The best forest campgrounds near Armidale, New South Wales

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate camping resource in Australia! If you're looking for a camping experience surrounded by lush forests near Armidale, New South Wales, we've got you covered. With over 1900 options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect campsite that suits your preferences. Some of our top campsites in the area include Coffs Harbour Camping & 4WD (721 reviews), Footprints in Style (276 reviews), and Yildaan Trail Campground (255 reviews). Whether you're interested in wildlife watching, exploring historic sites, or going on scenic hikes, there's something for everyone. Plus, popular facilities like toilets, potable water, and campfires are readily available. With an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $5, camping has never been more accessible. So pack your tent and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the forests near Armidale!

94% (342)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate camping resource in Australia! If you're looking for a camping experience surrounded by lush forests near Armidale, New South Wales, we've got you covered. With over 1900 options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect campsite that suits your preferences. Some of our top campsites in the area include Coffs Harbour Camping & 4WD (721 reviews), Footprints in Style (276 reviews), and Yildaan Trail Campground (255 reviews). Whether you're interested in wildlife watching, exploring historic sites, or going on scenic hikes, there's something for everyone. Plus, popular facilities like toilets, potable water, and campfires are readily available. With an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $5, camping has never been more accessible. So pack your tent and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the forests near Armidale!

94% (342)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cracknback Riverside Campground

99%

(276)

65km from Armidale · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · Lower Creek, NSW

Our working farm is located between Kempsey and Armidale in the beautiful Macleay Valley in the Northern Tablelands of NSW. We offer large, grassy campsites on the beautiful Macleay River and a modern amenities block with hot showers and flushing toilets. Choose your own campsite Additional guests welcome at $25 per head per night. Kids 5 - 15 years $5 per night. Under 5 years free **IMPORTANT INFORMATION** Roadworks will be occurring at Peedee Hill from now until July 2026. This will only affect campers travelling through Kempsey. Peedee Hill is 30 minutes from the campground and just over an hour from Kempsey. The road will be impassable Monday to Friday 9am – 3.30pm, Wednesdays 9am-2pm, Saturdays 8am – 1pm. If you leave Kempsey an hour before the road opens you will be able to drive straight through. Xmas. No roadworks from Sunday 21st December to Sunday 4th January. DO NOT USE GPS once on Kempsey Road! Because the road is closed on Live Traffic, GPS will take you into the back hills. From Kempsey 1.5 hours. Travel through Willawarrin, Bellbrook and continue straight for 32 kms until you see our signs on the left. From Armidale From the corner of Kempsey-Armidale Road and Waterfall Way, Cracknback is app 54km on the right. * Heaps of flat ground for kids to ride bikes * Watch tortoises and fish in the river * Dogs welcome (must be people, dog and cow friendly) * Free kayaks for use * Beautiful mountain ranges and such an open sky you can see the Milky Way! * Flushing toilets, hot showers * Family friendly * Fire pits provided but bring your own wood

2. "Glendawn"

99%

(75)

79km from Armidale · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Lambs Valley, NSW

"Glendawn" is a small farming/ cattle grazing property with many beaut spots for camping. There are 2 sites with access to power and a few others without. It's a great place to get away but not too far from town. Fire pits and some firewood provided. We have a powered site in the old Woolshed. The Woolshed has had some modifications. It has a camp kitchen, hot and cold running water, toilet & shower. There is a fridge, toaster, kettle, microwave, gas BBQ, outdoor fire pit, chairs, power and lighting. Large central area indoors. Its a delightful spot in the paddock to enjoy being "in the country". The woolshed itself is 2WD accessible. In the winter months its really quite cold overnight. There's a great outdoor firepit and I provide firewood for $10. There's a patio heater too and its 8kg gas cylinder costs $30. I will provide the first one. This venue has been popular for families 'plugging in' their vans and for others to roll their swags out either inside the shed or under the stars. Privacy and peace and quiet in abundance here. We also have unpowered camping in the paddocks. There are a few places with shade near a dam, by the old hayshed, or on a hill with views over the valley, excellent sunsets and a clearing for camping, 4WD accessible. Children under 12 stay for free on unpowered sites!

