If you’re thinking of getting away from it all but don’t want to travel far, why not enjoy a mini getaway close to home at the Basin?
The Basin is a secluded campground on the western shore of Pittwater, right in the heart of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. While you can’t drive directly into the campground, you can leave your car at the West Head lookout and walk into the camp, which is only around 2.8km but quite steep. Or, you can simply take the ferry from Palm Beach which runs every hour and is much easier if you’re carrying camping gear.
Camping at the Basin
Once you get to the campground, it’s time to pitch your tent and set up your camp. Tents are the only way you can stay at this magical location. But, the views and serenity are definitely worth it. Don’t forget to book your site well in advance.
While you’re setting everything up, don’t be surprised if you get a visit from a swamp wallaby or two or see some kookaburras. The campground itself has an amenities block with hot showers and toilets, picnic tables, clean drinking water, barbecue facilities and a public phone.
There is no kiosk or general store, so you’ll have to bring all your supplies with you. But someone does come along in the morning and afternoon for around 15 minutes to sell ice and fishing bait. Also note that you have to pay for a hot shower which is around $1 for 3 minutes and the machine only takes $1 coins. There’s also a vending machine selling coffee, soft drinks, ice cream and snacks.
Things to do at the Basin
At the Basin campground, you have access to the Pittwater with a lovely sheltered beach and a peaceful inland lagoon. It really feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere even though you’re not that far from Sydney. As a general tip, if you want some peace and quiet, time your trip so that it’s outside of the school holidays.
For a complete wind-down, you might just want to sit by the water with a good book and watch the local wildlife and birdlife going about their business. During the warmer months, a cool dip won’t go astray either. You might catch a glimpse of some small stingrays as they glide through the water.
But if you’re feeling a little more adventurous or need to walk off that hearty barbecue lunch, take a hike along the Basin track and head to the Basin Aboriginal art site. Here you’ll find fascinating rock paintings and engravings depicting animals and human figures that will tell you about the history and culture of the Garigal People of the Guringai Nation.
If you initially arrived by ferry, you might also like to hike up to West Head Lookout which is around 2.5 km and quite steep. However, the effort is worth it for the magnificent views.
You can also enjoy fishing in the Pittwater Estuary but make sure that you get a fishing license first. If you’re lucky, you might catch a bream, a trevally or even a garfish.
Or, you might like to hire a kayak or paddle board from EcoTreasures. The Basin Estuary is a boat-free zone, so you can enjoy a calm paddle without any waves or disturbances. This is ideal if you’re a beginner.
What to do nearby
If you’re staying for more than one night at the Basin and you’re looking to explore more of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, you could take the ferry back to Palm Beach and head up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse. You can take a guided tour which is only available on Sundays or just take in the stunning views. If you’re there between May and September, you might even spot a whale or two cruising past.
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