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Exeter, NSW 2579

Southern Highlands · New South Wales · Population 1,087 · Median age 53

Exeter is a quiet Southern Highlands village with excellent access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts. Base yourself here for walking trips

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Written by Touringuide Team

Exeter is a small residential community in the Southern Highlands, well-positioned for exploring the region's natural attractions. The area offers good access to numerous walking trails and scenic viewpoints within 6–8km, making it ideal for travellers seeking day walks and outdoor activities without heading into busier towns.

The village has basic services and a median age indicating an established, quieter community. Multiple campsites operate nearby, providing convenient bases for exploring the surrounding national park landscape. The density of trails and waterfalls in the immediate vicinity makes this a strong starting point for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Roads in and out are well-maintained, with the Southern Highlands being accessible by car or caravan from Sydney via the Hume Highway and regional routes. The area experiences moderate traffic, particularly on weekends when day-trippers visit the lookouts and walking trails.

About Exeter — Demographics

ABS Census 2021
1,087
Population
53
Median Age
$1,914/wk
Median Household Income
2.5
Avg Household Size
$2,383/mo
Median Mortgage
$400/wk
Median Rent
86%
Home Ownership
11%
Renting
16%
Born Overseas
32%
University Educated
1%
Unemployment
115
Families

Travel Info

Must See

  • Erith FallsScenic waterfall accessible via short walk; popular local feature.
  • Riverview LookoutElevated viewpoint offering views across the Southern Highlands landscape.
  • Fairy Bower FallsPicturesque waterfall with dedicated walking track from nearby trailhead.
  • Mark Morton LookoutAnother key vantage point for regional views within walking distance.

Must Do

  • Glow Worm Glen WalkUnique evening experience spotting glowworms in a sheltered glen.
  • Dimmocks Creek TrackWell-established hiking route accessing creek and forest scenery.
  • Fairy Bower Falls WalkModerate walk combining forest trail with waterfall destination.
  • Erith Coal Mine TrackHistoric walking route exploring former mining landscape and industrial heritage.

Travel Tips

  • Stock up on supplies in Exeter before heading to trailheads—nearby shops are limited and services are spread across the region.
  • Several lookouts are within 7–8km; plan a circuit walk combining Riverview, Mark Morton, and Tooths Lookout for varied views.
  • Glow Worm Glen Walk (6.2km away) is best visited at dusk or after rain for better visibility of glowworms.
  • Campgrounds fill on weekends; book ahead during school holidays and warm months.
  • Mobile coverage can be patchy on some trails; download offline maps before departing.
Traffic & Access: Access to Exeter is via the Southern Highlands road network; the Hume Highway is the main arterial route from Sydney. Roads are sealed and well-maintained; expect moderate weekend traffic as the area draws day-trippers from Sydney.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) offer mild temperatures and reliable conditions for walking; summer can be warm but waterfalls are more active.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is near Exeter?

There are 10 campsites near Exeter, including Sutton Forest Ridge Camp (4.7km), Gambells Rest Campground (6.5km), Belanglo Forest Camp (8.8km).

What walks and trails are near Exeter?

There are 10 walking trails near Exeter, including Glow Worm Glen Walk (6.2km), Dimmocks Creek Track (6.5km), Erith Coal Mine Track (6.8km).

Is there fuel near Exeter?

Yes, there are 5 fuel stations near Exeter, including EG Ampol Moss Vale (9.2km), Shell Reddy Express Moss Vale (9.5km), United New Berrima General Store (12.5km).

What attractions are near Exeter?

There are 10 attractions near Exeter, including Amphitheatre (7.1km), Erith Coal Mine (7.1km), Riverview Lookout (7.3km).