Overnight Hike to Yarunga Creek/Griffins Farm in Morton National Park

I love Kangaroo Valley.  When European Explorer George Evans passed through the area in 1812 he claimed that the valley offered views that "no painter could beautify".  Over 200 years later I find myself in absolute agreement with Evans.  The valley is one of the most beautiful areas in the Shoalhaven region.  With its gently sloping lush green fields surrounded by high mountains of the NSW southern highlands and ferns, creeks and rivers galore it is one of my favourite places to explore.  So when I decided that for Australia Day I wanted to wake up in the Australian bush I decided a Hike near Kangaroo Valley was were I was going, and so the adventure to Yarunga Creek/Griffins Farm was in motion.

After convincing my partner and our neighbour to come along for the adventure we packed our packs and headed on our way.  Driving to the trail head was easy.  Coming from Nowra,  driving through the Kangaroo Valley township and over Hampden Bridge (historical fact : the oldest suspension bridge in Australia - its hard to miss.) we turned of on Bendeela Rd.  After approx 4km the road continues straight into Jacks Corner Rd and we continued along that for another 8km or so, passing the Bendeela pondage and pump station and lots of dream worthy properties with the last 1.3km being unsealed, until we reached a Large Morton National Park sign and car park where the road takes a sharp left. It was time to strap on our packs and head into the park.

Park Sign indicating distances to locations.  On this particular Hike we only got as far as Griffins Farm

The track is graded Medium to Hard as there is a 1.5km steep climb out from Yarunga Creek on the return hike.  With a good level of fitness this is not as daunting as it sounds.  The rest of the track is gentle undulating fire trail so its and excellent choice if you have never hiked overnight.  It took us approx 3hours to walk in to Griffin Farm but we took our time and a lot of breaks to cool down as it was a very very very hot summers day (34C!!)  This walk offers a lot of shade but it isn't recommended in summer (even though thats when we did it).  We were however very prepared and we brought with us an excess amount of water:  For the overnight i think we had roughly 4.5L each.  And that was exactly enough to drink and cook with.  Our estimate on how much came from the fact that it was a relatively short hike in and out and we would not be walking over an extended amount of time. There is the option of collecting creek water and either boiling, filtering or purifying with tablets but as I wasn't sure what state the creek would be in being the middle of summer we all agreed carrying in our water would be the best for this particular trip.  Plus it made the trek out a lot lighter!

Team Selfie L-R : Myself, My Neighbour and My Partner

Griffins Fire Trail

After following the trail from the start for about 3.5km you reach a locked gate that you will need to find your way past (its easy)  From here the steep decent down to the creek starts and I suggest taking care of where you place your footing as we all had a few near slips on some loose rocks.  Trekking another 1.5km down you come to Yarunga creek and here you will need to either be prepared to get your shoes and socks wet OR take them off and cross the creek - which is what we did and it was perfectly fine.  CAUTION: Do not cross the creek after heavy rain.  Crossing creeks in flooding can be dangerous and life threatening.  Also - a word of wisdom:  Check yourself for leeches after the crossing.  We did not get any on us but we did see one crawling on my pack as i was putting my boots back on! eekk!

The creek crossing - We found it came up to just above
 knee level in the deepest part.  Lots of smooth stones to
navigate your way across on.  We didn't find it
particularly slippery but obviously take care.
 It was incredibly cooling on such a hot day.

Once across the creek, we headed up the trail till it veered to the left and followed it along another 800m to the path that leads into griffin farm.  On the left you can see remnants of the old pioneering farm - such as whats left of an old rock wall overgrown with blackberry bushes and ferns.  We even spotted a couple of really old fruit trees in what would have once been the orchard, that had well and truly finished fruiting and where now just part of the vegetation.  When you get close to the path which leads to the camp site on the left again you can see just the smallest remains of the corner of the old farm house and what appears to be the front steps overgrown with ferns and moss.  We actually missed these on the way in but were fortunate enough to spot them on our way out the next morning.

