Whether you’re chasing a sandy site, mountain views, or starlit skies, there’s a NSW campground that’s right for you. From remote 4WD-accessible sites to coastal hot spots, our guide to the best campgrounds in NSW will help you find your perfect patch.
We Are Explorers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Countries on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.
I’ve been to campgrounds where the waves have sung me to sleep and others where I’ve been buffeted by the bass cranking from the boom box my neighbours had set up three metres from my tent. Some have been remarkable finds with stunning views and no one around, and others great social gatherings with new friends around communal campfires.
NSW is packed with camping spots for every type of weekend, whether you’re after a quiet bush escape or a comfy setup near a coffee shop with plenty of people to talk to. We’ve collected all our top lists of campgrounds we’ve compiled over the years and put them all in one place to make finding your next camping spot a breeze.
Read more: Remember to leave no trace
Shot by Mateo Guerrero
Quick Overview of Camping in NSW
Camping in New South Wales is something you just have to do at least once! Between the serene coastline, the rugged mountains, or the frankly idyllic state forests, NSW offers a huge range of landscapes perfect for pitching a tent. With heaps of national parks, state forests, and holiday parks to choose from, there’s no shortage of prime locations to pitch your tent or park your caravan.
Shot by Georgia Doherty
From the iconic Blue Mountains to Port Macquarie to the picturesque Sapphire Coast, New South Wales is home to some of the most stunning camping spots in Australia. The state’s national parks, such as Crowdy Bay National Park and Beowa National Park, have breathtaking scenery and a legitimate tonne of outdoor activities (and most are free!).
For those who prefer a touch of luxury, many holiday parks and caravan parks offer a range of accommodation options, from basic campgrounds to deluxe villas. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or an adventurous solo trip, NSW has something for every tree-loving Explorer.
Never tried a holiday park? I Swore I’d Never Stay at a Holiday Park… Until Now
4WD Campgrounds in NSW
Camped and written by Ally Burnie
What’s better than camping under the stars, away from the city at campgrounds only accessible by 4WD? Not much.
My most unpopular opinion is half the reason I enjoy camping – it’s the solitude and serenity being in nature alone brings. All I need is my swag, some beer, and my Jeep, and I’m one literal happy camper.
I’ve rounded up the best 4WD camping spots, so please, if you’re going to visit these places, make sure you camp and drive responsibly, capiche?
1. Pebbly Beach Campground
Location: North Coast
Head north from Sydney for just over 6.5 hours and you’ll reach Pebbly Beach Campground situated between Coffs Harbour and Yamba. Pebbly Beach is 4WD-access-only as you need to drive along the beach and then across a saltwater tidal crossing (make sure you check tides before you go).
The campground is a beautiful grassy spot only a short walk from shore and is sheltered by large sand dunes to the west.
Find more campgrounds near Coffs Harbour with our comprehensive guide.
2. Nymboida River Campground
Location: Northern Rivers
If you’re up for a longer drive, you can’t go past Nymboida River Campground around eight hours north of Sydney. If you love campsites that are remote, rugged, and untouched by the masses (or 2WDs), this is one of the best 4WD access only campsites.
The campground itself is relatively small and quiet and if you head in at the right time, you might just find you have it all to yourself.
3. Mungo Brush Campsite
Location: Mid-North Coast
Mungo Brush Campground is a beautiful 4WD camping spot in Myall Lakes National Park, close to Hawks Nest on the North Coast.
While technically 2WDs can access the Mungo Brush campsite itself, not too far from Mungo Brush campground is an epic beach drive, which your 4WD can access via the Lemon Tree 4WD track.
4. Samurai Beach Campground
Location: Hunter
Samurai Beach Campground is a truly zen oceanside campsite – find a spot amongst the dunes, settle in and get your kit off (if you want). Samurai Bach is a designated nude bathing area, so don’t be surprised if stumble upon someone in the spread eagle position.
You can’t camp directly on the beach, only in the designated camping spots.
