My first time tent camping in 12 years – GWAMBYGINE

To prepare for multi day hikes, I'm testing some recent purchases at a campground called Gwambygine Avon Ascent. The tent is a Macpac Duolight 2 Person Tent V4. I also purchased a sleeping mat, the Sea to Summit Ultralight XR. I go through the setup and test how comfortable they both are.

The campground was incredibly quiet for a Friday night. It's free and includes BBQs, flushing toilets and drinkable water - luxuries compared to most places I camp. It's right on the Avon River although you don't really get any views. There is a boardwalk and viewing platform, but this was under repairs on my visit. There's also a short nature work that takes you to the location of the former Gwambygine School.

The next morning I checked out the local area. I stop at the Gwambygine Homestead, Gwambygine Pool and then grabbed some brekkie in York. On the way home I explore the area around St Ronan's Well and also the remains of the Traveller's Rest Inn at the Lakes Roadhouse.