3. Merridale

91%

(22)

67km from Armidale · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Bakers Creek, NSW

Our beautiful property is located near Inverell, featuring 1,850 acres of gently sloping farmland edged by mountains with beautiful eucalyptus bush. There is a big dam and yabbies in the creek. We have a range of fruit trees which you are welcome to help yourself to fruit when in season. Farm Rules - clean up after yourself - The hut and the yard up on the hill are out of bound. - Fishing is welcome however we run a catch and release. - Shut the gates when passing through. - Dogs are welcome but must be under control/on lead as we do run cattle on the property. - No hunting. - Fires are welcome but must be contained and kept under control. Activity's - Being a kayak or something to float around on. - Bring your metal detectors - Horses are welcome with the addition cost. Enjoy scenic horse rides around the valley. - Fishing (catch and release) - Yabbies (welcome to eat what you catch). - Panning in the creek for gems. - hike Sites - we run a undesignated system meaning you can set up and camp anywhere you would like however some ideas below. Anywhere around the dam You have an option to camp at the shed where there is a generator for power (lighting) and toilet amenities. This area is generally flat and can accommodate any type of camping vehicle. There is a shed to provide shelter for your food prep etc. There is a sink under the awning but you will need to carry water in a container to wash dishes. Outside there is wood-burning BBQ the camping paddock is fully fenced in . For 4WD enthusiasts, there are good camping spots at the top of the mountain ridge however need to be self contained eg toilet. You will need to bring your own fresh drinking water supply and unleaded fuel to run the water pump and generator. We have secure cattle yards as a holding space if holidaying with your horses (please see Extras for horse facility fees). Enjoy scenic horse rides around the valley and relax in front of the campfire by night. Dogs on leashes are welcome. There is no phone reception on site There is a pub in Bundarra where meals hospitality and spending time with the locals and a corner store 25km away at Bundarra, and all shops and amenities are available 75km at Inverell.

4. Taylors Run Farm Camping

37km from Armidale · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Kentucky South, NSW

The Taylor family history goes back to the early days of fine wool production in Australia. Taylors Run was one of the original properties established on the New England Tablelands. Today this region produces the largest percentage of top quality superfine wool in the world.Taylors Run is now represented by one of the six Taylor family farms. All properties are still owned and managed by direct descendants of William Tydd Taylor and the sheep are mostly of the same original bloodline that has been improved through selection and breeding for producing the premium quality superfine wool we sell today.

from

AU$61

/ night

5. Briarfield

96%

(37)

32km from Armidale · 1 site · Tent, RV · Aberfoyle, NSW

Our piece of heaven is Briarfield, a beef & wool farm on the Northern Tablelands 30km east of Guyra. 1300m above sea level.The southern end of our farm is one large paddock of 500 acres for you to explore, relax & enjoy the peaceful seclusion. We only take one booking/group, it's all yours.There are gullies to explore full of natural rock outcrops, ferns & enormous gum trees. Lots of little tracks to follow under the canopy of our great stringy bark trees. An abundance of wildlife to share your space with, kangaroos, wallabies, echidna & if you are lucky koalas! We back onto the start of the Wollomombi River, where we would suggest that you camp, but there are many beautiful spots.Please bring your own camp toilet. Well behaved dogs on leads welcome. Campfires - see rules.

6. Back to Nature Bush Camping

100%

(12)

10km from Armidale · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Tilbuster, NSW

Elderslie lies at the foot of Mount Duval Nature Reserve. We encompass a variety of landscapes from stringy bark Forrest and creek lands to open timber and mountains. We travel through 1.5km of rough terrain that follows the powerlines, steep in parts. 4WD vehicle required. The campsite is a flat, grassy area, the perfect spot to get back to nature and enjoy the tranquillity. Campers are welcome to enjoy a campfire - do not light fires during fire ban. Pets are allowed. There are no facilities here, campers need to BYO camp toilet and leave no trace. Just 15 minutes down the road you'll find yourself in the regional hub of Armidale for all your shopping and supply needs.

