Best Camping Spots in NSW for an Unforgettable Adventure

There are lots of reasons that New South Wales (NSW) on Australia's east coast may just be the perfect camping getaway. Why? You can choose between breathtaking camping spots by the beach or quiet retreats nestled in NSW National Parks. You can explore rainforests one day and the Blue Mountains the next. You can take the family to the zoo for close encounters with animals, or let them swim in the stunning blue ocean till their hearts are content. There are so many options to suit families, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking seclusion or luxury. Here is all of the information you need to know for choosing the best camping spots NSW.

Family-friendly camping: Best campsites for kids in NSW

Need something to do in the school holidays? Luckily, there's no shortage of family-friendly camping spots in NSW, including Mildura Riverside Holiday Park, Coffs Harbour Camping & 4WD, and Billabong Camp in Taronga Western Plains Zoo. These destinations cater to families with a range of activities and amenities designed to keep everyone entertained and comfortable.

Mildura Riverside Holiday Park, Mildura

If you’re planning the perfect family escape, consider Mildura Riverside Holiday Park. This caravan park has:

• Heated waterslides

• Air-conditioned indoor playground

• Outdoor playground

• Shaded bouncy pillow

The park also offers a variety of accommodation options, including cabins, villas, camping sites, and caravan sites. Check camping fees with the National Parks and Wildlife Service for more details. Pets are also welcome at Mildura Riverside Holiday Park, making it the perfect destination for a fun-filled family vacation.

Getting there: Mildura is right on the border of NSW and Victoria, but is actually closest to Adelaide in South Australia. Head north then east from Adelaide along National Highway A20. The trip is between 4.5 and 5 hours. 

Coffs Harbour Camping & 4WD, Coffs Harbour

Explore the wide array of camping choices and activities on offer at Coffs Harbour Camping & 4WD. With 99 vehicle/tent sites suitable for:

• Caravans

• Motorhomes

• RVs

• 2WDs

• 4WDs

There’s a spot for every family. Hand-feed friendly farm animals, explore picturesque bushwalking trails, or enjoy a picnic by the dam. With a range of nearby attractions like the Big Banana and Harbourside Markets, there’s never a dull moment at Coffs Harbour Camping & 4WD.

Getting there: Pick up a campervan in the Gold Coast and then head south, turning inland just before Moonee Beach. The trip is about 3.5 hours. 

Billabong Camp, Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo

Set off on an extraordinary camping journey at Billabong Camp in Taronga Western Plains Zoo. This one-of-a-kind experience offers the chance to get up close and personal with a variety of animals, as well as the option to stay overnight in a tent, all while enjoying the benefits of a top-notch service. The Billabong Camp package offers an amazing family experience. It includes two-day zoo entry and guided animal encounters. This is something to remember for a lifetime.

Getting there: Head inland from Sydney via Castlereagh Highway for about 5.5 hours to get to Taronga Western Plains Zoo. 

Coastal escapes: Top beachside campgrounds in NSW

There’s nothing quite like waking to the sound of waves crashing on the shore. Get to know some of NSW’s top beachside campgrounds, from the North Coast to the South Coast, including Seal Rocks Holiday Park, Putty Beach Campground in Bouddi National Park, and Diamond Head Campground in Crowdy Bay National Park. These coastal escapes boast beautiful beaches, fantastic camping facilities, and unforgettable experiences.

Seal Rocks Holiday Park, Seal Rocks

Located north of Newcastle, Seal Rocks Holiday Park is a seaside sanctuary for both families and nature enthusiasts, with amazing forests on one side and a beautiful beach on the other. Their newly constructed cabins, powered grass sites, and large motorhome sites, means this idyllic spot caters to whatever your accommodation preferences are.

Soak up the sun, swim, paddleboard, or snorkel the days away while you enjoy a relaxing holiday in a secluded part of NSW. Prices will depend on the camping option you choose, as well as the time of year. If you can get in quick enough, Seal Rocks Holiday Park is an ideal destination for family vacations during the school holidays.

