Hay is a wonderful town in New South Wales. Three highways intersect at Hay: the Cobb, Sturt and Mid Western, so it is hard to miss!
The phrase, “Where the hell is Hay?” isn’t ours. In fact, after our lap in 2013, Heatley came home with a hat saying just that! Seriously, we were impressed by Hay’s attractions back then and loved our free camp stay a few months ago. Put this NSW gem on your list! First we scoped out the campgrounds…
Hay Showground
Our first stop, we chatted with the very friendly caretaker, Kevin. He said, “It was a really good winter, full every day from 11 o’clock.”
He shared some tips for the site: “No bookings – it is $20 powered and $15 for unpowered sites. Now, you need to put your receipt on your dashboard. The cameras will get you, now the majority pay. Fires are only on cement or road, no burning on the grass.” There are multiple zones to set up camp on the grounds, depending on your needs.
Plus another tip for dinner: “The bowlo is a bit further – I go there for meals and I haven’t had a bad meal there yet!” He recommends the ribs!
Hay Services Club
Another camp (for a donation) – this one with a hard surface (handy in wet weather), and just a few metres walk to the bar!
Sandy Point Reserve
Pet friendly, this free camp is right on the majestic Murrumbidgee River.
The free camp is also located behind the tower art. Large bush camping area has excellent facilities and is very popular. No wonder, Sandy Point is a terrific free camp. With so many people I was dreading using the facilities, but was impressed by how clean they had been kept.
However, we still found a private spot, even though we arrived late. Remember to camp away from the day use area so locals can access this beautiful river. See the video.
Hay also has a caravan park. The town is leading the way with facilities for RV travellers with several water points, showers at the info centre, and an off leash park for dogs. All that, and Hay also surprises with the number of attractions!
See and do
Dunera Museum for prisoner of WWII history
Water Tower Art – tribute to servicemen and women
Hay Gaol Museum
Bishops Lodge Museum
Shear Outback
Splash Park and pool
Golf Club
Hay War Memorial High School Museum
Bidgee Riverside Trail
Hay Sunset Viewing Area
Plus more memorials, gallery, cycling tracks and waterside spots!
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