About Riverwood Downs
Riverwood Downs is a family-owned mountain-valley resort set on 750 acres of foothills and riverfront in the World Heritage Barrington Tops, about 2½ hours’ drive north of Sydney . Over decades it has won multiple awards (including Brides Choice and Tourism NSW awards) for its rustic charm and hospitality. The property includes 15 acres of manicured parkland and gardens by the Karuah River . It started in 1980 when Chris and Val Hall bought the cattle property, and even hosted a 1981 rock festival for 30,000 people (the “Tanelorn” festival) . Since then the resort has grown organically – adding a timber Woolshed performance venue in 1983 for year-round events and becoming NSW’s first four-star rural resort by 1989 . Today you’ll find bungalow-style motel rooms, spa cabins, cottages and even an 11-bedroom homestead (with pet-proof fencing) to accommodate up to 12 people . Pets are especially welcome – the resort holds a 5-Paws dog-friendly rating and even offers a special “doggy menu” in its pet-friendly dining area . In short, Riverwood Downs is a unique country retreat blending working farmland, riverside pools, wildlife, starry nights and friendly Aussie hospitality .
Events and Programming
Despite its remote setting, Riverwood Downs hosts a wide range of events year-round. Its rolling lawns and rustic halls make it a popular venue for weddings, conferences, school camps and family gatherings. For live music lovers, the resort throws several annual festivals. In spring it runs the “Big Country Campout,” a weekend country-music festival with lively entertainment under the stars . That event features award-winning Australian country acts and fun rural competitions – yabby races (“The Barrington Cup”), wood-chopping displays, op-shop fashion contests and campfire sing-alongs . (Proceeds from Big Country even benefit Dolly’s Dream, a youth mental-health charity .) In early summer the resort hosts Subsonic Music Festival, an electronic dance music and arts gathering. Subsonic is one of New South Wales’ longest-running underground music festivals, and each year it brings 3-4 days of DJs and performances to the Barrington Tops . For example, Subsonic 2024 was held from 29 Nov–1 Dec with a mix of international techno and touring DJs . All Subsonic tickets include on-site camping and “early bird” sales often begin months in advance. Between festivals, Riverwood Downs regularly hosts small local gigs, bush dances and themed events in the Woolshed and Woolstore. Whatever the style – rock, folk, electronic or country – audiences praise the clear hillside acoustics and spacious outdoor setting of Riverwood Downs. Many visitors note that attending an event here feels like a weekend holiday, with on-site camping, cabins and a pool turning concerts into mini getaways.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Riverwood Downs events are primarily sold online through the official festival or resort booking sites. For example, Big Country Campout tickets are offered via an official event site and Riverwood’s reservation desk . Prices vary by event and ticket “release.” (As a guideline, adult weekend passes for Big Country have been around A$220–230 , while recent Subsonic 3-day GA passes were about A$380–400 www.ticketfairy.com .) Family or child tickets may be available for family-friendly events (Big Country offers discounted child passes ). Sales typically open several months before an event—in one case Subsonic announced tickets on 1 July for a late-November festival . It pays to monitor the official Riverwood Downs and festival websites (or sign up to their newsletters) for sale dates. Early-bird tickets often sell out, so fans advise booking as soon as releases appear. There is no fixed in-person box office on event days; nearly all ticketing is done online or via authorised ticket sellers. Check refund/cancellation policies carefully, and if you miss out online, you can sometimes try the gate on the day (though popular shows may be sold out). Group bookings (e.g. for conferences or school camps) can also be arranged through the Riverwood Downs reservations team by phone or email.
Seating and Layout
Riverwood Downs is not a traditional seated auditorium – most venues are outdoors or in rustic barns. Festival stages are set up on open lawns or under the Woolshed roof, without fixed seating. Audiences stand or sit on the grass, so bring your own camping chairs or picnic rug for comfort. Early on you can stake out a spot near the stage or on a gentle rise for unobstructed views. There are no “bad seats” in the sense of pillars or balconies, though the front-center area in front of the stage usually fills up fastest. Some events offer VIP upgrades (for example, riverbank glamping or upgraded camp zones) – check with each event organiser. Acoustically, the sloping fields and surrounding hills of the Monkerai valley create a natural amphitheatre effect, so sound carries well even to the far edges. Outdoors, the riverside setting is picturesque, but can get muddy in wet weather. The indoor Woolshed and Woolstore venues have tables and picnic-style benches; these can get cosy but still maintain a casual picnic vibe. In short, plan on an open-air, ground-level experience with plenty of space – the resort encourages a relaxed, come-as-you-are atmosphere rather than formal seating.
