Coastal camping near Boat Harbour

Beaches, bushlands, and ocean views surround this port town.

96% (1087 reviews)
96% (1087 reviews)

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12 top coastal campgrounds near Boat Harbour

99%
(296)

Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

7 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Pindimar, NSW
We are a "farm stay" style camp in an actively managed pine forest located in the middle of the north shore of Port Stephens. There is lots of space for campers so you will have privacy whilst you enjoy your camping adventure.Our property is conveniently located just 5 mins off the Pacific Highway but a world away. You'll be 2 mins away from Pindimar Beach and 11 mins from Bennetts beach and Jimmy's beach. Good fishing pretty much everywhere you can wet a line. We have clean flush toilets and showers facilities. The campsite has good Mobile Phone Signal. Free firewood. Each campsite has its own fire pit. Pets are welcome, but please pick up after them. We have a gentle and well trained German Shepherd who adores kids but she likes to stay inside the house and doesn't wander around the campsites . Important Note: PLEASE PUT OUT YOUR CAMPFIRE WHEN YOU LEAVE YOUR CAMPSITE TO AVOID STARTING A BUSH FIRE. NO LOUD MUSIC AFTER 10:00 PM. IF You Have more than 1 camper trailer or caravan or more than 3 vehicles/site please contact host before booking. Please note this property is a working private pine forest. Therefore, as and when the weather is right we could be, logging the forest, milling the logs, or drying the large dimension traditional timber framing lumber. In the near future we will be running sustainable building classes from the property. i.e. showing people how to economically build their own tiny homes using timber sourced from their own land.
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from 
AU$70
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(510)

Abstobys Retreat

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Bobs Farm, NSW
A private property with grass campsites by a tidal outlet to Port Stephens harbour. You can spend your days fishing, kayaking or enjoying Nelson Bay and surrounding areas and beaches which are only 15 minutes away. Guests have the use of a retreat shelter/fire place/BBQ area and wifi. Campers must try to be self contained bringing their own water, toilet and shower. Sorry, no caravans over 20ft. Suite solo travellers, couples wanting a quiet weekend and LGBT friendly. We do have available tank, rain water for drinking, a toilet and hot shower available for those who cannot be totally self contained. Yes there are mozzies because you are near water, so bring repellent. Pets are welcome but must stay on a leash throughout your stay. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please BYO firewood. Fires are only permitted when there are no fire restrictions and in the designated fire pit and designated fire pit area for your own fire pit. Children 16 & under stay for free. Please notify host if you are bringing children. Please be careful and supervise young children near the water.
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AU$28
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(6)

Gateway to Port Stephens

8 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Salt Ash, NSW
Our 25 acre property is set on rural farm land adjacent the Worimi Conservation lands at the gateway to beautiful Port Stephens and the Tilligerry Peninsular. We are located 40 mins from Newcastle ,20 mins from Birubi Beach Anna Bay the northern end of the 32 km long Stockton beach which is well known for its giant sand dunes and great surfing, you can also go for a camel ride while you are there ,it's 30 mins to Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay which has several beautiful beaches and great restaurants. Next door is Oakvale Wildlife Park and close by is Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters and Go carts Go ,a boat ramp to the Tilligerry river is 2.5 kms away which is a great area to fish and kayak . Popular bushwalking tracks are also nearby. Our local shops including a Bp foodworks, bakery, bottle shop, fruit and vege and Take away are a short 2.5 km away. Also close by is Murrays Brewery and Sunset Vines both with great food , wine , beer and weekend entertainment. On our property we have tents sites available as well as room for RV's. A toilet is available and water for onsite usage only and we ask that you conserve water usage as we are on Tank water. Electricity hook up is available and we also have a power source for you to charge your phones and Laptops if needed. We supply a fire pit and firewood for your use when there are no fire restrictions in place. Dogs are welcome and must be kept on leash during your stay as we have horses on our property. We are in a rural area so there will be mozzies so bring your insect repellant
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from 
AU$55
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(122)

Peaceful Paddocks

6 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Swan Bay, NSW
From camp it's 25 minutes to Oakvale Wildlife Park, 10 minutes to the village of Karuah where you can access the Karuah River, shops, restaurants and activities. Come and enjoy this open field of acres in a quiet location, with a flat and grassy campsite. It's just 20 minutes north to beaches, shops and restaurants. For your peace of mind, the owner is on site. You need to be a self-contained camper with your own camping toilet/shower, and drinking water. Access to a pool, shower and toilet may be available upon request and approval, please contact us for further information. Friendly horses in paddocks. Pets welcome, on leash only. No campfires please.
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from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
93%
(381)