7. Bai-Yai River Eco-Camp & Artist Retreat

100%

(37)

59km from Armidale · 4 sites · Lodging · Retreat, NSW

Bai-Yai is a 480 acre partly Conservation Covenanted property, 70 minutes south-west of Armidale & 70 minutes north-west of Tamworth. On the tablelands 700 metres above sea level, next door to Warrabah National Park. Our northern boundary is the Macdonald river, just before it drops westward through the gorges & changes its name to the Namoi.We're for the nature-lover who enjoys peace & quiet away from crowds, who values birdsong above the hum of cars & generators! Our facilities are simple but comfortable, all off-grid. There's a covered platform kitchen area overlooking some of the great river swimming spots for campers to enjoy, a pit toilet, simple shower, & fresh drinking water supplied daily. The owners house is out of sight but within coo-ee if needed.The river & general wildness of terrain make Bai-Yai camping not really suitable for young children who requite 24/7 supervision for their safety.CRITICAL: Please ensure your personal profile is completed including a photo before submitting a booking request.

8. Peppermint Flat Glamping

96%

(14)

46km from Armidale · 2 sites · Lodging · Wollomombi, NSW

Located within half an hour drive of several World Heritage listed National Parks, Peppermint Flat Glamping provides 3 canvas bell tents for groups of up to 9 people. 20m from the Platypus-filled Oaky River and with all the luxuries of home: hot water showers, real mattresses, luxury bedding, device charging facilities and lights and all the cooking equipment and utensils you could ever need. Just bring ice, food and drinks for the esky and you’re set!

9. The Hylands Wilderness Retreat

79%

(7)

79km from Armidale · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · Bellingen, NSW

We introduce you to ‘The Hylands’ 830 acres of undisturbed tranquility. A special beautiful wilderness, surrounded by ancient trees, an abundance of bird life, with a long, main completely private and secluded river and multiple creeks with deep swimming holes, waterfalls. and rapids to explore. Will completely wipe the tears of stress from your eyes and instil a deep sense of overwhelming peace. Get completely immersed in the magic of the Australian bush with endless ancient gullies to explore, steep hills and high country fauna and flora, undiscovered hiking trails, mountain biking tracks, and long rides if you have your own horses. If you’re into the setting yourself challenges of any kind this place is yours! If your not then this also is your perfect getaway…from kayaking challenges the full length of the rivers or casual boating floating around large swimming holes with a fishing rod in hand admiring the variety of terrain we can offer here The Hylands is for you.

Camper favorites near Armidale

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Taylors Run Farm Camping

37km from Armidale · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Kentucky South, NSW

The Taylor family history goes back to the early days of fine wool production in Australia. Taylors Run was one of the original properties established on the New England Tablelands. Today this region produces the largest percentage of top quality superfine wool in the world.Taylors Run is now represented by one of the six Taylor family farms. All properties are still owned and managed by direct descendants of William Tydd Taylor and the sheep are mostly of the same original bloodline that has been improved through selection and breeding for producing the premium quality superfine wool we sell today.

from

AU$61

/ night

Briarfield

96%

(37)

32km from Armidale · 1 site · Tent, RV · Aberfoyle, NSW

Our piece of heaven is Briarfield, a beef & wool farm on the Northern Tablelands 30km east of Guyra. 1300m above sea level.The southern end of our farm is one large paddock of 500 acres for you to explore, relax & enjoy the peaceful seclusion. We only take one booking/group, it's all yours.There are gullies to explore full of natural rock outcrops, ferns & enormous gum trees. Lots of little tracks to follow under the canopy of our great stringy bark trees. An abundance of wildlife to share your space with, kangaroos, wallabies, echidna & if you are lucky koalas! We back onto the start of the Wollomombi River, where we would suggest that you camp, but there are many beautiful spots.Please bring your own camp toilet. Well behaved dogs on leads welcome. Campfires - see rules.

Back to Nature Bush Camping

100%

(12)

10km from Armidale · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Tilbuster, NSW

Elderslie lies at the foot of Mount Duval Nature Reserve. We encompass a variety of landscapes from stringy bark Forrest and creek lands to open timber and mountains. We travel through 1.5km of rough terrain that follows the powerlines, steep in parts. 4WD vehicle required. The campsite is a flat, grassy area, the perfect spot to get back to nature and enjoy the tranquillity. Campers are welcome to enjoy a campfire - do not light fires during fire ban. Pets are allowed. There are no facilities here, campers need to BYO camp toilet and leave no trace. Just 15 minutes down the road you'll find yourself in the regional hub of Armidale for all your shopping and supply needs.