The path into Griffin Farm Camp Area

Griffin Farm Camp Area - Isolated beauty.
Pitch your tent anywhere you please!
The Ferns surrounding are home to lots of
Blue fairy Wrens and Jenny Wrens so keep an
eye out for these gorgeous little birds

We found our way down to the creek from our camp via a wombats trail - there are a few there - just make sure to pick one that isn't so steep!  Creek water can be boiled or purified before consuming.

Yarunga Creek by Griffins Farm

Yarunga Creek

After cooking dinner while a couple of resident wombats manicured the grass around us we chilled out and played a quick game of three handed euchre - which i thought was fitting being that the top trump or best bower comes from the german word bauer meaning "farmer".  With our neighbor winning in the end, It was time to get some shut eye.

The temperature dropped 10C overnight and we were lucky to have only a little bit of rain throughout night with it clearing to overcast skies in the morning.  We expected rain from the forecast and took a couple of tarps for extra protection just in case.

In the Morning

Officially in love with Yarunga Creek Valley

After Packing up we were ready to set out on our way back.  The trek out was faster than we had expected.  Even with the steep climb up out of the valley.  And especially once we'd reached the relatively flat part of the fire trail we'd come in on it took us less than two hours to reach the car park.
All in all a very successful overnight hike that i would recommend for novice hikers who want to get some experience staying a night in the wilderness.

The trail on the return walk

I definitely plan to do this trek again only i would head on past griffin farm and camp at Gales Flat next time which is another 4km or so up the trail.

Remember:
- Watch out for snakes and treat any you come across with the utmost caution
- Hike with someone else.  Hiking alone can be dangerous even for the most experiences trekkers
- Bring lots of water or something you can use to treat or boil creek water with.  Dehyration can be a real problem especially in the warmer months
- Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return - remember to contact them as soon as you are out to let them know you have returned safely.  If something happens out in the wilderness its always a good idea to have someone back at home know the details of your trek in any case of emergency.
- Walking sticks are awesome
- Pack in Pack out - that means take any rubbish out with you.  If it doesnt come from the bush, it doesnt belong there.  That means fruit peel and seeds too.  They aren't natural to a bush environment even if they come from the earth so do the right thing and pack them in a plastic bag in your pack to dispose of when you get home
- Take a small shovel with you - if you need to go to the toilet you will need to bury your waste.  Dig a hole at least 100m away from waterways, do your business and then bury your waste.  Its not pretty, but when you've gotta go, you've gotta go.
- Be respectful of wildlife.

For more Detailed info on this hike click on the link below

http://www.kvexplorer.com.au/KV_Explorer/Griffins_Fire_Trail_files/KVExplorer_GriffinFireTrail_final.pdf

HAPPY HIKING!!

Hike to Drawing Room Rocks, Berry

Right here is a simple way to spend the afternoon on a clear day.

View from the Top - Looking South toward Berry and Bomaderry

This is a very easy Hike situated just outside of berry.  The scenery at the top includes a breathtaking view of the gerringong and gerroa beach areas as well as further south toward Berry and Bomaderry on a clear day.  The unique formation of rock at the top is how this particular hike got its name.  The Rocks are weathered hawksbury sandstone which over time has eroded to form table top like shapes.  The erosion happened over a really long period of time and was likely accomplished by combination of wind, rain, cold, heat and chemicals in rainfall.  The flat table tops are horizontal strata sandstone and so the tops consist of stone made up of a harder more resistant mineral layer which has remained when the softer surrounding rocks have eroded.  They are really quite surreal to sit around

The Sandstone Rock Formations - Drawing Room Rocks

The Hike to Drawing Room Rocks is a relatively short hike uphill.  The trailhead sits at 250m above sea level and the first part of the track takes you through forest and heath land then onto a plateau that sits at 600m above sea level.  Continue on 100m to come to the drawing room rock and stunning view.  It is not a long Hike at 4.5 kilometres return, and the Average Walker will take about two and a half hours to complete.