Getting there: Seal Rocks Holiday Park is just north of Newcastle, about 3 hours from Sydney along the M1 and Pacific Highway. 

Putty Beach Campground, Bouddi National Park

Putty Beach Campground, located in Bouddi National Park, is a true camping spot that puts the emphasis on the surroundings, rather than the facilities. There are 20 campsites and they have picnic tables, BBQ facilities, drinking water, cold showers and toilets available, but you'll need to bring some form of power if you need to charge any devices. It's unlikely you'll be spending much time in your tent through, with the 8km Bouddi coastal walk to MacMasters Beach or the Tasman Sea right on your doorstep. With all of that on offer, Putty Beach Campground is considered as one of the top camping spots in NSW.

Getting there: Take the M1 north and head towards the coast in Kariong. Stop at the Australian Reptile Park if the kids are restless, but the trip is only around 1.5 hours. 

Diamond Head Campground, Crowdy Bay National Park

Diamond Head Campground on the NSW north coast is another well loved NSW National Parks camping spot. It’s a place where you can delve into the wonders of nature while still enjoying the conveniences of contemporary camping amenities. Showers, toilets, barbecues, and picnic tables are available, but you'll need to bring your own cooking and drinking water.

Take advantage of the picturesque beach and excellent bush camping, or simply relax and watch kangaroos roam the area. Remember, during park fire ban periods, campfires and solid fuel are prohibited, so always check local alerts before setting off on your adventure.

Getting there: About halfway between Sydney and Byron Bay, it'll take you about 4 hours to get to Diamond Head Campground from Sydney via the M1 and Pacific Highway. 

If you're heading to the NSW south coast, consider a campground near Mimosa Rocks National Park, including Middle Beach Campground, Picnic Point Campground or Gillards Campground.

Nature lover's retreat: Best rainforest NSW Camping Spots

What could be better than immersing yourself in the peacefulness of nature and finding a rainforest camping spot in New South Wales. There are truly enchanting camping spots in various NSW national parks, such as Coombadjha Campground in Washpool National Park, Thungutti Campground in New England National Park, and Dingo Tops in Tapin Tops National Park.

Coombadjha Campground, Washpool National Park

If a quintessential rainforest escape is what you seek, Coombhadja Campground in Washpool National Park is the perfect choice. This tent-only campsite is situated by a picturesque rainforest creek, offering a peaceful setting for your stay. The campground serves as the starting point for two well-known walks in the park: the Coombadjha Nature Stroll and the Washpool Walking Track.

Immerse yourself in the ancient beauty of Gondwana Rainforests, where you’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna, such as koalas, spotted-tailed quolls, and parma wallabies.

Getting there: Located in Northern NSW, the closest cities to Coombadjha are the Gold Coast and Brisbane. The trip is between 4 and 5 hours. 

Thungutti Campground, New England National Park

Savor the splendor of New England National Park at Thungutti Campground, a shaded camping spot conveniently located only a short distance from Point lookout and various walking trails. Set amongst the trees, these 17 spacious campsites offer a unique rainforest experience with parking space, fireplace, and picnic table provided.

Autumn is an ideal time to visit, particularly in late April, when the weather is mild and the park’s colors are at their most vibrant. Be sure to explore the park’s rich wildlife, including swamp wallaby, eastern grey kangaroo, red-necked wallaby, hare, rabbit.

Getting there: Near Coffs Harbour, drive south from the Gold Coast via the M1 and Armidale Street for around 5 hours. 

Dingo Tops, Tapin Tops National Park

If you’re yearning for a secluded camping adventure amidst age-old rainforests and eucalyptus trees, Dingo Tops in Tapin Tops National Park is the place to be. With a variety of avian species and wildlife such as potaroos inhabiting the subtropical rainforest and mature eucalypt trees, this campground offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature.

