Country NSW
Take the road less travelled
Country NSW stretches across a vast landscape that’s as varied as it is beautiful. The sheer size and scale of the region mean there’s always something interesting around every corner.
Each pocket of Country NSW has its own unique charm, shaped by the land, the people, the experiences and the stories that run deep through the heart of this part of the world.
Towns like Uralla, Glen Innes and Goulburn are full of character, with historic buildings, old pubs and tales from the gold rush and bushranger days. There’s something special about these small towns; maybe it’s the mix of history and hospitality, or the sense that time moves just a little slower out here.
Explore our Country Parks in NSW
Country NSW: A year-round escape
A haven for anglers, hikers and anyone who loves time on the water, the dams and lakes of Country NSW make for a great year-round escape. Culture thrives here too, with festivals in Armidale, markets in Yass and cool-climate wineries around Murrumbateman pouring excellent local drops.
Our pick?
Sit on the banks of the Tumut River and take in the quiet — it’s the kind of place that naturally slows you down. With wide skies and very little light pollution, the stargazing here is exceptional.
Wildlife is part of the experience, too. Kangaroos often wander through campsites, parrots call from the trees, and the occasional echidna may shuffle past. Whether you’re camping under the stars, hiking through the forest or simply relaxing by the river, it’s an easy place to switch off and reconnect with nature.
Things to do in Country NSW
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Explore by region
Central West NSW holidays
Stay at one of our Reflections Holidays in country NSW and enjoy all that the Central West NSW has to offer: a region steeped in history, breathtaking landscapes with endless walking trails and waterways to explore, and an unwavering spirit of great country hospitality.
Things to see and do:
- Tantalise your taste buds with a bottle or two of Mudgee wines
- Fish the tranquil Cudgegong River for its Yellow Belly and Murray Cod.
- Explore over 200 years of mining history at Lake Burrendong and Mookerawa Waters.
- Try your luck at gold panning at Mookerawa Creek.
- Visit Cowra and wander through the stunning Japanese gardens.
- Explore the famous Wellington Caves and Phosphate Mine.
- Drive, walk or cycle around the magnificent Burrendong Botanic Gardens and Arboretum.
Central West Holiday parks include: Cudgegong River, Lake Burrendong, Mookerawa Waters, Grabine Lakeside, Wyangala Waters
South West NSW
From incredible caves to historic walking tracks, South West NSW is full of hidden gems that make it an ideal holiday destination for a family trip in country NSW.
Things to see and do:
- Visit Yass Valley, north west of Canberra, for its historical sites and museums.
- Explore Careys Caves and the Hume and Hovell Track
- Bring the fishing gear and boat and explore Lake Burrinjuck, one of the world’s largest irrigation dams, or enjoy a scenic tour on board the NV Getaway.
South West NSW Holiday Parks include: Burrinjuck Waters and Wee Jasper Reserve
New England Holidays
Encompassing the country towns of Tamworth, Gunnedah, Armidale and Inverell, the New England region offers plenty of options for venturesome travellers.
Things to see and do:
- Visit Tamworth during the country music festival, or explore the town’s country music landmarks.
- Jump into the treasures of Lake Keepit, popular for its water sports and outdoor recreation.
- Visit Inverell, famous for its rich history, beautifully restored buildings and its production of gemstones, earning it the nickname the ‘Sapphire City’.
- Pack a picnic and take in the stunning views of Macintyre Falls, or enjoy a scenic drive along the Gwydir River.
- Bring the bike and test out the trails on the 11km mountain bike track at Copeton Dam.
New England holiday parks include: Copeton Waters & Lake Keepit
Upper Hunter holidays
Two hours north of Newcastle, the country town of Scone and the spectacular Lake Glenbawn are a popular haven for bushwalking, water-skiing and fishing enthusiasts.
Things to see and do:
- Enjoy a heritage walk though Muswellbrook and admire the historic buildings dating back to the 1800s.
- Take a day trip to the old Scottish heritage town of Aberdeen.
- Check out the Australian Stock Horse Society Museum in Scone, or if you’re visiting in May, visit the Scone Cup (NSW’s biggest day of country racing).
Upper Hunter Holiday Parks include: Lake Glenbawn
The Riverina NSW Holidays
Two hours west of Canberra, the Riverina is a top spot for food, wine, history, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re into exploring country towns, indulging in local produce, or hitting the slopes, there’s plenty to see and do.
Things to see and do in the Riverina Region of NSW
- Explore Wagga Wagga – Stroll the Botanic Gardens, visit the Museum of the Riverina, or check out local art at the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery.
- Taste Your Way Through Griffith – Known for its wineries and Italian heritage, Griffith is home to De Bortoli Wines and the Griffith Salami Festival in August.
- Hit the Snowy Mountains – Just a few hours' drive from the Riverina, you’ll find top ski resorts like Thredbo, Perisher, and Selwyn Snow Resort, offering skiing, snowboarding, and alpine village vibes from June to September.
The Riverina Holiday Parks include: Reflections Tumut River.
Frequently asked questions
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When is the best time to visit Country NSW?
Country NSW is a great destination all year round. Summer is perfect for swimming, kayaking and camping by lakes and rivers, while autumn brings colourful landscapes and mild temperatures. Winter offers crisp air, clear night skies and great stargazing, and spring sees wildflowers bloom and festivals return across regional towns.
What are some of the best outdoor experiences in Country NSW?
Country NSW is known for its wide-open landscapes and outdoor adventures. Popular activities include hiking through national parks, fishing in rivers and lakes, kayaking or boating on local dams, and camping under star-filled skies. Scenic drives and wildlife spotting are also part of the experience.
What towns should I visit in Country NSW?
Country NSW is dotted with charming regional towns worth exploring. Places like Uralla, Glen Innes and Goulburn are rich in history and heritage architecture, while towns such as Mudgee and Yass are known for food, wine and local markets.
Which country nsw are worth visiting within 3 hours of sydney?
Several charming Country NSW destinations can be reached within about three hours of Sydney, making them perfect for a weekend road trip or short escape. Each offers its own mix of scenery, food and wine, history and outdoor experiences.
Some great options include:
- Southern Highlands (Bowral, Berrima, Bundanoon) – Known for heritage villages, gardens, wineries and cosy cafés.
- Kangaroo Valley – A scenic valley with river kayaking, bushwalks and the historic Hampden Bridge.
- Bathurst – One of Australia’s oldest inland towns, famous for Mount Panorama, heritage streets and museums.
- Mudgee – A popular food and wine destination with cellar doors, local produce and historic charm.
- Yass and Murrumbateman – Rolling countryside and cool-climate wineries in the Canberra wine region.
These destinations offer a taste of Country NSW’s relaxed pace, wide-open landscapes and welcoming regional communities.