Lakeside camping near Boat Harbour

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

94% (1220 reviews)

Australia
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New South Wales
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Boat Harbour

94% (1220 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Boat Harbour

Camper favorites near Boat Harbour

Stories from the community

1 night at Our Kindred Acres

We stayed at Kellie’s on a whim and wow what a wonderful place it turned out to be. Kellie and Rod are super communicative and welcoming and their place is absolutely stunning. Plus they’ve built this beautiful open pavilion with a kitchen, and plenty of room for relaxing and dining. Really special place, can’t wait to stay again.

1 night at Our Kindred Acres

We had a quick, but memorable visit to Kellie's beautiful property. Enjoyed walking around, playing with the dogs, relaxing by the campfire, and had a quiet restful evening. Thanks so much for hosting us :)

1 night at Our Kindred Acres

Amazing setting, we arrived late and the host had out fire already lit! The camp kitchen is very well equipped, great place to relax. Highly recommended and we shall visit again.

Weekend Trip to Vista 180

Loved camping there we had so much fun. Very accommodating. Loved the vist and yap with Mack

Weekend Trip to Our Kindred Acres

What an amazing spot! Absolutely stunning. Kelly is the ultimate host, it’s like being one of the family when you stay here. It’s clear that both Kelly and Rod love this place and put so much into ensuring their guests have a great stay and leaving wanting to return as I did Cannot recommend OKA more highly as a must visit. Even the dogs, chooks and rabbits live it here!

1 night at Edens Canopy

We came mid week and had the whole packed for ourselves. Very hidden between the trees and is very quiet. You won’t hear the streets. The host has been very lovely. We got some organic oranges from her. And she took us for a lovely walk up the hill for a breathtaking few. Bathrooms are very basic and warm water what’s a bonus. There wasn’t much sun in the morning. Bring warm clothes All up a great stay

1 night at Our Kindred Acres

OKA is a beautiful peaceful haven. Kel, Rod and Dean the caretaker make sure your stay is welcoming and lovely from start to finish. As the dogs welcome you down the drive to the sad morning when you say see you again soon. OKA is a haven for when I do weddings on the North Coast.

4 nights at Camp Elim

Beautiful spot! Staff are really friendly and helpful. Loved our stay :)

Weekend Trip to Edens Canopy

We loved our short stay at Edens Canopy. It was last minute decision and the host had little notice that we were coming, yet they were still very friendly and went out of their way to make sure we had the perfect spot for the night. It’s a beautiful location and we would definitely stay again.

Weekend Trip to Hunter Valley Hill Top Lovedale

I loved camping here with my family. My partner & I camp a lot, it was the first time taking the family, they enjoyed it so much. We had so much privacy, we had a beautiful quiet peaceful time with waking up to the cows every morning, the river, horses it was beautiful. Bathroom was clean, showers were big and great. Overall, such a beautiful long weekend. Thanks to the host helping us as well, and waiting up for us to arrive late the Friday night.

Weekend Trip to Vista 180

Great spot to stay a couple of nights. Dogs had the best time and the view is beautiful. We stayed on site 1 and were able to hook up to power and water which was a bonus! Close to shops should you need also. Andrew is lovely and really helpful. Definitely recommend.

Weekend Trip to Hunter Valley Hill Top Lovedale

Would highly recommend. Spacious camping spot, overlooking the lake and kangaroos. Great location near wineries. Two well maintained bathrooms.

Weekend Trip to Camp Elim

Good place with many amenities and with possible to hire kayaks and canoes, near to the sea, a few fire places, but not many to all the campgrounds, all the process was clear and quick

Weekend Trip to Edens Canopy

What an awesome spot! Our first visit was great. The hosts are super friendly and helpful. It's a little oasis in the forest and only 10 mins from town. We took our smallish caravan. We loved just hanging by the fire watching all the birdlife, and great facilities too. We'll be back.

Weekend Trip to Edens Canopy

Had a great time. We were even treated to a hike up to the top of the mountain for an amazing lookout over the surrounding areas. Facilities were working and clean. Thanks again!

Weekend Trip to Tiona Holiday Park

Great location with plenty of outdoor exploration options. Lake on one side and the beach on the other. Facilities are well maintained and very useful. Just unfortunate that the tent sites are so close to the road with minimal sound barriers.

Weekend Trip to Hunter Valley Hill Top Lovedale

We loved it! Marg and Lenny were fantasic and helpful.

Weekend Trip to Hunter Valley Hill Top Lovedale

Marg and Lenny were lovely and helpful. They provided us firewood and extra camping supplies that we needed. Very wholesome farm and great stay!

JOSEPH

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Edens Canopy

lovely place ,super friendly owner, although was a muddy one after weeks of rain , still had a great time. Nice under cover fire pit and eating space , would love to go again

1 night at The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah

Richard was very helpful as it was pouring with rain and he let us stay on the road. The property is just beautiful.

