| Cost | Free |
|---|---|
| Location | Dumaresq Dam, Armidale, New South Wales |
| Pet Friendly | No dogs permitted |
| Campfires | No fires permitted |
| Facilities | New amenities block, picnic shelters, boat ramp, artificial beach |
| Vehicle Access | Bitumen roads and parking areas, suitable for RVs and caravans |
| In Camps App | Yes – see app for full details |
Dumaresq Dam Recreation Area was previously a day use area. But thanks to a redevelopment project by the Armidale Regional Council it is now a free camping area!
Council have just completed stage one of the redevelopment which includes:
– new amenities block and picnic shelters
– campsite and un-powered motor home parking areas
– bitumen roads and parking areas
– long bay parking and upgraded boat ramp
– artificial beach and sandstone wall
– additional boardwalk
There are a limited number of unpowered camping sites and it will be first in best dressed for these concrete slab sites. No booking is required and additionally, stays will be limited to 72 hours. Generators will be permitted during reasonable hours, however there is no dump point, no fires and no dogs permitted. A dump point is located in Armidale. There are essentially 3 RV or Caravan sites and some open space for tent based camping.

Finally, stage two will include:
– a jetty
– all new nature playground
– landscaping
– signage and security
You can read more about councils plans here https://www.armidaleregional.nsw.gov.au/council/newsroom/works-and-projects/dumaresq-dam-reserve-redevelopment-project or watch the artists impression video below.
Find interesting travel destinations like this and more nearby in the CAMPS 13 guide books, CAMPS Pendium boxed set and CAMPS AUSTRALIA WIDE App.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay at Dumaresq Dam?
Stays are limited to 72 hours (3 nights). No booking is required and sites are first in, best dressed.
How many campsites are available?
There are a limited number of unpowered camping sites on concrete slabs, essentially 3 RV or caravan sites, plus some open space for tent-based camping.
Are dogs allowed at Dumaresq Dam Recreation Area?
No, dogs are not permitted at this campsite.
Can I use a generator at this free camp?
Yes, generators are permitted during reasonable hours.
Is there a dump point at Dumaresq Dam?
No, there is no dump point at the campsite. The nearest dump point is located in Armidale.
Are campfires allowed?
No, fires are not permitted at this recreation area.
What facilities are available at the campsite?
The redeveloped area includes a new amenities block, picnic shelters, upgraded boat ramp, artificial beach, boardwalk, and bitumen roads and parking areas.
Do I need to book a site at Dumaresq Dam?
No booking is required. Sites are allocated on a first in, best dressed basis.