5. Woolshed Flat Campground
Location: Central West
If you head north west from Sydney for just under 200km you’ll stumble across Woolshed Flat Campground. Access to this remote and tranquil campsite involves a cruisey river crossing, so it’s only suitable for 4WDs or self-sufficient campers.
6. Murphys Glen Campground
Location: Blue Mountains
Murphys Glen Campground in the Blue Mountains is the ideal distance from Sydney for a short overnight trip. It’s not frequented by the masses because as you know, it’s 4WD accessible only.
7. Bendethera Valley Campground
Location: South Coast
If you prefer to head south, you can’t go past one of the best 4WD access only campsites on the south, which is the Bendethera Valley Campground in Deua National Park.
Along the river you’ll find plenty of spots for a cheeky dip while kangaroos and wombats graze around you.
Best Free Campgrounds in NSW
Camped and written by Mattie Gould
NSW is blessed with a swagload of great campgrounds. But there’s only one thing better than finding a beaut campground, and that’s finding a free camp that doesn’t cost you a penny.
When we asked our crew of seasoned Explorers to recommend their favourite places to free camp in NSW, there was no doubt that they’d deliver, and just like a regular bunch of legends, they’ve come up with some absolute belters of low-cost campgrounds.
Yes, some of these free camping spots might have limited facilities; yes, some of them require a jaunt along short walking trails from the car; and yes, they’re all worth checking out.
Please note! Since this article was first published, NSW National Parks has introduced a $6 booking fee on all campgrounds. Unfortunately, some of the listed campgrounds that were once 100% free now incur this small fee, but we still want you to know about them!
8. Sunburnt Beach Campground
Location: South Coast
Sat in Meroo National Park, on the NSW South Coast, this beachside campsite is simple and sweet. Not quite a full-on hike in experience, nevertheless you’ll need to carry your camp gear 50-100m from the car park. Not great for luxury campers, but the perfect free camp for keeping the crowds away.
9. Cascades Campground
Location: South Coast/Snowy Mountains
Head south to Cooma and instead of continuing onto the Snowy Mountains, head east into Wadbilliga National Park for a stay at Cascades Campground. With just six sites for trailers and tents, there’s every possibility you’ll be able to camp completely by yourself.
10. Thredbo Diggings Campground
Location: Snowy Mountains
This free camping mountain beauty is open year-round and has great access to the start of Kosciuszko National Park. Come in winter and you’ll need to be prepared for the cold, as there’s often snow to be found next to the frozen Thredbo River. Or come in summer, the water might still be frigid, but there’s plenty on offer by bike, foot, or tube.
11. Newnes Campground
Location: Blue Mountains
Newnes Campground sits in the Wolgan Valley in Wollemi National Park, to the west of the Blue Mountains, and is surrounded by sandstone cliffs by the banks of the Wolgan River.
It’s far enough from Sydney that you’ll be away from the day-trippers, but close enough for an after-work overnighter surrounded by natural beauty.
12. Spring Gully Campground
Location: Hunter
If you don’t mind sharing camp with kangas and wombats, then Spring Gully Campground in Goulburn River National Park is the perfect getaway. Relax around this beautiful free camping spot or take a dip in the Goulburn River if the water levels allow.
The open campground has space for all your needs, so go minimal with the hammock or fully loaded with the trailer, the choice is yours.
13. Bretti Reserve
Location: Mid-North Coast
Cows may wander through this grassy free campsite, but there’s plenty of room for everyone to park up the van or pitch their tent.
This free camping spot is also pet friendly, so let the pooch out to stretch their legs.
14. Roses Park Rest Area
Location: New England
Along Waterfall Way you’ll find Roses Park Rest Area. It’s right off the side of the road, so might not be the most peaceful site you come across. However, as a free campsite (pay by donation) in such a great part of NSW, you can’t really complain.
