Being a Queenslander is something to be proud of, and if you’re from here, chances are you love calling this place home. However, there are some spots that are spectacular enough to warrant an interstate road trip. Northern New South Wales is no exception.
When we started planning our southern getaway, we immediately knew the people to invite along. The Stoney Creek Campers crew are some of the most experienced in the business. They live and breath the outdoors and are always up for an adventure. The first adventure on the cards for this trip? We saddled up for a stunning ride at Lennox Head with Pegasus Park Equestrian Centre. The experienced instructors will make sure you feel comfortable, so you can spend your time taking in the view and bonding with your new friend. A stone’s throw from our starting point, you’ll find Ballina Caravana and Holiday Park. This family friendly spot is great when you’re travelling with a big group like us. The kids will find plenty to entertain themselves with, while the adults can sit back and enjoy a sunset over the waterfront sites. We recommend waking up early to get to your next destination. This spot is full of history, and the old stomping ground on a few famous Aussies. We’re talking about Tenterfield of course. If you’re a Peter Allen fan, you’ve definitely heard about this quintessential country town. Allen’s song, Tenterfield Saddler, is based on his grandfather who operated the saddlery there from 1908 until 1960. Notably, Banjo Patterson was known to be a regular. Not far from High Street, you’ll find one of the most famous natural attractions around Tenterfield. Bald Rock is Australia’s largest granite rock, sitting around 1300 metres above sea level. A the base, you’ll find several walks that lead you to the top. If you’re travelling with children, we recommend the Bungoona Walk. This is the longest way up, with a 5.7-kilometre round trip, but it is much more gentle than the Summit Walk, which is a steep climb right to the top. Whatever your choice, the view at the summit is sure to impress. Speaking of impressive rocks, our next stop on our road trip is also full of them. Albeit they’re much smaller. We ventured east to Glen Inness to Bullock Mountain Homestead, to meet our host Mal. This 1200-acre property is sitting on sapphire country, so why not try your luck here. You can also stay the night, at one of their powered or unpowered sites. If you’re feeling a bit peckish after a hard morning hunting for sapphires, Bullock Mountain Homestead is not far from town. Fill up on a succulent pub feed at the Great Central Hotel. This beautiful old pub is usually buzzing with locals after a hearty meal. You’ll instantly feel at home here and by the end of your visit, the staff with feel like family. Who can forget dessert though? We know somewhere that is guaranteed to hit the sweet spot. The Super Strawberry serves up the best milkshakes and cakes in town. Once all that food has settled, it’s time to get back on the road. For our last stop, we are travelling back to the coast of Northern New South Wales, to Minnie Water. After setting up camp at Illaroo Campground, the team took to the sand for a spot of fishing. Find yourself a nice little gutter along Sandon Beach for a chance of catching a brim, dart of even a tailor. It didn’t take long for our crew to snap up a few. This type of fishing is perfect if you’re camping with the kids. The whole team was able to line the beach and have a go, guaranteeing a fun day for everyone.
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