The best campgrounds near Canberra, Australian Capital Territory with horseback riding

Canberra’s museums, galleries, and national monuments offer plenty of culture, but the city’s best asset is its natural setting. Hemmed in by sloping peaks and nature reserves, here outdoors enthusiasts can enjoy bushwalking, cycling, and wildlife trails, or head to Lake Burley Griffin to sail, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard with views of Parliament House. Campers have a wide range of options, whether parking your campervan or caravan on the outskirts of the city centre, or sleeping out in swags beneath the stars.

100% (264)

Top-rated campgrounds near Canberra

Canberra’s museums, galleries, and national monuments offer plenty of culture, but the city’s best asset is its natural setting. Hemmed in by sloping peaks and nature reserves, here outdoors enthusiasts can enjoy bushwalking, cycling, and wildlife trails, or head to Lake Burley Griffin to sail, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard with views of Parliament House. Campers have a wide range of options, whether parking your campervan or caravan on the outskirts of the city centre, or sleeping out in swags beneath the stars.

100% (264)

Top-rated campgrounds near Canberra

1. Bahwidgee on Tumut River

97%

(2260)

82km from Canberra · 177 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Located on the stunning Tumut River, where River Red gums are scattered though out the camp,offering shade, privacy, and comfort. Here you have clear Snowy River water at your doorstep. It's so fresh we drink it! Each camping site is by the river, prime position for fishing, canoeing, and swimming. Based on availability, you are welcome to choose your spot on arrival. All options are grassed and level. You will have access to pit toilets (3) otherwise, please BYO facilities. Small campfires are welcome in the fire pits provided, or BYO firepit (permitting there are no restrictions in place at the time). Firewood can be purchased at the time of booking. We’re pet-friendly! Please note, however, that we are a working farm with ongoing activities and resident animals, including livestock and farm dogs, so all pets must be kept under control at all times. Aggressive, disruptive, or potentially dangerous dogs of any type are not allowed — especially restricted breeds (e.g. Pit Bulls, Bull Mastiffs). Only friendly dogs are permitted, and we reserve the right to ask you to leave if your dog is deemed unsafe or aggressive upon arrival. If you have any doubts, please message us prior to booking. Also, please ensure kids are supervised at all times, particularly around the river. Lifejackets are recommended. During your time here, visit the local farm gates in Tumut, Batlow, Tumbarumba, and Adelong for their delicious high-country produce. There are also some beautiful swimming spots and walks to discover in the region, as well as good facilities in town, including the local swimming pool and shopping centre. Enjoy a local brew and bite to eat at the Tumut brewery. Bahwidgee is just 3km from the Tumut town centre - so close you could ride in, or even walk.

2. The Hobby Sheep Farm

99%

(210)

70km from Canberra · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

EV Charging station available Type 2 plug (costs applicable). Come and pitch your tent or caravan in our hobby sheep farm. Plenty to do from fishing, bush walking or simply relaxing in and around the garden. There is access to drinking water and a toilet (no shower). I can offer friendly advice for activities around the area, or you're welcome to go out exploring yourself. The Shoalhaven River is a short 25 minute drive from the property, 25 minutes to Goulburn CBD for all your supply needs, and Canberra is 1 hour away. Enjoy the evenings warming your toes around the campfire as you gaze at the night sky. The area is peppered with many other quaint villages. Excellent overnight stop from the coast and the wine country. Please note that firewood is not available and there are no fires permitted October till April. Pets welcome.

3. Spring Creek Valley Farm

99%

(66)

46km from Canberra · 1 site · Tent, RV

Spring Creek Valley Farm is a 2200-acre farm located in the beautiful southern tablelands, 1 hour to the Canberra CBD and just 1 hour to Batemans Bay on the coast. With over 3km of creek frontage and 100+ acres of untouched native bushland, there are ample options for campsites to suit just about anyone. All campers must be completely self-contained, with their own camp toilet, and take all waste when they go. The original name of this property is Wooraba which is an aboriginal word for 'hidden' which describes it very well. Here, you will immerse yourself in the Australian bush and enjoy a truly peaceful retreat. Enjoy fantastic bushwalks amongst the native flora and fauna, or take your mountain bike to the high open hilly area to check out the expansive views. Or lay in some of the creek's rock pools and sunbathe. Whilst we can accept dogs, this absolutely must be discussed with us prior to booking. We are a working farm, with sheep, and it is important that any visiting pets do not hassle our sheep, and are kept on a lead at all times. Campfires are permitted in the designated fire pit when conditions allow and no local fire bans are in play.

