Thanks to those who shared my last post on this route as we took their response and went for it.
Having just completed the Waterfall Way drive (Bellingen Armidale B78) I thought I would give others considering this route my thoughts. My rig was a diesel Territory pulling a 18ft Jayco and it handle the hilly sections with ease.
Overall the drive is very good, the road is good and the only section that is winding and narrow is a 5k section running from Thora to Dorrigo,, This section requires you to keep a eye out for oncoming vehicles as there is no passing through the curves due to their narrowness, also you need to pull up away from curve if a semi is coming through.to give them room.
There is a couple of free camps before Dorrigo, one at Burdett Park, Fermount, has fresh water and toilets but is small park alongside footy field. We stayed at the free camp at Thora which is alongside the general store, plenty of parking space with toilets but no water, also has a resident rooster that starts crowing around 4.30am. Both spots are looked after by local community and ask for donation.
Waterfall way is named after the many waterfalls along the route and we found most of them where flowing and quite scenic. Our next camp was within the nation park at Wollomombi, the waterfall here was small and the geological features was worth the effort. NP charge $6 head for this camp (honesty box).
Armidale showground was our next stop, $25 night with power, walking distance to town and clean showers and toilets, quite popular with about 40 vans onsite.
Armidale tourist information centre is a must visit, they run a passionate 2.5hr bus tour of the city and only ask for a donation, well worth a folding note.
Anyway a couple of notes about our experience along the scenic B78.
Thank you for reminding us how wonderful a trip though the"Waterfall Ways" is. Been in that area several times and have enjoyed it everytime.
Setting yourselfs up in Dorrigo for few days, doing side trips away from this mountain town will reward you, beautiful forest, running rivers and awesome lookouts.
Some nice eateries, country bakery and butcher shops are worth supporting.