Upper Colo Reserve Campground

Upper Colo Reserve sits on the banks of the Colo River, surrounded on all sides by World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park. It’s managed by Hawkesbury City Council, it’s free, and it’s about 90 minutes from Sydney. The Colo Wilderness that wraps around it is one of only 20 genuine wilderness areas remaining in south-east Australia. The setting delivers on that reputation: steep sandstone country, dense bush, clean river, and essentially no light pollution at night.

Campsites are in large cleared grassy areas suitable for tents, camper trailers, and small vans. No caravans — the access road is a narrow, winding, steep gravel road and the council is explicit about this. The reserve is capped at 150 persons per night, sites are limited, and bookings are essential via the Hawkesbury City Council online system. Report to the ranger when you arrive before setting up camp. The reserve is not suitable for group celebrations or parties.

Facilities include an amenities block with flush toilets and showers. A rainwater tank is on site but the council recommends bringing your own drinking water. No bins — pack everything out. An electric BBQ is provided by the council for cooking. No open flames of any kind are permitted, including campfires and gas BBQs. No mobile reception on site.

The Colo River is the main draw: clean, relatively shallow, and reliable for swimming and fishing. The surrounding Wollemi National Park has bushwalking into sandstone canyon country. Dogs are welcome on lead throughout. The Colo Wilderness motto is worth knowing before you go: take nothing but photographs, leave nothing but footprints.

Access via Upper Colo Road: turn right into Colo Heights Road, cross the wooden bridge, left at the Telstra Tower into Hulbert Road, then veer left at the Y intersection to enter the reserve. If the low-level bridge at Upper Colo is flooded an alternate route is available — call Hawkesbury City Council before visiting in wet conditions. Book online at the Hawkesbury City Council website before arrival; do not turn up without a booking.