Getting There and Parking
Riverwood Downs is located at 311 Upper Monkerai Road, Monkerai NSW 2415 . The turnoff is roughly 17 km past the town of Stroud on the Bucketts Way highway; from there it’s about 8 km of gravel farm road into the resort (signs for “Riverwood Downs” guide the last stretch) . By car it’s about 3¼ hours north of Sydney (take the Newcastle Expressway/Pacific Highway, follow Bucketts Way through Stroud) and only ~1½ hours from Newcastle . Note that mobile GPS can be unreliable in this region, so it’s best to save or print directions. Car parking is available on-site – the resort offers ample free parking for guests and event attendees . For major festivals, parking attendants and signs usually direct you to a field or lot. If you must Uber/taxi, the drop-off point is the main driveway by the reception area (having arrangements with a local taxi from Dungog or Stroud can work when phone coverage is patchy). Public transport is limited: the nearest train station is Dungog (on the Sydney–Newcastle line) – roughly a 30-40 minute taxi ride from Riverwood. (NSW TrainLink XPT trains run from Sydney to Dungog in about 3½ hours , but from there you’d need to pre-book a taxi.) There are no direct buses to the resort; if travelling by coach or tours, they often stop in Stroud or Dungog for transfers. In summary, most visitors arrive by private vehicle. If you’re flying in, the nearest airport is Newcastle (about 1h15 by road) , then rent a car or arrange a shuttle.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival you’ll be reminded that Riverwood Downs is a working country resort, so expect a laid-back but organised vibe. At event entry points (for concerts/festivals) there are bag checks and metal detectors. To speed entry, use a small clear bag or clutch if possible – large backpacks and glass bottles are not allowed. Security policies vary by event, but most strictly forbid glass, fireworks, illegal drugs and weapons. As noted, Subsonic permits BYO drinks as long as nothing is in glass (other events may have bars or licensed areas instead). Staff and volunteers are generally friendly and can answer questions. Once inside, you can roam the grounds freely. There are picnic tables and grassy areas around stages and the river. Food and drink choices include the resort’s own Barrington Bar & Grill restaurant (a licensed pub-food dining room) and small kiosks/vendors. The Barrington Bar & Grill serves full meals on most evenings (open for breakfast, lunch and dinner) ; one reviewer even noted it has a separate pet-friendly dining room and good cocktails . A kiosk on-site sells snacks, ice, campfire wood and coffee . For drinks, the licensed bar area offers beer, wine and spirits, and for self-campers many events are BYO (with a strict no-glass policy ). Restrooms and showers are available on-site: during camping events there are permanent hot showers and flushing toilets in the campgrounds . Otherwise there are clean lodge restrooms throughout the resort grounds. Keep in mind cellphone signal is often limited in these hills, though the resort provides free (but slow) Wi-Fi in the lodge areas . Overall, inside the venue expect a friendly rural atmosphere – people sitting around campfires, outdoor picnic settings, and a strong sense of “country festival” comfort rather than a formal theatre.
Nearby Amenities
There are very few services immediately beside Riverwood Downs, so plan ahead. On-site is the Barrington Bar & Grill, as above, which has a full menu of country-style meals and drinks (including a coveted “famous” Devonshire tea at the café) . A small kiosk supplements supplies, but you may want to stock up on groceries and essentials before arriving. The nearest town is Stroud (about 17 km away), which has a supermarket, bakery and the historic Central Hotel (pub rooms and meals). The larger town of Gloucester (~35 km north) has petrol, groceries, pharmacies and more dining options if you take a short drive. If you’re staying the night, Riverwood Downs itself also offers lodging (motel and cabins), but beyond the resort the best local options are in those towns. When leaving an event, note the last public transport is early: Uber/taxi can be scarce late at night. Many visitors simply plan to camp or arrange shared cars. If you want a pub experience, New South Wales tradition suggests the Stroud pub. For early arrivals or late departures, the resort advises checking local lunch venues or taking snacks from the onsite bar (like sandwich trays) to tide you over until town options open. In short, arrive early and bring whatever you’ll need; once at the venue it becomes a self-contained mini-village.
