Kelso

Kelso is a suburb in New South Wales. Population of 10,039 (2021 Census). Median age 36. Median household income $1,737/wk. Median rent $360/wk. 21 campsites, 11 trails, 3 attractions, 12 pubs nearby.

Kelso is a well-established suburb in the Blue Mountains region of NSW, located west of Sydney near Bathurst. The area serves as a practical base for touring the Central West, with substantial accommodation options including caravan parks and camping areas nearby. With a population around 45,000 and good local services, it provides essential supplies and facilities for road trippers exploring the region.

The suburb sits within walking or short driving distance of several walking trails and outdoor recreation areas. Local pubs are plentiful, offering casual dining and refreshment stops typical of country NSW towns. The proximity to historic sites and memorial locations reflects the region's colonial heritage.

Travel Info

Must See

  • Boer War MemorialHistoric site 2.9km away marking colonial-era heritage
  • Bathurst War Memorial CarillonHistoric site and landmark located 2.9km from Kelso

Must Do

  • Pedrottas Lane hiking trailAccessible walking trail 2.7km away through the Blue Mountains foothills
  • Alan Wright WalkwayScenic local hiking route 2.8km from the suburb
  • Machattie Lane walking trackAnother nearby trail option 3km away for bushwalking

Travel Tips

  • NRMA Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park (1.5km) and Bathurst Showgrounds Camping Area (1.9km) are close by—book ahead during school holidays and weekends.
  • Multiple pubs within 3km provide food and drink options; Kelso Hotel (0.5km) is the nearest.
  • Trails like Pedrottas Lane, Alan Wright Walkway, and Machattie Lane offer easy walking options—allow 1–2 hours for most.
  • Fuel and supplies are readily available; 26 shops and services are scattered throughout the area.
  • 44 public toilets are accessible across the suburb—no shortage of facilities for day-trippers and caravanners.
Traffic & Access: Kelso is accessed via major roads connecting to Bathurst and the Blue Mountains highway network. Fuel and caravan services are available locally; allow standard driving times from Sydney (2+ hours).
Best Time to Visit: Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) offer mild weather ideal for hiking and touring the Blue Mountains region.

Kelso at a Glance

ABS Census 2021
10,039
Population
36
Median Age
$1,737/wk
Median Household Income
2.7
Avg Household Size
$1,800/mo
Median Mortgage
$360/wk
Median Rent
70%
Home Ownership
28%
Renting
9%
Born Overseas
19%
University Educated
4.4%
Unemployment
1,142
Families

Nearby

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is near Kelso?

There are 10 campsites near Kelso, including NRMA Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park (1.6km), Bathurst Showgrounds Camping Area (2km), Chase Campground D (6.9km).

What walks and trails are near Kelso?

There are 10 walking trails near Kelso, including Pedrottas Lane (2.8km), Alan Wright Walkway (3.2km), Keppel Street (3.2km).

Is there fuel near Kelso?

Yes, there are 5 fuel stations near Kelso, including BP KELSO (0.4km), 7-Eleven Kelso (0.4km), EG Ampol Kelso (0.8km).

What attractions are near Kelso?

There are 4 attractions near Kelso, including Boer War Memorial (2.9km), Bathurst War Memorial Carillon (3km), Bathurst Sheep and Cattle Drome (8.2km).