9 top lakeside campgrounds near Boat Harbour

98%

(582)

The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah

43 sites · RVs, Tents103 acres · Forster, NSW

The Riverside Farm Escape is a family owned cattle farm situated on the picturesque Wang Wauk River in Minimbah, Mid North Coast NSW. Our well maintained, grassy campground and RV stop provides spectacular views of the Wang Wauk River, which flows into the magnificent Wallis Lakes. The Riverside property spans 103 acres of rich farmland and has over 500 meters of river frontage, ideal for kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing, with water access to Forster / Tuncurry. A gravel boat ramp provides easy access to Wang Wauk River ideal for small boats/tinnies. The property also boasts a beautiful dam, full of blooming lilies, a favourite for the kids to kayak and swim. Surrounding natural bushland is teeming with wildlife, including wallabies, kangaroos, lizards, and vibrant native bird species. Access: Suitable for 2WD and 4WD vehicles Site Options: Powered and non-powered sites available Fire Pits: Provided at all sites for cozy evenings under the stars Firewood: Conveniently available for purchase Pet-Friendly: Bring your furry friends (on-leash) Please clean up after them. Family-Friendly: A perfect escape for all ages Toilets/Shower: Available for a fee ($10 per site per night) *Cold water only Kayaks: Complimentary for guests to enjoy river adventures River Access: Direct water frontage for kayaking, paddle boarding, and small boat launching. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Nabiac Village (7 mins): Supermarket, charming cafes, chemist, pub, post office, dump point, potable water, and the Artisan Farmer for paddock-to-plate delights. Tuncurry/Forster (25 mins): Stunning beaches, vibrant restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. Barrington Tops (25 mins): Explore breathtaking trails and scenic vistas. Blueys Beach (50 mins): Relax on pristine, sandy shores. Port Macquarie (60 mins): A vibrant coastal town with pristine beaches, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(7)

Our Kindred Acres

8 sites · RVs, Tents92 acres · Bombah Point, NSW

Our Kindred Acres is our 92 acre property, a “peaceful natural escape” for like-minded folk. Entering the gates of this unique property you will feel the serenity as she “wraps her arms around you”. Whilst you take time to enjoy every picturesque view, instantly leaving “it all behind”. Explore 10 acres of cleared lush lawns, 82 acres of natural rainforest, bush wilderness with walking/riding tracks throughout [depending on weather conditions]. An ideal place for your next secure, safe and quiet stopover, whilst you “rest your weary head at night”. Situated between Newcastle and Port Macquarie, 7 kms via Bulahdelah with the beaches, lakes, mountains of Seal Rocks, Forster, Port Stephens, Gloucester, Myall Lakes, the Mid North Coast within easy drive. Our Kindred Acres is in the perfect position with so much to offer locally including wildlife, fishing, boating, swimming, bush walking, bird watching, bike riding, relaxing, and the overwhelming enjoyment of mother nature at her best. Our jaw-dropping Camp Kitchen has all things required to make your stay as relaxing as possible. Accessible to RVs, camper trailers, tents caravans. Guests to be self-sufficient with their own water, power, shower/toilet facilities, cooking facilities. Bathroom facilities on request. Camp Kitchen is a communal area for all guests, leave clean and tidy. Leave No Trace – please take all rubbish/items and dispose correctly. Dogs on request, friendly and well behaved, restrained on arrival as we have free range chooks. Pick up dog poo and take it with you. National Parks are nearby, you should familiarise yourself with their domestic pet rules; locations, all available on the NSWNP website. Fires – on arrangement, you are welcome to bring your own firepit and firewood or OKA can supply. Before setting up, we will organise pavers and sand to ensure our grass is protected. We do have firewood available to purchase, 20kg @ $20.00. Firewood/Kindling collection is not permitted without our consent. Permission to use generators & chainsaws must be sought. If granted, generators to be super quiet and off between 9pm and 7am. Our 10pm noise curfew is for the enjoyment of all guests. Guests are to acknowledge Conditions of Entry prior to entering property which will be messaged.

* Before taxes and fees

86%

(25)

Camp Elim

47 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Forster, NSW

With a legacy spanning over 65 years, Camp Elim is nestled in the serene Booti Booti National Park, situated between Green Point and Tiona. Camp Elim offers a unique ALCOHOL free, smoking free, and pet free environment for a peaceful retreat. This property truly is a slice of paradise where you can walk across the road to see the sun rise over the Pacific Ocean then see it set across the beautiful Wallis Lake from the edge of our property. Camp Elim offers a unique alcohol free, smoking free, and pet free environment for a peaceful retreat. The lake is perfect for swim with a long sand bank making it safe for all ages. If you enjoy fishing it is an amazing spot for whiting, flathead and bream in the lake and mulloway, tailor, salmon and bream off the beach. As a Christian campsite and caravan park, we warmly welcome holidaymakers. Camp Elim upholds a commitment to a wholesome environment, reflected in our policy of no ALCOHOL, no SMOKING, and no PETS. Discover the beauty and tranquillity of Camp Elim for an unforgettable retreat. All sites are powered and with water and we can accommodate caravans, campervans, rooftops and tents.