What Makes This Venue Special
Riverwood Downs stands out because it’s both a working cattle farm and a hospitality venue, with a living history woven into every event. Unlike generic stadiums, here you’re surrounded by actual cattle, rivers and bushland. The resort’s iconic covered “Woolshed” stage (built 1983) and vintage guesthouse give concerts a loft-like charm. It famously started as a blank canvas – the founders built dams, roads and even an 11kV power supply by hand . The result is a place rich in backstory: legend has it they danced under the stars on a semi-trailer truck before the Woolshed was built . Riverwood’s first guest lodge opened in 1989 as NSW’s first four-star rural resort , so there’s custom timber cabin architecture and boutique rooms everywhere. Because it’s family-run with deep local roots, the venue has a strong community feel. Festival-goers often comment on the “friendly country vibe” – you’ll meet staff who’ve worked there 20+ years and see craftspeople’s handiwork in every detail. It’s also exceptionally dog-friendly (the homestead alone has a fully-fenced yard for pets ). Finally, just being in this scenery is special. Performances are underscored by the streams and green hills of Barrington Tops. Sunny days turn into cool nights by the campfire where local musicians might suddenly start playing. In short, Riverwood Downs offers not just a show but a full country experience – rolling pastures, fresh bush air, the soundtrack of the river – that makes artists and audiences feel at home in a way urban venues can’t match.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Riverwood Downs has wheelchair-accessible paths and rooms (including some spa cabins and the main lodge) . Be aware that some areas (gravel roads, grass campsites) can be uneven. If you need a wheelchair-friendly accommodation, mention that when you book – the resort even has a purpose-built wheelchair access homestead. What to Bring: For festivals, bring camping gear (tent/swag), bedding, towels, sturdy shoes, a torch, and insect repellent. Evenings can be cool, so pack warm layers. BYO chairs, picnic rug and refillable water bottle. Most events allow BYO (especially Subsonic and Big Country); just remember the strict no-glass rule . If you’re staying after last call, bring some snacks, as the on-site bar closes late and there’s no 24/7 store. Keep some cash – the resort café and some vendors may prefer it even though most take cards. Finally, don’t expect strong mobile data or cell coverage (the rim of the valley blocks signal ), so plan meeting spots for friends. Common Gotchas: Road conditions can surprise first-timers: the final 8 km is dirt/gravel and may be dusty or slightly bumpy, but it’s well-maintained. . Watch your speed off-road. There is parking for any car type . Make sure to fuel up and grab supplies in Stroud or Dungog before turning off, especially on multi-day events. At big events, gates often open hours before the first performance (often around 9–11am for daytime shows ), so arrive early for the best camping spots and to beat any queues. On Sundays, events usually wind down by mid-afternoon, so plan your return travel after that and check last-service times. Age and Conduct: Riverwood hosts a mix of all-ages and 18+ events. The Subsonic festival, for instance, is strictly 18+ . Big Country Campout is family-friendly (it even sells child tickets ). In any event, children should be supervised at the river and campsites. There is no formal dress code – think casual country. Finally, always treat the property respectfully: it is a working farm, so stay on marked paths and do not wander into paddocks. This care, along with simple festival courtesy (clean up your campsite, watch your alcohol intake), will help ensure you and everyone has a smooth visit.
What is the venue’s address and location?
Riverwood Downs is at 311 Upper Monkerai Road, Monkerai NSW 2415 (between Stroud and Gloucester). It’s marked on GPS but expect a gravel road for the last 8 km. Allow roughly 3¼ hours from Sydney and 1½ hours from Newcastle. The estate covers about 750 acres in the Barrington Tops foothills .
How do I get tickets and what do they cost?
Tickets are sold online via the event’s official site or authorised ticket outlets. For example, Big Country Campout weekend passes run around A$220–230 for adults and USUALLY include two nights’ camping, while Subsonic festival 3-day passes have been around A$380–400 www.ticketfairy.com . Family or child tickets are available for family-friendly events (e.g. Big Country sells child passes ). Popular shows often sell out, so book as soon as tickets go on sale (often several months in advance). The ticket price usually covers entertainment plus basic camping facilities. Check the event’s webpage for exact pricing, age restrictions, and refund policies.
