The best forest cabin rentals near Ballina, New South Wales

Looking for a cabin camping experience in the forest near Ballina, New South Wales? Hipcamp has over 400 options to choose from, with prices starting as low as $15 per night. Top campsites like Crystal Creek Ranch (781 reviews), Coffs Harbour Camping & 4WD (721 reviews), and Jandarra in Tallebudgera Valley (151 reviews) offer popular amenities such as rubbish disposal, pet-friendly sites, and drinkable water. You can also enjoy activities like exploring historic sites, off-roading (OHV), and cycling. Average price per night is $25. Book your perfect cabin getaway today!

94% (531)

Top-rated campgrounds near Ballina

Looking for a cabin camping experience in the forest near Ballina, New South Wales? Hipcamp has over 400 options to choose from, with prices starting as low as $15 per night. Top campsites like Crystal Creek Ranch (781 reviews), Coffs Harbour Camping & 4WD (721 reviews), and Jandarra in Tallebudgera Valley (151 reviews) offer popular amenities such as rubbish disposal, pet-friendly sites, and drinkable water. You can also enjoy activities like exploring historic sites, off-roading (OHV), and cycling. Average price per night is $25. Book your perfect cabin getaway today!

94% (531)

Top-rated campgrounds near Ballina

1. GingerNut Farm - Adults Only

99%

(104)

53km from Ballina · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are an adult-only, clothing-optional, 50-acre farm. We are secluded and situated on a quiet road with forest screening. We have creek with a swimming hole and sandy beach. We offer several flat, well grassed campgrounds, some with fire pits, suitable for tents, campers vans and caravans up to 22 foot. We offer access to off-grid power. We also offer a series of internal walks & running tracks through the forested parts of the property. In addition, we offer a trained masseur who will massage in his forest studio. We offer arts courses: life drawing, basket making and cyanotyping. We offer night tours to view glow-worms. In August and September fireflies can be seen along our creeklines. We can provide escorted tours of local sights including galleries, natural sights including waterfalls and a local commune.

2. Tallebudgera Veg Sanctuary.

96%

(48)

80km from Ballina · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Good Phone reception if you have Telstra. Simple juice cleansing programmes are available by design. WEDDING VENUE IN OUR CHAPEL OR DOWN BY THE WATERS EDGE IN COMPLETE PRIVACY. Call our wedding planner Melissa at celebratedlove .com

3. Mt Warning Rainforest Park

68%

(11)

58km from Ballina · 72 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Mt Warning Rainforest Park is nestled at the foot of World Heritage listed Wollumbin National Park, and is under an hours’ drive from the world famous beaches of the Gold Coast and Byron Bay. Explore the beautiful Tweed Region with its stunning mountains, rivers and gorgeous country towns with art galleries and antique shops. This is the perfect break from city life. Mt Warning Rainforest Park offers the chance to take a breath of fresh air, reconnect with nature and unwind while enjoying all the comforts the park has to offer.

4. Talweg of Talley Valley on the Gold Coast

100%

(26)

76km from Ballina · 8 sites · Lodging

Talweg of Talley Valley is the breath of fresh air you’ve been craving. Our Farm-Art Stay is the perfect escape from the city to experience nature, reflect on sunsets, listen to bird calls, watch the moon, or star gaze. We offer a unique creative retreat open to all types of artists, scientists, makers, designers, and educators looking for time and space to work on their creative projects. Only an hour from Brisbane, and minutes from Burleigh Heads, we offer tranquil and secluded farm stay accommodation connected to natural scenery, farmland and key geographical sites of interest in all directions. There is a strong arts presence in the wider area including major regional galleries like Home of the Arts and the Margaret Olley Art Centre,Tweed Regional Gallery and many festivals. Enjoy the best of the Gold Coast beaches and Southern Qld destinations. Talweg was an old 20-acre banana farm; now we are dedicated to the conservation of the pristine wilderness. We would love to share it with you.