How to Get There:

At the northern end of Berry, on the town side of the bridge, turn north-west into Woodhill Mountain Road. Continue for 6.8km to Woodhill where the road splits to Wattamolla Rd which continues to Kangaroo Valley. Follow Brogers Creek Rd for 100m and take the road on the right which is not signposted and appears to be a private driveway but is accessible to the public. The unsealed road winds uphill for about 400 metres to a private locked gate where there is parking space for about two small cars on the grassy verge. A sign next to the gate states "Drawing Room Rocks Bushwalk"

Some of the trees along the track are quite big!

Remember:

- Wear good walking shoes.

- Drinking water - Carry more in hot weather to avoid dehydration and heat stroke.

- Walking sticks are sometimes left at the beginning of the track near a fence.  If you use one or two Please put them back where you found them so other walkers can use them too!

- Your camera.  The views are too good to miss out on a photo op. :)

HAPPY HIKING!!

What to Pack - a checklist

Obviously when camping and exploring the outdoors there is certain equipment that you must have in order for you to have a safe and comfortable adventure.  When trekking and camping in more remote areas your gear needs to be compact and somewhat lightweight.  I find that every trekker is different in what they deem to be necessary to carry with them and your pack may vary depending on the conditions you may encounter.

When I go out there are certain things that I almost always take with me, and when trekking with my partner or a group certain items are shared between us.  But this checklist is only a guide and can be customised to suit your needs and wants.  Also I'm a huge fan of "gourmet camp food" and so i sometimes have to carry in certain utensils to use to cook with.

- Tent 

- Sleeping Mat

- Sleeping Bag

- Sleeping Bag Liner

- Compact pillow or inflatable Pillow (If you don't take this you can use a fleece rolled up for a pillow)

- Headlamp and Extra Batteries

- Compact LED lantern

- Map and Compass and/or GPS

- Stove/Cooking pots

- Fuel

- Matches (preferably waterproof) or lighter

- Plate, Bowl, Mug

- Sharp Compact Knife

- Spork

- Couple of metal spoons for Cooking

- Mini metal spatula for Cooking

- Small Scourer (My cooking pots are aluminium)

- One tea towel

- Bio degradable Multipurpose detergent

- Collapsible bucket

- Trowel

- Toilet paper

- Hand sanitiser

- Sunscreen

- (MY) First Aid Kit: Band aids and blister treatment (moleskin), pain killers, asthma puffer, antiseptic cream, Individual saline eye drops, compression bandage, Scissors, Small Nail clippers, hydration powder

- (MY) Toiletries: Deodorant, Baby wipes, Compact Hairbrush, Small length of dental floss, Compact toothbrush, micro fibre towel

-(MY) Wardrobe: 

                           - Hiking boots

                           - Socks

                           - Camp Shoes (ie: sandals or lightweight sneakers)

                           - Singlet

                           - Shirt

                           - Long sleeve thermal

                           - Fleece

                           - Lightweight Waterproof Jacket

                           - Lightweight Waterproof Trousers

                           - Zip off trousers (zip off legs for shorts)

                           - Long thermal tights/underwear

                           - Long, Warm comfy pants for at night

                           - Underwear

                           - A beanie/Toque/Hat

                           - Gloves

                           - Swimmers

- Gaiters

- Water 

- Water filter system/sterilisation tablets

- FOOD!!!!!!!! - this is where i get creative

- Garbage bags

- Waterproof Dry Bags

- Camera

Those are my Absolute basics for Trekking/Backpacking/Hiking.  Sometimes you will need to take a little more or a little less of the items listed and every trek will require certain equipment.

Sometimes we go Car Camping which we have a lot of fun with.  Its a lot easier to do as you don't actually have to carry all your equipment on your backs but can instead just load up the car and camp where you park.

