The best family-friendly glamping near Ballina, New South Wales

The gateway to the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Ballina tends to get overlooked in the rush to get to the more popular holiday hot spots of Byron Bay and beyond. Those who do take time to explore this spot on the mouth of the Richmond River find 32 kilometres of beaches and a maze of waterways flanked by World Heritage-listed rainforest. Area caravan parks are popular with anglers, paddlers, and boaties, as well as families thanks to resort-style facilities and adventure playgrounds. Many of Ballina’s best attractions are free—the South Ballina breakwall nearly guarantees dolphin sightings, while the coastal lookouts and headlands are fantastic spots to see whales.

Ballina is just a half hour drive south of Byron Bay, one of the most popular holiday spots in northern NSW. Browse the boutiques and galleries, dine out in one of the many cafes or restaurants, and head up to the Cape Byron lighthouse for spectacular views. The lovely seaside village of Brunswick Heads, which has some good-value riverside caravan parks, is just a short drive further north of Byron Bay.

The stretch of coastline that runs south of Ballina to Evans Head and beyond to the Clarence River on the north side of Yamba is one of the least developed in New South Wales. Most of it is protected within Bundjalung National Park, which has some superb beachside camping sites.

Home to some of the best surfing in the NSW (Angourie Point was the first official surfing reserve in the state) and famous for its prawns and seafood, this holiday town at the mouth of the Clarence River makes for an ideal camping getaway. Take a dip in the ocean swimming pools, kayak the river, or explore the World Heritage-listed rainforest in Iluka.

Perfectly positioned between the rainforest and the sea, this prosperous riverside city 35 kilometres west of Ballina is full of historic architecture and has a lively arts scene.

96% (992)

Top-rated campgrounds

The gateway to the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Ballina tends to get overlooked in the rush to get to the more popular holiday hot spots of Byron Bay and beyond. Those who do take time to explore this spot on the mouth of the Richmond River find 32 kilometres of beaches and a maze of waterways flanked by World Heritage-listed rainforest. Area caravan parks are popular with anglers, paddlers, and boaties, as well as families thanks to resort-style facilities and adventure playgrounds. Many of Ballina’s best attractions are free—the South Ballina breakwall nearly guarantees dolphin sightings, while the coastal lookouts and headlands are fantastic spots to see whales.

Ballina is just a half hour drive south of Byron Bay, one of the most popular holiday spots in northern NSW. Browse the boutiques and galleries, dine out in one of the many cafes or restaurants, and head up to the Cape Byron lighthouse for spectacular views. The lovely seaside village of Brunswick Heads, which has some good-value riverside caravan parks, is just a short drive further north of Byron Bay.

The stretch of coastline that runs south of Ballina to Evans Head and beyond to the Clarence River on the north side of Yamba is one of the least developed in New South Wales. Most of it is protected within Bundjalung National Park, which has some superb beachside camping sites.

Home to some of the best surfing in the NSW (Angourie Point was the first official surfing reserve in the state) and famous for its prawns and seafood, this holiday town at the mouth of the Clarence River makes for an ideal camping getaway. Take a dip in the ocean swimming pools, kayak the river, or explore the World Heritage-listed rainforest in Iluka.

Perfectly positioned between the rainforest and the sea, this prosperous riverside city 35 kilometres west of Ballina is full of historic architecture and has a lively arts scene.

96% (992)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay

94%

(286)

22km from Ballina · 214 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Byron Bay, NSW

This northern New South Wales hotspot needs no introduction. Byron Bay attracts some two million visitors to its sandy shores each year. To see what makes this beach holiday destination so alluring, stay amongst Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay’s 28 acres of parklands which fronts onto the famous Tallow Beach. Whether you like to caravan, camp, or stay in a cabin, there is a range of accommodation options at Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay to suit any holiday style.