Blueys Beach Farmstayz

16 sites · Tents7 acres · Blueys Beach, NSW
*Please note that this is not a working farm. You can pet and interact with the animals (horses, goats and chickens) through the fence, but no feeding, sheering or other activities available. Thank you for your understanding. Welcome to Blueys Beach Farmstay! MerryLegs's Paddock offers fantastic group bookings, perfect for larger groups. Strawberry's paddock is located towards the rear of the property, offering a comfortable spot for those with kids, with easy access to the amenities. Merrylegs's Paddock is the perfect spot for couples and smaller or larger groups. Merrylegs's is located towards the front of the property, and offers sites for up to 4 guests per site. Enjoy lovely grassed areas with ample shade for your camper-van, roof top tent, free standing tent or swag. We have seven (7) acres of fully fenced grassy paddocks, with mostly shaded open areas. We have a 2 night minimum and a 5 night maximum stay at both listings. We're located very close to Blueys Beach where you can stroll along the shore, go for a swim or help the kids build sandcastles. It’s a flat walk from your campsite, only minutes away along the footpath (approximately 200 metres) to local restaurants, cafes and shops. Those visiting with their furry family member can enjoy the nearest dog friendly beach within council regulated hours just a further 150 metres down the path. You can enjoy access to flushable toilets x 2 and a singular hot shower and a singular cold shower for those after the beach days, please BYO toiletries. We ask that you place all of your rubbish in the bins provided .. we can take your recyclable cans and bottles for the Earn and Return program. To clarify .. YES we have a garbage bin for general waste only .. no recycling bin. We allow campfires when it is safe. ALL fires must be contained in a fire pit. Absolutely no fires are to be lit on the open grass. WE have fire pits for hire and bagged firewood is available for purchase on site .. all fire pits brought onto the property for use by guests will be subject to the discretion of the property owners. All fires and fire pits must be "OK'd" with the property owners prior to lighting, what we're looking for clearance from the ground to the base of the fire pit .. the greater distance the better. Fires can only be lit in accordance with NSW Rural Fire Services fire restrictions or total fire bans. We've recently had multiple patches of our buffalo lawn scorched to beyond charcoal by careless guests .. you must ask the hosts / property owners before lighting any fires .. unnecessary burnt patches of lawn may result in you and your guests leaving!! We ask you to please note: ** UNFORTUNATELY WE DO NOT TAKE ANY CARAVANS .. HYBRID CARAVANS .. MOTOR HOMES .. RV'S .. FIFTH WHEELER's .. BUSES INCLUDING MERCEDES SPRINTERS of any size .. mainly the footprint of these types of vehicles is far too great .. once again we're only a grassy paddock not a caravan park. Standard size camper trailers and camper-vans, roof top tents are all completely fine. If your bus is longer than 4 meters in length, over 2 meters in height and/ or width with a tare weight of 3 tonne or over SORRY BUT IT IS A NO!! If your camper trailer is wider than 2.5 meters or longer than 4.5 metres in length inclusive of the drawbar .. SORRY BUT ITS A NO!! If you have a Jayco of any description .. regardless of length / width OR what the "registration papers say" .. SORRY BUT IT IS STILL A NO!! - If you have solar panels to charge you might have to chase the sun a little, as there are plenty of shaded areas which is perfect come summer. We do not allow the use of "Slackline or Tightropes" strung between our trees, it causes them to be ringbarked after a prolonged use .. meaning they die in the long run .. rope clotheslines and hamocks perfectly ok on the palms, sheoaks and paperbarks!! - Dogs are permitted here however they must be friendly off leash and must NOT chase my pets which include horses, goats , dogs and our pet chooks. Please pick up after your pooch .. as a courtesy to other guests and also to us, it doesn't happen in a caravan park .. please do the right thing here. PLEASE ADVISE US UPON BOOKING IF YOU ARE BRINGING A PET/PETS!! - There are animals that live here and they occasionally make animal noises. Specifically, we have a pet Roosters, one is called Derek. and another called Billy .. they are both meticulous at their job of being a rooster and can start very early in the morning. We ask you to please be understanding during your visit, that this is Derek and Billy's home and we ask you to PLEASE RETHINK YOUR BOOKING if you feel this might impact on your holiday or your guests holiday. On arrival, we ask that you stop at the garages at the front of the house to confirm your check-in and get instructions .. PLEASE DO NOT ENTER THE PROPERTY, prior to letting us know you have arrived. When we have heavy rain, some areas of the property are not car accessible and you may need to walk to some amenities. and keep driving to a minimum. Upon your booking you will receive a couple of private messages from us .. these will be located in your HipCamp Messages on the App or the website they will contain instructions for once you arrive .. PLEASE READ THEM!! We're happy to help if you need more information .. safe travels always!!
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from 
AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
Booked 5 times

