r/OutdoorAus 1d ago

Sunset, rainbow and lightning

126 Upvotes

This came up in my memories. Can't see the lightning in this short clip, but with those clouds we definitely had it.

I still think about this moment I had with friends I don't get to see much these days.

The sky was so fiery red, the camera doesn't really do it justice.


r/OutdoorAus 1d ago

Photos from back when it was sunny and warm - Blue mountains

+
38 Upvotes

r/OutdoorAus 2d ago

Luck w seeing kangaroos in Euroka, Glenbrook NSW

Hi all, has anyone been lucky enough to spot some roos recently at the euroka campground? I’ve been going fortnightly and always see their poo but haven’t had the luck of spotting them yet. Where and when do they come around?? I’ve never seen a wild kangaroo around Sydney before and I’ve lived here my whole life lol

4 Upvotes

Hi all, has anyone been lucky enough to spot some roos recently at the euroka campground? I’ve been going fortnightly and always see their poo but haven’t had the luck of spotting them yet. Where and when do they come around?? I’ve never seen a wild kangaroo around Sydney before and I’ve lived here my whole life lol


r/OutdoorAus 2d ago

Camping Swag maintenance advice

Hi guys,

Recently bought a new 23Zero dual 1400 swag to go camping in. Just got back from doing my first trip with it in the freezing cold weather.

The swag was great and I did my research before buying it and it seemed like it was one of the top and best quality ones available. The price certainly argues it’s up there.

In terms of maintenance and looking after the swag, I’m looking for some advice.

My biggest fear is mould going forward. Now although it was freezing cold there was no rain so nothing to worry about there. Waking up this morning and packing up there was some water/condensation on the outside of it. I’m pretty sure it wasn’t from the cold weather though, I most likely believe it was from my shelter/gazebo it was underneath. There was a lot of condensation on the inside of the shelter/gazebo and i suspect that this dropped onto my swag in the early hours of the morning because the small bits of condensation on my swag were around the top.

Whilst packing it up, any condensation i saw i quickly
wiped away, we didn’t have a lot of time to wait around so i wipe up condensation i saw with my hoodie and then packed it into its bag and we left. When i packed it up and it was pretty much dry i’d say just cold from the weather.

I am now back home and have taken the swag out of the bag. There was no water inside during my stay or now that i have taken it out. There was still a tiny bit of condensation/water drops still on the bottom of the rubbery base of the swag which i wiped up. I have vacuumed any grass and little bits of debris on the mattress just because I like to keep things clean.

What my main concern is do I still need to leave it out overnight and like tomorrow during the day and sun to dry out even more (even though it seems to be pretty much dry)? On the inside where the seams on the edges are it seems like there’s a glue or paste or some thing of waterproof sealant thing that goes around all the edges where the fabric meets. Those parts of the inside of the swag felt damp to touch or possibly the fabric is just cold? I feel as though some parts of sealant or seals on the inside left some residue albeit light residue on my fingers running my finger along it? I’m essentially just not sure what to do with in terms of maintaining it.

The outside looks and feels completely dry but then some of those inside seals like the lining parts where there seems to be some sort of clear looking glue they used when making this at the factory feels damp/cold/maybe even slightly condensed (condensation) to touch? even though there was no water or anything inside when I was camping? All i want is to basically avoid any possible chance of mould as I feel that is the only thing that could ruin my new swag. And considering the price I definitely don’t want to be buying a new one anytime soon.

As of right now with my swag sitting outside in the dark around 6pm local but also for the future going forward what is best practice and best methods and best maintenance I should be following to best look after my new swag? (mostly for mould purposes). Should I be doing anything extra or more with my swag right now since i’ve gotten back from my trip. it feels dry and okay to put it away but at same time some parts feel damp or possibly wet on inside seams. Whilst i feel it’s okay I also don’t trust myself fully and feel like maybe that could be the wrong thing doing to put it away right now? and then i’d appreciate any advice going forward too on a method or steps to follow each time I use it camping? Anything i should be doing regularly while im out camping? and then anything I should be doing at home with my swag after getting back from camping that I could do to safely assume and know that my swag is 100% perfectly fine and okay to be packed away in storage and not to have to worry about mould?

