The best private sites caravan camping near Bowral

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The biggest town in the Southern Highlands, Bowral is a popular place for Sydneysiders to visit for weekend getaways or Sunday drives. Just 90 minutes south of the Harbour City, the town is brimming with art galleries and boutiques, all while serving as a jumping-off point into the Highlands.

98% (247)

Top-rated campgrounds

Look for the small orange arrow - it's pointing to the property which sits on a ridge line that leads right to the top of the escarpment.

1. Mellows Ridge

95%
(174)
27km from Bowral · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Calderwood, NSW
Nestled right up against the escarpment at an elevation of 450m, this high-end, off-grid 40 acre property effectively offers your own private slice of Macquarie Pass National Park - amazing views, giant cedar trees, fern forests, cascading waterfalls and palms surround. It feels remote but it's only 90 min from Sydney, 30 min to Kiama and just 15 min to the shops. The property also offers the only hiking path up to the top of the escarpment for some truly amazing views. As of September 2025, many of the trails on the property have been degraded by the rains and are now challenging for 2WD cars. If you're towing or it's wet we recommend AWD or 4WD vehicles. Since this is coastal rainforest and it has been very wet, expect leeches anywhere it is damp. These are easily kept at bay with deet and or trousers tucked into socks. We're not particularly price sensitive - until all those rate rises - but we are extremely value sensitive so we set out to make your stay extremely good value for your hard earned money. The land itself does most of the heavy lifting but also personal service and of course there's Lana to fall in love with. Note, Mellows Rd is 2.6km long and rises 400m - in parts the road is a 15 degree grade. It's all paved but narrow so if you are towing a large heavy load, it's going to strain your car.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$97
 / night
Babbling Brook 4WD Camping

2. Babbling Brook 4WD Camping

99%
(594)
69km from Bowral · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · St. Georges Basin, NSW
Situated on the beautiful Wandandian Creek with 15km creek frontage, 2.5 hours south of Sydney, Babbling Brook offers ten grassed areas with an easy 3km 4WD drive to campsites. 15 mins drive to Huskisson and Sussex Inlet. We do not accommodate large groups as our focus is peace, relaxation and family friendly. The property is home to an abundance of wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, native birds and reptiles. There are also a lot of wombats so stay on the track and look for burrows. There are many activities to enjoy including kayaking, fishing, swimming, bush walking, bird watching and 15kms of mountain bike trails. We are pet friendly, please remember to have your pets protected against ticks. You will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet, shower and water. Please DO NOT dig toilet hole, even though you leave it covered, it doesn't take long for the foxes to dig it up and leave a real mess!! Campfires permitted in designated areas. There is mobile reception. No shooting, archery or hunting. No trail bikes. Do not damage trees, there is plenty of firewood on the ground. Don't forget your mozzie repellent. Please note we have a moderate cancellation policy thru Hipcamp.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$121
 / night
Wedderburn Hideaway

3. Wedderburn Hideaway

100%
(145)
53km from Bowral · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Wedderburn, NSW
Hello Campers! Our beautiful property is located on 20 acres in a convenient location just 10 minutes out of Campbelltown. The property is a short drive to Dharawal National Park, and a great 'home base' while you explore everything the area has to offer. There are fire pits provided for campfires, given there are no fire bans or restrictions in place. If you would like to be further away you can camp near our dam which is becoming more popular as of late .If you would like to be totally tucked away in the bush we also have spots totally surrounded by bush, please let us know when booking. There is a hot outdoor shower and a toilet on site just a short walk from all the camp sites. Please take note that our dogs which love people and are super friendly wander around freely and will come and visit you, so if you do not like dogs please do not book in . We also have a day spa and a gut health clinic on site, for additional charges. www.macarthurcolonics.com.au We have fresh water and powered sites available.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$73
 / night
Wombat Hollow

