Westbury Downs, NSW: Off-Grid Bliss by the Jackadgery River

If your idea of the perfect getaway is no power, no phone signal, and absolutely no stress, then Westbury Downs on the Jackadgery River might just be your dream destination.

The Taupe Crew recently escaped to this peaceful pocket of inland New South Wales, about 45 minutes west of Grafton. Tucked away on a private Hipcamp property, Westbury Downs delivered everything they needed: solitude, serenity, and slow mornings with coffee and cows.

Why Westbury Downs?

This spot had been recommended by family and it lived up to every bit of the hype.

Set alongside the flowing Jackadgery River, the property offers a unique kind of stillness. With no other campers in sight, 2 Taupes had the place entirely to themselves. Their days were filled with floating in the river, cooking over the fire, and relaxing in total digital silence.

“There is nothing better to us than being off-grid… No power, no water, no phone service. That is the ideal trip away.”

When to Go

Their visit in February, at the tail-end of summer, was ideal. The river was still flowing, the days were warm, and the crowds were non-existent. If you can handle a bit of heat, this time of year offers peace and perfect river swimming conditions.

Expect the Unexpected

While the trip was blissful, it wasn’t without a few “true bush camping” moments -
Overgrown paddocks with plenty of cow pats kept things interesting. But hey, that’s where their muk mat came in handy keeping the dew and paddock muk outside the van, where it belongs.

The bonus?
They discovered a part of NSW they’d never even heard of. “We never even knew this place existed - it’s just so beautiful and relaxing.”

Top Tips for Westbury Downs

Bring a floatie or river tube - you’ll want to spend all day in the water.
Stock up in Grafton - you’re off-grid here, so bring enough food, water, and fuel.
Be ready to slow down - this isn’t a trip to fill with activities. It’s about soaking up the silence.
Expect farm life - horses and cows roam the paddocks, so be mindful (and leave the dog at home).

Packing Essentials

• muk mat – Essential for the dewy grass and cow-dotted paddock. Kept the van clean from morning to night.

• Floating device – For lazy afternoons in the river.

• Fire gear & camp kitchen – Cooking dinner over the fire was a highlight.

Kid-friendly? Yes great for free play and river fun.
Pet-friendly? Not this one, too many curious cows and free-roaming horses.

Final Thoughts

Westbury Downs offered the perfect reset. No plans, no pressure, just time to connect with nature and each other.

If you’re chasing an off-grid escape that’s just far enough off the beaten track, this riverside gem is well worth adding to your list.

Check out just how peaceful this place is and why their muk mats came in so handy! 

SHOP NOW TO GRAB THEIR SET UP

Want to share your story with our muk mat community?

We’re always looking for epic adventures to feature! Got one to share?
Email Cameron at cameron@mukmat.com and we’ll be in touch!