15. Shelley Head Campground
Location: North Coast
7km along the Yuraygir Coastal Walk, you’ll arrive at the semi-remote beauty of Shelley Head Campground in Yuraygir National Park, NSW. This ocean-fronted, free camp is perfect for swimming, surfing or sea fishing. It’s also a great spot for relaxing away from any crowds, so maybe just pack a book and put your feet up.
16. Mt York Campground
Location: Blue Mountains
If you’re looking for a quintessential free camping adventure in NSW, Mt York Campground is a perfect spot from which to explore the Blue Mountains.
There’s a small limited camping area suitable for tents that’s completely free and doesn’t need a booking, but you’ll have to get in quick to beat all the Sydney climbers.
Dog Friendly Campgrounds in NSW
Camped and written by Tim Ashelford
Dogs love camping. Suddenly the whole world’s a park and everything smells so good! Sadly though, the options for dog-friendly camping in NSW are kinda limited – most campgrounds are in national parks and dogs aren’t allowed because they freak out the wildlife.
Dog-friendly camping does exist though. Here are some of our faves for you and pup to escape the cat race.
17. Coachwood Camping Area
Location: Hunter
Tucked up under Barrington Tops National Park is a cute little spot called Coachwood Camping Area.
Coachwood Camping Area is first-come, first-serve and it’s free! There are bins, fire pits, and long-drop toilets but you’ll have to bring your own water. 2WD vehicles can make it in but be cautious in the wet or in low cars.
18. Riverwood Downs, Monkerai
Location: Hunter
Further north, but still backing onto Barrington Tops, is the Riverwood Downs Campsite. The campsite is located in the Monkerai Valley on a 750-acre property with 5km of mountain river frontage to drink there.
19. Wollondilly River Station
Location: Southern Highlands
In the Southern Highlands south of Sydney, down the Wombeyan Caves Road from Mittagong, sits Wollondilly River Station.
This true blue bush camping retreat is run by Ina and Brian Casburn and it’s refreshingly down to earth.
Bookings by phone are essential and payment is in cash on arrival. There’s no internet, nice.
20. Glen Davis Camping Area
Location: Blue Mountains
How’s camping on the edge of the second widest canyon in the world sound? Well you can make it a reality with pup in tow, just over the Blue Mountains at Glen Davis Camping Area.
This free campground is pretty rudimentary, but a fantastic base to explore the ruins of the oil shale mining in the area.
21. Wee Jasper Reserves
Location: Southern Tablelands
The Wee Jasper Reserves offer a quiet off-grid spot where you can have some quality time with your best mate.
Dogs must be kept on leads, partly because surrounding bushland can have fox baits that aren’t so dog-friendly. Water is available at all sites except Carey’s Reserve.
22. Wingello State Forest
Location: Southern Highlands
Camping in Wingello State Forest is free, but you’ll need to be self-sufficient as toilets are basically the only amenity.
23. Delicate Campground
Location: North Coast
A beachside camp, right next to the Goolwah National Park, Delicate Campground gets its dog-friendly status by being located in Goolwah Regional Park.
Delicate Campground doesn’t take bookings, but you’ll want to get in early during peak periods. It’s $24 a spot (including two people, more for extra) and payment is in cash. You’ll need to be self-sufficient and BYO water but there are toilets.
24. Maca’s Camping Ground
Location: Northern Rivers
This quintessentially Australian spot is close to Mount Jerusalem National Park, but it’s got Garden of Eden vibes with peacocks strolling the lawns and wild macadamias and mulberries to pick. Of course, dogs are more than welcome to join in on the fun.
25. Coopernook Forest Park
Location: Mid-North Coast
Coopernook Forest Park has toilets and BBQs, but you’ll have to bring your own water. This campground is free with no booking required and as it’s just off the Pacific Highway, it makes a good spot to crash on road trips.
26. Scrubby Creek Picnic Area
Location: South Coast
Twenty clicks south of the windswept fishing town of Eden sits Scrubby Creek Picnic Area. The native bushland of East Boyd State Forest offers a super basic camping retreat that’s dog-friendly.