Bai-Yai River Eco-Camp & Artist Retreat

100%

(37)

59km from Armidale · 4 sites · Lodging · Retreat, NSW

Bai-Yai is a 480 acre partly Conservation Covenanted property, 70 minutes south-west of Armidale & 70 minutes north-west of Tamworth. On the tablelands 700 metres above sea level, next door to Warrabah National Park. Our northern boundary is the Macdonald river, just before it drops westward through the gorges & changes its name to the Namoi.We're for the nature-lover who enjoys peace & quiet away from crowds, who values birdsong above the hum of cars & generators! Our facilities are simple but comfortable, all off-grid. There's a covered platform kitchen area overlooking some of the great river swimming spots for campers to enjoy, a pit toilet, simple shower, & fresh drinking water supplied daily. The owners house is out of sight but within coo-ee if needed.The river & general wildness of terrain make Bai-Yai camping not really suitable for young children who requite 24/7 supervision for their safety.CRITICAL: Please ensure your personal profile is completed including a photo before submitting a booking request.

Peppermint Flat Glamping

96%

(14)

46km from Armidale · 2 sites · Lodging · Wollomombi, NSW

Located within half an hour drive of several World Heritage listed National Parks, Peppermint Flat Glamping provides 3 canvas bell tents for groups of up to 9 people. 20m from the Platypus-filled Oaky River and with all the luxuries of home: hot water showers, real mattresses, luxury bedding, device charging facilities and lights and all the cooking equipment and utensils you could ever need. Just bring ice, food and drinks for the esky and you’re set!

The Hylands Wilderness Retreat

79%

(7)

79km from Armidale · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · Bellingen, NSW

We introduce you to ‘The Hylands’ 830 acres of undisturbed tranquility. A special beautiful wilderness, surrounded by ancient trees, an abundance of bird life, with a long, main completely private and secluded river and multiple creeks with deep swimming holes, waterfalls. and rapids to explore. Will completely wipe the tears of stress from your eyes and instil a deep sense of overwhelming peace. Get completely immersed in the magic of the Australian bush with endless ancient gullies to explore, steep hills and high country fauna and flora, undiscovered hiking trails, mountain biking tracks, and long rides if you have your own horses. If you’re into the setting yourself challenges of any kind this place is yours! If your not then this also is your perfect getaway…from kayaking challenges the full length of the rivers or casual boating floating around large swimming holes with a fishing rod in hand admiring the variety of terrain we can offer here The Hylands is for you.

Stories from the community

S

Sam

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Cracknback Riverside Campground

Absolutely stunning spot! Ammenities were really good and it was so peaceful. Beth and Ben are lovely people and amazing hosts!

Jack

November 2025

5 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to "Glendawn"

We loved our stay at Glendawn on the Woolshed site! We had plenty of space to ourselves and the Woolshed was perfect to have especially on the stormy night that we decided to stay! A toilet and hot shower was also a massive bonus! Thank you for being so friendly and having us Frances, we’ll definitely be back next time we are in the area!

R

Ruby

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Briarfield

The variety of birds on the property was amazing. Highly recommend for those who enjoy birdwatching! Beautiful views and a really nice place to camp. Thanks Julia and Robert

D

Dean

October 2025

6 m pop-up camper

4 nights at Briarfield

We didn’t actually get to stay long at Briarfield as something came up and we had to leave early but I can say that it is an awesome place and Robert and Julia are great hosts who were more than understanding when our circumstances changed and we had to leave early and they actually refunded our money which we didn’t ask for or expect but it was much appreciated and it just shows the type of people that they are. We can’t wait to get back and enjoy their awesome property. The views from the campsites are amazing.

J

Jeremy

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cracknback Riverside Campground

Great place to take kids, full amenities and very welcoming host.

Julie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at "Glendawn"

Setting up our stretchers in the shearing shed was fun. A beautiful rustic building with hot shower and flushing toilet. Awoke to birds singing and gorgeous country side.

Sam

October 2025

5 m car

With pets

2 nights at Briarfield

Very lovely spot to stay for few days. We had quiet little spot down on the river with no one in sight. Julia was very organised and easy to communicate with. Highly recommend this place as a great little get away.

M

Megan

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

1 night at Cracknback Riverside Campground

Loved our stay at this beautiful campsite. We had a spot just above the river. Short steep access to river. Suited for smaller setups. Heaps of room next level up. Water temp lovely for a swim. Clean practical toilets and showers. Would highly recommend staying here. Hope to be back one day.

