Explore the best campsites to visit in NSW that offers an array of campsites for a fun holiday experience, ranging from bush to beach to city. Below are some top picks.
New South Wales is scattered with popular and covert camping grounds to make a quick stop, ranging from rural areas to urban locations.
In recent times, setting up a tent has become more of an elective way of life instead of a necessity. Numerous vacation parks present indulgent choices ranging from glamorous tents to stocked cabins that come with balconies, barbeques and breathtaking water vistas.
You can easily access some of the best spots within a few hours’ drive from the city center, eliminating any need to venture into remote wilderness.
Wilbert, the travel writer, discloses his top choices.
Top recommendations: Most outstanding holiday parks located in NSW
Byron Bay Holiday Park located in Byron Bay
Although Byron Bay boasts some of Australia’s most opulent lodging, you don’t need to break the bank in order to vacation there. Situated in a highly sought-after area within the bustling tourist town and boasting convenient access to Clarkes Beach as well as being only a brief walk from downtown is Byron Bay Holiday Park (formerly known as Clarkes Beach Holiday Park).
This campsite is part of the Reflections Holiday Parks family and boasts elegant lodging options such as cozy tiny homes, luxurious glamping tents, and chic cabins complete with charming wooden accents.
Indulge in surfing, shopping, hiking to Cape Byron Lighthouse and relishing delectable cuisine during the day prior to dozing off while listening to the tranquilizing oceanic melody.
Tathra Beachfront Holiday Park located in Tathra
If your heart seeks the tranquility of ocean waves and sand, then this campground is just what you need. Situated along the coast, it offers a variety of activities for everyone in your family- from a waterpark to lavish heated pools; vintage coffee vans serve delicious beverages while movie nights keep boredom at bay! Make new friends by roasting marshmallows together over communal campfires or indulge yourself with scrumptious waffle feasts and savor every moment spent here.
Pet-friendly cabins and caravan sites are available for you to bring your dog while staying. Additionally, the kiosk provides pet supplies as well as a warm dog wash.
Seal Rocks Holiday Park located in Seal Rocks
If you’re not into Byron, but still looking for a fantastic coastal destination, make your way to Seal Rocks Caravan & Holiday Park. Although this village offers minimal attractions (just a corner store and lighthouse), that’s exactly why it draws so much attention.
Indulge in a luxurious stay at our premium villas, relish delectable meals both indoors and outdoors. Take a refreshing dip or try stand-up paddleboarding by simply crossing the road. Embrace the leisurely pace of life, even if it’s just for one weekend.
Hawks Nest’s Jimmy’s Beach Holiday Park
Located only an hour’s drive north of Newcastle, Jimmys Beach was once a tranquil campground. However, with the recent renovation it has become a popular destination for holidaymakers looking for a quick getaway. The addition of luxurious cabins that are eco-friendly and overlook resort-style pool make them comparable to hotel accommodations.
Inside the leafy holiday park, you’ll find solar-powered cabins with composite wood decks and rainwater tanks. These cozy abodes offer plenty of modern amenities for your enjoyment. Additionally, tiny homes are sprinkled throughout the lush bush scenery for a unique getaway experience.
The Top Nature Camps to Visit in New South Wales
Dubbo’s Taronga Western Plains Zoo Billabong Camp
Looking for a memorable camping experience that will leave your kids in awe? Consider staying within earshot of lions’ roars at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo. Opt for the luxurious permanent tent accommodation and earn extra points with the little ones!
Included in the Billabong Camp package are guided animal encounters and a two-day zoo entry, along with an exclusive after-hours experience. Guests will also enjoy traditional Aussie barbecue dinner and a continental breakfast as part of their stay.
The Murramarang National Park’s Pebbly Beach Campground
There are over 800 national parks in NSW that provide attractive, rustic camping sites suitable for campers of various kinds. Pebbly Beach Campground on the South Coast is among the top locations to experience close encounters with wild kangaroos.
The beach is a popular spot for Eastern Grey kangaroos, offering great opportunities to capture photos during the early morning and evening periods. Additionally, there are numerous bird species present; however, it’s vital not to distribute food among them.
The bush campground is perfect for surfers, anglers and introducing children to the splendor of Australia’s natural environment.
Jervis Bay’s Green Patch
Green Patch, situated amidst dense bushland within Booderee National Park offers an ideal camping ground to those seeking solace from the bustle of work and daily life. It provides a peaceful escape where you can disconnect yourself from your hectic routine by activating that out-of-office mode.
When you stay here, it’s easy to embrace camp life as the white-sand beach and lagoon are just a brief stroll away while Huskisson town is only a short drive.
What else could you want with the presence of amiable kangaroos and parrots?
Discover NSW’s Top Hidden and Challenging Camping Attractions
The Basin, Pittwater
f you’re seeking seclusion in northern Sydney, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is the place to be. The Basin campground requires a tent for overnight stays and provides an enchanting view of Pittwater that Sydneysiders may find appealing. This idyllic spot offers several amenities such as restrooms, showers, drinking water taps, barbecues and picnic tables. Additionally, there’s a peaceful beach perfect for young children along with a serene lagoon on site too!
