Set up camp at these comfy Bathurst caravan parks

Whether you’re a seasoned caravanner or looking for a budget-friendly yet fun place to park up and call home on your trip to Bathurst, there’s no denying the appeal of the good, old-fashioned caravan park.

If you’re seeking a cheap and cheerful way to experience Bathurst, or you’re looking for somewhere to rest your home on wheels, the town’s caravan parks offer a cosy and comfortable base from which to explore the area. There are a few options to choose from, each with a unique charm and character.

Let us take you through the caravan parks on offer in this quintessential Aussie town, so you can start planning your next adventure.

BIG4 – NRMA Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park

Where: Right in town

A good option for families, NRMA Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park boasts a camp kitchen, pool, games room and other family-friendly activities. The only caravan park in town with cabins on offer, options include powered caravan sites, tents, and numerous humble but clean cabins (including one that is pet-friendly).

It’s a little dated but has a certain nineties charm that invites a sense of nostalgia, especially when travelling with kids. The name is a little misleading, as it’s located in the centre of town, about a ten-minute drive from Mount Panorama. Being close to the town’s tasty restaurants, charming cafes, and pubs and clubs (plus being on the main road), you can expect some traffic noise.

Cost: Unpowered sites start at $40 a night, and cabins start at around $100.

Bathurst Showground

Where: Right in town 

Set up a tent at Bathurst Showground.

The Bathurst Showground is a great place to set up camp if you’re looking for convenience and proximity to town. Located on the main road, you can park your caravan or set up a tent and take an easy walk to the CBD.

The showground welcomes your furry friends, the toilets and showers are basic but clean, the staff are friendly, and there are powered and unpowered sites on offer. Again, some traffic sound through the night is the price you pay to be so close to town. Make sure you visit the unique wineries and distilleries while you’re here.

Cost: Prices start at $25 a night.

There are plenty of powered and unpowered sites to choose from.

Jenolan Holiday Park, Oberon

Where: A 30 to 40-minute drive southeast of Bathurst

While Oberon is certainly not the most bustling of towns, it does offer the quaint Jenolan Holiday Park if you’re looking for something close to Bathurst but away from the hustle and bustle of town.

Facilities include bathrooms, a camp kitchen, barbeques, and laundry. Accommodation options include powered or unpowered sites and a hodgepodge of more modern and dated but cosy cabins nestled in the manicured grass under shady trees. Pets are welcome with campers and caravanners and the area attracts some lovely birdlife.

Cost: Powered sites are $38 a night, and cabins start at $120.

Free camping in Sofala

Where: A 40-minute drive North of Bathurst

A forty-minute drive from Bathurst, you’ll find the tiny town of Sofala, a small, historic village with a population of just 200.

Turon River is a popular camping spot near the town of Sofala. (Image: Destination NSW)

If you’re caravanning or camping around the area and looking for a humble spot to set up camp, there are a handful of free camping options in the tiny town for lovers of more rugged travel.

Cost: Free

Soak up scenic views at Sofala. (Image: Destination NSW)

If you’re looking for more luxurious accommodation options with all the bells and whistles, Bathurst offers some gorgeous hotels and motels with everything you need for a warm and comfortable stay.