V

Vinay

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cracknback Riverside Campground

We had an amazing weekend at Cracknback Riverside Camping! The location was beautiful and peaceful — perfect for relaxing by the river. Ben was fantastic — friendly, attentive, and went out of his way to help with everything we needed. The facilities were well kept, and the atmosphere was laid-back and welcoming.

H

Hayley

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cracknback Riverside Campground

Lovely spot to camp, clean toilet and shower facilities. Peaceful spot without having to camp ontop of other campers.

A

Aleks

October 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Cracknback Riverside Campground

We had a great time at Cracknback Riverside campground. There was plenty of space for our group of 12 to set up right next to the banks of the river. The hosts were very friendly and accommodating and they had kayaks available for use scattered across the property which kept everyone entertained. The property has flushing toilets and solar powered hot showers a short walk away from the sites and plenty of fire pits available. Thank you Ben for being an amazing host!

M

Maddie

October 2025

4 m travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cracknback Riverside Campground

Great spot! Great amenities! And great people! Highly recommend this spot! Only thing: don’t come in from dorrigo / Armidale way. Go through Kempsey / Belbrook. The road from dorrigo way was dangerous, scary, and slow due to the tight and soft turns.

K

Kyle

October 2025

5 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cracknback Riverside Campground

Get in early for a riverside spot on a long weekend. Paddocks are well maintained with simple but nice amenities. Beautiful sunsets and friendly hosts.

Melissa

October 2025

5 m Class B

With kids

4 nights at Cracknback Riverside Campground

Absolutely beautiful place to visit. Gets very windy in the evenings so prepared with you camping setup. Host are so friendly and made us feel welcome. Hot showers and toilets are great. Will definitely be back.

E

Eileen

September 2025

Tent

With pets

6 nights at "Glendawn"

I stayed at The Woolshed in my tent with my two dogs, and it was absolutely perfect. Directions were super clear and communication with Frances was excellent. Even while she was dealing with a family tragedy, she was incredibly kind and responsive. The location is brilliant, a great base for exploring all that the New England High Country has to offer. The dogs had the best time roaming and exploring. They were intrigued by the cattle and perhaps don’t have a future as farm dogs! The facilities were amazing: a hot, clean shower and toilet, plus access to the fridge and camp kitchen in the woolshed, which was a real bonus. The sunsets were to die for, and the peace and quiet made it feel like I was a million miles away. It was exactly what I needed. I’d highly recommend this spot to anyone looking for a relaxing and well-set-up stay. I’ll definitely be back next time I’m in the area!

S

Shannon

September 2025

8 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to "Glendawn"

Beautiful property! The Woolshed was great for extra space for the kids. Definitely recommend.

A

Andrew

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cracknback Riverside Campground

Absolutely loved the riverside camping. This was my first stay using Hipcamp and Beth was more than welcoming and helpful in assisting with any questions I had, and was very friendly when we got to the campsite. Will definitely be back again when it’s a little warmer for a swim.

Brice

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cracknback Riverside Campground

This place is magical, the tranquillity, the views... We stayed 3 nights and had the place to ourselves the whole time. You can tell that Beth and Ben put in alot love and effort into the place. The toilets and hot showers were clean. The drive is a litle rough, but it makes you slow down to enjoy the awesome scenery better!

A

Anthony

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Briarfield

Julia and Robert were great hosts. Directions were clear and simple. We were looking for a crisp winter camping experience in private surrounds and we certainly got that. Had a few visits from the curious residents (cows) but otherwise we had the place to ourselves. Some great national parks not too far away too. Will definitely be coming again.

B

Belinda

June 2025

6 m travel trailer

5 nights at Briarfield

Briarfiled is one of the most beautiful spots we have visited. The views are stunning and Julia and Robert are beautiful and hardworking people. We felt privileged to stay here and and share their property and particularly loved that we could enjoy the entire space to ourselves. Felt extremely safe and appreciated access to water from the water tank and being able to collect fallen wood for the fire. It was very cold given we visited when NSW was experiencing a polar blast and we even got to experience a little snow which was just stunning to sit in our warm van and look out and watch. We will definitely be back.