those looking for a self-contained camping site, in a beautiful location. We love the solitude, the endless bush walks, swimming, and being immersed in nature. We are confident you will too. We also have a lovely art gallery on the property, and for a small fee and prior arrangement, you are welcome to come and take a look. From our farm, it is 60 km to Orange with all its wineries, food festivals, and many attractions. Wellington is 40 km and boasts the Wellington Caves. Dubbo is 90 km and is a big inland city and boasts the Western Plains Zoo. We are so glad to let you know we have a new (but intentionally rustic) structure which houses a shower powered by gas and solar with gravity fed water. Showers need to be short because water supply is limited. In a separate space is a gas BBQ and sink. This is pictured in our latest photos. This building also looks down on the Bell river which looks sensational at the moment due to all the rain.

* Before taxes and fees

Available this weekend

100%

(10)

Bellandre Park

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3060 acres · Molong, NSW

We are Marilyn and Peter, we own, live and run a mixed farming business from this beautiful land, located in the Central Tablelands NSW. The country varies between undulating and steep land and has 7 km of double frontage Bell River running through it. The river can range from rapidly flowing to the more usual steady flowing and is most often very clear. The river has numerous swimming spots, some with a rocky base, and some with sand. The winding river and the varying countryside is incredibly peaceful and beautiful and is a perfect retreat for those looking to disconnect and relax. The river has its origin near Orange and is also fed into by many springs. Weandre Creek runs in the backcountry and winds into the Bell River. Our comfortable Hut is situated on an elevated spot looking down on the river with a graduated road leading down. It has everything you need for a relaxing, recharging stay in nature. The Hut can accommodate up to 4 people, however, you also have the option for up to 6 additional guests to set up swags, tents, or a camper trailer nearby. There is space next to the Hut, or for those with a 4WD, there are some lovely camping sites down by the river. We also offer sites for those looking for a self-contained camping site, in a beautiful location. We love the solitude, the endless bush walks, swimming, and being immersed in nature. We are confident you will too. We also have a lovely art gallery on the property, and for a small fee and prior arrangement, you are welcome to come and take a look. From our farm, it is 60 km to Orange with all its wineries, food festivals, and many attractions. Wellington is 40 km and boasts the Wellington Caves. Dubbo is 90 km and is a big inland city and boasts the Western Plains Zoo. We are so glad to let you know we have a new (but intentionally rustic) structure which houses a shower powered by gas and solar with gravity fed water. Showers need to be short because water supply is limited. In a separate space is a gas BBQ and sink. This is pictured in our latest photos. This building also looks down on the Bell river which looks sensational at the moment due to all the rain.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(487)

The Orchard

13 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Nashdale, NSW

Our property is situated on a working apple and cherry orchard at the base of Mount Canobolas, 10 minute drive from Orange. The region has much to offer including amazing wineries and cellar doors, quaint villages with artisans shops, hot air balloon rides, waterfalls, the Arch Cave and more. Here at The Orchard visitors are welcome to pick their own fruit in season, at a cost. Please speak to your host if you are interested. There are plenty of local food and wine venues in the surrounding area for you to enjoy. Lake Canobolas is close by for swimming and there are a number of walking/ hiking trails in the beautiful Mount Canobolas National Park. Pets are welcome but we do have livestock on the property to please keep them under control. Campfires are allowed as long as there are no fire restrictions in place. Amenities are available for campers. A shower and toilets are also available to campers.

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(99)

Cargo Road Wines

5 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Orange, NSW

16 Ha of grapevines on 40 Ha of land. We also have a cherry orchard so people can pick their own cherries in December. We have stunning views, dedicated sites that can be powered, close to the amenities in the winery or very isolated. We also make some fantastic wine. We have 4 EV chargers for all your electric car needs. We have Fire wood for sale bigger better than servos bags $25/bag. Close by is the Orange Mountain Bike Club with dedicated downhill trails and events year-round. We are just next to the Lonely Mountain Ultra which runs in October. Mount and Lake Canobolas offer wonderful walk, swims, paddles and fishing. The region has incredible produce, restaurants and wineries.

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(96)

Borenore Billabong Field Days site

13 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Borenore, NSW

The 130 acres site hosts Agricultural events during the year. It is also run as a working farm and has grassed areas and power sites with access to showers, toilets and a dump point. The grassed area overlooks a Billabong with trees and wildlife with a background to Mount Canobolas. The site is in closer proximity to Vineyards and Cellar Doors.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(32)

Wendouree Creek Camp

8 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Parkes, NSW

Wendouree is owned by the Hood family who operate a mixed farming enterprise on Wendouree, and neighbouring properties Glenora and Cherry Gardens. The Wendouree Creek Paddock mostly remains unused but may have stray sheep on it from time-to-time. The property has been owned and operated by the Cunich / Hood family for five generations.

* Before taxes and fees

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Parkes guide

Overview

In Central Western NSW, Parkes sits right on the cusp between the outback and the green, fertile areas of eastern Australia. The town is famous for two main things: its rollicking annual Parkes Elvis Festival, and its enormous radio telescope and observatory, nicknamed “the Dish,” which played an important role in broadcasting the 1969 moon landings to the world. Campers can stay at a few holiday parks around town that cater to tent campers and larger vehicles alike. Those wanting a more natural experience away from town can camp surrounded by bush in nearby Goobang National Park.

Where to go

Dubbo

About 1.5 hours’ drive north of Parkes, Dubbo is the largest town in this part of NSW, and at the intersection of three major highways: the Newell, Mitchell, and Golden highways. This makes it a handy place to stop and replenish supplies on long road trips, whether heading north, south, toward the coast, or into the outback. There are several caravan parks in and around town, plus more basic campsites in Dubbo’s hinterland.

Goobang National Park

Just northeast of Parkes, the small Goobang National Park offers scenic bushwalking, mountain biking trails, and four-wheel-drive vehicle trails. There are a couple of small bush camps within the park that are suitable for tents, caravans, and camper-trailers. While there are no camping fees at these sites, advance bookings and booking fees are required. Sites are not marked or powered, but there are toilets and barbecue facilities.

Forbes

Roughly halfway between Wagga Wagga and Dubbo, and about 30 minutes’ drive southwest of Parkes, Forbes is a pretty town that makes a good stopover point on the A39. Set in the Lachlan Valley and on the serpentine Lachlan River and Lake Forbes, the area is home to waterside parks and gold rush history, as well as well-equipped holiday parks beside the river and lake.

When to go

Elvis fans might want to visit Parkes in January, when the town holds the Parkes Elvis Festival—expect live music and a lot of Elvis impersonators. If you’re keen to stargaze in Parkes and check out the observatory, visit between the cooler months of March and October. Parkes and its surrounding areas are prone to flooding—increasingly so with the effects of climate change—and the risk is especially high from late spring through early autumn.