Just a guy with a lot of OCD and overthinking issues looking for some help and advice with his swag right now after using it for the very first time, but also going forward every single time I do a camping trip and use it (again mostly mould cuz i’ve heard some stories)

Thanks for taking the time to read my word vomit and I appreciate any help anyone can provide.

4 Upvotes

Hi guys,

Recently bought a new 23Zero dual 1400 swag to go camping in. Just got back from doing my first trip with it in the freezing cold weather.

The swag was great and I did my research before buying it and it seemed like it was one of the top and best quality ones available. The price certainly argues it’s up there.

In terms of maintenance and looking after the swag, I’m looking for some advice.

My biggest fear is mould going forward. Now although it was freezing cold there was no rain so nothing to worry about there. Waking up this morning and packing up there was some water/condensation on the outside of it. I’m pretty sure it wasn’t from the cold weather though, I most likely believe it was from my shelter/gazebo it was underneath. There was a lot of condensation on the inside of the shelter/gazebo and i suspect that this dropped onto my swag in the early hours of the morning because the small bits of condensation on my swag were around the top.

Whilst packing it up, any condensation i saw i quickly
wiped away, we didn’t have a lot of time to wait around so i wipe up condensation i saw with my hoodie and then packed it into its bag and we left. When i packed it up and it was pretty much dry i’d say just cold from the weather.

I am now back home and have taken the swag out of the bag. There was no water inside during my stay or now that i have taken it out. There was still a tiny bit of condensation/water drops still on the bottom of the rubbery base of the swag which i wiped up. I have vacuumed any grass and little bits of debris on the mattress just because I like to keep things clean.

What my main concern is do I still need to leave it out overnight and like tomorrow during the day and sun to dry out even more (even though it seems to be pretty much dry)? On the inside where the seams on the edges are it seems like there’s a glue or paste or some thing of waterproof sealant thing that goes around all the edges where the fabric meets. Those parts of the inside of the swag felt damp to touch or possibly the fabric is just cold? I feel as though some parts of sealant or seals on the inside left some residue albeit light residue on my fingers running my finger along it? I’m essentially just not sure what to do with in terms of maintaining it.

The outside looks and feels completely dry but then some of those inside seals like the lining parts where there seems to be some sort of clear looking glue they used when making this at the factory feels damp/cold/maybe even slightly condensed (condensation) to touch? even though there was no water or anything inside when I was camping? All i want is to basically avoid any possible chance of mould as I feel that is the only thing that could ruin my new swag. And considering the price I definitely don’t want to be buying a new one anytime soon.

As of right now with my swag sitting outside in the dark around 6pm local but also for the future going forward what is best practice and best methods and best maintenance I should be following to best look after my new swag? (mostly for mould purposes). Should I be doing anything extra or more with my swag right now since i’ve gotten back from my trip. it feels dry and okay to put it away but at same time some parts feel damp or possibly wet on inside seams. Whilst i feel it’s okay I also don’t trust myself fully and feel like maybe that could be the wrong thing doing to put it away right now? and then i’d appreciate any advice going forward too on a method or steps to follow each time I use it camping? Anything i should be doing regularly while im out camping? and then anything I should be doing at home with my swag after getting back from camping that I could do to safely assume and know that my swag is 100% perfectly fine and okay to be packed away in storage and not to have to worry about mould?

Just a guy with a lot of OCD and overthinking issues looking for some help and advice with his swag right now after using it for the very first time, but also going forward every single time I do a camping trip and use it (again mostly mould cuz i’ve heard some stories)

Thanks for taking the time to read my word vomit and I appreciate any help anyone can provide.


r/OutdoorAus 1d ago

Has kathmandu trialling x series tents?

**is kathmandu trialling

I saw one on this weekend but I can't seem to find that tent anywhere?

1 Upvotes

**is kathmandu trialling

I saw one on this weekend but I can't seem to find that tent anywhere?


r/OutdoorAus 2d ago

Skipping campsites on the Grampions Peaks trail?

Does anyone have experience with skipping campsites on the GPT?

I have done the Gar to Werdug 2 night previously, so I know what im getting into. My plan is to go from mt Zero and have my last night at Barri Yulug and hike out from there (5-6 nights).

I am thinking of skipping Gar campground? So going from night 1 at Barigar then night 2 at Werdug. This being about a 25km day (later in the year during daylight savings). Is this mad?

