11 Idyllic Orange Caravan Park and Camping Spots

Temper your touring of Orange’s viticultural delights with a stay amid the great outdoors.

While wine touring may be the big drawcard for Orange and her surrounds, the region is also enrobed with naturally stunning landscapes from idyllic rolling hills planted with vineyards and orchards, to native bushlands and the impressive Gaanha bula (Mount Canobolas). Stay close to the action of Orange, but closer to the great outdoors at these beautiful campsites, cabins and caravan parks. Whether you’re all in for a barebones experience, looking for a budget stay with handy amenities or after something a little more luxe, you’ll find it in this round-up.

1. Colour City Caravan Park

For easy digs right in town, you can park it or pitch it at the Colour City Caravan Park right in the centre of things and next to the Showgrounds.

Tent sites at Colour City Caravan Park in Orange — Sleep close to nature on the camping sites.

There are unpowered and powered sites, budget and standard cabins, and a three-bedroom, self-contained heritage cottage if you’d prefer a softer entry to a budget escape.

Bring your four-legged friends and your family and settle in for a self-catered stay in the tidy park, which includes a camp kitchen, laundry, linen hire for a small fee, wi-fi and dump station.

Cabins at Colour City Caravan Park in Orange — Bed down in the cosy cabins.

Cost: unpowered sites from $15

2. Canobolas Caravan Park

The cosy and quaint 3.5-star Canobolas Caravan Park is just 2.5 kilometres from the Orange CBD, ensuring the town’s incredible dining and attractions are easily accessible. Keep it simple and opt for one of the 22 unpowered sites, level up at one of the 51 powered sites, or go (relatively) luxe in one of the 14 ensuite cabins. There are large sites that can accommodate motor homes or RVs, and you’ll also find laundry facilities, barbecue and picnic areas, dump sites, gas bottle exchange and disabled amenities.

Cost: unpowered sites from $15

3. Blayney and Villages Caravan Park

Set an equal half-an-hour’s drive between Orange and Bathurst is quaint Blayney, making it the perfect perch for those keen to explore these two hubs of the central west. Hemmed by lush pastoral land, the quiet Blayney and Villages Caravan Park is a genuine treasure for the travel-weary. From here, explore the historic village of Millthorpe, Gaanha bula, Mount Panorama and Jenolan Caves. This dog-friendly park has unpowered and powered sites, cabins and all the usual amenities of showers, camp kitchen, wi-fi, barbecue facilities and potable water, as well as a few handy extras, such as a guest herb garden, play equipment and RV and van car wash.

Cost: unpowered sites from $30

4. Towac Valley Cabins

You’re just a 10-minute drive from Orange at the beautifully bucolic property of Towac Valley Cabins. It spoils guests with sweeping views of vineyards and orchards. With just three dwellings, the one-bedroom Country Cabin and Modern Cabin, and the two-bedroom Hamptons House, the maximum occupancy in the property is eight, so you can be sure of serenity. Each is self-contained with a fireplace for cosy relaxation and verandahs angled to absorb those rolling vistas. There are also sweet extras, such as a complimentary continental breakfast, a bottle of local wine, chocolates, snacks and a small gift.

The rooms inside Towac Valley Cabins — The self-contained cabins feature rooms designed with comfort in mind.

Cost: from $165, two-night minimum

5. Bakers Shaft Reserve

The Belubula River provides your soundtrack and backdrop at the pretty Bakers Shaft Reserve camping spot . It may be no-frills, but there are plenty of thrills to be had by immersing in nature here.

Less than 50 minutes from Orange and 20 minutes from the village of Mandurama, this peaceful spot is barebones with only a barbecue area and public toilet in terms of facilities, but if you’re handy with a rod you’ll be able to catch your own dinner. Caravans, tents, camper trailers and campervan sites are available and free.

Couple cycling by the Belubula River near Orange — Take in the beauty of your location alongside the Belubula River. (Image: Destination NSW)

Cost: free

6. Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park

For sojourns through the central west of New South Wales that can afford to take their time, spend a night or two on your way to Orange at the Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park . There are unpowered and powered sites, pet-friendly sites, caravan sites (some with ensuite), and cabins that sleep up to eight people. Kids will be well-entertained with a swimming pool and waterslide, games room, playground, indoor cinema and mini golf. As far as more rudimentary facilities go, you’ll find barbecues, a camp kitchen, a kiosk and laundry all onsite.