Kintelliko

5 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Newcastle, NSW
A beautiful flat grassy bed for your Rv, caravan or tent awaits you at Kintelliko. Kintelliko means “to laugh” in the local Awabakal language and we hope to share our joy of living on this beautiful acreage nestled into 100 acres of bushland - yet only 5 minutes to the beach, lake and shops. Your fully powered site has everything you could need. A compost toilet (sorry you have to share it with the brush tail possum who’s decided it’s nice there), an amazing outdoor hot shower made from a huge sculpture, an outdoor kitchen with BBQ and stainless steel benches (it’s out in the open).
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from 
AU$35
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(99)

Noonameena

7 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Salt Ash, NSW
Noonameena is a beautiful retreat that feels secluded from the world, yet is just a stones throw from shops, beach, good food and parklands. We offer a number of grassy, level sites, some with shade, others with sun, all with bushland to the rear. There is also a pond/dam area, and lots of wildlife. We have a fire pit for communal use. The kangaroos will come and visit you early in the morning, and in the evening. You will also see lots of different parrots and birds. We even have goannas and echidnas about and the black cockatoos will come in for a visit. You will need to bring your own camp toilet, as we don't have facilities here. Pets are welcome but please keep them on a lead at all times as we have lots of wildlife around! Please note, when we have heavy rain, the ground can get boggy. We are very mindful to keep tabs on the weather for our guests, and will be in good communication with you in the lead up to your stay should we suspect there to be any issues. Whilst camping by the beautiful dam is lovely in fine weather, when it's raining, it’s best to camp towards the front of the property on higher ground. We'll advise the best solution in these circumstances. LET US KNOW about your preferred booking even if it appears booked out, as we can probably make it work or have ALTERNATIVE solutions for you!
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AU$55
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
87%
(39)

SeaForest Sanctuary

21 sites · RVs, Tents65 acres · Charlotte Bay, NSW
NOT SUITABLE FOR VANS OVER 18ft. 65 acres of pristine forest excites the senses with its diversity of environments; meandering creek tributaries, a huge natural billabong, rich array of birdlife & wildlife. The property’s rainforest walk leads you through a subtropical tree forest by the banks of Duck creek, past the 'Dingo' large sculpture then to the ultimate viewing of the gigantic ancient trees that are 300 years old. The property is close to 4 beaches - Blueys, Boomerang, Elizabeth & Cellito/Sandbar ( 3 of those beaches are dog friendly and Sandbar even allows Horse riding as well as 4WD). The property borders the southern boundary of the Wallingat National Park - which offers days and days of adventures and has the best look-out over the whole coastal region called the Whoota Whoota lookout. Wallis Lake is literally across the road from the front gate and can be accessed by boat launch just up the Coomba road or at the Pacific Palms recreational club ( Recky) which is a short 5 minutes down the road. Smiths Lake is only 5 minutes drive away in the other direction and has catamaran and boat hire services close to the Frothy Coffee Cafe, located right on the Smiths Lake waters edge. The new water sport called Fliteboard, also known as e-foiling ( it’s a new technology giving the beginner to advanced rider an experience of surfing without needing to catch a wave - sort of SUP and standing on a large stable board but propelled by a battery operated propeller ) is also located here to try out and have lessons on..The stable board GLIDES above the water on a keel like structure that is motorised by battery and is controlled by a hand held bluetooth device. You literally fly above the serene water silently ! ( exclusive deals given to SeaForest Sanctuary visitors - see extras - loading information shortly ) SeaForest Sanctuary sites are 4WD and AWD due to the tracks- some 2WD as long as they have a high ground clearance & depending if we have dry weather. ( I have a small 2WD SUV and it gets around perfectly in the dry weather but I need the 4WD in the wet ). No amenities so campers need to BYO everything they need and leave no trace. Campers MUST bring their own camping toilet... This property is a wildlife/bush sanctuary and thus everyone is asked to please do their part to keeping it that way. The waterways and forests in this area are mind blowing. If you have the opportunity, hire a boat/ houseboat or kayak etc and explore the Myall, Smiths and Wallis Lakes.. Bushwalking trails are everywhere through the many National Parks that surround us here. The property is Dog friendly and owners must be respectful of others and keep animals quiet and contained at night. Goes without saying - please clean up doggie dung and take with your rubbish. Campfires are permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place, plenty of wood to gather your own. Please be mindful that there could be fire bans on certain days during the summer. Farm manager will keep you informed and if the worst scenario happens being a fire warning of catastrophic conditions, please follow the farm managers instructions to evacuate the premises and enjoy some shopping in Forster or go to the movies for the day until the warning has lifted. Horse agistment available.
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AU$35
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(2)

