Upper Horton
Nestled amongst the hills, Upper Horton is a place with a big spirit and a dynamic community.
Upper Horton is an easy scenic drive from Bingara via the Killarney Gap Road to Narrabri, an alternative assess road is from Barraba. The village of Upper Horton is set between the permanent waters of the Horton River and the Cobbadah Creek.
With an elevation of 384 metres, it is the highest settlement in the Gwydir Shire, and is still pleasant in high summer. It offers visitors a well-established campsite and picnic area, as well as the Sporting Club for a cold beer at the end of a long day.
Surrounded by excellent sightseeing, bird watching and bush walking opportunities, sport has really put Upper Horton on the map! The campdraft and rodeo held over the New Year period attracts visitors from across the state, whilst the working dog trials recently celebrated their 35th anniversary and include the ever popular dog high jump. Cricket, tennis and motorbike ‘Pony Express’ events are also held throughout the year.
Close by, the Horton River is the ideal spot for a refreshing dip, or to fish for Murray Cod and Yellow Belly.
Accommodation and Services
The Upper Horton Sports Club
Cobbadah Street | (02) 6782 7249
The Sports Club is the life blood of the town and provides cold beer and hearty meals. The Sports Club also hosts a range of events throughout the year and maintains the Upper Horton Caravan and Camping area. Opening hours for the Sports Club are Wednesday 5:00pm to 9:00pm, Thursday 5:00pm to 10.30pm, Friday and Saturday 5:00pm to 11:00pm, Sunday 12:00pm to 9:00pm and closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Upper Horton Caravan and Camping Area
Camp for free in an unpowered site or $10 for a powered site, fees payable at the Sports Club. Toilets, showers and water available.
Bike Territory
“Castletop” 4188 Killarney Gap Road | (02) 6783 4218
www.biketerritory.com.au
Camping and cabins are available for a minimum of two nights.
Attractions
Rocky Creek Glacial Area
Killarney Gap Road, 19.8 km from Upper Horton.
This 290 million year old volcanic remnant is a geological wonderland with rock pools and permanent water flowing into cool water holes. A great spot to explore, relax and enjoy the great outdoors. It is easily accessed from the bitumen road.
Horton Falls
Mount Lindesay Road, 27 km from Upper Horton.
A wonderful spot for swimming, camping and photography, including two viewing platforms, marked bushwalks and a barbecue area. The falls are spectacular after rain, and flow for much of the year. Walks range from the very easy, to a one hour hike to the bottom of the gorge.
Bike Territory
“Castletop” 4188 Killarney Gap Road | (02) 6783 4218
Bike Territory offers an impressive range of off-road biking activities for ATV and trail bike riders. A special experience for everyone from beginners to the most experienced with a backdrop of spectacular scenery.
Events
Upper Horton Campdraft and Rodeo
December 29 to January 1
Jeans, elaborate shiny belt buckles, spurs, colourful shirts and big hats are the dress of choice for most of the people in Upper Horton over the New Year break. Get along to this annual event which draws competitors from all over Australia and features close to 2000 campdraft runs and nearly 3000 head of cattle.
Upper Horton Working Dog Trials
Usually held in June each year.
The Upper Horton Working Dog Trials have been running in the area for over 30 years. What started as a one day event has grown into four and features some of Australia’s best handlers and their dogs competing for the top spot. Anyone with a dog who can jump is encouraged to enter, or just come along as a spectator. There is plenty of camping available and catering on site.