2. Crystal Creek Rainforest Treehouse

100%

(231)

72km from Ballina · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Upper Crystal Creek, NSW

unique comfortable Treehouse or Red Cabin You are very welcome to our 53 acres of lush forest, with meadows, green rolling hills and crystal clear mountain creeks. Leave the busyness of everyday life behind and enter the relaxing and soothing atmosphere of our patch of heaven. Here you can reconnect, restore and reenergise. Perfect for: A romantic getaway Getting back to your playfulness Reconnecting with friends Building a strong connection to your children Creating splendid memories Living in the dream A break from the busy world Technology detox This is your perfect retreat. The rainforest Treehouse is situated in a rainforest pocket of the Mount Warning Caldera, completely surrounded by lush and vibrant nature and sheltered from the outside world, while being just 2 minutes away from us and the comfy road that will take you to an amazing swimming hole, cafés and the nearby town. Once you enter the Treehouse private drive you will feel yourself being transported into a magical world of gently flowing water, natural light, tall trees, chirping birds, rustling leaves, crickets, and frogs. You will notice the energy shift into the safe embrace of our land, protected by Springbrook Mountain. The location of the Treehouse was chosen by our then young children. We all fell in love with the magnificent camphor laurel tree growing at the edge of the seasonal creek. We all found ourselves drawn to that place, so with the help of our friends and our children we began the project of manifesting a dream into a reality - the dream of living in the tree canopy. As we worked on the Treehouse, the design was constantly changing. The whole family, especially our youngest son, contributed to the manifestation of the dream. During that time we overcame many obstacles and found solutions to build in the tree. It was an adventure, a lot of fun and we learnt a lot. It became a dwelling for our kids for a period of time, until they grew up and left to conquer the big wide world. Now it is here for you to enjoy, to reconnect with your dreams, to dive deep into your childhood playful memories where the world of fantasy and reality merge together. Here you can just be yourself, embraced by nature and view at the world from your Treehouse verandah. THE RED CABIN We are also proud of our very special Red Cabin with its magnificent mountain view. it has been created with dedication and love. And again it is thanks to our daughter this time. She has found the perfect spot for you so you can immerse yourself in nature in the shade of lovely trees, taking flight with the eagles above Springbrook Mountain, lifting up and rejoicing life. The vibrant tantric red colour of the cabin will fill you up with new energy and freshness. it is supplied with clean, luxurious linen and towels. The daring bathroom allows you to bask in a bubble bath while enjoying your favourite beverage watching the stars. That beautiful experience will be enhance by the symphony of the surrounding nature. The cooking and dining area is set up for your highest comfort and equipped with everything you need. Words do not do it justice come and see for yourself the Red Cabin is gorgeous YOUR RED CABIN IS PERFECT AS: A romantic getaway Reconnect and spark up your relationship Getting back to your playfulness Get closer to your friends and family Creating splendid memories Living in the dream A break from the busy world and do nothing just chill Technology detox if you wish Let your pet enjoy We are looking forward to welcoming you to our Treehouse and The Red Cabin soon, Aneta and Paul

3. Rainforest Gateway

98%

(356)

77km from Ballina · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gradys Creek, NSW

Escape to serenity at Rainforest Gateway. Relax and unwind to the gentle murmur of the creek, go for a paddle, take a hike or simply put your feet up and enjoy a crackling campfire under a sky bursting with stars. With great views, tranquil bushland, abundant wildlife and the stunning Border Ranges National Park close by, there is always something to do. The park is nestled alongside the everflowing Gradys Creek and features large, easily accessed, grassy powered and unpowered sites overlooking the creek. For those after more of a glamping experience, there are 3 x one bedroom cabins available. On-site amenities include hot showers, flush toilets, fully equipped camp kitchen with a large undercover area (perfect for large groups or private functions), and a laundry. We are a dog-friendly park so the whole family is welcome. Dogs need to be controlled at all times and cleaned up after. No aggressive dogs please. Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits only and may be subject to fire bans. Firewood and ice are available for purchase (cash preferred). Recycling bins are provided, otherwise campers are required to take their rubbish with them. Wi-Fi and Telstra coverage are available. Rainforest Gateway is located approximately 8klms along Grady's Creek Road, just 20 klms north of Kyogle and 15 klms from the Queensland border on the popular scenic tourist route, Lions Road. Kyogle is a bustling town with an IGA supermarket, MTB riding tracks, lovely gift shops, cinema, bowling alley, and a selection of dining outlets. For those wanting to immerse themselves in nature, the Border Ranges National Park is a short drive away. Please note Lions Road is temporarily closed for road repairs, however, we CAN still be reached on Gradys Creek Road off Summerland Way. The road closure is another 10+ klms further down the road. Feel free to message if you have any questions prior to booking :)

4. Ballina Beach Nature Resort

91%

(79)

2.4km from Ballina · 194 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ballina, NSW

Ballina Beach Nature Resort is more than a campground, glamping retreat, caravan park or short-stay hotel - we're a family; offering adventurers, from the local region and across Australia, the opportunity to experience NSW, Ballina, the Byron Bay region and natural coastal wildlife. Whether you're a grey nomad, van-life enthusiast, an admirer of nature, in search for your next romantic getaway, or looking for an afternoon coffee or takeaway, our beach resort accommodation and Turtles Café have got you covered!