The park’s diverse flora and fauna, managed by the parks and wildlife service, as part of national parks and wildlife, provide an unforgettable backdrop for your camping adventure.

Getting there: Drive north from Sydney on the M1 and Pacific Highway for about 4.5 hours. 

Outback NSW adventures: Unforgettable camping experiences in rural Australia

Venture into rural NSW core and discover some unique campgrounds, including Main Campground in Mungo National Park, Corynnia Station Outback Farmstay, and Homestead Creek Campground Mutawintji National Park. From ancient sand dunes to operational farms, these unforgettable destinations offer a glimpse into the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of rural New South Wales.

Main Campground, Mungo National Park

Delve into the abundant indigenous history and archaeological findings of Mungo National Park, which houses the ancient remnants of Mungo Man and Mungo Lady. The park’s Main campground offers great facilities such as picnic tables and wood fired BBQs for a comfortable stay.

Explore the ancient sand dunes, take a dip in the Mungo Woolshed, or join a guided tour of the Walls of China for a unique camping experience in this fascinating park.

Getting there: Mungo National Park is about 6 hours from Adelaide, or you can pick up a campervan in Melbourne and drive north via the M79 for about 6.5 hours, crossing the NSW border at Swan Hill. 

Corynnia Station Outback Farmstay, Hay Plains

Leave the tent at home and get a taste of genuine Australian outback life at Corynnia Station, a working property nestled in the Hay Plains. This unique destination offers a six bedroom lodge, a one bedroom cottage, or a VIP suite for that extra bit of luxury.

From exploring the Hay Plains to investigating nearby caves and swimming holes, there’s no shortage of activities to fill your days at Corynnia Station.

Getting there: Corynnia is about 6.5 hours from Melbourne via the M79.

Homestead Creek Campground, Mutawintji National Park

Make your way to the secluded Mutawintji National Park in Broken Hill, a place where awe-inspiring landscapes and a deep cultural legacy are at the ready. The park’s Homestead Creek campground offers basic camping facilities, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the region.

Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art, swim in the Mutawintji Waterhole, and explore the Mutawintji Gorge for an unforgettable camping experience.

Getting there: Drive North from Adelaide and cross the NSW border at Cockburn. The trip takes around 7 hours. 

Glamping in style: luxury camping options in NSW

Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in a lavish, upscale camping spot in NSW. Indulge in the comforts of Bubbletent in Capertee Valley, Cicada Luxury Camping in Kiama, and Nashdale Lane in Orange. These glamorous glamping sites offer a unique blend of luxury and nature, ensuring a memorable getaway.

Bubbletent, Capertee Valley

If you’re after a one-of-a-kind luxury camping experience, Bubbletent in Capertee Valley could be one of the best camping spots in NSW. This adults-only retreat offers a one-of-a-kind stay in a spherical tent, complete with a private wood-fired hot tub. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the valley, indulge in a glass of wine, and gaze at the stars from the comfort of your bubble home.

Getting there: Start in Sydney and drive west via the M4 and Great Western Highway for about 2.5 hours. 

Cicada Luxury Camping, Kiama

Plunge into luxury at Cicada Luxury Camping in Kiama. Offering safari-style tents with private fire pits, ensuite bathrooms with hot showers, and this glamping experience provides the perfect balance between luxury and adventure. Unwind on your private deck while taking in the stunning views of Jerrara countryside, or explore the nearby attractions of Kiama’s beaches and town center.

Getting there: Drive south from Sydney via the M1 for about 2 hours. 

Nashdale Lane, Orange

Indulge in a vineyard glamping experience at Nashdale Lane in Orange. Situated on a picturesque winery, this luxurious retreat offers private bathrooms, large decks, and cozy wood fires for the ultimate glamping experience. Sample the local wines at Nashdale Lane Wines & Cellar Door, or explore the nearby attractions of Rowlee Wines and Thornbrook Orchard for a memorable getaway.

Getting there: Head inland from Sydney for about 4 hours on the Great Western Highway. 

Frequently Asked Questions