5. Creek Side Shepherds Hut Rail Trail

99%

(46)

49km from Ballina · 3 sites · Lodging

Check out the rail trail! then ....... Rest and absorb the tranquil sound of the creeks running water from the comfort of the Shepherds Hut. Rest and revitalise in warmth of the outdoor bath tub, on the deck, on the day bed with its window overlooking the creek, or in front of the fire each evening. You can choose, closed and cosy or open and airy, either is easy in the Shepherds Hut. Indulge in the steaming warmth of either the outdoor or indoor showers, or the stand out favourite .....the outdoor bath! The Hut is fully contained with everything you need for a fabulous stay. Crockery, cutlery, toaster, electric jug, electric frypan, mini air fry oven. (no microwave) Enjoy warming your toes around the outdoor fire pit as you gaze at the stars above. A perfect base to explore the new Northern Rivers Rail Trail which is just a couple of kms up our quiet country road. Stroll around country roads next to creeks, or for the more active ask the host about full day hikes to little known but spectacular Mt Chowan and Unicorn falls. Or if you prefer the option to stay on the property, enjoy bushwalking, hiking and bird watching, or just relax and unwind. We are located a short 20 minute drive from the remote Wooyung beach, or 35 min from Byron. Just 7 kms from the village of Burringbar which has a grocery and liquor store, Thai food and woodfired pizza.

6. Nimbin Farm 101

99%

(163)

46km from Ballina · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This small hobby farm sits on 23 acres. The camp kitchen and sites along the creek are within sight to the main house (50m) and shed home (30m), however if weather permits sites in the paddock for more privacy can be selected. We have old macadamia and pecan trees. Goats, sheep, cows and a miniature pony graze on our paddocks. At times we can offer eggs from our chickens and produce from the garden. The property is located just 5 minutes drive to the town of Nimbin, The perfect place to rest a while, to relax, rejuvenate and let Mother Nature work her charms. Camp amongst the trees, enjoying the dappled sunlight. Go for a walk along the creek and splash around. Our campsite offers good access for all types of vehicles. We area dog friendly. There is access to a basic pit toilet. The basic shed and camp kitchen area offers protection from the elements with access to power, a kettle and gas BBQ. Prepare your meals and eat in comfort. Campfires permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place.

7. Rainforest Retreat

23km from Ballina · 1 site · Lodging

Small acreage in the Byron hinterland available for camping. The property is located 20 minutes from Byron Bay and close to the historic villages of Bangalow and Mullumbimby. Guests can access rainforest areas and picturesque creek with a safe swimming hole. It's a beautiful hinterland setting with koala and platypus habitat. The site has a variety of birdlife, koala and platypus. Relax and enjoy a gorgeous setting. Note that there is no toilet or showering facilities.

8. Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat

73km from Ballina · 10 sites · Lodging

The perfect romantic getaway in the rainforest https://www.ccrr.com.au/ Our adult only, romantic hideaway retreat is nestled amongst 250 acres of pristine rainforest within the beautiful Northern Rivers of NSW, just 50 minutes from the Gold Coast airport. The 13 luxurious villas and lodges are individually positioned throughout the private estate, carefully hidden amongst the contours, offering incredible rainforest and mountain views, and providing the utmost in privacy and seclusion. https://www.ccrr.com.au/accommodation/ Each spacious villa provides the perfect setting for a romantic escape, equipped with cosy lounges and log fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling glass windows, comfy bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and large couples’ spa baths. All accommodation has fitted kitchens, with outdoor Weber BBQs, and both internal and external dining areas. Our expansive Luxury Mountain View Lodges offer large decks with private plunge pools. The retreat hosts 8km of picturesque rainforest walking & hiking trails, home to many rare and endangered plants and animal species, including 400 types of flora. Secluded rock pools and hammocks are nestled along our creek where you can while away the day listening to the songs, twitters and calls from a myriad variety of our 150 species of resident birds. Allow our spa therapists to pamper you with a deep tissue massage, then retire to your own secluded spot for a peaceful picnic and chilled glass of wine. Our new wine cellar and bar lounge features over 1,000 bottles of international and local wines and Champagnes, showcasing the best of globally renowned wine regions according to their climate, terroir and grape styles. https://www.ccrr.com.au/bar-lounge-and-private-dining/bar-lounge-wine-cellar/ Enjoy your cellar selection, or choose from the bar’s spirited cocktails, evocative gins and smooth barrelled aged rums while relaxing in the fine ambience of the lounge. Recline in leather wing-back chairs with a log fire on cool mountain evenings – or sip with delicate breezes on spring summer days.

