Cod Hole campground sits on the banks of the Nymboida River in Nymboi-Binderay National Park, on the NSW North Coast hinterland. Six campsites, swimming holes at your doorstep, sugar gliders overhead at night. The 4WD access road keeps visitor numbers low, and the small site count means you'll rarely share the campground with more than a handful of other campers. The park is on Gumbaynggirr Country, and scarred canoe trees throughout the area tell a long story of Aboriginal connection to this river.
Getting there#
Address: Cod Hole Road, Wild Cattle Creek, NSW, 2453
Access is via unsealed roads that are 4WD recommended. These roads can deteriorate quickly after rain. Call the NPWS Coffs Harbour office on (02) 6652 0900 for current road conditions before heading out.
Driving distances:
- Coffs Harbour: About 1 hour 30 minutes
- Grafton: About 1 hour 15 minutes
- Dorrigo: About 45 minutes
Access tips: Air down tyres for rough sections. After rain, sections can become slippery, boggy, or impassable. Creek crossings may be present. Carry basic recovery gear (shovel, traction boards) and let someone know your plans. A high-clearance 4WD is ideal.
Location
Open in Google MapsFacilities#
What's here:
- Non-flush toilets
- Fire rings at campsites (firewood supplied by NPWS)
- BBQ facilities
- Picnic tables
- Boat ramp for canoe/kayak launching
- Car park
What's not here: Drinking water, showers, powered sites, mobile reception, or rubbish collection. Bring all your own water and carry out all rubbish.
Check the official page for current facility status.
Fees and booking#
- Adults: $5 per night
- Children (5-15): $3 per night
- Under 5: Free
No booking required. First-come, first-served. With only six sites, it can fill on long weekends, but mid-week visitors will often have the place to themselves.
Things to do#
Swimming and paddling#
The Nymboida River is the centrepiece. Pools near the campground are deep enough for proper swimming, and the river is clean and clear in normal conditions. Bring an inflatable — floating downstream from one pool to the next is the unofficial main activity.
Whitewater rafting and canoeing#
The Nymboida is well-known among paddlers. Upstream and downstream of Cod Hole, the river has serious whitewater sections for experienced paddlers only. The boat ramp makes an easy launch point. Beginners should stick to the calm pools near the campground.
Fishing#
You can fish the Nymboida River, but eastern freshwater cod are endangered and must be released if caught. This species is the reason the campground got its name. Check NSW DPI fishing regulations for current rules on other species.
Wildlife watching#
After dark, look for sugar gliders launching between trees, spotted-tailed quolls (one of Australia's rarest predators), and bettongs foraging in the undergrowth. During the day, kingfishers work the river and a wide variety of bird species fill the canopy.
Best time to visit#
Autumn (Mar-May): Warm days, cool nights, river flows usually good after summer rain. Fewer visitors.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Warming up, wildflowers, good river flows. Can be wet — check road conditions.
Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot, river swimming at its best. Access roads can be affected by heavy storms. Check conditions after significant rainfall.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Cooler and drier. River levels may be low. Campfires (when permitted) are welcome on cold hinterland nights.
What to bring#
- Drinking water (minimum 4-5 litres per person per day)
- All food and cooking equipment (gas stove recommended alongside fire ring)
- Rubbish bags (carry out everything)
- Torch/headlamp
- Insect repellent and sun protection
- First aid kit
- Inflatable for river floating
- Kayak or canoe (boat ramp available)
- Warm layers for cool hinterland nights
- Camera — wildlife is active at dawn and dusk
NPWS supplies firewood, so you don't need to bring your own. Check fire restrictions before lighting up.
Nearby campgrounds#
If Cod Hole is full, Platypus Flat campground is also in Nymboi-Binderay National Park, upstream on the Nymboida River with similar riverside camping.
Can't get a booking?#
Cod Hole campground and picnic area can fill up during peak periods like school holidays and long weekends.
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FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book Cod Hole campground?
No. Cod Hole is first-come, first-served with no booking system. There are only six sites, so arrive early on popular weekends.
How many campsites does Cod Hole campground have?
Cod Hole has 6 marked campsites spread along the Nymboida River bank.
Do I need a 4WD to get to Cod Hole?
NPWS recommends 4WD. The unsealed access roads can deteriorate quickly after rain. In dry conditions, some visitors manage with high-clearance AWD, but 4WD is the safe choice.
Is there drinking water at Cod Hole?
No. Bring all your own drinking and cooking water. There are no taps or treated water at the campground.
Are campfires allowed at Cod Hole?
Fire rings are provided and NPWS supplies firewood. However, campfires are subject to fire restrictions and total fire bans. Check with NPWS before your trip.
Is there mobile reception at Cod Hole?
No. Expect no mobile coverage at the campground. Let someone know your plans before heading in.
Can I swim at Cod Hole?
Yes. The Nymboida River has deep pools near the campground that are popular for swimming. Always check for hazards and be aware that river conditions change with recent rainfall.
Can I bring my dog to Cod Hole campground?
No, pets are not permitted at Cod Hole campground. This is to protect native wildlife and other campers.