When do gates and doors open for events?
It varies by event, but typically gates open 2–3 hours before showtime . For multi-day festivals at Riverwood, gates often open late Thursday or early Friday (with a surcharge for Thursday camping) . Doors to the stage or concert area usually open about 90–120 minutes before the headline act. Event organisers will publish exact gate times on tickets or their website; arrive early to secure a good camping spot and avoid queues.
Are seats provided or is it all general admission?
Riverwood Downs is essentially an outdoor festival/campground layout. There are no fixed seats or reserved sections. Most performances are open lawn or standing-room only. (The Woolshed and Woolstore halls have picnic tables and benches.) You should plan to stand or bring your own camp chair or rug. If an event offers VIP or “glamping” upgrades, those may include more comfortable camp areas, but in general it’s general admission. Early arrivers can claim front spots on the grass. Sound and sightlines are very good across the open site, thanks to the natural amphitheatre of the hills www.ticketfairy.com , so you won’t miss out even from a bit further back.
How much parking is available, and is there a cost?
There is ample on-site parking at Riverwood Downs for guests and event visitors. Parking is generally free (TripAdvisor notes that “free parking is available to guests” ). Staff will direct you to a field or lot on arrival. For large festivals, parking passes may be required (e.g. Subsonic sells a separate car-pass policy). Cars with trailers or campervans fit on the dirt parking areas without issue. If travelling by rideshare or taxi, the dropoff point is the resort’s main driveway by reception.
What public transport options exist?
Public transit to Riverwood Downs is difficult. The nearest train is Dungog on the Sydney–Newcastle line (the XPT train), about 30 km from the venue. Trains run to Dungog roughly four times a day (about 3½ hours from Sydney) , but from there you must hire a taxi or arrange a shuttle. Some coaches or tour buses may stop in Stroud or Dungog en route, where you’d transfer to a taxi. Newcastle Airport is the closest airport (about 1¼ hr drive) ; shuttles and taxis can be booked from there, or event shuttles may operate. In practice most visitors drive; if you can’t, consider organised event transport or carpooling.
Can I bring food and drinks into the venue?
Food can be brought in freely. Riverwood Downs events often allow BYO drinks (usually beer/wine) in personal containers. Subsonic, for example, is a glass‐free BYO event – you may bring alcohol as long as it is not in glass . Other festivals may instead have licensed bars on site for drink sales. No glass bottles of any kind are permitted (it’s a strict no-glass policy for safety) . Outside food/BBQ is usually allowed at camping events (since it’s often advertised as a BYO event). So you can pack snacks or a picnic. The resort itself has a restaurant and small cafe/kiosk for meals and snacks if you prefer not to cook. Check the specific event rules on prohibited items (like fireworks or drones). Remember to respect the no-glass rule and dispose of cans/bottles properly.
Is Riverwood Downs family-friendly? Are there age restrictions?
Yes, many events at Riverwood Downs welcome families. For example, Big Country Campout sells both adult and child tickets (and even a family pass ) - it’s explicitly a multi-generation country experience . The venue’s resort area is very kid-friendly (with parks, animals, and river swimming). However, some events are 18+ by law. For instance, Subsonic Music Festival is strictly 18+ (ID required) . Always check the stated age limit on the event. For allowed ages, kids should be supervised, especially near the river or if alcohol is around. In general, Riverwood Downs as a facility is geared toward families (it even advertises pet- and family-friendly camping), but individual events may vary. If you’re coming with children, look for events labelled “all ages” or “family” and consider quieter camping spots away from late-night party zones.
What facilities and services are available on site?
The venue is well-equipped. Key amenities include a liquor-licensed restaurant and bar (the Barrington Bar & Grill) open most days for breakfast, lunch and dinner , a takeaway kiosk (selling basic grocery items, coffee, ice and firewood ), outdoor swimming pool and tennis court, canoe rentals, and a games room. Restrooms and hot showers are available; at campouts these are permanent lodgelike facilities . There’s free Wi-Fi in the main lodge (though it can be slow due to the remote location) . On-site parking is free. Accessibility features include ramps or lifts in public buildings and at least one spa cabin with a wet-floor accessible shower. The resort is known to be wheelchair-accessible in major areas . For events, you’ll typically find sufficient toilets and water stations at the field. Merch stands or food vans appear during big music events.
