Snow is rare in Australia, so it’s no surprise each year in winter Aussies get really excited and jump at the first chance they get to see snow. The good news is, Barrington Tops is one of the few places snow does fall in Australia. Barrington Tops National Park is approximately two hours from Newcastle, and about 4.5 hours from Sydney.

If you want to go camping at Barrington Tops this winter, I can only assume you really want to maximise your chances of seeing snow.

But, does it actually snow at Barrington Tops?

The short answer is yes, it can snow at Barrington Tops. But the conditions have to be just right.

Barrington Tops is located on the lower mid-north coast of New South Wales in Australia. This is much farther north than Thredbo and Perisher ski resorts which are hundreds of kilometres further south, closer to the border with Victoria.

Parts of Barrington Tops reach altitudes of 1,586m and Gloucester Tops just 1,331m. Kosciuszko National Park however reaches 2,228m at it’s highest point. Given these ‘heights’, and how much further north Barrington Tops is located, you need to keep your hopes low for snow each year during Australia’s winter.

These are the things to consider when planning a trip to see snow at Barrington Tops:

• Even though some weather forecasts show snow 7-14 days ahead, the weather models can change daily and anything that far in advance should be taken as a rough guide only
• Weather models need to line up for snow conditions to hold, which is usually only 24-48 hours before snow could fall
• Even if sub-zero air temperatures are expected, it doesn’t mean snow. Similarly, rainfall predictions in incredibly cold conditions could still just be sleet rain
• Icy road conditions can cause serious issues for 2WD vehicles. Warning signs will be placed if this happens. For this reason, 4WD vehicles are recommended
• Roads up to Barrington Tops are steep and narrow. Be extra cautious if you are heading to Barrington on one of the lucky snowfall weekends – drive safely and don’t be stupid. Expect traffic
• Two very popular places to see snow when it does fall are Polblue Camping area (located at 1,450m) and Devils Hole lookout (at 1,400m).

Long story short, consider yourself very lucky if you do witness proper snowfall in this beautiful spot. Join the Facebook group, Barrington Tops Snow Chasers which comes to life in winter each year, and look out for Steven Oliver’s really helpful tips.

Check the NPWS alerts page in case of any road closures or parks closures.

If you don’t have a 4WD

If snow is confirmed and you’re desperate to check it out but you only have a 2WD, your best chance is to stay on sealed roads, heading up to Barrington Tops via Thunderbolts Way between Nowendoc and Walcha to areas above 1,300m where there could be snowfall. Be mindful everyone else with a 2WD will have the same idea, so drive safely.

Can I take my dog to Barrington Tops?

If you’re visiting state forest areas, yes. If you’re visiting national parks, no. Be aware of your location, or risk getting a fine.

Camping in Gloucester

Gloucester is a small town in New South Wales set at the foot of Barrington Tops National Park. This gateway town is a great place to go camping if you don’t want to experience the higher altitude chill in winter.

To get there from Newcastle it’s a beautiful, windy drive along the Buckett’s Way. We’ve camped at Gloucester Holiday Park, located just near town and a lovely flowing river. The drive up to the tops is just over an hour from here.

Gloucester sits at a much lower altitude, so it doesn’t snow in the town. However snow can fall at Gloucester Tops.

Camping in Barrington Tops

View all the available campsites at Barrington Tops here. Note that a number of campsites become unavailable during winter as the 4WD access roads are closed for the season. Noting this, your go-to campsite in the summer may not be available during winter.

• Polblue Camping area is without a doubt the most popular campsite during winter. Be prepared for incredibly cold temperatures at this altitude
• The Steps Barrington camping area is another popular place to stay, although technically not in the National Park and not an area where you would normally experience snowfall
• Phone reception is unreliable up there, so come prepared with everything you need
• Dress appropriately for the cold weather – thermal layers are always a good idea, and waterproof shoes and pants.

Featured image supplied by Moonan Cottage.

Have you been lucky enough to see snow at Barrington Tops? Share your tips in the comments section below!