Expect tables, fire pits and not much else.
27. North Head Camping Area
Location: South Coast
North Head Camping Area (different from the NSW National Parks run North Head campground) sits at the mouth of the Moruya River where it meets the ocean.
You can book North Head Camping Area online and fees change depending on the season. In really peak times there are minimum stays of up to 7 days.
28. Mystery Bay Campground, Mystery Bay
Location: South Coast
You can’t book Mystery Bay Campground so get in early if it’s a busy weekend! Fees change throughout the year but it’s pretty cheap, long drop toilets and cold showers are the only real facilities. Oh and luuush scenery, of course.
Best Beach Campgrounds in NSW
Camped and written by Ally Burnie
When it comes to beach camping in NSW, us Sydney-siders are pretty spoiled for choice. Whether you head to the far North Coast, South Coast, Central Coast – pretty much anywhere coastal – you’re sure to find an epic spot to pitch a tent.
A true Aussie pastime, camping near or even on the beach is one of life’s greatest pleasures (unless you hate sand in all of your crevices, then I’d concede that beach camping isn’t for you).
For those that do love it though, I’ve rounded up the 15 best beach camping spots in NSW so you don’t have to use your noggin’ and can just pack your car and go – you’re welcome.
29. Picnic Point Campground
Location: Sydney
If your idea of a good time is waking up by the ocean and taking two steps to your next catch, Picnic Point campground in Sydney’s far south coast is where you wanna be. Sitting pretty between two beautiful beaches, there are 18 spots amongst the banksias to choose from.
30. Honeymoon Bay Campground
Location: South Coast
If rustic camping is your thing, you’ll love Honeymoon Bay Campground as it’s BYO drinking water, toilet paper, and cooking gear. However, there are toilets and showers (phew).
Camping is fully booked during the summer holiday period via a ballot system held each August. During the rest of the year, you can visit this Jervis Bay campground on most weekends and during school holidays on a first come, first served basis. Sadly, no pets either.
Find more campgrounds around Jervis Bay with our comprehensive guide.
31. Diamond Head Campground
Location: North Coast
Diamond Head is certainly popular and it’s got something for everyone – including campsites for tents, motorhomes, campervans, and caravans. You’ll also find gas barbecues, picnic shelters and outdoor showers right next to the beach.
32. Pebbly Beach Campground
Location: South Coast
Not to be confused with Pebbly Beach campground in Yuraygir National Park (although this is also an epic camp spot), Pebbly Beach is a must-visit. What’s great about this NSW beach campground is you can camp right next to your car, which is always an added bonus.
33. Depot Beach Campground
Location: South Coast
If Pebbly Beach is booked, another gem in Murramarang National Park is Depot Beach. Very close to Batemans Bay, this beach is typically a lot quieter, so if you love a secluded paradise, then this NSW campsite is for you.
34. Little Beach Campground
Location: Central Coast
An all-time personal fave, Little Beach campground in Bouddi National Park offers the best secluded and remote beach camping in NSW. With only six pitches in this small beach campground, you can sleep easy knowing it’s never going to be too crowded.
35. Trial Bay Gaol Campground
Location: North Coast
Don’t let the name of this campground put you off – Trial Bay Gaol campground is a gorgeous beach campground in NSW, with an enviable position beside Front Beach.
It’s certainly an epic spot for families and couples (or singles) alike, and a beautiful spot to explore Arakoon National Park.
36. Woody Head Campground
Location: North Coast
If you’re up for a trip to the far north coast, may we suggest Woody Head Campground in Bundjalung National Park?
With 94 campsites this very popular destination can get a little crowded, but I promise it’s worth it.
37. Freemans Campground
Location: Central Coast
Another stunning beach camping spot on the Central Coast of NSW, Freemans Campground is ideal for fishing, surfing and relaxing bushwalks.
If you can never decide between beach or bush camping, Freemans Campground is for you. It really is the best of both worlds.