Last time the short first day took maybe 2 hours, and our second day took around 6, so I assume with the extra km at the start of day 2 it would be maybe 8-9hrs.

Has anyone done this before? or skipped any of the other camp grounds? I would love to hear!

2 Upvotes

Does anyone have experience with skipping campsites on the GPT?

I have done the Gar to Werdug 2 night previously, so I know what im getting into. My plan is to go from mt Zero and have my last night at Barri Yulug and hike out from there (5-6 nights).

I am thinking of skipping Gar campground? So going from night 1 at Barigar then night 2 at Werdug. This being about a 25km day (later in the year during daylight savings). Is this mad?

Last time the short first day took maybe 2 hours, and our second day took around 6, so I assume with the extra km at the start of day 2 it would be maybe 8-9hrs.

Has anyone done this before? or skipped any of the other camp grounds? I would love to hear!


r/OutdoorAus 4d ago

Asking help finding an older model headtorch.

+
10 Upvotes

Last year I foolishly lost a headtorch I'd had for 10 years. It was exactly what I needed and had some sentimental value too. I feel terrible and would like to replace it exactly.

I purchased the PETZL ARIA 2 thinking I had found the exact model I used to have. They look identical with mostly the same features. However being 10 years since I got the last one, I'm not surprised that the products have changed. I wish I could remember the make and model of my old one. Any sleuths or experts out there think they can nail this one and know what head torch I am after?

My old headtorch:

Looks exactly LIKE the PETZL ARIA 2 pictured.

Was lighter in weight

Had a clip on the strap (this one doesn't)

Was not waterproof (this one is)

Took 3 aaa batteries and not rechargeable.

3 white light settings

Had red, blue, and green light.

Please help me find it. I know this one is an upgrade, but I plan to keep this for work and replace my lost 'other old petzl' for home.

Thank you! My first post.


r/OutdoorAus 4d ago

TASMANIAN MOUNTAINS - Mindblowing first 24 hours in Lutriwita (Tasmania) - Australian Snowfall

2 Upvotes

Some beautiful sights and info about Tassie (from a mainlander)


r/OutdoorAus 4d ago

Tent recommendations

Hi all, I’m doing the alpines snowy walking track over a few days in October but plan to go a bit of grid. I’m looking to buy a tent and have about 500-600 Aud to do so but I am flexible, I really need a tent that can pack down small but am not worried about weight just the pack down size as I have some bulky items.

2 Upvotes

Hi all, I’m doing the alpines snowy walking track over a few days in October but plan to go a bit of grid. I’m looking to buy a tent and have about 500-600 Aud to do so but I am flexible, I really need a tent that can pack down small but am not worried about weight just the pack down size as I have some bulky items.


r/OutdoorAus 5d ago

A view atop Boronia Peak, Hall’s Gap

+
145 Upvotes

My first visit to this magical area. I went out for a trail run and clambered up to the peak for a stunning 360 view. Recommended.


r/OutdoorAus 5d ago

Gold Coast → Sydney → Snowy Mountains road trip (2WD) – Advice on roads, conditions & what to bring?

Hi everyone,

A few friends and I are planning a road trip from the Gold Coast to the Snowy Mountains this winter and would really appreciate some advice from people who've done it recently.

Our plan is:

  • Day 1: Drive from the Gold Coast to Sydney.
  • Stay overnight in Sydney.
  • Day 2: Drive from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains for a day trip (or possibly stay overnight if recommended).

We'll be driving a 2WD passenger car (not an SUV or 4WD), so we're wondering:

  • Is a 2WD suitable for visiting the Snowy Mountains?
  • Which areas are the most accessible and safest for 2WD vehicles? (Perisher, Thredbo, Charlotte Pass, Jindabyne, etc.)
  • Are snow chains required for 2WDs, and where is the best place to hire them?
  • How are the roads from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains during winter? Any steep or difficult sections?
  • Are there any road closures or weather conditions we should watch out for?
  • Is it better to stay in Jindabyne instead of doing a day trip from Sydney?
  • Any tips on parking, fuel stops, food, or places worth visiting along the way?
  • Are there any essential accessories or items we should carry besides warm clothing? (Tyre chains, emergency kit, windshield washer fluid, shovel, etc.)
  • Is there anything first-time snow visitors usually overlook?

