Oct 17, 2015

Illaroo

Who would of thought that the mid north coast has so many great camping destinations. Recently I was dragged to a new destination called Illaroo camping area set in the northern end of the Yuraygir National Park. Heading north out of Woolgoolga we soon found the turn some 20 km south of grafton, then headed east 36km towards Minne Water. There are two camp areas at Illaroo- north and south that have around 60 campsites. We were amazed that it was so busy out of holiday season but soon found a patch of grass. 
Great facilities with pit toilets, large garbage bins, fire and BBQ pits, picnic tables and all this located right within a stones throw of Sandon Beach. Phone service is pretty dodgy here with Telstra but good with Optus !!!!……
Plenty of activities can be had here- walking trails, swimming, great fishing-  but one that we did was to jump in the 4WD and to head north up the beach towards Sandon. Its amazing what you might come across as you drive up the beach, shell turtles, dolphins jumping in the surf, dingo tracks in the sand or a smelly old whale carcass that had been chewed by the big bites fish in the sea. Steering the big red jeep up the sand track over the headland we did the last 4 km to the remote fishing village of Sandon. I say remote as the only way to get there is by 4wd or boat !!
A real peaceful setting surrounds Sandon where only a few permanents reside. If you look hard enough as our tour guide showed us you can find some hidden coves and swimming holes. On a perfect day this place is amazing. 
If your looking for a quick getaway close to the coffs/grafton area, this place should be on your list. And theres no need to worry if you forget anything, nearby at Wooli and Minnie Water there are several small shops where you can get a feed of seafood or even bread and milk. 

Destination Illaroo——tick !!!!

















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