38. Pretty Beach Campground
Location: South Coast
Pretty Beach Campground is one of the most peaceful spots for beach camping.
There are plenty of tent sites and a lot of them have power too. If you don’t feel like beach camping, there are even a few cabins!
39. Patonga Beach Campground
Location: Central Coast
Nestled between Patonga Creek and Patonga Beach, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to ways to enjoying the water.
And with over 35 powered and 46 unpowered grassed sites, Patonga Beach Campground can easily accommodate camper in tents, right through to those living the luxurious caravan lifestyle.
40. Coledale Surf Club and Camping Reserve
Location: Illawarra
If you want to get as close as possible to camping on top of the sand, this is the holiday park near Sydney for you. Almost every one of the lovely grassy sites here has beach frontage and views of the waves.
The campground is surprisingly well sheltered for a beachside spot and is easily accessible via public transport.
41. The Basin Campground
Location: Sydney
The Basin Campground is a very popular place to pitch a tent and, incidentally, the only place that you can camp in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
Luckily this campground is bloody huge and can accommodate up to 350 campers at a time.
But, here’s the catch, you can’t drive the car to this one. You’ll need to strap your gear to your back and walk in.
42. Sydney Lakeside Caravan Park
Location: Sydney
The Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park is just about the closest beachside accommodation you can secure to the CBD. It is situated between Narrabeen Lake and Narrabeen surf beach so you can enjoy the best of both water bodies, or relax in the pool at the campground.
43. Tallow Beach Campground
Location: Central Coast
This hike-in campground at Tallow Beach provides only six campsites and is a hell of a lot quieter and more peaceful by comparison. Access is via a 1.2km track from the car park but you’ll need to carry all your gear plus drinking water as none is supplied at the campground.
44. Stewart and Lloyds Campground
Camped and written by Helen Jaman
Location: Mid-North Coast
A three-hour road trip north of Sydney will take you a world away to be immersed in nature within the Myall Lakes National Park at Stewart and Lloyds Campground.
It’s a well-laid-out campground with 12 marked sites, non-flush toilets, and all flat terrain. The campground is accessible by 2WD via sealed roads and suitable for both tents and camper trailers.
@helenjamanphotography
45. Meroo Head Campground
Camped and written by Mattie Gould
Location: South Coast
If you’re after an off-season escape to the South Coast, try and find Meroo Head Campground. This hidden gem will offer plenty of options for adventure.
Meroo Head Campground consists of about 30 camping sites, each with a fire pit, spread out over a fairly large area, which meant that we were easily able to find a site out of eye line and hearing from the couple of other camping parties.
46. Termeil Point Campground
Camped and written by Eva Davis-Boermans
Location: South Coast
Termeil Point Campground is a picturesque drive-in campground nestled in Meroo National Park on NSW’s South Coast, just a stone’s throw away from Meroo Head Campground!
Termeil Point has one campground with 12 allocated sites. They’re free, except for a $6 fee that you pay online when you book. Make sure you book ahead as this is a popular spot for locals and travellers!
Best Campgrounds Near Sydney
Camped and written by Amy Fairall
Whether you want to fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves, or wake to morning mountain mist, you’ll find nature bliss at these camping spots near Sydney.
My friends and I have spent hundreds of nights roaming NSW’s mountains, coastlines, rivers, and lakes following our wanderlust and searching for those special camping sites and the promise of adventure in all sorts of weird and wonderful nooks and crannies.
We haven’t even touched the sides of all the great national parks and campgrounds out there, but we’ve found some stunners along the way.
The following camping sites are all tried and tested. They’re within 2-3 hours of Sydney and have varying facilities but are as far as possible from a caravan park! Sure you could hit up Lane Cove National Park, but so will every other northern Sydney Explorer who can’t be bothered to escape the city.
These camping spots aren’t just the same old stomping grounds that appear when Googling ‘camping near Sydney’ (that means everyone’s going there, and the last thing I want when escaping hoards of people is hoards of people!).
