Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your stay
FAQs – Experiences at Turon Gates
Answers to common questions about activities, adventures, and things to enjoy during your stay. Discover what you can see, do, and explore while staying at Turon Gates.
How do I book horse riding / pony rides?
Horse riding is best booked in advance to ensure you don’t miss out! You can book this online at the time of making your reservation or using the links provided in your booking confirmation. Alternatively feel free to contact our team by phone or email. Payment is taken at the time of booking.
Online: Horseriding at Turon
Phone: Reservations & customer service line: (02) 9969 3818
Open from 9am – 5pm weekdays & 9am – 12pm weekends
Email: Contact Us
If you decide to book and you are already on the property please phone or visit the manager or caretaker.
How long are the rides during the school term?
We offer 3 types of sessions during school term:
- Saturdays – 75min Scenic Horse-Riding Experience, which includes: a 15min introduction, helmet fitting, and photo opportunity.
- Sundays & Weekdays – 90min Scenic Horse-Riding Experience, which includes: a 15min introduction, helmet fitting, and photo opportunity.
- By request – 15min lead around ride / pony ride.
How long are the rides during school holidays?
During school holidays rides are:
- 75min Scenic Horse-Riding Experience, which includes: a 15min introduction, helmet fitting, and photo opportunity.
- 15min lead around ride / pony ride
How many people can go?
Our sessions are capped at 4 riders to ensure the best and safest experience. We do not accept more than 4 riders. If you are a group of 5 or more, you will need to split up into two sessions.
What is the age requirement for horse riding?
Children aged 3 years old and up may go on a pony / lead around ride. There is no age limit for a lead around ride, if you have never ridden before and are nervous about doing one of our longer rides feel free to ask for a lead around ride. It’s not just for kids!
The scenic ride is restricted to ages 10 years old and up.
Do I have to go with my child on their ride?
If the rider is under 14 years old, an adult / guardian ver 18 must accompany them. Riders 14 years and older may go unaccompanied.
Can I ride with my child on the same horse?
For the safety of our guests and our horses only 1 rider is permitted per horse.
Is there a weight limit for horse riding and why?
Yes, all riders must be under 90kg. This is for the well being of our horses and for riders safety, as the horse may try to sit or buck if carrying too much weight. Please consider this when booking as we do not offer refunds if you attend your ride and do not meet the weight restriction.
Do I need to bring riding gear / clothing or helmet?
You do not need to bring anything to go on the ride, we provide helmets for riders. Riders must wear long pants and closed shoes.
I really want my child to go on the ride but they are scared, can I cancel on the day if they don’t like it / change their mind?
If you are unsure if your child will be confident on the ride, please do not book the scenic session. You may wish to try a lead around ride first. Our instructor does not live on site and your ride time is specifically reserved for you. If your child does not go, the ride is forfeited and no refund will apply.
I am an experienced rider, can we trot, canter or gallop during the ride?
Our horses are trained for walks only. We do not offer faster paced rides.
Can we have a longer ride?
You are welcome to book 2 sessions if you would like more time with the horses, however the rides are limited to either 75 or 90 minute sessions. We do not currently offer longer trail rides.
Can I bring my phone / take pictures on the ride?
Phones are not permitted on the trail rides. Our intructor will take a serveral photos during the ride. These will be sent to you via email.
Can I leave my kids / dog in the car while I go horse riding?
No, leaving children or pets in a car is dangerous. A car’s interior can become dangerously hot in the sun, often reaching 30° to 40° Celsius higher than the outside temperature and potentially exceeding 70°C. This can happen very quickly and surfaces like the dashboard and steering wheel can get even hotter, reaching temperatures high enough to cause burns. Sorry, we cannot offer to babysit children or pets.
Cancellations / Refunds
If you wish to cancel or change your horseriding booking, we require 48 hours notice or the full fee will be charged as we have held this space for you.
- If there the weather is unsuitable for your ride, you may be offered an alternate session or a full refund.
- We may cancel your ride if there are not enough riders to fill the session, in this event a full refund is offered.
No refunds apply if on the day you are declined due to weight or if your child is unwilling / too scared to go.
How do I book a canoe?
The canoes are best booked in advance to ensure you don’t miss out! We have 4 canoes and they are booked in 3hr blocks. You can book this online at the time of making your reservation or using the links provided in your booking confirmation. Alternatively feel free to contact our team by phone or email.
Payment is taken at the time of booking.
Phone: Reservations & customer service line: 02 9969 3818
Open from 9am – 5pm weekdays & 9am – 12pm weekends
Email: Contact Us
If you decide to book and you are already on the property please phone or visit the manager or caretaker.