4. Brooklyn Springs Farm Escape

100%

(104)

74km from Canberra · 14 sites · Tents, RVs

932 acres of stunning views in a beautiful valley nestled in the hills between Tumut and Gundagai. It's a working property currently running cattle. We are located at Brungle Creek, between Tumut and Gundagai. We have many private, secluded, beautiful spots for you to choose from. The views are spectacular and the atmosphere is the ultimate for relaxing. It's best for self sufficient campers as there are no toilets or amenities. In advance, you can arrange a farm tour through host. There are no toilets for campers so you will need to be self-contained with your own camping toilet and shower. Drinking and cooking water available. Our cabin is fully contained with all that you need for a comfortable stay. Dogs permitted but must be well controlled and NOT chase livestock. Campfires permitted in designated areas when restrictions aren't in place. Firewood available, discuss with host where to get it from. Lovely spot to relax and unwind and really connect. The night sky is incredible, lay back and gaze for hours. You will only have neighbours if you bring them with you, all camps are private! Bliss!

5. Longview

100%

(3)

33km from Canberra · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Lovely views from the hill sitting on 42 acres within a valley south of Canberra. Room to explore, with close access to walking trails, lots of wildlife including some very stubborn wombats, kangaroos and lots of birds, lizards, and friendly horses that will do anything for carrots. Its far enough out of town for complete silence, but only 30 minutes back into town. Close to Googong Dam (which is great for fishing, kayaking, walking). Dog friendly so the whole family can visit. Suits campers who have their own toilet and leave no trace. No amenitiies.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A

Adrian

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Camping with cows right next to us and a river we could drink from, was great! ⛺️

S

Suraj

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Beautiful location and great for fishing and swimming 🏊.

H

Hannah

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Spring Creek Valley Farm

We loved being off the beaten track at Bill’s hipcamp site! The nature is stunning, we saw wedge-tail eagles, king parrots, cockatoos, kangaroos and lots of wombat burrows, unfortunately didn’t get the chance to go spotlighting at night to see a wombat due to the weather being surprisingly cold and windy. Next time we will bring warmer clothes in summer! The waterfall near upper creekside site is stunning, would be great to come after a big downpour. The sheep were very vocal but we loved the sounds! All round a great stay.

Geoff

December 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Great spot right on banks of Tumut River. Clean pit toilet, friendly cows, plenty of space and privacy. River was cold when we were there in December but still beautiful for a dip and crystal clear. A sign of a good hipcamp is if you would return or not and we will certainly be back.

G

Glenn

December 2025

Tent

2 nights at Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Great little spot to camp. Right on the river and plenty of birdlife about. Was surrounded by cows at one time, a reminder that it is a working farm. Would return

F

Fran

November 2025

8 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Hobby Sheep Farm

Ron's hobby sheep farm is quite large, the camping area was nice and flat, well grassed with easy access, and a westward border of pine trees that provided some shelter from strong westerly winds we experienced over our stay. There is 10A power available and even an EV type 2 charger. A single toilet out house is fed from a rainwater tank with a potable water tap off the rainwater tank. A Genorous size fire ring is present for low fire danger periods. There are multiple dams and some goldfish ponds with recycled solar powered water features. Plenty of open paddocks with sheep and access tracks to walk around the property. With a low number of other guests we had an undisturbed quiet relaxing family weekend.

N

Natasha

November 2025

Tent

4 nights at Spring Creek Valley Farm

An amazing place to camp overall. We were greeted by Bill and taken to a site sheltered from the strong winds. We got woken up by sheep as they were passing by in the mornings - they would get super close and were nice little friends to have around. The site was very private and isolated itself. There was some phone reception - just enough to send a quick text message. You get lots of space on this one all to yourself. We had a great time. Thank you Bill & family.

a

ashlee

November 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Spring Creek Valley Farm

Great spot Close the canberra Host was great Beautiful scenery So peaceful will definitely be back again

D

Daniel

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Awesome spot highly recommend can camp on the tumet river , owner very friendly.

J

Jack

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spring Creek Valley Farm

Nice spot, plenty of firewood and a lovely view of rolling hills!

Scott

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Lovely campsite. Great host. Highly recommended.

K

Kylie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bahwidgee on Tumut River

I loved camping at Bahwidgee! It’s so well maintained and right on the river. Wayne is an incredibly friendly host and his farm is beautiful. Only a short 3-4km walk into town (Tumut) and there’s a lovely river walk there too. Would definitely recommend and we will be back for sure.

B

Brittany

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Bahwidgee is an excellent spot, so beautiful being able to camp right by the river. The location was easy to find with the clear instructions provided. We saw a platypus in the river whilst we had breakfast in the morning.