47. North Era Campground
Location: Sydney
It’s hard to believe that beach camping sites like this exist within 60 minutes of Sydney’s CBD! To get to North Era Campground, park at Garie Beach in the Royal National Park and walk over the headland with your supplies.
This is the main camping ground on the Royal National Park Coast Track, so be prepared to book well in advance, it’s a popular hike!
48. Kingfisher Pool Campground
Location: Sydney
To the south of Sydney, Kingfisher Pool Campground is a quaint walk-in campground situated right by the tranquil Kingfisher Pool and waterfall.
Facilities here aren’t vast, but there’s a toilet block and picnic tables available.
49. Bonnie Vale Campground
Location: Sydney
With space for tents, campervan, caravans, and camper trailers, as well as large groups, Bonnie Vale Campground can cater for just about anyone.
The campground’s just finished a bunch of renovations, so now there’s an updated amenities block (with hot showers) picnic areas, and BBQs.
50. Little Beach Campground
Location: Central Coast
A small and intimate campground within Bouddi National Park, there are only a few sites at Little Beach Campground so make sure you book in early during the summer months.
Complete with BBQ, toilets, sun, surf, and fishing, all you need to do is bring your friends.
51. Dalys Clearing Campground
Location: Southern Highlands
This FREE campground in Belanglo State Forest is entirely surrounded by a pine forest. And because it’s in a state forest, that means you can even bring your four-legged friend along.
The facilities are limited, but there are toilets and fire pits available, plus you don’t have to book in advance!
52. Shelly Beach Campground
Location: Mid-North Coast
More than 20 campgrounds are hidden away in the region, so you’re bound to find a secluded spot to stick your proverbial flag. However, Shelly Beach Campground, is our fave.
The catch is, the car will only get you so far. To reach this lakeside campground, you’re gonna have to get your legs strolling, pedalling, or even your arms paddling.
53. Mill Creek Campground
Location: Sydney surrounds
Not far from Wisemans Ferry on the northern side of the Hawkesbury River, Mill Creek Campground can be found nestled between the creek and the dramatic sandstone escarpment.
Mill Creek Campground can host tents and camper trailers and provides BBQs and toilets.
54. Carrington Falls Campground
Location: Southern Highlands
Not far from the town of Robertson and right by the stunning Kangaroo River, you’ll find Carrington Falls Campground.
This tents-only campground is a glorious bush escape, with ample walking and swimming opportunities just a tent-pole length away.
55. Dunphys Campground
Location: Blue Mountains
Experience the iconic Blue Mountains without the crowds at Dunphys Campground.
Bring your tent or camper trailer and enjoy the undercover BBQs, fire pits, and picnic tables. There are also toilets here, so don’t stress.
56. Bristol Point Campground
Location: South Coast
Indulge in the complete and utter beauty of Jervis Bay at Bristol Point Campground.
Find hot showers, toilets, fire pits, and BBQs here and keep your peepers peeled for all types of wildlife – from echidnas crawling through the leaves, to dolphins playing in the water, and possums scrambling through the trees.
57. Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp Campground
Location: Blue Mountains
Tucked away in Wollemi National Park is the perfect place to unwind and get back to nature – Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp Campground. Keep your eyes peeled for a platypus!
58. Pebbly Beach Campground
Location: South Coast
Probably the best-designed campground of all that I’ve seen in NSW, not only is Pebbly Beach Campground difficult to beat for watching the sunrise (alongside a pack of sand-loving kangaroos if you’re lucky) you’ll also get your own private allotment to set up a base for the night.
59. Wombeyan Caves Campground
Location: Southern Tablelands
Whether you rock up with a tent, caravan or camper trailer, there’s a place for you at Wombeyan Caves Campground.
This is an excellent campground for large groups of all shapes and sizes. There are BBQs, showers, toilets, drinking water, heck there’s even a cafe and public phones!