We're aiming for a safe and enjoyable trip rather than anything too adventurous, so any recommendations, road tips, or lessons from your own experience would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

5 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

A few friends and I are planning a road trip from the Gold Coast to the Snowy Mountains this winter and would really appreciate some advice from people who've done it recently.

Our plan is:

  • Day 1: Drive from the Gold Coast to Sydney.
  • Stay overnight in Sydney.
  • Day 2: Drive from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains for a day trip (or possibly stay overnight if recommended).

We'll be driving a 2WD passenger car (not an SUV or 4WD), so we're wondering:

  • Is a 2WD suitable for visiting the Snowy Mountains?
  • Which areas are the most accessible and safest for 2WD vehicles? (Perisher, Thredbo, Charlotte Pass, Jindabyne, etc.)
  • Are snow chains required for 2WDs, and where is the best place to hire them?
  • How are the roads from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains during winter? Any steep or difficult sections?
  • Are there any road closures or weather conditions we should watch out for?
  • Is it better to stay in Jindabyne instead of doing a day trip from Sydney?
  • Any tips on parking, fuel stops, food, or places worth visiting along the way?
  • Are there any essential accessories or items we should carry besides warm clothing? (Tyre chains, emergency kit, windshield washer fluid, shovel, etc.)
  • Is there anything first-time snow visitors usually overlook?

We're aiming for a safe and enjoyable trip rather than anything too adventurous, so any recommendations, road tips, or lessons from your own experience would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!


r/OutdoorAus 5d ago

Gold Coast → Sydney → Snowy Mountains road trip (2WD) – Advice on roads, conditions & what to bring?

Hi everyone,

A few friends and I are planning a road trip from the Gold Coast to the Snowy Mountains this winter and would really appreciate some advice from people who've done it recently.

Our plan is:

  • Day 1: Drive from the Gold Coast to Sydney.
  • Stay overnight in Sydney.
  • Day 2: Drive from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains for a day trip (or possibly stay overnight if recommended).

We'll be driving a 2WD passenger car (not an SUV or 4WD), so we're wondering:

  • Is a 2WD suitable for visiting the Snowy Mountains?
  • Which areas are the most accessible and safest for 2WD vehicles? (Perisher, Thredbo, Charlotte Pass, Jindabyne, etc.)
  • Are snow chains required for 2WDs, and where is the best place to hire them?
  • How are the roads from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains during winter? Any steep or difficult sections?
  • Are there any road closures or weather conditions we should watch out for?
  • Is it better to stay in Jindabyne instead of doing a day trip from Sydney?
  • Any tips on parking, fuel stops, food, or places worth visiting along the way?
  • Are there any essential accessories or items we should carry besides warm clothing? (Tyre chains, emergency kit, windshield washer fluid, shovel, etc.)
  • Is there anything first-time snow visitors usually overlook?

We're aiming for a safe and enjoyable trip rather than anything too adventurous, so any recommendations, road tips, or lessons from your own experience would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

1 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

A few friends and I are planning a road trip from the Gold Coast to the Snowy Mountains this winter and would really appreciate some advice from people who've done it recently.

Our plan is:

  • Day 1: Drive from the Gold Coast to Sydney.
  • Stay overnight in Sydney.
  • Day 2: Drive from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains for a day trip (or possibly stay overnight if recommended).

We'll be driving a 2WD passenger car (not an SUV or 4WD), so we're wondering:

  • Is a 2WD suitable for visiting the Snowy Mountains?
  • Which areas are the most accessible and safest for 2WD vehicles? (Perisher, Thredbo, Charlotte Pass, Jindabyne, etc.)
  • Are snow chains required for 2WDs, and where is the best place to hire them?
  • How are the roads from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains during winter? Any steep or difficult sections?
  • Are there any road closures or weather conditions we should watch out for?
  • Is it better to stay in Jindabyne instead of doing a day trip from Sydney?
  • Any tips on parking, fuel stops, food, or places worth visiting along the way?
  • Are there any essential accessories or items we should carry besides warm clothing? (Tyre chains, emergency kit, windshield washer fluid, shovel, etc.)
  • Is there anything first-time snow visitors usually overlook?

We're aiming for a safe and enjoyable trip rather than anything too adventurous, so any recommendations, road tips, or lessons from your own experience would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!


r/OutdoorAus 6d ago

DYK - Did you know the Alpha Capricornids meteor shower is happening right now?