5. "JALUM" Undulating Farmland!

94%

(324)

48km from Ballina · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mooball, NSW

"Jalum" is a fifty acre property situated between the Gold Coast and Byron Bay and ten minutes from the coast. There are many activities available inc. fishing, bush walking etc. . Jalum has been a working fish farm (Silver Perch) and the many dams offer good fishing. Just a kilometre from the old Mooball trainline! Walk the line and stay at our lovely campsite for the night. We acknowledge and give respect for the traditional owners past, present and future, of the Bunjalum nation.

6. Sugar Beach Ranch - Horse Holidays

97%

(73)

3.3km from Ballina · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Keith Hall, NSW

Wind through the picturesque sugarcane fields of South Ballina where you will find us on our 60 acre property with spectacular ocean views, beautiful native bushland and Australian wildlife. Sugar Beach Ranch is one of the most secluded treasures in the Northern Rivers, only 40 mins from Byron Bay NSW and within 30 mins to Ballina, Bangalow and surrounding scenic waterfalls. The property offers a two-bedroom bungalow and a secluded campsite for self-contained campers, in addition to our other variety of services including retreats, equine therapy, weddings and venue hire. Our property is surrounded by the crystal clear ocean, a beautiful rural outlook and rainforest walks. Sugar Beach Ranch offers you a private and picturesque beachfront experience. Simply put it's ‘Nature’s Playground’. Sugar Beach Ranch is a special place... a place of relaxation and reflection. We want guests to enjoy the break away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Wake up to songs of native birds. Bring your own horse, guitar, or your writing book and loll away the hours nurturing your soul in paradise. All guests have shared access to the 15m resort-style magnesium pool and direct beach access from the property. We are a wildlife sanctuary and an operating farm with horses, chickens, ducks, pigeons and a peacock. There are dogs on the property to protect the chickens and other animals from predators, so please don’t bring any pets of your own. Enjoy Sugar Beach Ranch with your horse, bring them along for the holiday, and plenty of beach and trail rides. Paddock accommodation available. As we are located in the secluded and sleepy cane fields of South Ballina there is limited access to shops, cafes, restaurants, etc. The Burns Point Ferry is the best way to get to us, it runs from 5:30am until 12.30am daily, consistently running back and forth. An approx. 8min journey each way and costs $.00 each way, payable by credit card only. So you can easily go into Ballina town for all shops, cafes, restaurants, etc. If the ferry isn't for you, you can drive to Ballina via Wardell on River Drive. The bungalow is located approx. 25m from the main residence, and the campsite is located approx. 300m from the main residence tucked away in the paddocks and forest. We are onsite and available if needed. Sugar Beach Ranch is an operating farm with staff onsite caring for animals and maintaining the grounds. All care is taken to ensure minimal disruption to guests.

7. Barachi by the Creek

100%

(50)

30km from Ballina · 1 site · Lodging · Modanville, NSW

PLEASE NOTE ** Barachi is located at the rear of our property and is only accessible by 4wd** Our rustic little shack is nestled near the creek that flows in the hollow of our 100 acre property. From the moment you arrive you are embraced by the peace and tranquility - lie in the hammock, or dangle your feet in the rapids. You'll feel like you're a million miles from nowhere but minutes from everything; we are just 10 minutes to the eclectic city of Lismore, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, and just 40 minutes to Byron Bay! Take a cruise around all the surrounding cute little villages such as Dunoon, Eltham, Federal, Bexhill, Clunes and Bangalow - immerse yourself in everything Northern NSW has to offer.

8. Nimbin Farm 101

99%

(160)

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

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.