Although accessible only by hiking trail or watercraft, the grassy campground is a well-liked destination amongst nature enthusiasts with room for up to 350 campers.
Mungo, Mungo National Park
Make sure you allocate enough time for immersing yourself in the rich Indigenous history and archaeological findings of Mungo National Park, by extending your stay at the secluded Main Camp. Although basic with only essential amenities like picnic tables and barbecues, its exceptional position within this World Heritage-listed site enables visitors to participate in a guided tour conducted by Aboriginal locals around the impressive dunes known as Mungo lunette (Walls of China).
It is advisable to verify the weather forecast before your arrival, considering that the unpaved roads may turn out impassable during rainy periods.
Top camping location within a 2-hour radius of Sydney
Umina’s NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort
NRMA Ocean Beach is a family-favorite destination, boasting pedal carts, a splash zone and resort-style pool in addition to playgrounds and jumping pillows. To add more excitement for campers there are food trucks with fun dining options, an on-site café plus the four-part Bear Grylls Survival Academy program which educates kids safely about bush survival skills while having playful adventures.
Although there are many cabins and powered or unpowered sites available at this campground, the glamtainer (a chic shipping container depicted) is truly a top choice for lodging.
Top Glamping Sites to Explore in New South Wales
Cabarita Beach’s Hideaway
The Hideaway, a fashionable Tweed Coast property dotted with bell tents, is the perfect spot for those who love glamping or want an exceptional place to stay with their friends.
Situated just a short walk from Cabarita Beach, The Hideaway is revolutionizing camping by marketing itself as an opulent outdoor hotel. With the tents decked out in African-inspired design accommodating up to four people, this campsite offers various amenities reminiscent of high-end resorts like air conditioning and relaxed areas perfect for unwinding while on vacation.
The most exceptional and distinctive camping location in New South Wales
Capertee Valley’s Bubbletent
Whether you’re a seasoned camper seeking fresh adventures or a newcomer to the activity in search of luxury, spending an evening in a transparent spherical tent is sure to satisfy your needs.
Bubbletent Australia offers a unique experience where exclusively adult guests sleep in two interlocking bubbles furnished with necessary amenities such as beds, chairs and telescopes. With the accommodation situated on an expansive 1000-acre farm between Lithgow and Mudgee area of Australia, there’s no need to fret about intrusions from outsiders while sleeping inside these bubble tents.
At the end of the day, indulge in a sunset soak inside your secluded hot tub that runs on wood-fired.
Top River Camping Spots in New South Wales (NSW)
Kosciuszko National Park’s Thredbo Diggings
Thredbo Diggings, located within Kosciuszko National Park with a required park pass and booking fee, is an excellent budget campsite for those interested in fly fishing, mountain biking, hiking or just enjoying the calming sounds of Thredbo River while relaxing by a campfire.
This site is located near the river and just a short walk from Jindabyne township, offering a rustic back-to-basics experience. Pack your favorite adventure gear and start setting up camp!
The top camping spot for pitching on an island in NSW
Broughton Island Camping Grounds in Broughton Island
Broughton Island campground is situated on top of dunes that offer a breathtaking view of an indigo bay. Located north of Nelson Bay, the island (known for its thriving seabird community) forms part of Myall Lakes National Park and provides five raised wooden platforms where campers can set up their tents.
Toilets are provided, however, it is necessary to bring along drinking water and food. Additionally, you’ll have to hire a skipper in order to be dropped off at the location.
The Sydney Harbour’s Cockatoo Island
Getting such amazing Sydney Harbour views for a bargain is unusual, which makes camping on Cockatoo Island (Wareamah) an obvious choice. Besides being perfect for short city getaways, it’s ideal for families who want to introduce their children to the joys of camping with fixed rows of tents and frequent ferry services. There are two choices: basic or deluxe packages; otherwise you can bring your own tent.
In what locations can I find free camping spots in NSW?
Travellers searching for cost-effective camping options may find some National Parks in NSW to be a great choice as they provide free accommodation. Nonetheless, it is important to note that you might need to reserve your spots beforehand and possibly pay an entry park fee or booking charge. An illustrative example would be the Thredbo Diggings located within Kosciuszko National Park which has no additional charges if you have a national parks pass; equally, while Newnes Campground situated at Blue Mountains National Park also offers this service without any fees attached except for a $6 reservation fee alongside the necessary entry park expenses.
Is camping permitted throughout NSW?
No, you cannot park anywhere in NSW legally. Only designated camping areas like campgrounds and national parks permit this activity. In some instances, camping may also be allowed on private property.
What is the process for booking a campsite in National Parks located in NSW?
If you’re looking to book a camping spot in any of the National Parks of NSW, simply head over to their website and locate your preferred camping or accommodation site. The platform enables you to verify its availability and make online reservations without hassles.
You have the option to dial 1300 072 757 and contact the National Parks Centre for making your reservation via phone.
