Finding Warmth in the Cold: Our Dream Winter Camp & Outdoor Spa on the Clarence River
There is a unique magic to winter camping that summer simply cannot match. The air is crisp, the crowds are thin, and the warmth of a crackling campfire feels earned. For our latest winter escape, we headed to one of our absolute favorite spots: On the Clarence Camping in Tabulam, New South Wales . Sitting right on the banks of the mighty Clarence River, this campsite offered the ultimate blend of rugged nature and pure, warm luxury.
We spent three days soaking in the serene river views, cooking over open flames, and treating ourselves to an outdoor spa experience that redefined what winter camping can be.
You can watch our full three-day winter camping journey in the video below:
Why the Clarence River is the Ultimate Winter Destination
Winter along the Clarence River brings mild days, clear blue skies, and cool, starry nights. Setting up camp right beside the flowing water means waking up to morning mist rising off the river and finishing the day with a spectacular sunset painting the sky.
Unlike the busy summer months, winter here offers a deep sense of peaceful isolation. We spent our afternoons exploring the riverbanks, watching local birdlife, and simply enjoying the stillness of the Australian bush.
The Highlight: The Wood-Fired Outdoor Spa
While the scenery is spectacular, the real star of this trip was the campsite’s outdoor spa . There is no feeling quite like sinking into a steaming hot, wood-fired tub while the cool winter breeze sweeps across the valley. It turned a classic camping trip into a luxury wellness retreat. After a day of exploring, heating up the spa and watching the stars emerge over the river was the perfect way to wind down.
Tips for Making Your Own Winter Camp a Success
If our trip has inspired you to pack up your gear and head out into the cold, keep these three essentials in mind:
- Invest in a good sleep setup: A high-quality sleeping pad with a good R-value is just as important as a warm sleeping bag. It keeps the cold ground from drawing warmth away from your body.
- Keep your firewood dry: Winter dew and frost can make lighting a fire difficult. Always keep your firewood covered or stored in your vehicle overnight.
- Embrace slow cooking: Winter camp is the perfect time for hearty, slow-cooked meals. Bring a heavy cast-iron Dutch oven to leave bubbling over the embers while you relax.
Book Your Stay
If you want to experience this slice of paradise for yourself, check out On the Clarence Camping in Tabulam . It has quickly become one of our go-to spots, and we already can’t wait to head back.
Have you ever tried winter camping? Would you trade a traditional tent site for a wood-fired spa in the wild? Let us know in the comments of our video!