Camper favorites near Ballina

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Ballina Beach Nature Resort

91%

(79)

2.4km from Ballina · 194 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ballina, NSW

Ballina Beach Nature Resort is more than a campground, glamping retreat, caravan park or short-stay hotel - we're a family; offering adventurers, from the local region and across Australia, the opportunity to experience NSW, Ballina, the Byron Bay region and natural coastal wildlife. Whether you're a grey nomad, van-life enthusiast, an admirer of nature, in search for your next romantic getaway, or looking for an afternoon coffee or takeaway, our beach resort accommodation and Turtles Café have got you covered!

"JALUM" Undulating Farmland!

94%

(324)

48km from Ballina · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mooball, NSW

"Jalum" is a fifty acre property situated between the Gold Coast and Byron Bay and ten minutes from the coast. There are many activities available inc. fishing, bush walking etc. . Jalum has been a working fish farm (Silver Perch) and the many dams offer good fishing. Just a kilometre from the old Mooball trainline! Walk the line and stay at our lovely campsite for the night. We acknowledge and give respect for the traditional owners past, present and future, of the Bunjalum nation.

Sugar Beach Ranch - Horse Holidays

97%

(73)

3.3km from Ballina · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Keith Hall, NSW

Wind through the picturesque sugarcane fields of South Ballina where you will find us on our 60 acre property with spectacular ocean views, beautiful native bushland and Australian wildlife. Sugar Beach Ranch is one of the most secluded treasures in the Northern Rivers, only 40 mins from Byron Bay NSW and within 30 mins to Ballina, Bangalow and surrounding scenic waterfalls. The property offers a two-bedroom bungalow and a secluded campsite for self-contained campers, in addition to our other variety of services including retreats, equine therapy, weddings and venue hire. Our property is surrounded by the crystal clear ocean, a beautiful rural outlook and rainforest walks. Sugar Beach Ranch offers you a private and picturesque beachfront experience. Simply put it's ‘Nature’s Playground’. Sugar Beach Ranch is a special place... a place of relaxation and reflection. We want guests to enjoy the break away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Wake up to songs of native birds. Bring your own horse, guitar, or your writing book and loll away the hours nurturing your soul in paradise. All guests have shared access to the 15m resort-style magnesium pool and direct beach access from the property. We are a wildlife sanctuary and an operating farm with horses, chickens, ducks, pigeons and a peacock. There are dogs on the property to protect the chickens and other animals from predators, so please don’t bring any pets of your own. Enjoy Sugar Beach Ranch with your horse, bring them along for the holiday, and plenty of beach and trail rides. Paddock accommodation available. As we are located in the secluded and sleepy cane fields of South Ballina there is limited access to shops, cafes, restaurants, etc. The Burns Point Ferry is the best way to get to us, it runs from 5:30am until 12.30am daily, consistently running back and forth. An approx. 8min journey each way and costs $.00 each way, payable by credit card only. So you can easily go into Ballina town for all shops, cafes, restaurants, etc. If the ferry isn't for you, you can drive to Ballina via Wardell on River Drive. The bungalow is located approx. 25m from the main residence, and the campsite is located approx. 300m from the main residence tucked away in the paddocks and forest. We are onsite and available if needed. Sugar Beach Ranch is an operating farm with staff onsite caring for animals and maintaining the grounds. All care is taken to ensure minimal disruption to guests.

Barachi by the Creek

100%

(50)

30km from Ballina · 1 site · Lodging · Modanville, NSW

PLEASE NOTE ** Barachi is located at the rear of our property and is only accessible by 4wd** Our rustic little shack is nestled near the creek that flows in the hollow of our 100 acre property. From the moment you arrive you are embraced by the peace and tranquility - lie in the hammock, or dangle your feet in the rapids. You'll feel like you're a million miles from nowhere but minutes from everything; we are just 10 minutes to the eclectic city of Lismore, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, and just 40 minutes to Byron Bay! Take a cruise around all the surrounding cute little villages such as Dunoon, Eltham, Federal, Bexhill, Clunes and Bangalow - immerse yourself in everything Northern NSW has to offer.

Nimbin Farm 101

99%

(160)

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

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.

Stories from the community

Julie

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to "JALUM" Undulating Farmland!

