The scene of Australia's first Gold Rush, Ophir Reserve is a rugged yet peaceful reminder of the colonial past. The first Australian payable gold discovery was made here in 1851, just 30 kilometres north east of Orange. Now a picturesque picnic and camping ground at the junction of the Lewis Ponds and Summer Hill Creeks evidence of old alluvial, reef and deep lead mines is still visible to those exploring the area.

While Ophir has much to offer with camping, fishing, fossicking and exploring the old diggings, it is not a "museum" and remains much as the diggers left it all those years ago. Care should be taken around the old open mine shafts. Hire a gold pan from the Orange Visitor Information Centre and try your luck in Summer Hill Creek just as the early settlers did during the gold rush of the 1850's.

Address

Ophir Road
Orange

Classifications

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations, Agri, Mining and Industry, Natural Attractions

Special Features

Barbeque, Carpark, Picnic Area

Costs

Child: -
Visit Website

Upcoming events

June Long Weekend at Heifer Station

06 - 07 Jun 2026
Whether you're a local or visiting the Orange region, make your way to the Heifer Station Cellar Door this June long weekend.

Millthorpe Fire Fair

07 Aug 2026
The historic village of Millthorpe comes alive each year for the opening night of the Orange Region Fire Festival. Held along the main street of Millthorpe under ambient festoon lights and a star-lit sky, this is an annual event event for all ages.

Orange Region Fire Festival

07 - 16 Aug 2026
Every August, the Orange Region's Fire Festival showcases local artists, musicians and producers through a series of collaborations spanning a ten-day program.

The Great Canadian S'mores Experience

08 Aug 2026
Discover one of North America's most beloved campfire traditions at Stockman's Ridge Wines this Orange Fire Festival. Join Canadian-born Lisa Hambrook for a hands-on campfire experience as she shares the history of the iconic s'more and reveals the secrets to perfectly toasted marshmallows.

Earth and Fibre Mini Fest

15 Aug 2026
Discover the art of pottery and crochet at this immersive hands-on workshop, presented as part of the Orange Region Fire Festival.

Orange Wine Festival

16 - 25 Oct 2026
The annual Orange Wine Festival celebrates the vibrant wine and food culture of the Orange region, renowned for its exceptional cool-climate wines. The festival offers a colourful and diverse program of over 40 events.

Orange Wine Festival Night Market

16 Oct 2026
Kick off the Orange Wine Festival with local winemakers and producers of the Orange region as they proudly present their award-winning cool climate wines.

Sip and Savour - The Ultimate Wine Tasting

23 Oct 2026
Sip and Savour is your one chance to taste the 2026 Orange Wine Show winners all in one place. With over 300 wines on show under one roof at the charming Agricultural Pavilion at the Orange Showground, this isn't your usual Friday night drinks.

Orange FOOD Week Night Market

02 Apr 2027
Start your Orange FOOD Week experience at the ever-popular Night Market; an evening that brings together the best of the region’s food and wine beneath festoon lights and the autumn canopy of Robertson Park.

Orange FOOD Week - Sampson Street Lunch

03 Apr 2027
Inspired by an English late summer long lunch, the Sampson Street Lunch is a unique food and wine celebration bringing together some of Orange’s best-known and emerging chefs and foodies, wine producers and fun makers.

Orange FOOD Week - Meet the Producer Series

04 - 09 Apr 2027
A handpicked series of show, tell and taste workshops that highlight the iconic flavours of the region’s produce. Local producers alongside local chefs and cooks create food conversations and share their stories, tips, tricks and samples.

Orange FOOD Week - FOOD Train

09 - 11 Apr 2027
This weekend package is FOOD Week's premium experience. Hosted by local foodies and regional hospitality faves, join a three day guided trip from Sydney to Orange enjoying some of the region’s best food and wine experiences.

Orange FOOD Week - Sunday Producers Market and Brunch

11 Apr 2027
Join the final festivity for FOOD Week 2027! Come along to one of Orange's most spectacular settings in Cook Park to enjoy brunch prepared by well-known cooks and producers. Stroll the market to meet and greet with the producers' taste and purchase their local produce to take home.