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Nymboi-Binderay National Park is located just 60km west of Coffs Harbour. This national park is packed with history and outdoor activities, and with great camping (like the Platypus Flat camping area), it’s a top spot to base yourself to take on the 4WD tracks in the Coffs Harbour Hinterland region.
And while Nymboi-Binderay might not be thousands of clicks out the back of whoop-whoop, it’s still a remote area with no phone reception, very limited traffic, and no services at all within its deep gorge country.
Camping in Nymboi-Binderay National Park
Nymboi-Binderay National Park has three camping areas: Platypus Flats, Cod Hole Campground and The Junction. Platypus Flats camping area is the most popular option with both campers and day trippers enjoying the area. The Cod Hole is further downstream; as is The Junction, which can only be accessed by four-wheel drive due to the steep terrain.
Platypus Flat camping area
Platypus Flat camp area is set among tall trees and the granite gorges of the Nimboi-Binderay National Park on the Dorrigo plateau. A favourite with locals for many years, the Nymboida River flows right past your campsite with a deep pool in which you can spot platypus, river turtles and cormorants. It’s a popular spot for those into kayaking, walking, fishing and camping. Basically, if you like the outdoors and don’t need a powered site, you’re gonna love this campsite!
- Fee: National Park camping fee – currently just under $20 per night for up to 5 people
- Suitable for: Tents and camper trailers/small off-road caravans up to 4.6m
- Campfires: Allowed when a ban is not in place
- BBQs: Yes
- Picnic tables: Yes
- Toilets: Yes
- Drinking water: No
Cod Hole campground
Cod Hole campground and picnic area was named after the eastern freshwater cod, which can still be found in the Nymboida River, although not to the extent they once were. It’s popular with white-water rafters and is a chance to get away from it all. It’s a small camping area found deep in the heart of the Nymboi-Binderay National Park, and if you’re quiet enough at night and have remembered to pack a torch, you might spot some sugar gliders, bettongs and spotted quolls.
- Fee: National Park camping fee – currently just under $20 per night for up to 5 people
- Suitable for: Tents and camper trailers/small off-road caravans up to 4.6m
- Campfires: Allowed when a ban is not in place
- BBQs: Yes
- Picnic tables: No
- Toilets: Yes
- Drinking water: No
The Junction
The Junction campground is 4WD access only, unless you’re prepared to walk the last 1.4km. This one is also river-based camping and as a result, when the light fades, you can expect to be serenaded by a symphony of various frogs and birds that call the Nymboi-Binderay National Park home, some of which are rare and threatened.
- Fee: National Park camping fee – currently just under $20 per night for up to 6 people
- Suitable for: Tents and off-road camper trailers/campervans up to 4.6m
- Campfires: Allowed when a ban is not in place
- BBQs: Yes
- Picnic tables: Yes
- Toilets: Yes
- Drinking water: No
4WDing around Nymboi-Binderay National Park
Hema Maps has a useful article already written on four-wheel-driving around the Coffs Harbour Hinterlands region which you can view on the link below. Basing yourself at one of the campgrounds in the Nymboi-Binderay National Park is a top choice for this 2-3 day adventure.
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You can also do the Moonpar Forest Drive, a 75-kilometre scenic drive that can technically be done in a 2WD in good weather. However, even though it’s not really challenging, a 4WD is recommended as, after rain, it gets a bit muddy, and the bridge over the Nymboida River is prone to flooding. Also, it will be a heck of a lot more comfortable in a 4WD.
What else can you do in the Nymboi-Binderay National Park?
Nymboi is an outdoor lover’s dream with walking tracks, interesting historic sites and plenty of water activities like white water rafting, swimming, canoeing and fishing. Only experienced kayakers should attempt the white-water sections of the river; for everyone else, join one of the commercial rafting tours for a safe and enjoyable encounter.
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Walking tracks include the Red Cedar Track, the Coachwood Track and the Tramline Walk. The Tramline Walk packs a lot of bang-for-buck in its 800m, including an old mill site and living area. Alternatively, the Norm Jolly Memorial Grove nature walk boasts 800-year old tallowwood trees as well as stunning tree ferns and rainforest.
Even if you’re just here for a day trip, Nymboi-Binderay National Park (and in particular, the Platypus Flat camping and day-use area) is a fabulous place where you can spend hours playing with the kids, exploring the river or just lazing around reading a book and soaking up the solitude. The Nymboida River is around 62km long and it runs along the Great Escarpment from the Dorrigo Plateau through granite gorges down towards Grafton.
Getting to Nymboi Binderay National Park
Nymboi-Binderay National Park is 25km north of Dorrigo, reached via unsealed forest roads from Bostobrick or Megan. Moonpar Road is off Tyringham Road, 14km north-west of Dorrigo. Moses Rock Road is reached via Cascade, 14km north of Dorrigo. Access to the northern park is on Black Mountain Road via Nymboida, Glenreagh or Lowanna. Unless you have a 4WD vehicle, always check road conditions after heavy rain.
FAQ on Nymboi-Binderay National Park and Platypus Flat camping area
Where is Nymboi-Binderay National Park located?
Nymboi-Binderay National Park is in northern NSW, around 1.5 hours west of Coffs Harbour, near the town of Dorrigo.
What facilities are at the Platypus Flat camping area?
The Platypus Flat camping area is a quiet, remote spot with basic amenities. You’ll find picnic tables, fire pits, and toilets. There’s no drinking water or power, so you’ll need to be self-sufficient and pack accordingly.
Can I swim or kayak at Platypus Flat?
Yes, the Platypus Flat camping area sits right on the Nymboida River, which is known for its clear, cool water and natural beauty. Swimming and kayaking are popular here, especially in the warmer months. Just check river conditions before heading out.
Do I need to book a campsite at Platypus Flat?
Yes. Booking for the Platypus Flat camping area must be made online via the NSW National Parks website. It’s a popular spot, especially during school holidays.
Is Platypus Flat suitable for caravans or camper trailers?
Access to Platypus Flat is via a gravel road, which can get rough. Small camper trailers and off-road hybrids would be fine, but regular caravans and low-clearance vehicles aren’t recommended. A 4WD is best for exploring Nymboi-Binderay National Park.
Are campfires allowed at Platypus Flat?
Yes, campfires are allowed at Platypus Flat camping area in the designated fire pits. Unless there’s a fire ban in place, and then it’s a big fat no. Always check local alerts for Nymboi-Binderay National Park before lighting a fire.
Are dogs allowed in Nymboi-Binderay National Park?
No. Dogs and other pets aren’t allowed in Nymboi-Binderay National Park. This is to help protect native wildlife and keep the area pristine.
What wildlife might I see at Platypus Flat?
As the name suggests, you might just (hopefully) spot a platypus at Platypus Flat in the Nymbodia River. You will almost certainly see wallabies, goannas and a variety of birdlife during your stay. Nymboi-Binderlay has a diverse range of animals and according to NSW National Park, this includes 68 types of mammals, 25 kinds of amphibians, 33 sorts of reptiles and over 120 bird species.
Is there mobile reception at Platypus Flat?
No. There’s no mobile coverage at the Platypus Flat camping area, so plan ahead and let someone know your itinerary before heading off-grid in Nymboi-Binderay National Park.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Nymboi-Binderay National Park and staying at Platypus Flat. The weather is usually mild, and the river levels are good for kayaking. Winter is chilly and heavy rain makes the roads and tracks tricky.
For more information on Nymboi-Binderay National Park, visit the NSW National Parks website.
Words by Kev Smith and Jessica Palmer. Photos by Kev Smith.
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