9. Dragon's Back Bush Retreat

100%

(1)

52km from Ballina · 1 site · Lodging

The property is set on a ridgetop, with forest all around, and views over the forest to the south west, and east to the ocean, which is a 15-minute drive away. There are walking tracks to explore from your door, and a national park to trek in just a few hundred metres away. The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is just 5 minute cycle or drive away, in Burringbar. This is a wonderful mainly flat cycle path going through tunnels, fields and forest, with many picturesque bridges on the way. This is a perfect place to enjoy nature in peace and quiet, sitting on the large deck to watch for wildlife... many birds, goannas and you might even spot a koala. It is peaceful and private. The cabin is roomy and comfortable - with a main lounge/bedroom, a kitchen/pantry, plus bathroom with shower & composting toilet, and a good sized deck looking east. Facilities include a queen sized bed, an indoor wood fire for winter time, a basic kitchen, and a table and chairs. We are off grid so there is solar power, and clean tank water. We provide drinking water in a filtered urn, and basic tea & coffee. There is no wifi, but there is internet access available from your own phone. This is a perfect place to wind down and enjoy the natural environment. There is a grocery store in Burringbar - The Barn - that also sells alcohol, and pizza available on Fridays, and Thai food available for eat in or takeaway on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. If you have friends with you that are camping, there is room next to the cabin for tents, or a campervan.

10. Bimbi Farm

100%

(1)

39km from Ballina · 4 sites · Lodging

Bimbi farm is a 40 hectare cattle farm in Tuntable Creek offering camping, a cottage and a villa. It is a very calm and beautiful place which includes natural and regenerated rain forest. It is full of natural flora and fauna, koalas, wallabies, echidnas and hundreds of different species of birds. Bimbi means 'bird' in the language of the Widjabul people of the Bundalung nation, the land on which our farm is situated. The property is 5 minutes from the Channon which has the general store, post office and fuel, plus the well renowned tavern. It is an easy drive to the stunning Protestor and Minyon Falls, Rocky Creek Dam, Whian Whian and Nightcap National Parks, Nimbin, Clunes, Eltham and Bangalow. All offer great opportunities for exploring. We are 20 minutes from Lismore and 45 minutes to the coast, Byron and Ballina.

Camper favorites near Ballina

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Talweg of Talley Valley on the Gold Coast

100%

(26)

76km from Ballina · 8 sites · Lodging

Talweg of Talley Valley is the breath of fresh air you’ve been craving. Our Farm-Art Stay is the perfect escape from the city to experience nature, reflect on sunsets, listen to bird calls, watch the moon, or star gaze. We offer a unique creative retreat open to all types of artists, scientists, makers, designers, and educators looking for time and space to work on their creative projects. Only an hour from Brisbane, and minutes from Burleigh Heads, we offer tranquil and secluded farm stay accommodation connected to natural scenery, farmland and key geographical sites of interest in all directions. There is a strong arts presence in the wider area including major regional galleries like Home of the Arts and the Margaret Olley Art Centre,Tweed Regional Gallery and many festivals. Enjoy the best of the Gold Coast beaches and Southern Qld destinations. Talweg was an old 20-acre banana farm; now we are dedicated to the conservation of the pristine wilderness. We would love to share it with you.

Creek Side Shepherds Hut Rail Trail

99%

(46)

49km from Ballina · 3 sites · Lodging

Check out the rail trail! then ....... Rest and absorb the tranquil sound of the creeks running water from the comfort of the Shepherds Hut. Rest and revitalise in warmth of the outdoor bath tub, on the deck, on the day bed with its window overlooking the creek, or in front of the fire each evening. You can choose, closed and cosy or open and airy, either is easy in the Shepherds Hut. Indulge in the steaming warmth of either the outdoor or indoor showers, or the stand out favourite .....the outdoor bath! The Hut is fully contained with everything you need for a fabulous stay. Crockery, cutlery, toaster, electric jug, electric frypan, mini air fry oven. (no microwave) Enjoy warming your toes around the outdoor fire pit as you gaze at the stars above. A perfect base to explore the new Northern Rivers Rail Trail which is just a couple of kms up our quiet country road. Stroll around country roads next to creeks, or for the more active ask the host about full day hikes to little known but spectacular Mt Chowan and Unicorn falls. Or if you prefer the option to stay on the property, enjoy bushwalking, hiking and bird watching, or just relax and unwind. We are located a short 20 minute drive from the remote Wooyung beach, or 35 min from Byron. Just 7 kms from the village of Burringbar which has a grocery and liquor store, Thai food and woodfired pizza.

Nimbin Farm 101

99%

(163)

46km from Ballina · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This small hobby farm sits on 23 acres. The camp kitchen and sites along the creek are within sight to the main house (50m) and shed home (30m), however if weather permits sites in the paddock for more privacy can be selected. We have old macadamia and pecan trees. Goats, sheep, cows and a miniature pony graze on our paddocks. At times we can offer eggs from our chickens and produce from the garden. The property is located just 5 minutes drive to the town of Nimbin, The perfect place to rest a while, to relax, rejuvenate and let Mother Nature work her charms. Camp amongst the trees, enjoying the dappled sunlight. Go for a walk along the creek and splash around. Our campsite offers good access for all types of vehicles. We area dog friendly. There is access to a basic pit toilet. The basic shed and camp kitchen area offers protection from the elements with access to power, a kettle and gas BBQ. Prepare your meals and eat in comfort. Campfires permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place.

