Newnes Campground

Newnes Campground sits at the bottom of the Wolgan Valley in Wollemi National Park, flanked by sandstone cliffs and the crumbling remains of a once-operational shale oil town. It’s free, it’s remote in feel, and it puts you in the best possible position to walk to the Glow Worm Tunnel — one of the most distinctive day walks in NSW.

Sites are unmarked and unpowered, spread across a grassy flat beside the Wolgan River. There’s plenty of room and the setting is genuinely dramatic. A second, more secluded camping area sits on the opposite bank, accessible by foot or 4WD ford crossing near the old Newnes Hotel — check river levels before crossing as they rise quickly after rain.

Facilities are minimal: pit toilets and fire rings at sites. No water supply — treat or boil creek water, or bring everything you need. No bins either, so pack out all rubbish. BYO firewood; collecting in the park is prohibited. That’s the full list. Bring what you need and plan accordingly.

The Glow Worm Tunnel is the main reason to come. The 402-metre disused railway tunnel, bored through sandstone in 1907, is now colonised by bioluminescent fungus gnat larvae. Bring a red-light torch — white light kills the display. Multiple routes connect the campsite to the tunnel: 11km along the old railway formation each way, or a shorter 7.5km loop via Old Coach Road and Pagoda Track. The shale oil ruins are a short walk from camp and worth an hour of your time.

Access is via Newnes Road off the Castlereagh Highway at Lidsdale, 35km from the turnoff on unsealed road. 2WD accessible in dry conditions; 4WD strongly recommended in wet weather. Check NPWS alerts before visiting — access via Newnes Road has been subject to closures since October 2025 due to ongoing road works. Alternative access via Old Coach Road from Newnes Plateau. No mobile reception. A park fire ban is currently in place — confirm status on the NPWS alerts page before departure. Booking required via NPWS online system.