Tin Mines campground

🏕️ Tin Mines Campground, Wantagong NSW

🗺️ Description & Location

Nestled in a serene grassy clearing beside Basin Creek within Woomargama National Park, Tin Mines Campground offers a peaceful retreat amid towering swamp gums that bloom creamy flowers in spring. The site is steeped in history—rusting sluice holes, water races, and dredge remnants from the tin mining era add character to the bush setting. Not far from Albury‑Wodonga, it serves as a hidden gem along the Hume & Hovell walking trail, offering solitude and striking woodland views.

📜 History

Originally home to tin miners from the late 19th to mid‑20th century, the location also falls within the journeys of explorers Hume and Hovell in 1824. The surrounding Woomargama National Park preserves rich Indigenous ecosystems, featuring Box woodlands and rare species like the phantom wattle. Remnants of mining infrastructure lend a historic charm to the area, where early European settlement intersected with deep ecological heritage.

⚙️ Facilities and Amenities

• Non‑flush pit toilets

• Drinking tank water (boil or treat before consumption)

• Picnic tables and barbecue/fire rings

• Designated open campfire areas (check current fire bans)

• No powered sites or rubbish bins—carry out all waste

• Quiet bush setting with some shade and creekside flat areas

🚗 Vehicle Access

• Access via Tunnel Road to park entry, then 20 km along unsealed Tin Mines Trail

• Suitable for 4WD or high‑clearance AWD; road becomes boggy after rain

• Dry weather access only

• Track is narrow and may be rough in parts—check conditions ahead

🛌 Stay Information

• Type: Formal campground within Woomargama National Park

• Fees: Free camping, booking fee applies

• Booking: Essential (small group bookings only)

• Managing Authority: NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service

• Pet Policy: No domestic animals allowed

• Max Stay: Not specified

• Access Notes: Remote site; no after-hours assistance, carry all necessities

• Contact: National Parks local office or NSW Parks website

🍻 Nearby Pubs & Clubs

• Holbrook Hotel (14 km): Classic country pub with meals and beers

• Table Top Hotel (~25 km): Relaxed setting with local brews and a casual menu

• Henty Bowling Club (~35 km): Weekend meals and community club atmosphere

🏕 Nearby Campgrounds

• Samuel Bollard Campground (~20 km along Hume & Hovell): Smaller bush site with similar facilities

• Tunnel Road Picnic Area (~10 km): Day-use area with tables, ideal for breaks and birdwatching

🌄 Nearby Attractions

• Norths Lookout: Stunning elevated views of the Murray Valley, Riverina plains, and Snowy Mountains

• Hume & Hovell Track: Hiking trail segment passes through, suitable for day or multi-day treks

• Spring wildflowers: Seasonal displays including rare wattle varieties and orchid species

• Birdwatching: Known for sightings of powerful owls, honeyeaters, and lyrebirds

🛒 Nearest Supplies

• Woomargama Store (~24 km): Basic groceries and fuel

• Holbrook (14 km): Full services—supermarket, fuel, public toilets, medical clinic

• Water: Bring your own supply—tank water available but must be treated

💬 Reviews Summary

👍 Positives

• Peaceful and secluded bushland setting

• Historical mining features to explore

• Abundant wildlife and bird sightings

• Low-cost, no-fuss camping experience

• Creek adds charm and occasional cool-down opportunities

⚠️ Cautions

• Rough, narrow access track unsuitable in wet conditions

• No signage or marked bays—choose own space

• Must pack out rubbish and bring own water

• No mobile reception—remote and unassisted

• Fire bans may limit cooking options

🚨 Breakdown & Emergency Info

• Emergency services: Dial 000

• UHF Channels: Road = 40, Emergency only = 5

• Mobile signal: Generally unavailable—carry PLB or satellite device

• Fuel & Repair: Nearest services in Holbrook

• Safety Tips: Check weather, fire bans, and road conditions before arrival; inform someone of your travel plans

📝 Final Note

Tin Mines Campground is ideal for self-reliant campers who appreciate peaceful, bush‑rich escapes steeped in history and ecology. In spring, it's particularly inviting with wildflowers and birdlife. Come prepared with water, fuel, and reliable transport—especially after rain. Bring binoculars, firewood, and a spirit for exploration. This remote nook is a perfect overnight or basecamp for Hume & Hovell trekkers or those wanting solace in nature—just remember to book ahead and tread lightly.