Rainforest Retreat

23km from Ballina · 1 site · Lodging

Small acreage in the Byron hinterland available for camping. The property is located 20 minutes from Byron Bay and close to the historic villages of Bangalow and Mullumbimby. Guests can access rainforest areas and picturesque creek with a safe swimming hole. It's a beautiful hinterland setting with koala and platypus habitat. The site has a variety of birdlife, koala and platypus. Relax and enjoy a gorgeous setting. Note that there is no toilet or showering facilities.

Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat

73km from Ballina · 10 sites · Lodging

The perfect romantic getaway in the rainforest https://www.ccrr.com.au/ Our adult only, romantic hideaway retreat is nestled amongst 250 acres of pristine rainforest within the beautiful Northern Rivers of NSW, just 50 minutes from the Gold Coast airport. The 13 luxurious villas and lodges are individually positioned throughout the private estate, carefully hidden amongst the contours, offering incredible rainforest and mountain views, and providing the utmost in privacy and seclusion. https://www.ccrr.com.au/accommodation/ Each spacious villa provides the perfect setting for a romantic escape, equipped with cosy lounges and log fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling glass windows, comfy bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and large couples’ spa baths. All accommodation has fitted kitchens, with outdoor Weber BBQs, and both internal and external dining areas. Our expansive Luxury Mountain View Lodges offer large decks with private plunge pools. The retreat hosts 8km of picturesque rainforest walking & hiking trails, home to many rare and endangered plants and animal species, including 400 types of flora. Secluded rock pools and hammocks are nestled along our creek where you can while away the day listening to the songs, twitters and calls from a myriad variety of our 150 species of resident birds. Allow our spa therapists to pamper you with a deep tissue massage, then retire to your own secluded spot for a peaceful picnic and chilled glass of wine. Our new wine cellar and bar lounge features over 1,000 bottles of international and local wines and Champagnes, showcasing the best of globally renowned wine regions according to their climate, terroir and grape styles. https://www.ccrr.com.au/bar-lounge-and-private-dining/bar-lounge-wine-cellar/ Enjoy your cellar selection, or choose from the bar’s spirited cocktails, evocative gins and smooth barrelled aged rums while relaxing in the fine ambience of the lounge. Recline in leather wing-back chairs with a log fire on cool mountain evenings – or sip with delicate breezes on spring summer days.

Dragon's Back Bush Retreat

100%

(1)

52km from Ballina · 1 site · Lodging

The property is set on a ridgetop, with forest all around, and views over the forest to the south west, and east to the ocean, which is a 15-minute drive away. There are walking tracks to explore from your door, and a national park to trek in just a few hundred metres away. The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is just 5 minute cycle or drive away, in Burringbar. This is a wonderful mainly flat cycle path going through tunnels, fields and forest, with many picturesque bridges on the way. This is a perfect place to enjoy nature in peace and quiet, sitting on the large deck to watch for wildlife... many birds, goannas and you might even spot a koala. It is peaceful and private. The cabin is roomy and comfortable - with a main lounge/bedroom, a kitchen/pantry, plus bathroom with shower & composting toilet, and a good sized deck looking east. Facilities include a queen sized bed, an indoor wood fire for winter time, a basic kitchen, and a table and chairs. We are off grid so there is solar power, and clean tank water. We provide drinking water in a filtered urn, and basic tea & coffee. There is no wifi, but there is internet access available from your own phone. This is a perfect place to wind down and enjoy the natural environment. There is a grocery store in Burringbar - The Barn - that also sells alcohol, and pizza available on Fridays, and Thai food available for eat in or takeaway on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. If you have friends with you that are camping, there is room next to the cabin for tents, or a campervan.

Bimbi Farm

100%

(1)

39km from Ballina · 4 sites · Lodging

Bimbi farm is a 40 hectare cattle farm in Tuntable Creek offering camping, a cottage and a villa. It is a very calm and beautiful place which includes natural and regenerated rain forest. It is full of natural flora and fauna, koalas, wallabies, echidnas and hundreds of different species of birds. Bimbi means 'bird' in the language of the Widjabul people of the Bundalung nation, the land on which our farm is situated. The property is 5 minutes from the Channon which has the general store, post office and fuel, plus the well renowned tavern. It is an easy drive to the stunning Protestor and Minyon Falls, Rocky Creek Dam, Whian Whian and Nightcap National Parks, Nimbin, Clunes, Eltham and Bangalow. All offer great opportunities for exploring. We are 20 minutes from Lismore and 45 minutes to the coast, Byron and Ballina.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Stefanie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Dragon's Back Bush Retreat

A beautiful place! Great to get away and to relax with no distractions around. A beautiful view, private, and a lovely cabin. Lindi and Tony were fantastic hosts, full of information and very helpful when needed! I 100% recommend!