Where do I go?
Once you have booked a canoe, you will need to visit the manager or caretaker on duty to obtain the key and paddles. Please do not head straight to the launch point as you will need these items first.
When are the canoes available?
“Canoes are booked in 3hr blocks:
- 9am – 12pm
- 12pm – 3pm
- 3pm – 6pm
*Please note during winter it can get dark by 5pm”
How many people can fit in 1 canoe?
Most of the canoes fit 2 adults and a child or pet in the middle.
Can we hire more than 1 canoe?
Yes, provided there is availability you can hire up to 4 canoes.
Can I keep the canoe for a bit longer?
We ask our guests to be on time for their sessions, and return the keys and paddles before the end of their session so it is ready for the next session. If you are running late to collect your keys please be aware that you will still be required to return them before the end of your time slot.
Is Canoeing safe?
Canoeing is a fun and relaxing activity to do along the river. It’s a great way to see Turon Gates from a different perspective. Canoeing is generally a safe activity, keep in mind the river varies in depth at certain points and while mostly fairly shallow does have some deep sections. We do not provide life jackets, if you are concerned feel free to bring a life jacket or floatation aid.
Do you provide life jackets?
We do not provide life jackets for canoeing as it is generally not required due to the calm flow of the Turon River.
If you are not a strong swimmer or have concerns feel free to bring a lifejacket or floatation aid.
I didn’t use the canoe for the full 3hrs, can I get a partial refund?
We do not offer refunds for any unused time.
Cancellations / Refunds
If you wish to cancel or change your canoe booking, we require 24hours notice or the full fee will be charged as we have held this space for you.
- If there the weather is unsuitable for canoeing, you may be offered an alternate session or a full refund.
- We may cancel your canoe hire if we feel the river conditions are too dangerous (eg: Flooded, after heavy rains)
No refunds apply if you do not show up for your session without notice.
Where are the bush walks / hiking trails?
There are several great walks to do around the property. Ask for a printed map at the manager’s cottage or caretaker’s lodge or download from this website. The onsite team also have a hiking trail info sheet.
How do I know where I am going?
The walks marked out with different colours on the map and there are corresponding coloured reflectors along the track to help guide you.
Are the trails maintained?
These are true bush walks and are not cleared paths / trails. You may need to navigate your way through the best path as the environment is constantly chaning and the trails along with it.
How long are the walks?
There are different trails that range from 30 minutes up to 5-6hrs. Our onsite team can give you more information on the trails.
What to bring?
When embarking on your adventure remember to take water with you and do remember to wear sunscreen. If you decide to do one of our longer trails you may wish to pack snacks or a picnic to enjoy at the top of the mountain and take in the views.
When can I fish in the Turon River?
Fishing season starts October long weekend and goes through to June Long Weekend.
Do I need a licence to fish?
Yes, you will need a licence from NSW fisheries, this can be purchased online.
What fish are in the river?
The Turon River has Rainbow Trout, Red Fin Perch, Murray Cod & Common Carp.
Where is the best place to fish?
The fishing varies at all times due to flooding, water levels, time of year.
Can I buy bait at the property?
We do not sell bait at the property. We recommend bringing your own.
I have caught Carp, what do I do with it?
Carp are considered bad for the Turon River due to their invasive nature and ecological impact. They are a non-native species that has been introduced to Australia, and have become a significant threat to local ecosystems. Carp are known to dominate waterways, reduce water quality, and compete with native fish for food and habitat. You can cook and eat them, use them for bait or fertilizer, or responsibly dispose of them.
Does Turon Gates provide bikes for guests?
No. Turon Gates does not supply bikes for hire or for complimentary guest use. Guests who wish to ride during their stay must BYOB – Bring Your Own Bike.
Can I bring my own bike to Turon Gates?
Yes. Experienced riders are welcome to bring their own bikes and explore the property. While Turon Gates does not have dedicated, purpose-built mountain bike tracks, there are thousands of acres of back country to discover, including steep hills, creek crossings and more challenging tracks across the mountain ridges. Some routes offer breathtaking views, but they are best suited to confident and experienced riders.
Is bike riding suitable for children?
Yes, but only in the campground area. The campground is the safest place for children to ride bikes, as it is gated and has very low traffic. Kids generally love the hills, and parents can feel more comfortable knowing this area is contained.
Outside the campground, there is a crown road that is regularly used by locals and visitors as a thoroughfare. This area is not suitable for children to ride bikes.
Are canoes available to hire at Turon Gates?
Yes. Canoes are available for hire on-site for guests who would prefer not to travel with their own watercraft. Availability may vary, so it is best to check with the Turon Gates team during your stay.