When we do go car camping we simply pack the above basics, Plus we pack the items listed in the following list

- Lightweight Small-Medium Collapsible table

- Collapsible chair (each)

- Picnic Blanket

- Tarp and Ropes

- Esky with food and goodies

- Plastic Box to organise the "Camp Kitchen"

- Pillows (I cherish my pillow when i can bring it along)

- An extra blanket (just in case)

- Beach Towels

- Spare Tub for wet clothes/towels etc

- Entertainment such as Chess or Cards, Snorkeling Gear, Inflatable floatation for swimming and lounging in water, Kayaks, A Book, A Guitar etc.

- Refillable Water container with tap

- Spare set of clothes

- A Ball

So that's my guideline :)

Just remember:

* Be Prepared without overloading yourself 

* Take equipment designed for the climate and conditions you expect

* Don't wear cotton clothing.  Wool is preferred as it will keep its warmth if it is to get wet.  There are lots of other fabric that a fine to wear too.  But just stick to the Golden rule of NO COTTON when packing your clothing and you'll be good

* Take enough food and water -and an extra days rations (just in case)

If you have anything to add to this please leave a comment, Id be happy to hear any thoughts.

HAPPY PACKING!!

Car Camping @ Bendeela, Kangaroo Valley

Bendeela is located just outside Kangaroo Valley in the Shoalhaven.  It is a very large campground situated on the Kangaroo river with many spots for all kinds of camp setups. 

View at Bendeela Campground

Things to remember when going to Bendeela:

- The Campground is FREE which is awesome for those of us on a budget.  Although it can get crowded for those of us searching for more seclusion.  Best to visit in off peak times and mid week for the least crowds.

- This campground allows you to camp right next to your car which can make it a very easy way to experience the beautiful area.

- There are hundreds of spots for you to pitch a tent so take your time and find the best spot for you

- There are not many shady areas and most sites are in full sun.  I strongly suggest bringing adequate shade for protection and comfort.

- There are toilets but take your own toilet paper as there is no guarantee there will be any during your stay.

- No fires are permitted, Gas or Spirit stove use only.

- Activities include swimming, kayaking/canoeing, and fishing (if you hold a current fishing licence)

- Native wombats often emerge from their burrows in the early evening but are well aware of the annoyance of pesky tourists who are desperate for a close up and will be gone in a flash when approached.  My advice.  Stay where you are and let them wander around at their leisure and comfort and you may just find their presence enjoyable enough.

-The River is part of the Sydney Water Catchment Authority so Please do not pollute!  Remove all rubbish - ALL OF IT - No exceptions.

- Be respectful to other campers.  This site is popular among families and mature travellers and the beauty of the area can be tainted by those who are not there to enjoy a relaxing outdoor experience.

Wombats often emerge at dusk

On the Cartoscope Touring Map of the Shoalhaven Region

If you want to check out more info on Bendeela visit these links:

http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/~/media/Visitor/Files/PDF/Brochures/bendeela-campground-fact-sheet-pdf.ashx

http://www.sca.nsw.gov.au/water/visit/bendeela-recreational-area

HAPPY CAMPING!

A little about my life

Im 27.

I currently live in the shoalhaven, NSW Australia.

I love all things outdoors and am always looking for new places to go and get outside!

I have have spent some time in Canada and New Zealand.

Im not rich (as in I'm quite poor)

But that doesn't stop me!!

Im a coeliac so eating became a challenge about 2 years ago when I was diagnosed and my whole dietary habits were turned upside down.  BUT I'm very lucky to have a personal chef/love of my life.  It certainly makes it easier to cook almost EVERYTHING possible, in the absolute yummiest way!

I really love music and I play the guitar, sing and produce my own music in my living room on garage band.

I am on a mission to thoroughly explore the shoalhaven area and do so on a limited budget.