* Before taxes and fees

Trinity Vineyard - Hunter Valley

1 site · RV, Tent65 acres · Lovedale, NSW

Located in the heart of Hunter Valley wine country, this magnificent 65 acre estate is unrivalled for its excellent position, beautiful views, resort-style facilities, established vines and vast lake attracting an abundance of wildlife. Known as Trinity Vineyard and Lovedale House, it is the ultimate private vineyard retreat just two and a half hours drive from Sydney and 30 minutes from Newcastle.

from

AU$120

/ night

* Before taxes and fees

89%

(22)

Tiona Holiday Park

99 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.

* Before taxes and fees

97%

(282)

Fern Gully

13 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Mandalong, NSW

Check in: MUST BE BEFORE 7PM. YOU MUST ARRIVE ON SITE BEFORE 7PM. No check in available after sunset. Text us at least 2 hours before if you are going to be late. Enter the driveway and park at the front carpark. Walk to the house and meet Les and/or Jade for directions to campsite location. Please make your booking prior to 1pm for same day arrival. The property is 40 acres of beautiful bushland, backing on to the Olney State Forest. Camp on a grassy site overlooking the dam or nestled in amongst the trees. Pets allowed. Keep your dog on leash at your campsite and under supervision at all times. Clean up after your dog. Fire pits provided on each campsite. Do not dismantle fire pits. Campsites have no toilet or shower facilities, and no electrical connection. Please bring your own water. Dry organic firewood for sale $20 for 30kgs on request. Fresh free-range eggs for sale when available. Please respect our home and property and leave the campsite in the good condition you found it. The property is just 7kms from the M1 motorway (take the Morisset exit off the M1) and Morisset just 10kms away with shops and fuel. There is plenty to do in the Morisset area including visiting the pretty Gap Creek Falls in the Watagans National Park or kayaking around beautiful Lake Macquarie, Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake. There are some great areas for hiking, bike riding, bird watching and more. Set on the western foreshore of Lake Macquarie, which has the bush in its backyard. Find a patch of shade for a picnic in Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area where you can spot kangaroos and other wildlife. The saltwater lake is a haven for sea turtles and dolphins and you might see sea eagles and kookaburras, too. Fern Gully is just 1.5 hours drive from Sydney! We look forward to meeting you.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(605)

Spirit of the Forest

19 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Boolambayte, NSW

Spirit of the Forest is one of the oldest properties in the area. Many years ago it was an old dairy farm, but it has been through many transitions since then.... uniquely situated only a few kms. from the majestic "Grandis" tree it has an abundance of wildlife close by, wallabies come out to feed on the pasture at dusk and dawn, mighty eagles soar overhead and beautiful Arabian horses run free in the paddocks.Trevor and Maya moved here from Berry NSW 17 years ago. Trevor is an internationally acclaimed entertainer and horse whisperer and Maya is an artist, author and lecturer. Both found the property a haven from their busy schedule of performing overseas.A unique 70 acre Arabian horse property, surrounded by Myall Lakes National Park 4 kms from "The Grandis" the tallest tree in NSW and 10 kms from Bulahdelah Town also near to beautiful North Coast beaches. There are many beautiful areas to choose from to camp, as well as a cabin.A portable 240v generator (1) is available for hire $10.00 a day, fuel included, advance booking.

* Before taxes and fees

86%

(54)

SeaForest Sanctuary

18 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, 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.

* Before taxes and fees

94%

(139)

Hunter Valley Hill Top Lovedale

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Lovedale, NSW

Situated in the heart of the Hunter Valley, our 300-acre property boosts spectacular views over Hunter Valley and Wine country. Set amongst all the wineries this is the perfect spot to camp, set up your caravan or motorhome. We offer showers, toilets, Brand New BBQ and wash up facilities, function room, kiosk, campfire area, we also run the local hotel with great food and Accommodation, campfire sing along, wineries, and much much more. We offer an extensive range of activities that include horse riding, tractor hayrides, including a horse stud tour, bush walking, cray fishing, kayaking, spot lighting and more. Our property boasts a fantastic array of wildlife, kangaroos, wallabies, goannas, Wedge Tail eagles, Black Cockatoos, Possums etc etc. COME STAY AND PLAY AT HILL TOP! BOOK EARFLY FOR EASTER HOLIDAYS TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT....

* Before taxes and fees

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside 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.