60. Dalli’s Campground
Camped and written by Amanda Westwood
Location: Blue Mountains
Dalli’s Campground is a vast, private 122-acre family-owned and operated property, over the Blue Mountains, 200km north-west of Sydney.
This remote campground is nestled in the Capertee Valley, the second-largest canyon in the world, where sandstone cliffs dominate the escarpment.
The campground has flat, shady, undesignated camping areas and is accessible for all types of vehicles, including caravans, motorhomes, and campervans.
Planning Your Camping Trip
When to Go
The best time to visit NSW for a camping trip really depends on what you’re after. If you’re a beach bum, December to February is perfect for soaking up the sun and diving into water activities. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are your best bets.
These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and are ideal for exploring the state’s beautiful national parks and campgrounds. For those who love a bit of chill in the air, winter (June to August) is a fantastic time to venture out.
Best Campgrounds NSW FAQs
How do I know if a national park campground is open?
Campgrounds may be affected by natural disasters or severe weather, so always check the NSW National Parks website or contact local council areas for up-to-date information on closures before camping.
What are the benefits of staying at holiday parks vs campgrounds?
Holiday parks offer way more perks than your average campsite. Think hot showers, kitchens, cabins, and sometimes even WiFi – it’s almost all the comforts of home! They’re great if you want a mix of nature and convenience, especially with kids or a caravan.
If you’re uber lucky they might have playgrounds, pools, and activity options like kayak hire. Pets are more likely to be allowed at holiday parks vs campgrounds too. If you want a recommendation, give our mates over at Reflections Holiday Parks a visit.
Can you camp for free in Sydney?
You’ll need to be at a designated free camping spot or rest area to set up your tent/caravan/camper and stay the night for free. These areas are usually away from the main cities and make a great stopover on road trips. Check out our list of the best free camping spots in NSW and add them to your itinerary.
Do you need to book NSW campgrounds in national parks in advance?
All campgrounds specifically in New South Wales National Parks now require a booking, which charges a $6 booking fee, so take this into account when exploring the ‘free’ camping NSW has to offer.
Some other free campgrounds may be outside of NSW National Parks and therefore may not require a booking or charge booking fees. Either way, it’s always important to check before you head off on your camping trip.
What is the penalty for camping illegally in NSW?
The fine for camping illegally in NSW can be anything up to $5,500.
What beaches can you camp on in Sydney?
Pitching a tent directly on any beach within Sydney isn’t allowed. However there are plenty of beachside campgrounds around NSW with a bunch less than a two-hour drive from Sydney.
Read more: The 10 Best Beach Camping Spots in NSW
Can you camp near Sydney Harbour?
There are a number of caravan parks in Sydney that are just a short drive or public transport ride away from Sydney Harbour. However, we’ve also included the Wareamah / Cockatoo Island Waterfront Campground on our list, where you can camp on an island in Sydney Harbour. A ferry ride is required to get there and you can book a tent or BYO.
Are there places to camp in Crowdy Bay National Park?
Yep, Crowdy Bay National Park has some awesome camping spots! Check out Diamond Head Campground for beach vibes and outdoor showers, Kylies Beach Campground for a quieter bush setting, or Indian Head Campground if you’re after a more rustic experience.
Am I allowed to stay at NSW campgrounds in national parks with my dog?
Just about all dog-friendly campgrounds in NSW (and Australia!) are in state forests, conservation areas, or regional parks. National parks aren’t dog-friendly because even the smell of our furry besties can have negative impacts on native wildlife and fragile ecosystems. Fortunately, there are plenty of dog-friendly campgrounds, beaches, holiday parks, and furry-friend-friendly walks near Sydney (and around NSW!) for you to enjoy together!
Feature photo by @dayginprescott
Want to camp across the border instead?
- Best Free Campgrounds in Queensland
- Free Campsites Near Melbourne
- Beach Camping Spots in Victoria
- Dog Friendly Campsites Near Brisbane
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