Gloucester swimming – Barrington River

Rocky Crossing on the Barrington River near Gloucester NSW

The Barrington River is one of the largest rivers in the Manning catchment, being fed by high-altitude wetlands in Barrington Tops plus other smaller tributaries coming down from the plateau. The river descends 1,370 metres over its 93 kilometres before ending where it meets the Gloucester River at Gloucester township.

A short drive from Gloucester takes you to some public riverside spots on the Barrington River with space for picnics, swimming holes for cooling off & calm flat water for lazing about on a rubber ring.

For easy summertime swimming in the Barrington River, try:
a) Barrington Reserve next to the Barrington Bridge on Thunderbolts Way;
b) Rocky Crossing on Barrington West Road (off Thunderbolts Way);
c) the public river access reserve at the end of Relfs Road (off Thunderbolts Way).
d) The Steps of Girrba Campground (day use fee applies $5pp) on Manchester Rd, Bindera.

For a private river experience there are many accommodation choices located alongside the Barrington River. Self-contained holiday cabins & cottages include Barrington Hideaway, The Old Schoolmasters Cottage, Mansfield Cottage, Barrington Riverside Cottages, Water Gums Retreat & Riverview Cottage at The Steps. Riverside campgrounds include Poley’s Place & The Steps of Girrba.

SAFETY TIP: The water upstream of the concrete causeways at river crossings is generally deeper & slower than the water downstream which is generally rockier & faster. But always check water levels before swimming. (see more safety tips below)

#Gloucesterswimming #BarringtonTops #GloucesterNewSouthWales www.gloucestertourism.com.au

• HOW: For swimming around Gloucester & Barrington Tops pick up a swimming brochure at the Gloucester Visitor Information Centre or download the brochure here.
• COST: Free
• CONTACT: Pick up a free map at Gloucester Visitor Information Centre at 27 Denison Street. Call 6538 5252


Swimming safety tips:

Remember to always check the water for hazards and snags, especially after rainfall events.

Never ever dive into any water, unless you’re in the swimming lanes at the Olympic Pool.

Take care of slippery river stones at all our rivers & waterways, suitable aqua shoes are recommended.

Always supervise your children while swimming.

Watch out for vehicle traffic at concrete causeway river crossings.

And please take all your rubbish with you.