Unreserved Campgrounds

Escape to a more traditional Lake Lyell camping experience at our unreserved campgrounds, perfect for self-sufficient campers who enjoy space, simplicity, and a closer connection to nature. Set on both the eastern and western sides of Lake Lyell, these first in first served areas offer open bushland settings and a relaxed, low-key atmosphere by the water.

Arrive and register at the Main Campground office, then head on over to your preferred unreserved campground and choose your own spot. Enjoy peaceful days by the lake, evenings around a campfire, and star-filled skies away from the main campground.

Price*

Camping in our unreserved campgrounds is $20.00 per night per RV, caravan, camping trailer, rooftop tent or tent, and $15.00 per night per swag.

Campers must register and pay their fees at the Main Campground office located at 578 Magpie Hollow Road, South Bowenfels, before setting up camp.

* Rates are valid until 31 March 2026

Eastern Unreserved Campgrounds

Located opposite the Main Campground at Collits Swamp Creek Bay, our Eastern Unreserved Campgrounds offer a raw, open lakeside camping experience for those who value space, simplicity, and uninterrupted views.

Set across three hectares of prime Lake Lyell foreshore, unmarked campsites are spread over three flat, terraced areas, making them ideal for groups and campers wanting room to spread out. With no on-site amenities, this area is best suited to fully self-sufficient campers who bring their own shower, portable toilet, and drinking water. In return, you’ll enjoy direct lake access, open skies, and a relaxed first-come, first-served camping experience close to the water.

The Eastern Unreserved Campgrounds are open all year round.

Western Unreserved Campgrounds

With its own boat ramp and pontoon, our Western Unreserved Campgrounds stretch across 31 hectares of bushland along the foreshore of Lake Lyell, offering the ultimate weekend escape for active, adventure-driven campers. Unmarked campsites are spread across flat, terraced areas, with waterfront spots close to the action and elevated sites set uphill beneath shady gum trees. Ideal for large groups, these spacious sites suit campers who are fully self-sufficient and value freedom, flexibility, and a social atmosphere. Spend your days on the water, your evenings around the fire, and your nights under the stars!

The campground has limited amenities (drop toilets) and campers will need to be fully self-sufficient having your own shower, portable toilet and drinking water.

The Western Unreserved Campgrounds is a seasonal campground, only open on long weekends and during peak periods when the Main Campground is full. Give our friendly team a call on 02 6355 6347 to see if the Western Unreserved Campgrounds are open prior to your arrival.

Inclusions & Highlights

Our campsites in the unreserved campgrounds include:

  • Your camping fee covers one (1) RV, caravan, camping trailer, rooftop tent, tent or swag.

  • First-Come, First-Served Campsites – Choose your own lakeside spot for ultimate flexibility and a personalised camping experience.

  • Bushland & Lakeside Setting – Enjoy open spaces, peaceful surroundings, and scenic views away from the main campground crowd.

  • Portable Campfires Allowed – Bring your own fire pit or use existing fire sites (conditions apply; check fire restrictions during the season).

  • Boat Ramp & Pontoon Access - The Western Unreserved Campgrounds has its own boat ramp and pontoon. Access to the main campground boat ramp is permitted for registered campers.

  • Drop Toilets & Portable Toilet Options – Western Unreserved Campgrounds have drop toilets; Eastern Unreserved Campgrounds require you have your own portable toilet or you can hire a Portaloo from the park.

  • Rubbish disposal bins are available in both unreserved campgrounds.

  • Kiosk located at the main campground with ice, hot food, drinks, firewood, and camping essentials.

  • Pet-friendly campsites (dogs must be kept on leads at all times, some breed restrictions apply).

  • Check-in from 10:30am, check-out by 10:00am (early/late options on request).

  • Quiet time after 10:00pm for a restful night by the lake.

  • Wildlife-friendly park – please observe, don’t feed or disturb native animals.

Good To Know

  • Facilities are very minimal with no toilets in the Eastern Unreserved Area. Campers must be fully self-sufficient having your own portable toilet and shower, and carry all supplies including drinking water.

  • Access to the main campground boat ramp is permitted for registered campers.

  • There is no dump point at Lake Lyell Recreation Park. The nearest dump point is located at the Lithgow Showground.

  • There is no camp kitchen facilities at Lake Lyell Recreation Park. You will need to bring your own portable camping kitchen and sink.

  • Inverter generator types up to 2KVA and under 65dB are permitted (not after 10.00pm).

  • Firewood is available at the kiosk at the main campground. Our campgrounds are a nature reserve so no firewood collection from the park or surrounding roadsides.

  • As our unreserved campgrounds offer a more secluded experience, many campers choose to book a Portaloo for their Lake Lyell camping for added comfort.

  • Visitors to our unreserved campground must pay their fees at the main campgrounds office and follow our Day Use Terms & Conditions.

  • See staff or check NSW Rural Fire Service for Total Fire Bans before lighting campfires.

FAQ'S