Newnes NSW April 2010

Newnes   24^th and 25^th April 2010

We have always wanted to a do a camp at Newnes in the Wolgan Valley NSW so many travelers we have met say it is one of those places not to miss and after reading as much information on the shale oil mining in this area (1906-1932) we decided to take our tent with another family group for two days in April 2010.  

Unfortunately the weather looked menacing but we were hoping it would not be too bad.

To get to Newnes,  turn off the Mudgee Road at Lidsdale and continue past Angus Place where the view of the escarpments is spectacular, another 24 kms to the floor of the valley and camping area.  

The Newnes Hotel is the only original building remaining and this acts as a kiosk and has some old artefacts.

Caravan sites are opposite the Newnes Hotel and the camping area is in the Little Capertee Creek Valley a little further on from the Newnes Hotel and this is surrounded by the amazing landscape of the Wollomi National Park. 

It is free camping around 80 camp sites but only two toilets (non flushing) and quite a distance apart.  Water and firewood is not provided – you must bring your own. 

There were some caravans also in this area and this is a very popular spot during school holidays a couple more toilets would have been ideal.

The weather was a bit showery but we still managed to do some bushwalking and walk around the ruins of the shale oil mining and we found this to be absolutely wonderful. 

To get to the ruins and more camping areas it is necessary to cross the Wolgan River at the Ford not far from the hotel there are stepping stones that make this easier but not after torrential rain as the river rises very quickly.

Although a little damp we enjoyed our stay immensely if you love the bush this is a must to visit.