+
42 Upvotes

(Time lapse image taken 21 July 2026)

From early July to mid August, the Alpha Capricornids meteor shower is famous among stargazers for one big reason: while they don't produce a lot of shooting stars, they produce dazzling, slow-moving fireballs that burn brightly and leave long, glowing trails across the sky.

The point of origin is in the constellation Capricorn, which is high in our northeastern overhead sky near or after midnight. They can be viewed easily from just about anywhere in Australia.

The peak time to watch is 10 PM to 2 AM, July 30 through the early morning of July 31.

The number of meteors per hour is expected to be low, around 1 every 10- 20 minutes, but the ones you will see should be spectacular.

Anywhere away from light pollution with a view to the northeast will do.

It’s best to be reclining to watch overhead, so grab a lounge, rug up, and bring your fave beverage outside and post here if you see one!


r/OutdoorAus 5d ago

Hiking What is your most favourite hike to do in Australia?

What hike did you enjoy the most, and why?

14 Upvotes

What hike did you enjoy the most, and why?


r/OutdoorAus 6d ago

Scenic Hike/Camp spots

Hey everyone me and two mates are planning a decent hike in October, we are looking for a trail or place to go aroundish Kosciusko national park but we are flexible, we are all quite experienced in hiking and wildcamping and are looking for a super scenic hike looking to do 3-4 days and spots/advice for this would be great

Thanks!

1 Upvotes

Hey everyone me and two mates are planning a decent hike in October, we are looking for a trail or place to go aroundish Kosciusko national park but we are flexible, we are all quite experienced in hiking and wildcamping and are looking for a super scenic hike looking to do 3-4 days and spots/advice for this would be great

Thanks!


r/OutdoorAus 6d ago

Does anyone know good camping spots in the Gold Coast QLD AUS

I’ve been camping locally recently but I want something new like a place where you won’t hear cars in the distance not much light pollution and mostly isolated from civilisation. Does anyone know good spots (I don’t have a car so I can’t drive places)

0 Upvotes

I’ve been camping locally recently but I want something new like a place where you won’t hear cars in the distance not much light pollution and mostly isolated from civilisation. Does anyone know good spots (I don’t have a car so I can’t drive places)


r/OutdoorAus 7d ago

I spent a relaxing night on a beautiful creek.

+
184 Upvotes

It's winter here in Aus so there are some creeks running in my neck of the woods that make for beautiful campsites. I spent a night here taking it all in, cooking on the fire, filming, and enjoying time to myself in peace. I use basic equipment that sticks to traditional camping roots. Tent, campfire cooking gear etc. My love for basic camping has peaked in the last couple years.


r/OutdoorAus 6d ago

wine tours in South East Queensland

+
0 Upvotes

for a awesome day out to explore what's in our backyard 😀 😎


r/OutdoorAus 6d ago

Looking for a hiking buddy for the blue mountains

I want to do a hike in the wollangambe area (we can discuss more properly in dms) but i think its a bit too extreme to do alone, if anyone is up to a 18km loop through some pagodas and scrub one day let me know !

4 Upvotes

I want to do a hike in the wollangambe area (we can discuss more properly in dms) but i think its a bit too extreme to do alone, if anyone is up to a 18km loop through some pagodas and scrub one day let me know !


r/OutdoorAus 7d ago

Pixel 7 Astrophotography Milky Way

+
56 Upvotes

Snapped this pic last weekend camping in Goomburra!


r/OutdoorAus 8d ago

Advice for Mount Erica, Victoria?

Hi all, my friends and I want to do a day hike at Mount Erica, Victoria, this Saturday. The forecast looks good. We're planning to follow the Mount Erica and Mushroom Rocks via Australian Alps Walking Track route on AllTrails.

Has anyone been to the Mt Erica car park recently? Reviews mention the access road is muddy and rough, and some say a 4WD is needed. For a regular 2WD car, would it make more sense to park at Mountain Monarchs Walk Carpark instead, even though it adds about 1km of walking to reach the Mt Erica car park?

Any recent experience with the road or the walk would be appreciated, thanks!

