Glamping with the stars: work begins on star gazing precinct at Crown land holiday park

Lake Keepit near Gunnedah will soon sparkle as an international star-gazing tourist destination with work to begin on a $4 million ‘Big Sky Dreaming’ glamping precinct at the Crown land holiday park managed by Reflections Holidays.

Reflections, a Crown Land manager and the largest holiday group in NSW, has planned the significant regional tourism project after receiving a $2 million grant from the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund, and support from Crown Lands via loans from the Crown Reserve Improvement Fund.  

Gunnedah Council recently approved the glamping precinct which will line the tranquil shores of Lake Keepit, with eight large star-gazing tents each with their own bathroom, kitchenette and deck, and an outdoor bath to soak up the night sky and views over the lake. 

An existing chalet will be refurbished as a ‘Star Lounge’ for the enjoyment of guests and host tourism events including dining and experiences under the stars, including Aboriginal storytelling and cultural activities.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said Reflections’ investment would boost the regional economies of Tamworth and Gunnedah during and after construction, with the precinct expected to open in Easter, 2025.

“The Lake Keepit Crown land holiday park has long been a favourite destination for families, school camps and tourists and now will offer a unique proposition with its luxury accommodation star gazing tents to reach a new market, including international visitors,” Ms Moriarty said.

Minister for Lands and Property and Minister for Small Business Steve Kamper said park infrastructure upgrades were being supported by the NSW Government with a $28 million loan to Reflections Holidays through Crown Lands, to support regional tourism and communities.

“Reflections’ access to Government loan funding has been pivotal in being able to develop this major tourism experience for regional NSW. Reflections operates 40 holiday parks and cares for 45 community reserves on Crown land across our state and this project will support businesses in Gunnedah and Tamworth.”

Reflections Holidays CEO Nick Baker said the glamping precinct had been thoughtfully designed to appeal to guests seeking a luxe experience on the tranquil shores of Lake Keepit, with the option of local experiences, from cultural events to dining under the stars.

“Our Big Sky Dreaming precinct opens the curtain to the best of nature – the vast, clear skies around Lake Keepit, long appreciated by local astronomers and campers,” Mr Baker said. 

“Our glamping tents are luxurious and features sky lights so guests can watch the stars shimmer from bed, or even enjoy a ‘star bath’, soaking in a claw foot bath on their tent deck on a warm summer night.”