M

Melissa

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Bahwidgee on Tumut River

What a great place to relax and rewind. All waterfront sites, shady, firewood, cows wandering through the campsite - perfect. Wayne was fantastic with communications and assistance. We will be back!!!

T

Tom

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Absolutely amazing place to stay with incredible views the river is as clear as they come amazing property toilet at easy access would most definitely be going back without a doubt

P

Peter

November 2025

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Spring Creek Valley Farm

Great campsite! Greeted by host and shown to our site, beautiful panoramic views. Thunderstorm rolled in as we arrived, which added to the excitement. Great creek close by to cool off in on a hot day. Excellent for overnight escape from Canberra. Good solid firewood was provided as well, which kept us going the whole night. Well recommended.

M

Michael

October 2025

4 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to The Hobby Sheep Farm

Really loved camping next to the dam, lots of shade and a great chorus of frogs to enjoy at sunset. Ron and Karen are very attentive to your needs and very helpful with their local knowledge.

C

Claudia

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bahwidgee on Tumut River

The directions were clear, had the best time kicking back, Wayne you have a beautiful property and the cattle were a highlight especially the cows chasing a kangaroo from paddock to paddock, saw a mumma possum with a baby on her back at night. Would highly recommend this beautiful place. Day of leaving got a nice 30cm brown trout at 7am. Cooked it up for lunch. Thankyou Wayne for your hospitality. Definetly will book here again

C

Cassandra

October 2025

5 m car

1 night at Brooklyn Springs Farm Escape

We recently stayed at a truly special spot, after a last minute decision to stop on our way home from a long holiday. one of those rare places that feels like a secret worth sharing. Tucked away in the middle of nowhere, we camped in our done up ute on a quiet farm surrounded by rolling paddocks, grazing cows, curious sheep, and gentle horses. It was the kind of peaceful setting that instantly makes you slow down and breathe a little deeper. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed. With abit of a mix up on my end, the owners were warm, friendly, and communicated everything clearly, making the whole experience easy and enjoyable. You can tell they genuinely care about the land and the people who come to enjoy it. As the sun began to set, we watched the sky light up in soft oranges and pinks, casting a golden glow over the animals and the hills. It was quiet. just the sounds of nature and the occasional rustle of the breeze. under the stars, we felt completely at peace. It was the perfect farewell as we headed home from our holiday. This place is ideal for anyone who loves the outdoors, wants to disconnect from the noise, and reconnect with the simple beauty of the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just looking for a unique overnight stop, I can’t recommend it enough. We’ll definitely be back in the future and next time, we’ll stay a little longer.

Anthony

October 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Lovely spot right on the river, well mowed and tidy. Was busy being the long weekend, but still nice.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Canberra with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Australian Alps

The Australian Alps roll out south of Canberra into New South Wales and Victoria. On the outskirts of the capital, the rocky peaks and bushlands of Namadgi and Brindabella national parks harbour rustic camping spots with alpine views and plenty of options for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Further south, the mountain resorts of Thredbo and Perisher are two of the country’s most popular ski areas

Wine Country

Just a half-hour drive north of the city, the green hills of Murrumbateman, Gundaroo, and Yass make up the Canberra wine region, where boutique wineries and cellar doors offer vineyard strolls and wine tasting. Some of Canberra’s best camping sites lie here, where you can pitch your tent in the hills, cool off with a dip in a natural swimming hole, then tuck into a BBQ around the campfire.

Canberra Nature Reserves

Canberra is encircled by nature reserves, where you can roam along woodland trails, swim in freshwater creeks, and spot wild kangaroos hopping through the bushlands. Popular getaways from the city include Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, just southwest of the city; Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve to the north; and Kowen Forest to the east.

When to go

Canberra’s distinct seasons mean that the city’s landscapes are ever changing—autumnal leaves blanket the hillsides with shades of red, orange, and gold, while the mountaintops are dusted with snow in winter. The best time for camping trips, bushwalking, and outdoor activities is from September through May, but the region is busiest in summer (December through February), when it’s best to book camping grounds in advance.

Know before you go

Public transport is limited between Canberra and the surrounding national parks and reserves, so you will need your own car. Some sites are only reachable by 4WD.
Camping sites in the ACT’s parks often have few amenities, so bring everything you need with you, including drinking water and firewood.
Fire bans are common in the ACT during summer and dry periods, so be sure to check local recommendations before lighting your campfire.
A National Parks pass is required to visit, hike, or camp within Australia’s national parks.
Snakes are common around Canberra—keep your ankles covered if walking through tall grass and pack a first-aid kit when hiking or camping in bushland areas.

Nearby attractions

Located at the end of the Snowy Mountains Highway and surrounded by breathtaking views, Tantangara Dam is a great place to visit for hiking and water sports.