Play Station (CG)

Play Station offers a totally unique camping experience as it’s located on the site of The Mid Coast Flying School. Only 1km from the centre of town, the property sits on the outskirts of historic Gladstone and Smithtown which are set either side of the Macleay River and famed for art and culture. This is the ideal location to enjoy everything the surrounding area has to offer from both on the ground or in the air.

The campsite itself offers large open grassed camping sites next to a dam that are best suited to fully self contained vehicles. There is plenty of shade and the drive through sites will never be over crowded as sites are limited to just a few at a time. The land is quite flat, however if there has been heavy rain it can get quite soft underfoot so it’s best to check ahead first. There is the option of camping on higher ground closer to the onsite residence if needed. Pets are welcome, and its requested that they are leashed at all times as there are sheep roaming freely. Campfires are permitted with care and pending any fire restrictions.

The bonus here is, the 60 acre property has an airstrip and the Mid Coast Flying School on the property. This avails campers to a 40 minute flight that you can get as a flying lesson. The trial instructional flight will allow you to take the controls of the plane and experience what it feels like to fly. At the same time you can take in the sights of the stunning Macleay Valley Coast from above as you fly over Crescent Head, Hat Head, South West Rocks and Kempsey.

HOW TO GET THERE
Depending on the approach, the easiest and most direct access is via South West Rocks Road, which can be accessed off the Macleay Valley Highway via Smithtown Road to the north, or via East Kempsey to the South. Once on South West Rocks Road, look for Old Station Road which is actually a loop road with access from both ends of South West Rocks Road. Follow Old Station Road to the property entrance which is clearly signposted.

Tip. Best to enter from the north end near Gladstone, as far less dirt road.  Caution using the GPS they may take you to the neighbours property. The map marker below shows accurate location.

SITE ACCESS
Once you have turned off Old Station Road travel up the wide deco granite driveway. Drive through the grassed field, there are no obstructions to the campsite down by the dam. However, please check-in beforehand if it has been raining as there could be boggy areas.

FEES & BOOKINGS
Fee is from $15/night with a maximum stay of 5 nights.
Longer stays available for student pilots.
Call the number provided below to book.

$100 for a 40min Trial Introductory Flight.
$230 per hour for Flying Lessons – (20 Hours Min)

RULES
No rubbish to be left on site. Please take with you.

THINGS TO DO

Mid Coast Flying – Learn to Fly
Once upon a time, learning to fly was out of reach, but now Mid Coast Flying can make your dreams come true and have you in the air at surprisingly affordable rates. From your trial instruction flight to your first solo, passing your theory exams, learning to navigate through the air, gaining your pilots certificate and then taking a friend or loved one with you for the first time and sharing your passion with them, learning to fly is an exciting journey.

Smoky Cape Lighthouse
Surrounded by the stunning coastal scenery of Hat Head National Park, it has magnificent views, great for whale watching, bird watching and picnicking and you can stay overnight at the lighthouse keepers’ cottage.

Trial Bay Gaol
Visit and discover the eerie ruins of Trial Bay Gaol. A must-see attraction with a well-curated museum of historic artifacts from the site, and a memorial to those who spent time within its walls.

Wigay Aboriginal Culture Park
Provides a unique opportunity to experience local Aboriginal culture and learn about traditional foods, all within a natural parkland setting.

Kempsey Cultural Centre
The building contains a tourist information centre, museum and theatre, the surrounding park has been landscaped, ample parking has been provided and picnic spots, barbecues, playground equipment and toilets have been included, making an ideal “stopping off” point for the traveller.