The best waterfall camping near Boat Harbour

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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. 

88% (161)

Top-rated campgrounds near Boat Harbour

1. Bonneydoon

96%
(256)
60km from Boat Harbour · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
With over 600 acres of private natural forest, valleys, and mountain top look outs, there's more room to explore than you could possibly cover in one visit. Bordering world heritage listed Barrington Tops national park, the views seem to go on forever, and natural beauty that truly takes your breath away. Previously owned by Yoga australia for 20yrs, upon entering this hilltop getaway, it's easy to understand why this beautiful location has been a highly sought after retreat to relax and unwind. Close to so many wonderful locations and activities in the local Dungog area, there's many options to enjoy. Or just sit back and enjoy the serenity. At Bonneydoon you can visit Sunset Rock, walk the great timber staircase of General Sherman trail, The Big Fig that's hundred's of years old, walk the majestic flatbed rock creeks, etched out over a millennia, adorned with unique flora and fauna, or relax atop the camping grounds and see the mountain tops that seem to stretch on forever.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$79
 / night

2. Faraway Retreat (Drug/Alcohol Free)

96%
(14)
70km from Boat Harbour · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Faraway Farm is an organic retreat with a focus on nourishment and well-being. A place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Here there is no need for tv, emails, music, parties, drugs or alcohol. You’ll be too busy hearing, seeing, exploring and enjoying all that the bush has to offer. With Chichester State Forest and Barrington Tops National Park nearby there is so much to explore. And being only 20 minutes from Dungog, 1 hour and 30 minutes from Newcastle, and 3 hours from Sydney it’s not too far to travel for a weekend getaway. The farm is bordered by the pristine Jerusalem Creek which offers waterfalls, swimming holes within 10 minutes walk from camp and an abundance of wildlife. Special sightings include Orchids, Koalas and Lyrebirds Camping is located on the ridge line overlooking the Barrington Tops to the west and as you can imagine the most incredible sunsets. A bush toilet with hand washing facility is available at the site. BYO water and firewood. The farm includes a small herd of goats so getting to feed the goats is just one of the many highlights. Nearby attractions include Chichester Dam, Jerusalem Creek Falls and Dundungarra Falls.
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night

3. Carawirry Forest Escape

67%
(3)
63km from Boat Harbour · 5 sites · Lodging
Carawirry’s cabin accommodation combine luxury with rustic charm. Guests can choose between The Treehouse, Gum Leaf Cabin, and The Cottage, all featuring comfortable furnishings, outdoor baths, and cosy fireplaces for the cooler months, or Tathra House for larger groups who are looking for a plunge pool and plenty of space. Many visitors rave about the opportunity to disconnect, as there’s limited mobile reception—though Wi-Fi is available for those who need it​. Top Experiences: Forest Walks and Wildlife: Explore the Waterfall Track, just one of approx 10km of trails on the property, where you can discover hidden waterfalls and natural swimming holes. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, possums, and the resident kookaburras, making it a nature lover’s paradise. Outdoor Baths: One of the standout features is the alfresco bath experience. Imagine soaking in warm water, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the forest—a guest favourite for relaxation. Gourmet Local Produce: Guests can indulge in locally sourced grazing boxes and breakfast hampers. Enjoy farm-fresh eggs, Hunter Valley cheeses, and sourdough bread either in front of a crackling fire or while soaking in the forest views from your deck​. Whether you’re there for adventure or relaxation, Carawirry Forest Escape offers a unique blend of comfort and nature, making it an unforgettable destination for those looking to reconnect with the Australian wilderness.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
AU$531
 / night

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. 

88% (161)

Top-rated campgrounds near Boat Harbour

1. Bonneydoon

96%
(256)
60km from Boat Harbour · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
With over 600 acres of private natural forest, valleys, and mountain top look outs, there's more room to explore than you could possibly cover in one visit. Bordering world heritage listed Barrington Tops national park, the views seem to go on forever, and natural beauty that truly takes your breath away. Previously owned by Yoga australia for 20yrs, upon entering this hilltop getaway, it's easy to understand why this beautiful location has been a highly sought after retreat to relax and unwind. Close to so many wonderful locations and activities in the local Dungog area, there's many options to enjoy. Or just sit back and enjoy the serenity. At Bonneydoon you can visit Sunset Rock, walk the great timber staircase of General Sherman trail, The Big Fig that's hundred's of years old, walk the majestic flatbed rock creeks, etched out over a millennia, adorned with unique flora and fauna, or relax atop the camping grounds and see the mountain tops that seem to stretch on forever.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$79
 / night

2. Faraway Retreat (Drug/Alcohol Free)

96%
(14)
70km from Boat Harbour · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Faraway Farm is an organic retreat with a focus on nourishment and well-being. A place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Here there is no need for tv, emails, music, parties, drugs or alcohol. You’ll be too busy hearing, seeing, exploring and enjoying all that the bush has to offer. With Chichester State Forest and Barrington Tops National Park nearby there is so much to explore. And being only 20 minutes from Dungog, 1 hour and 30 minutes from Newcastle, and 3 hours from Sydney it’s not too far to travel for a weekend getaway. The farm is bordered by the pristine Jerusalem Creek which offers waterfalls, swimming holes within 10 minutes walk from camp and an abundance of wildlife. Special sightings include Orchids, Koalas and Lyrebirds Camping is located on the ridge line overlooking the Barrington Tops to the west and as you can imagine the most incredible sunsets. A bush toilet with hand washing facility is available at the site. BYO water and firewood. The farm includes a small herd of goats so getting to feed the goats is just one of the many highlights. Nearby attractions include Chichester Dam, Jerusalem Creek Falls and Dundungarra Falls.
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night

3. Carawirry Forest Escape

67%
(3)
63km from Boat Harbour · 5 sites · Lodging
Carawirry’s cabin accommodation combine luxury with rustic charm. Guests can choose between The Treehouse, Gum Leaf Cabin, and The Cottage, all featuring comfortable furnishings, outdoor baths, and cosy fireplaces for the cooler months, or Tathra House for larger groups who are looking for a plunge pool and plenty of space. Many visitors rave about the opportunity to disconnect, as there’s limited mobile reception—though Wi-Fi is available for those who need it​. Top Experiences: Forest Walks and Wildlife: Explore the Waterfall Track, just one of approx 10km of trails on the property, where you can discover hidden waterfalls and natural swimming holes. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, possums, and the resident kookaburras, making it a nature lover’s paradise. Outdoor Baths: One of the standout features is the alfresco bath experience. Imagine soaking in warm water, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the forest—a guest favourite for relaxation. Gourmet Local Produce: Guests can indulge in locally sourced grazing boxes and breakfast hampers. Enjoy farm-fresh eggs, Hunter Valley cheeses, and sourdough bread either in front of a crackling fire or while soaking in the forest views from your deck​. Whether you’re there for adventure or relaxation, Carawirry Forest Escape offers a unique blend of comfort and nature, making it an unforgettable destination for those looking to reconnect with the Australian wilderness.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
AU$531
 / night

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The best waterfall camping near Boat Harbour guide

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.