Family-friendly day trips and cheap one-night getaways in the Central West

FANCY some family time away but your festive spending has left the purse string just a little tight? Relax. No really, relax. The Central West has a host of family-friendly campsites and cabins that are just bursting with knowledgeable locals who will ensure you have a great time away. We’ve scoured the region to find free camping grounds, tourist parks that have just received a million-dollar makeover and everything in between. What are you waiting for, pack the kids and the car and head off up the road for a great family trip. Listed below, in alphabetical order, are some of the amazing places we just know you’re keen to explore these school holidays. AS Australia’s oldest inland settlement, Bathurst has a lot to offer families looking for a great getaway. From colonial buildings to grand old homes, shady parks, museums and of course Mount Panorama. Historic sites and architecture are very much a part of this city, but so are trendy cafes and restaurants. Visit the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, the National Motor Racing Museum or the house of former Australian Prime Minister and Bathurst man Ben Chifley which is aptly named Chifley Home. While you’re in town, why not take a drive around the world-famous Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit, but just remember – when the race is not on it’s an everyday road and rules do apply, including: a 60km/h speed limit and two-way traffic. Things to see and do Places to go camping GREEN parks, friendly locals and great country hospitality awaits you in Blayney. The Blayney region is well known for its picturesque country landscapes, four seasons and historic villages including: Millthopre, Carcoar, Newbridge, Mandurama, Lyndhurst and Kings Plains. Pick up some local produce at the Blayney Farmers Markets (held the 3rd Sunday of the month) or check out Pym Street Markets on Saturday, January 5. Things to see and do Places to go camping KEEN to see some of Australia’s most dazzling natural attractions? Then take a drive up to the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains. Check out dramatic view over the deep valleys, visit the Three Sisters, take a bushwalk or stroll through villages and do a little shopping. Things to see and do Places to go camping THIS village has a colourful Irish heritage, wide open landscapes and a long pastoral tradition. Located on the Boorowa River, make sure you pay a visit to this charming village for oodles of country charm. Things to see and do Places to go camping STROLL along the streets where bushranger Ben Hall once walked in Canowindra. This village, which sits on the banks of the Belubula River, is full of colonial history and heritage streetscapes Check out fossils of bizarre fish with crocodile-like jaws and armour in the intriguing Age of Fishes Museum. Things to do Places to go camping DELVE into history, explore extensive waterways or stroll through the Japanese Garden – Cowra has a lot to offer families during a holiday. Find out about the historic Cowra Breakout, drink local wine, sample and buy locally-grown produce or pick up fine crafts. Things to see and do Places to go camping THE world famous Taronga Western Plains Zoo is on the ‘must do’ list for many travellers, but there’s a lot more to Dubbo than just a zoo. Enjoy museums, galleries and markets, and visit vineyards for wine tasting. Don’t miss the chance to check out local produce, boutiques, take a stroll along the river or a walking track. Things to see and do Places to go camping THIS picturesque historic town is set on the banks of the Lachlan River. Forbes a mix of museums, exclusive boutique stores, along with cafes and restaurants. Find out about the notorious bushranger Ben Hall who was involved in one of Australia’s biggest gold robberies near Forbes during the gold rush days. Things to see and do Places to go camping LOCATED at the base of the Blue Mountains, Lithgow is a great base for families to explore. Lithgow is known for its industrial heritage, but there’s also the chance to explore nearby historic villages, the Capertee Valley or check out spectacular lookouts. Things to see and do Places to go camping MUDGEE may be the perfect escape for wine tasting, but there’s also delicious food and outdoor adventures to be had. This is a town that is rich with pastoral history and colonial gold rush heritage. Grab a bike or stroll down tree-lined streets to go exploring. Places to go camping LOCATED in the Blue Mountains, Oberon is steeped in history, spectacular scenery and it is a great place to get outside and explore the great outdoors. Visit Jenolan Caves, Kanangra Walls and other nearby national parks. Things to see and do Places to go camping THE home of the Parkes Elvis Festival in early January each year, this event draws tens of thousands of people to town. This year the festival will run from January 9-13 and even if you haven’t planned to stay in town it is worth a day trip. If you’re not into Elvis, there’s still plenty to see and do in Parkes. Things to see and do Places to go camping LOCATED near the junction of the Macquarie and Bell rivers, Wellington has a good dose of country charm. Great for families who are keen to get outdoors, Wellington offers hiking through a 2000 hectare reserve, lakes to paddle in and glorious gardens. Things to see and do Places to go camping THRIVING villages, food and wine, a diverse range of boutiques and well-known retailers – welcome to Young. Surrounded by orchards, wineries, olive groves and wheat fields, Young has a host of activities on offer for all members of the family. Explore Young’s gold rush or Wiradjuri history, take a self-guided walk along the Shamrock Trail or stroll through the Chinese garden. Things to see and do Places to go camping