You just have to check this hipcamp for yourself. The very kind host , Karen is a beautiful free spirit & so so accommodating. My wife & I stayed in the very comfy room at the end of Karen's private residence where we had our own newly renovated bathroom with soft white towels, soaps , shampoo etc...which was fabulous....also freshly cut gardenias on beside was a very nice touch. Access to the camp kitchen with full facilities & a living area/rec room was briiliant & sure makes for a great stay. Karen's surrounding garden was really beautiful...a long chat hanging over the front rail during our garden tour with Karen was delightful. Six campsites are available surrounding the ex- fish farm dams where Karen's horses & alpaca roam freely... Jalum is super relaxing...just up the road from Mooball where you'll find a beaut pub , Moo Moo Roadhouse for fabulous food , drinks & souvenirs Also popular there at Mooball is the rail trail with E bikes for hire. We enjoyed a gorgeous country drive with lush green hills crossing the NSW/QLD border from Murwillumbah through to Nerang...the amazing Beechmont Tavern was packed with punters to be entertained by back to back bands for a fun Saturday arvo/night... Lots to do in the area...even an old old railway tunnel to see on nearby Hulls Road to the Sth & just up the road to the Nth of Jalum on Pottsville Road is The Sleepy Barn where you can chill with a morning coffee or an evening cocktail along with delicious snacks/meals. 💯% score

K

Kailee

2 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at Crystal Creek Rainforest Treehouse

The red cabin was very intimate and sweet. It felt private and comfortable. The gardens were nicely maintained, with beautiful Mountain View’s. We really appreciated the tranquility. It’s also pet and child friendly which is a wonderful find these days 🤍❤️

H

Hendrix

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Barachi by the Creek

Barachi by the creek is an absolutely magical place. Peaceful, secluded and surrounded by natural beauty while giving you everything you need for a trip away without all the mod cons. Pete and Tania are speedy and effective in communication and are awesome hosts. Cannot recommend this enough. You will not regret your decision to book. Bit of a walk down and back up but that was part of the charm. Earn your holiday!

R

Rudolph

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Rainforest Treehouse

Wonderful weekend at the "fairy treehouse" as a first step to ease the girls into camping. Outdoor kitchen and bathroom facilities is a real charm, even in the rain. By nightfall my little one wanted to go catch a frog with me (it was raining). Thanks for the memories, Aneta & Paul!

D

Danielle

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Rainforest Treehouse

We had a beautiful stay. A complete switch off. We enjoyed cooking meals in the outdoor kitchen, lots of relaxing baths in the outdoor bathroom, sitting beside the fire and sleeping and waking up to the sounds of nature. Lots of beautiful native birds visited us while we were there. We also explored the property and neighbouring area with our dog. The cabin feels secluded and very private. We took the advice of another reviewer and took a couple of camp chairs to sit around the fire pit.

K

KELLY E

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Barachi by the Creek

We had the most incredible night at Peter and Tania's cabin! The cabin was so decked out with everything we needed and the beds were comfier than the ones at home! The dog and the kids loved the creek, we hiked and explored the paddocks :) A big storm rolled in and we all watched the lighting from the porch and all slept so cozy with rain on the tin roof! Solar shower was perfect to give everyone a wash! Beautiful property and very private, we will most certainly come back again! Peter was so easy to communicate with and made sure we were all set. Great experience thanks so much 🙏🏼

Mairead

November 2025

2 nights at Crystal Creek Rainforest Treehouse

I had the most magical stay in the Treehouse! Such a beautiful area and a stunning backdrop - I loved waking up to the sounds of birds and enjoying a cuppa on the deck. There is a dam on the property for a refreshing dip and the best toilet/shower set-up. Honestly, couldn't recommend this stay enough and although there is access to shops close by, I would recommend bringing some food with you and letting yourself enjoy nature for a few days 🌿

E

Ella

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Crystal Creek Rainforest Treehouse

So perfect! The cutest cabin with everything you need and the most stunning views and surroundings. Hosts are super friendly and warm and made sure I knew where everything is and how it works. Was a great and safe place for my little dog to run around without wandering too far away. The most perfect getaway spot, and great utilites including a bath looking out to the mountains. I could not recommend it enough! (Btw, Bed is firm but comfy imo)

S

Sienna

November 2025

2 nights at Crystal Creek Rainforest Treehouse

Beautiful little place in a quiet, scenic area. Everything is intentional and well thought out which just adds to the magic of the location. Couldn’t recommend this stay more.

