One of the things we love most about travelling around in this beautiful country of ours, is finding awesome spots to camp. Located about 30 kilometres from Narrabri on the northern fringes of the Pilliga State Forest, Yarrie Lake is one of those spots. It is an absolute hidden gem!
Yarrie Lake is a three kilometre round saucer-shaped lake which was most likely formed by a meteor strike thousands of years ago. Although only small, we thought the lake was just gorgeous.
CAMPING AT YARRIE LAKE
If you’re looking for a quiet out of the way spot to stay, then Yarrie Lake is most probably the spot for you. There are unlimited free-range camp sites located around the entire perimeter of the Lake. The lake is edged by scrub, so shade is not an issue. Dotted throughout the area are covered picnic tables and also fire pits, so make sure you have a supply of wood with you.
If you require power, there are a limited number of powered sites located near the caretakers’ cottage on the western side of the lake. Opposite these sites is a small amenities block with toilets and showers. These facilities were basic and although older, they were clean.
A powered campsite will set you back $25.00 per night or $20.00 for un-powered. These fees are per site.
As Yarrie Lake is a Flora and Fauna Reserve, dogs are not permitted.
ACTIVITIES
Yarrie Lake is home to a huge variety of birdlife, so it is a popular spot for birdwatching. It’s abundance of water, trees and ground cover make this the perfect place for birds to nest and breed. In fact, over 70 different species call Yarrie Lake home at various times of the year.
During summer, Yarrie Lake comes alive with water skiers taking to the smooth surface of the lake. If you do wish to water ski on the lake you will require a licence. These can be obtained from the Yarrie Lake Flora and Fauna Reserve Trust. At other times of the year kayakers and even stand-up paddle boarders can be seen cruising around.
Yabbying is another popular pass time at the lake although you may not find many to catch as the lake was completely dry a couple of years ago.
Even though the water in the lake has a somewhat milky coloured appearance it is completely safe to swim in. The colour is believed to come from the sands and soils of the Pillaga which surround the lake.
Or if you just want to kick back and relax around your campfire then I can highly recommend that as well!
USEFUL LINKS
Narrabri Visitor Information Centre
Listen in to their podcast episode https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/travelling-and-working-around-australia/
Ive never been camping before but ive been considering it.
Reading this post provides great ideas for my 1st experience!
Hope my experience will be just as good.
Thanks Lauren….we love camping (obviously) It’s a great way to experience the great outdoors. Hope your first experience is enjoyable.
Great review, thanks very much for posting as it looks like a top spot and I have never heard of it. Would it be OK for me to share it to the Facebook page Off-road Caravanning in Australia ORCA ?
Cheers,
Mike.