Tiona Holiday Park

102 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Tiona, NSW
Stay in sites and cabins nestled between the white sands of Seven Mile Beach, the cabbage tree palm-studded shores of Wallis Lake and the spectacular Booti Booti National Park. Find your space at the pet-friendly Tiona Holiday Park, whether you are camping, caravanning or need a cabin for the night, and only 15 minutes from Forster. All of our sites and cabins are family friendly, pet friendly, and the perfect space from which to relax, explore, connect or play – plus you can have a campfire* (in season)! Lush native rainforest style landscaping allows you to embrace the natural feel of the park, whilst enjoying a stay your style. Beachfront eco style cabins and tents and lakeside spacious camping and caravan sites for adventurers and families.
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from 
AU$57
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(56)

Myalls Away

8 sites · RVs8 acres · Bungwahl, NSW
Myalls Away is located close to Myall Lake and Corrigans Bay, 22 kilometres from Bulahdelah on the way to Forster with easy access off the main road. The local fuel and bottle shop is only minutes away for your supply needs. Set up camp here at Myalls Away, enjoy the quiet open paddocks and fresh air, listen and look at the abundance of bird life whilst feeling relaxed amongst the native trees that surround the property. Watch the sky come alive at night with millions of stars, enjoy the warmth of the huge firepit in the paddock, enjoy exploring this amazing area of the lakes, ocean and the coastal bush environment. Bring your kayaks and boats as Seal Rocks is only 12 kilometres away, all the other amazing beaches and cafes like Blues Beach are 20 minutes away, the local boat ramp is a 2 minute drive to access the beautiful Myall Lake. We welcome self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower. There is access to drinking water, picnic table and rubbish facilities. The property is flat and open, it has paper bark trees for privacy, is has many species of birds, star gazing is a must on clear nights. The campsite is 2WD friendly and can accommodate all types of camping vehicles including caravans, motorhomes, campervans . The camping area is generally level. No pets please.
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AU$38
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(45)

Happy Valley Farm

1 site · RV, Tent81 acres · Mandalong, NSW
We purchased the property in mid 2021 to have an escape from city life. We have two active young children and I like to build and tinker. We now want to allow others to also have an escape into the tranquillity. The farm is not a productive farm as such, its a hobby farm, but that is what we call it. Tranquillity in a rural setting. Camp in our field and unwind. Only 8 min from the Pacific Mwy and 10 min from Morisset shops, is this beautiful parcel of land. Just 1hr drive from Sydney, 1.5hr from the CBD. The property backs onto Olney State Forest and has abundant wildlife. Several groups of wallabies are regulars, kookaburras have their nest in the trees, a few wombat holes are scattered around and deer have been seen on the property. There is only about 6 acres of cleared land and the remainder is untouched bush. Sawpit Creek is a seasonal creek which supports an abundant ecosystem. The area benefits from short commutes to local beaches, the lake and rural countryside. There are plenty of attractions and tourist destinations. We are currently only setup to cater for self-contained campers so you need to bring your own camping toilet/shower and drinking water. We do not have any facilities to offer. Please bring what you need and take with you what you bring. The paddock is level land. 4WDs are recommended to access the field, it gets a bit muddy after rain. Although there is one high spot near the bush driveway that seems to stay firm. Your furry family members are welcome to join you.
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AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(2)