M

Mel

October 2025

1 night at Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay

In general the camp site is super clean and well looked after. The Tent was beautifully set up - however would have been great to have more space between the tents. Facilities were great and late check in was easy.

R

Ross

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Barachi by the Creek

read the owners description! yes you need a 4 x 4 vehicle. what a spot fantastic had only a short stay but we will be back , lovely peaceful relaxing , what more can I say!!!! Peter and Tania were very helpful and a pleasure to deal with.

D

Debbie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Rainforest Treehouse

The treehouse is amazing. Very comfy and lots of nice little touches like flowers etc. the hosts were lovely and very helpful. Enjoyed our stay very much!

Geordie

October 2025

With kids

4 nights at Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay

We were absolutely stoked with the Figtree House, it was perfect for our extended family. Very comfortable, private, and had everything we needed. Loved the firepit! The location of the Ingenia park is great too, a short drive from town. The staff were very friendly and helpful. And the pool was loved by the kids!

Toni and Hattie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Rainforest Treehouse

Our stay at the treehouse was everything we needed for a peaceful reset. Nestled on a beautiful property near Springbrook National Park, we were surrounded by the sounds and sights of nature, pure tranquillity. The space felt private, serene, and perfect for a night by the fire, a homemade dinner, and a cosy board game inside. We had everything we needed. The fairy lights twinkling around the treehouse and the beautiful flower garden made it feel truly magical, like stepping into a little hidden haven. The owners were so lovely and welcoming, clearly pouring so much passion and care into both the treehouse and their property. They made us feel right at home and shared some great local recommendations, including a refreshing swim at Hart Bridge and a coffee and plant shop at a gorgeous nursery café down the road. Plus, we loved saying hello to all the friendly cows on the way there! It was the perfect nature escape, peaceful, thoughtful, and full of charm. We couldn’t recommend it more.

Ryan

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Barachi by the Creek

Perfect weekend away for peace and quiet. Peter was lovely sharing history about the local area and showing us through the cabin. Thanks! 10/10

Clarke

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Barachi by the Creek

Great peaceful secluded get away. Loved the chats with Pete aswell. Will be back Cheers

K

Karyn

October 2025

2 nights at Crystal Creek Rainforest Treehouse

The treehouse was exactly what I needed. Truly unique experience, wonderful peaceful healing vibes.

D

Dana

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to "JALUM" Undulating Farmland!

The views were beautiful and Karen was a lovely host!

G

Garfield

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Barachi by the Creek

This was a great place to stay for our family, which included our dog who could roam around and was really happy. We loved the serenity, exploring the creek/surrounds and unplugging from technology - cards and Yahtzee are a must! The barbecue was great for cooking and I recommend doing a fire at night. The accommodation is as described and I would definitely recommend the buggy ride down/back for luggage. If you do want to go back to your car and do some exploring around Modenville, it is a fair walk (30-35 mins) from the shack so be aware of that if you have younger kids or are not that mobile you probably just want to hang out down at the shack. Only small negative was the shower was pretty basic. Peter and Tania were great as well, make sure you have a chat and ask any questions. Overall - highly recommended.

D

Donna

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at Crystal Creek Rainforest Treehouse

Aneta was so lovely and welcoming. The cabin is so well equipped with everything you need.. The views, the cabin, the bath and setting is just beautiful. We will be back.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping near Ballina guide

When to go

Like the rest of the NSW North Coast and Northern Rivers region, Ballina gets very busy during summer and Easter school holidays. The best time to go is late spring or early autumn when you’ll find the beaches practically deserted, along with warm weather. June through to November is the best time to see whales.

Know before you go

The Ballina Byron Gateway Airport is just 5 kilometres from the centre of Ballina, and is well serviced by domestic flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Newcastle, and Canberra.
The Ballina Visitor Information Centre is at 6 River St, and has easy parking for large motorhomes and caravans.
There is no free camping in the Ballina Shire.
Don’t leave Ballina without snapping a selfie at the Big Prawn—it’s nine metres high and weighs 35 tonnes. You’ll find it in the carpark of Bunnings hardware store on River Street.