Cost: unpowered sites from $32

7. Nashdale Lane Glamping

If your idea of camping is a little more luxe without the less, then navigate to the elegant Nashdale Lane Glamping escape set in the vines of Nashdale Lane’s vineyard.

Aerial view of Nashdale Lane’s vineyard near Orange — Stay alongside the vines of Nashdale Lane’s vineyard. (Image: Liam Foster)

Creature comforts are all accounted for here, from the wood-burning fireplace to solid hardwood floors, four-poster bed, custom kitchen and private bath and shower.

Inside the tents at Nashdale Lane Glamping — The glamping tents feature hardwood floors and all the comforts you require. (Image: Liam Foster)

Watch dusk descend over the vines from your deck with a glass of Nashdale Lane pinot noir. The glampsites are adults-only and require a two-night stay between Friday and Sunday, so you can really sink into the tranquillity.

Couple enjoying a stay at Nashdale Lane Glamping — Soak up the serenity of your location on the deck. (Image: Destination NSW)

Cost: from $315 per night (plus cleaning and Airbnb fees)

8. Orange Showground

For those driving nomadic abodes on a tour of the state, take advantage of the one-night-free policy for self-contained RVs at the Orange Showground . Ideal for visits during a festival or for special occasions, if your RV has a toilet, shower and can function without connection to a power source, there are spaces here for you. However, tents and caravans or any non-self-contained vehicles will need to stay next door at Colour City Caravan Park .

RV sites available at the Orange Showground — Self-contained RVs can be set up at the Orange Showground.

Cost: free

9. Bissy’s Permaculture Eco Retreat

Take in the dramatic views and stillness of the bush at Bissy’s Permaculture Eco Retreat , a sprawling 39-hectare property not far from Orange. Wander the food forests and market garden of this permaculture-led farm, where wildlife, birdsong and the gentle ripple of a creek are often the only sounds. Relish the rare pleasure of isolation here, but be prepared to bring everything you need for your stay. The owners run Bissy’s Permaculture Café in Orange and you’ll be treated to one free coffee per person when you spend the night.

Bissy's Permaculture Eco Retreat near Orange — For a real escape to the bush book a stay at Bissy’s Permaculture Eco Retreat.

Cost: $20

10. Federal Falls Campground

Hikers and nature lovers will enjoy waking up to the sounds of the bush at the Federal Falls Campground in Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area near Orange. Sites are not marked and you’ll need to walk in with all your gear, including drinking water and firewood, but there are barbecue facilities and toilets to make life a little easier. It gets cold here and can snow, so be sure to bring everything you need to keep warm and cosy and check the weather before you depart as roads can be closed and gates locked if there’s snowfall.

Cost: free with a $6 booking fee

11. Macquarie Woods Campground

This little buried gem lies between Bathurst and Orange in the Vittoria State Forest, where the whisper of pine plantations and the rustle of native bush collide to create an atmosphere of serenity and peace. Your neighbours will be the native wildlife as they scamper between the yellow box, red gums and stringybark and the conifers that were planted in the 1980s as a demonstration forest. There is a picnic and camping area, public toilets, campfires, caravan and camper van access.

Cost: free

For more places to bed down near Orange, read our pick of top Airbnbs in Orange and our guide to luxury accommodation in Orange.

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

11 idyllic Orange caravan park and camping spots

Temper your touring of Orange’s viticultural delights with a stay amid the great outdoors.

1. Colour City Caravan Park

2. Canobolas Caravan Park

3. Blayney and Villages Caravan Park

4. Towac Valley Cabins

5. Bakers Shaft Reserve

6. Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park

7. Nashdale Lane Glamping

8. Orange Showground

9. Bissy’s Permaculture Eco Retreat

10. Federal Falls Campground

11. Macquarie Woods Campground

For more places to bed down near Orange, read our pick of top Airbnbs in Orange and our guide to luxury accommodation in Orange.

16 excellent cafes in Orange for coffee lovers and foodies

10 Orange restaurants guaranteed to satisfy your appetite

The best luxury accommodation in Orange NSW for a lavish getaway

The 20 best things to do in Orange

The tastiest new players on Newcastle’s dining scene you need to try

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

2. Destination dining

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

5. Newcastle nightlife