Dael's Mill - Horse Holidays

3 sites · Lodging50 acres · Martinsville, NSW
Dael's Mill is a charming 2 bedroom cabin with a rich history, dating back to the 1800s. Set upon a breathtaking 50-acre retreat nestled a the foothills of the Watagan Mountains, midway between Sydney and Newcastle. Dael's Mill offers a uniquely horse-friendly escape where guests have the option to bring their beloved ponies for midweek or weekend stays, or enjoy an intimate escape in the mountains, to slow down, recharge, and reconnect. The cabin accommodates 4-6 guests and is equipped with self-contained amenities including: - King or single beds with luxurious Bed Threads linen and towels - Pull out double sofa - Air conditioning - Cedar, wood fired hot tub - Bathroom - Fridge - Kitchenette (microwave, toaster, electric fry pan, tea and coffee facilities) - BBQ - Internal fireplace and outdoor fire pit - TV with Chromecast Horse accommodation: (Maximum 4 horses per booking - 2 paddocks shared between 4 horses). Please let us know if you would like us to feed your horses. They have dedicated adjoining paddocks so you can look out your window and greet your four legged friend. Activities: Guests can unwind in an outdoor hot tub or take a refreshing dip in the property's dam and lagoons, adorned with lillies. The site grants easy access to vast trail networks in the Watagan State Forest, ideal for adventurous souls seeking extensive riding opportunities, either by horse, motor bike, mountain bike or 4WD. Or, you can try your luck fishing in the dam for some silver perch! Property features: For those seeking a more relaxed riding (or hiking) experience, the property boasts kilometers of purpose-built trails that don't require opening gates, catering to groups or individuals, providing spaces for bush bashing, hill climbs and canters. Guests can explore beautiful pockets of the property featuring our spring-fed dam, lagoons, and stunning Blarney Creek, meandering through the landscape. Spot the local wallabies, wombats, echidnas, water dragons, and so much more. Local attractions: Watagan enjoys proximity to takeaway shops, cafes, boutiques and restaurants just 10-15 minutes away, while the award-winning 8 @ Trinity is a mere 20-minute drive, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences. - Beaches within 35 minutes - Wineries within 45 minutes - Lookouts and state forest picnic areas at your door step Tyson & I are excited to welcome you to our little slice of paradise.
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from 
AU$280
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

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Coastal camping near Boat Harbour guide

Overview

Rocky headlands and sandy shores hem in the tiny port of Boat Harbour on the south coast of the Port Stephens peninsula. Hike along the seashore to spot humpback whales along the rocks, head down to the beach to swim and sunbathe, or enjoy fishing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. Two national parks lie on either side of the village—zip along the beaches of Worimi Regional Park in a 4WD or discover the bushwalking trails and surf beaches of Tomaree National Park. Camp at One Mile Beach just north of Boat Harbour, or choose from holiday parks around the peninsula. 

Where to go

Great Lakes 

North of Boat Harbour, the Myall, Smiths, and Wallis Lakes make up the Great Lakes region, surrounded by golden beaches and lush rainforest. Camp at coastal towns such as Forster, Bulahdelah, and Pacific Palms; cruise around the Myall Lakes National Park in a houseboat or kayak; or hike through the rainforest in the Booti Booti National Park.

Central Coast

To the south, the Central Coast of NSW runs from Newcastle all the way to Sydney. Wildlife watching opportunities abound—spot migrating whales from Shelly Beach or pelicans around the lakes and lagoons of The Entrance. On route to Sydney, the beaches and waterways of the Brisbane Water National Park and Bouddi National Park are ideal for camping, cruising, and bird-watching.

Greater Blue Mountains

Inland from Boat Harbour, the Yengo and Wollemi National Parks are part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area. Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding are popular ways to explore, or you can venture off-road in a 4WD. Camping here is all about getting back to nature, with backcountry campsites reachable only on foot or by 4WD. 

When to go

NSW’s balmy summers (December through February) are the most popular time for swimming and water sports along the coast of Boat Harbour. Temperatures are mild year-round and rarely drop below 10°C, even on winter evenings, so it’s possible to camp at any time. Visit between May and August to spot humpback whales on their annual migration. 

Know before you go

  • Buses run to Boat Harbour from Newcastle, but to explore the coast and national parks, you’ll need your own vehicle.
  • There are no shops in Boat Harbour—the closest supermarket is in Salamander Bay, a 10-minute drive away. 
  • Fire bans are common in New South Wales during summer and dry periods, so check local recommendations before lighting your campfire.
  • A permit is required to camp within NSW’s national parks, and campsites must be booked in advance.

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