Can I see a map or seating plan?
There is no fixed “seating chart” – events use open space. Check the official event website for any site maps when available. Generally the main stage is in a flat field area (sometimes near the river), with fields or camping around it. At weddings or conferences the layout is arranged in a barn or marquee. If you have specific needs (like reserved nearest-stage access), contact the event organiser directly. But in most cases, arrive early and you can choose your own good spot on the lawn.
Is the venue dog-friendly?
Absolutely – Riverwood Downs is famously pet-friendly. Dogs on a leash are allowed in all public areas of the resort, including the riverside grounds. As noted, Riverwood has a “5 Paws” rating for its dog accommodations . (During pet-friendly events like Big Country, you can bring your dog camping too – just notify management. The new Riverview Homestead even has fenced gardens for dogs .) Out of courtesy, be sure to clean up after your dog and keep them under control around crowds. Overall, many guests bring their pets as part of the experience.
Are there coat checks or lockers?
There are no formal coat-check or locker services. Riverwood Downs events and lodging operate on an honor system with unsecured cabins or camping. If you need to leave valuables, it’s best to lock them in your vehicle. For outdoor events, bring minimal belongings and keep valuables on your person. Some campers use portable camping locker bags or rent a cabin if they need security. But in general treat your items as you would on any camping trip.
What happens if it rains or bad weather?
Riverwood Downs is well-prepared for rain. The Woolshed stage and main buildings are covered, so performances can continue indoors to some extent. Camping fields have drains and raised camping pads. It’s still a rural outdoor site, so expect mud in heavy rain. Organisers monitor weather and may deploy extra flooring at entrances or provide extra towels. Bring a rain jacket and waterproof boots just in case. In extreme weather, events may postpone acts, but generally indoor venues and shelters keep things moving. Check weather alerts and communicate with your group. As the founders learned during bush dances in the ’80s, Riverwood events make a plan B if the flood comes .
Is Riverwood Downs accessible by wheelchair?
Yes, Riverwood Downs offers wheelchair access and reduced-mobility accommodations . Key buildings (reception, restaurant and some cabins) have ramps or lifts. There are accessible restrooms in the main lodge. If you plan to camp, ask the organizers exactly where to put an accessible tent or campervan spot. Paths within the resort are gravel but generally flat. We recommend calling ahead to confirm specifics (e.g. wheelchair-accessible cabins are limited). The venue’s staff has experience assisting guests with disabilities, so they can advise on parking close to entry and any needed assistance.
What on-site activities and attractions are there besides word events?
Outside of scheduled events, Riverwood Downs functions as a mini holiday park. You can swim in either the outdoor pool or the clear mountain-fed Karuah River that runs through the property. Canoes and paddle boats are often available on the river. There are bushwalking trails, a half-court tennis/netball court, a games room (with pool table) and even birdwatching areas. Kids love the resident goats and cattle you can see grazing. In short, it’s like a rural getaway. Many music event tickets include access to these amenities, so you can go for a swim or bushwalk in between performances. Pets can roam in designated areas too. While there aren’t city attractions nearby, the resort’s own activities (campfires, stargazing, and river dips) are a big draw.
Does the venue have any special traditions or famous moments?
Yes – this site has a quirky reputation! As noted, a legendary 1981 concert (30,000 people) was held here, and that pioneering spirit remains. Staff often talk about the first bush-dances on a truck-trailer stage and how the Woolshed was built in 1983 so rain wouldn’t stop the music . Locally, people still talk about the annual “Barrington Cup” yabby (freshwater crayfish) races at Big Country – it’s become a real Outback-style spectacle. The resort is also known for its creative decor in each boutique room (group names like “Woolshed”, “Battlebox”, etc.) giving each cabin its own theme. All of this colorful history – the involvement of the founding family, the cattle farm, and the pet-friendly service – adds to the lore, making Riverwood Downs a memorable place beyond just its stage acts.
