Mount Clear Campground, Namadgi National Park ACT ^Popular

For the serious adventurer seeking true isolation and a rugged wilderness experience, Mount Clear Campground is the ultimate destination. As the southernmost campground in Namadgi National Park, this is the most remote vehicle-accessible campsite in the entire Australian Capital Territory. Reaching it is an adventure in itself, requiring a capable high-clearance 4WD to navigate the unsealed Mount Clear Road, which is often steep, rutted, and subject to closure in bad weather. This is not a destination for the casual camper; it’s a primitive bush camp designed for fully self-sufficient hikers, 4WD tourers, and those looking to completely disconnect from the modern world.

The campground is a simple, open, grassy area set in a stunning high-country valley, surrounded by dense eucalypt forest and the towering peaks of the Brindabella Ranges. The sense of solitude here is profound. It serves a significant purpose as the southern terminus of the iconic 145-kilometre Canberra Centenary Trail, making it a key site for long-distance walkers completing their epic journey. The facilities are almost non-existent, which is a core part of its appeal. There is a single pit toilet, but campers must bring everything else they need for survival, including all water, food, shelter, and emergency communication equipment, as there is no mobile phone service.

The rewards for this level of self-reliance are immense. The area is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats being common visitors. The clear, unpolluted night sky offers an absolutely breathtaking astronomical display. It’s a place to embrace the silence, enjoy the warmth of a campfire (in designated pits, when permitted), and explore the surrounding remote trails. Camping at Mount Clear is a test of preparation and a true privilege, offering a rare opportunity to experience the wild, untamed beauty of the Australian high country. Online bookings are mandatory.

Mount Clear Campground – ACT Location Map

Mount Clear Campground

Address: Mount Clear Rd, Tennent ACT 2620
Website: parks.act.gov.au
GPS Coordinates: -35.86526, 149.01061

Site Information

• Location: Very remote southern end of Namadgi National Park.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, rugged Off-road Camper Trailers.
• Road Access: High-clearance 4WD access only via the unsealed Mount Clear Road. The road is subject to closure due to weather conditions (snow, rain).
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Online booking is mandatory.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the booking website for current limits.
• Number of Powered Sites: None.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Small, open, undefined camping area.

Facilities

• Facilities: One non-flushing (pit) toilet. No other facilities. No showers.
• Picnic Tables: No.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None. An emergency communication device (PLB or satellite phone) is essential.
• TV Reception: None.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, one.
• Ullage: No.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to total fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Prohibited.

Essentials & Activities

• Essentials to Bring: Everything. All water, food, emergency communication, comprehensive first-aid kit, alpine-rated clothing, firewood, rubbish bags.
• Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are strictly prohibited in Namadgi National Park.
• Fishing: Not applicable.
• Short Walks: This is a major hiking hub, serving as the end/start of the Canberra Centenary Trail.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • The nearest pub would be in Bredbo, NSW (approx. 50 km) or southern Canberra suburbs (approx. 70-80 km).
• Places to Eat: The nearest food and supplies are in the southern suburbs of Canberra (e.g., Gordon, Lanyon).
• Local Attractions:
  • The Canberra Centenary Trail
  • The remote wilderness of southern Namadgi National Park
  • Namadgi National Park Visitor Centre (approx. 50 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Orroral Campground (also remote, different access)
  • Honeysuckle Campground
  • Woods Reserve Campground
• Next Free Camps: This is a primary low-cost bush camp for the area.
• Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are located in Canberra (approx. 80 km).
• Nearest Petrol Station: Southern suburbs of Canberra (e.g., Gordon, Lanyon).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Nearest public taps are in Canberra.
• Public Toilets: Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec – Feb): Mild to warm days, but alpine weather can change rapidly. Nights are cool. Be prepared for rain and check bushfire warnings. Temperatures average 8°C to 23°C.
• Autumn (Mar – May): A beautiful time for hiking with clear, crisp days and cold nights. Temperatures average 2°C to 15°C.
• Winter (Jun – Aug): Very cold. Days are often sunny but frigid. Nights are well below freezing. Snowfall is very common and will close access roads. Alpine-rated gear is essential. Temperatures range from -6°C to 7°C.
• Spring (Sep – Nov): A lovely season as the alpine wildflowers bloom. Days become warmer, but nights remain very cold. Be prepared for variable weather and potential snow. Temperatures average 1°C to 15°C.