J

John

August 2025

2 nights at Nimbin Farm 101

Awesome spot by the creek. Peaceful and private. Christina and family were so welcoming. 2 thumbs up.

H

Hannah

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Nimbin Farm 101

We stayed in the new cabin and it was perfect. Comfy bed, furnished and decorated beautifully. The little outhouse toilet was clean and located in a great position. The farm is in a good location and the animals are friendly. The sound of the running creek is extremely relaxing. We found good sized agates and common opal in the creek. We would highly recommend this place and we will definitely be back again, hopefully soon. The hosts are super friendly and helpful.

t

troy

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Creek Side Shepherds Hut Rail Trail

Lovely spot to get off grid, the cabin is well appointed and v clean, previous photos/reviews do it justice

Henrique

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Nimbin Farm 101

Excellent place to relax and connect with Mother Nature. Christina and family are amazing people treated us super well with attention. The cabin experience is a must!! Definitely will organise to come back at some point!!

K

Karl

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Creek Side Shepherds Hut Rail Trail

The cabin and facilities were clean, comfortable, well presented and everything you need in a private location. Accessing the rail trail was very easy, just down the road, ride straight from the door. If you’re looking for a comfortable, private base to take on the trail and enjoy the surrounding sights I highly recommend a stay here.

L

Lyly

May 2025

Weekend Trip to GingerNut Farm - Adults Only

Craig is a lovely person, and his land is so beautiful and peaceful. I stayed there for two nights and played music near the river. Thank you for the warm welcome and the beautiful landscape you have.

H

Helder

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Creek Side Shepherds Hut Rail Trail

I had an excellent experience—quiet, relaxed, and just what I needed. The cabin was spotless and cozy, with everything I needed already there. A thoughtful welcome gift was waiting in the fridge, which was such a nice touch. Craig was friendly, responsive, and easy to communicate with. I highly recommend this place for anyone looking to unwind!

Richard

April 2025

2 nights at GingerNut Farm - Adults Only

We stayed in the studio - a room with external access in the hosts' residence. Facilities are basic and rustic but enough for us to easily be comfortable. We enjoyed sharing space with Craig and Greg (Andy was away). They were very hospitable and kept us well supplied with tea, coffee and good conversation about so many topics. One evening, we were taken on a short walk to see glow worms and bioluminescent fungi - both dependent on suitable conditions. The property is large enough to take a good bushwalk along a meandering trail cut through the rainforest, providing lots of interesting opportunities to spot fascinating wildlife and flora. We'd love to return some time. We appreciated the hosts' welcoming, non-judgemental and relaxed hospitality.

filippa

March 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mt Warning Rainforest Park

Beautiful, relaxing area tucked away in the wilderness. So lovely to get back to nature

Rebecca

February 2025

Weekend Trip to Creek Side Shepherds Hut Rail Trail

We had a very peaceful stay at the Hut, surrounded by nature - a highlight being sleeping with all the windows open under the net, and hearing the babbling creek, and bird & insect life all around us. It’s the perfect spot to hit the Rail Trail, we did 58km and soaked in the hot tub that night. The Hut has everything you need - bbq, coffee machine, kitchen utensils, large fridge, linen & towels. Burringbar town is super close if you want a meal out. We had a delicious breakfast at Teakwood, and got to meet Craig and have a chat about the history of the property. It’s a lovely place for couples to disconnect.

l

lilli

February 2025

Weekend Trip to Creek Side Shepherds Hut Rail Trail

A truly unique and lovely spot. A wonderful little place that the dogs enjoyed exploring especially jumping into the creek. Such a relaxing atmosphere overall enjoyed our stay.

L

Liam

January 2025

Weekend Trip to Creek Side Shepherds Hut Rail Trail

We loved our 2 night stay at Sheppard's Hut. Beautifully quiet. It had everything required for a comfortable and relaxing stay. Instructions to property were first class

y

yue

December 2024

With pets

1 night at GingerNut Farm - Adults Only

This has been such an amazing and unique experience. Beautiful land, awesome blueworms walking and relaxing massages. We enjoyed our time there. Thanks, Craig, Greg, and Andy!