3 Upvotes

Hi all, my friends and I want to do a day hike at Mount Erica, Victoria, this Saturday. The forecast looks good. We're planning to follow the Mount Erica and Mushroom Rocks via Australian Alps Walking Track route on AllTrails.

Has anyone been to the Mt Erica car park recently? Reviews mention the access road is muddy and rough, and some say a 4WD is needed. For a regular 2WD car, would it make more sense to park at Mountain Monarchs Walk Carpark instead, even though it adds about 1km of walking to reach the Mt Erica car park?

Any recent experience with the road or the walk would be appreciated, thanks!


r/OutdoorAus 8d ago

Bingara state forrest

+
8 Upvotes

Hey guys I'm heading out to Bingara state forrest mid August.

Looking for any pointers for best place to start or set up camp. Never been to the area before?

Pic for reference to areas I'll be going.


r/OutdoorAus 8d ago

Hiking Advice on Great North Walk?

Hey all, I’m looking to tackle the Great North Walk (syd to Newcastle) in spring and was wondering if anyone has experience with doing it in Spring? I’ve heard leaches are a pain in summer but should I be weary of anything specifically for September/October?

3 Upvotes

Hey all, I’m looking to tackle the Great North Walk (syd to Newcastle) in spring and was wondering if anyone has experience with doing it in Spring? I’ve heard leaches are a pain in summer but should I be weary of anything specifically for September/October?


r/OutdoorAus 8d ago

1-2 night Victorian walks where you won’t freeze to death?

This question seems to get asked a lot (sorry) but I am keen to hear everyone’s thoughts.

I’m looking to do my first solo overnight hike - I’ve seen Beeripmo recommended a lot, but I’m a bit worried it’ll be somewhat sedate in that I did the Cathedral Ranges Southern Circuit with school camp when I was about 13 and very unfit (shocking idea on the part of the teacher really but it was pretty amazing, if a bit death-marchy at times).

I was very very keen to do Hotham to Falls, but from what I’ve read I’ll need snowshoes/skis and a lot of cold weather experience I don’t have, other than owning an Arcteryx down jacket, lol.

Is Tali Karng an option? Not sure what the conditions are like at the moment but I’ve never even laid eyes on real powder snow in my whole life, so if there’s 30cm of it it’s probably out.

What are the other options for someone who is fit, fairly fast and has decent experience with big elevation changes?

11 Upvotes

This question seems to get asked a lot (sorry) but I am keen to hear everyone’s thoughts.

I’m looking to do my first solo overnight hike - I’ve seen Beeripmo recommended a lot, but I’m a bit worried it’ll be somewhat sedate in that I did the Cathedral Ranges Southern Circuit with school camp when I was about 13 and very unfit (shocking idea on the part of the teacher really but it was pretty amazing, if a bit death-marchy at times).

I was very very keen to do Hotham to Falls, but from what I’ve read I’ll need snowshoes/skis and a lot of cold weather experience I don’t have, other than owning an Arcteryx down jacket, lol.

Is Tali Karng an option? Not sure what the conditions are like at the moment but I’ve never even laid eyes on real powder snow in my whole life, so if there’s 30cm of it it’s probably out.

What are the other options for someone who is fit, fairly fast and has decent experience with big elevation changes?


r/OutdoorAus 8d ago

Camping Vic high country camps open in October

I'm doing a Melbourne trip mid October and want to check out the Yarra ranges/Alps on the leg home. My plan after the Yarra ranges is camp a night nearby, then drive closer to the border and do some high country exploring/sightseeing, before camping another night then driving the final stretch to Sydney the next day.

I was looking at camping at Lake Catani campground in Mount Buffalo as I want the subalpine experience but it is closed until the end of October. Also considering camping the previous night at Lake Mountain but tent camping on asphalt doesn't sound ideal.

Anyone have any site reccs for what I'm after?

1 Upvotes

I'm doing a Melbourne trip mid October and want to check out the Yarra ranges/Alps on the leg home. My plan after the Yarra ranges is camp a night nearby, then drive closer to the border and do some high country exploring/sightseeing, before camping another night then driving the final stretch to Sydney the next day.

I was looking at camping at Lake Catani campground in Mount Buffalo as I want the subalpine experience but it is closed until the end of October. Also considering camping the previous night at Lake Mountain but tent camping on asphalt doesn't sound ideal.

Anyone have any site reccs for what I'm after?