Can I bring my own kayak, paddle board or canoe?
Yes. Guests are welcome to BYOW – bring your own watercraft, including kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, canoes, inflatables and other non-motorised watercraft. The Turon River provides a peaceful natural setting to paddle, explore and relax at your own pace.
Are river conditions suitable for all experience levels?
River conditions can vary depending on weather and recent rainfall. Guests may encounter shallow sections, flowing water and natural obstacles that are typical of a bush river environment. Please assess the conditions before entering the water and use equipment suited to your experience level.
Can I drive my vehicle down to the river to unload watercraft?
No. To protect the natural environment and preserve the guest experience, vehicles are not permitted to drive directly to the river. Watercraft should be carried from the designated parking areas.
Still have unanswered questions?
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, our friendly team is happy to help.
Rated 5-stars by our Guests
Our visitors consistently rate us 5 stars on TripAdvisor and Google. Proof that unforgettable stays and genuine hospitality are at the heart of every Turon Gates experience.
The kids had the best time exploring nature, enjoying all the outdoor activities and just being able to run free in such a beautiful, peaceful setting. It was the perfect escape from busy everyday life.
Everything about our experience was relaxing, family-friendly and memorable. We’re already looking forward to coming back again soon!
Our every first time camping and being at Turon Gates as well. And every experience we had we loved every single bit of it. From being away from our four walls, and the chaos of the busy life in Sydney, to simply being outdoors and breathing the fresh air, we rarely get in Sydney. It was beyond beautiful, the amenities where clean was a big bonus for me, to amenities for washing dishes absolutely loved it. The experience my family and I had, was an understatement, we never did except what we had endured. We loved every bit of it, the people where amazing, owners were beautiful, love seeing kids play together and having a good time. The water was divine, the walk absolutely jawdropping, the hike was a dying experience LOL, but worth every step, pain, ache and experience, the view was no words "SPECTACULAR." Worth every money paid for. We did not want to live. But we will be returning back soon.
Well done team, keep up the amazing work in what youse do to keep this a remarkable experience we have endured!
We are one happy family and loved everything about it!
Love from the Kavaefiafi Family ❤️❤️❤️
Highly recommend the Stonewood Cottage for a magical experience of the Blue Mountains.
The cabin is expensive compared to camping trips but worth it if sharing with someone who hates camping 😅 was comfortable yet still so much nature and lovely river to swim in 💚
The peaceful setting and seeing lots of kangaroos made the stay extra special. Claudia was very helpful, and the manager Alex was thoughtful.
Highly recommend for a relaxing getaway 🌿🦘
Beautiful in their natural habitat.
Our accommodations (glamping tent) was beyond all expectations. Wonderful linens, a very comfortable king bed, luxury appointments and more. A peaceful and restful nature escape. The owners, Michael and Alex are lovely!
I would give more than 5 stars if I could.
Highly recommend
From large and flat camping sites by the river to charming log cabins, luxury glamping tents or the incredible Sunvale house, the choice is yours, the perfection is theirs. Accommodations are spread out on an enormous wilderness area of rolling hills and forested mountains where wildlife is your only visible neighbours. Walk, hike, canoe, ride a horse, cycle or just relax, soak it in and recharge.
Thank you for a truly magical stay!
The room was top-notch – clean, cozy, and thoughtfully set up. The kitchen was well-organised, complete with clean cutlery and everything we needed. The electric blanket was an absolute lifesaver for the chilly winter nights – especially since I usually need at least three layers to stay warm. That said, I had a bit too much to drink on the first night and forgot to turn it on… let’s just say, lesson learned after freezing through the night!
Service:
The service was excellent. The management team sent us a detailed email before arrival, including what to bring, how the utilities work, and even the expected weather. It was incredibly helpful and showed great attention to detail. Claudia stood out – professional, responsive, and very helpful throughout our stay.
Location:
While it’s about a 3-hour drive from Sydney, the location is absolutely worth it. Peaceful, quiet, and surrounded by nature – the perfect spot to unwind and disconnect from the city buzz.
We stayed for 2 nights and honestly, it wasn’t enough – if only I could sneak in a few more days of sick leave from work!
Mylo had the time of his life exploring the property, watching kangaroos, wallabies, and even some curious little goats! ???????? The hammock and BBQ setup added to the charm — chilling in the hammock with Mylo by my side was so therapeutic and rejuvenating.
A special thanks to the amazing Turon Gates team for the thoughtful complimentary extension, which made our stay even more memorable. Your warmth and hospitality truly made a difference! Kudos for creating such an unforgettable and relaxing experience. We can’t wait to return! ❤️????