#coolendel

We left Honeymoon Bay in the direction of Coolendel without any real expectations.  We wanted to top up supplies in Nowra, refill water and be somewhere with plenty of space for the remainder of our trip.

Around 25 minutes from Nowra we hit some picturesque green country side along the Shoalhaven River.

Not long after this came a dirt road followed by a sign saying that Coolendel was just a short 11km drive (or bounce) further.  The road wound through the hills at times having a steep drop to the side.  Scared of heights, this would have been Ming’s least favourite part of the trip.

After finally arriving we checked in at the office which also served as a kiosk selling basic supplies, ice and firewood.  We were advised that this 52 hectare property had around 16 different camping areas to suit most needs.  After two laps of the park we settled on a place near ‘The Shelter’ which was separate from the main camp and close enough to the river. 

Coolendel is touted as an eco-friendly bush camping experience.  Its close proximity to Sydney and Canberra as well as facilities and maintenance allows them to charge a premium price.  Our site cost us $44 per night and although steep, was fine as we haven’t been getting away to do this sort of thing nearly enough. 

Garbage and recycling bins were emptied every day and the two toilet / shower blocks were in tip-top shape whenever visited.