4. Wombat Hollow

99%
(139)
36km from Bowral · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Budgong, NSW
100 acres of secluded paradise with a kilometer of free flowing pebbled creek. Bound on two sides by the craggy escarpments of the Budgong and Morton National Parks there is ample grassland to give a feeling of space yet an abundance of trees to wander through as you engage with the tame wildlife and magnificent birdlife. Bring your mountain bike, fishing rod, swimmers, hiking boots, tennis racket, basketball (a hoop on the tennis court) or climbing gear and leave the kids in the play area while you sit by the creek and listen to the water tumbling through the rocks. If you are as intrigued by rare animals as we are, then this is the place for you. 63 Bird species, 24 mammals, 16 reptiles, and 12 amphibians have been sighted in the area (Clarke 2012) and this includes many rare and endangered species including the platypus, brush-tailed rock wallaby, Giant burrowing frog, Gang-gang cockatoo, Glossy black-cockatoo, Koala, Little Lorikeet and the Yellow-bellied glider. We only have three campsites at present, so you will be guaranteed peace, space and privacy. with a minimum of 400m between all sites. Please note, that your group must be self-contained, with their own camp toilet, however fresh drinking water is available. Access is into a valley on a well maintained unsealed road but there are some minor causeways making it unsuitable for busses or long low slung vans. An ordinary sedan will do for Billabong and Dad's camp sites but you will need some power for towing and a 4x4 to tow out in any rain. Riverbend site is only suitable for 4x4's and off-road camp trailers. You are a 40 minute drive from the sea (try the Shoalhaven 100 beach challenge https://www.shoalhaven.com/100-beach-challenge/ ) and just 15km from the historical town of Kangaroo Valley with its myriad of water activities, golf, wine estates, and quaint shopping. ttps://visitkangaroovalley.com.au/see-and-do/
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$79
 / night
Rhapsody

5. Rhapsody

99%
(228)
74km from Bowral · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gingkin, NSW
Welcome to this remote piece of paradise! Rhapsody is located in Gingkin,, which is not far from Oberon NSW, about 3 hours west of Sydney. Campsites are hidden in a remote valley direct frontage to the pristine Hollanders River, adjoining the Kanangra-Boyd National Park. There are two private campsites on grassy river flats surrounded by eucalyptus forest. The sites are very secluded so you will see lots of wildlife and you're guaranteed not to see any other people! Only one group can stay at each campsite and campsites are on different parts of the river so privacy is guaranteed. In dry conditions 2WD is fine for Wallaby flat but in wet weather, 4WD is required. Platypus flat is 4wd only. You can always park at the top of the hill and walk down first if you're not sure. Dog friendly. Campfires permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place. Gather your own wood from fallen timber on the way in or BYO wood. Not much firewood available on site. Both campsites can get quite cool as they are low in the valley. This is a wild and remote area. Guided remote bushwalks also available for those who are fit and adventurous. Both campsites have a pit toilets, cold shower, spring water on tap, picnic tables.. Water is sourced from a distant spring in the mountain and is gravity fed to the site by above ground pipe which heats the water during the day. There is a small area where you can get Telstra mobile reception at the cattle grid on the way into the property, but very limited mobile reception in this area. If you are on Optus or other networks you won't get any reception. There is no mobile reception at camp - perfect for disconnecting and reconnecting with nature!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$146
 / night
Monastery of 11 Strings

6. Monastery of 11 Strings

99%
(228)
49km from Bowral · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Wombeyan Caves, NSW
Lovingly developed for 15 years as a mindful refuge & wildlife corridor by Victoria, a filmmaker/permaculture designer, the property was completely destroyed in 2018. Thus the mega bushfire cycle began impacting forever most of NSW's flora, fauna & people. Nature ultimately prevails & slowly the untamed terrain is healing. After studying at RMIT School of Architecture & Design for three years with the intention to design tiny living house systems better suited for harsh environments, Victoria has returned. Slowly she rebuilds a humble off-grid existence from the burnt-out bus fusing knowledge of building design with her food forests/aquaponics passion, keen to create an environmentally connected experience to share with like-minded others. By staying you are helping her & all the wild things emerge from the ashes. Thank you. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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AU$40
 / night
Silky Oaks Flower Farm

7. Silky Oaks Flower Farm

97%
(286)
44km from Bowral · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Oakdale, NSW
Silky Oaks is one of Australia’s largest private collections of Native Australian plants. Set on 30 acres; there is 3 lakes, manicured gardens, a cut-flower plantation, rainforest, and orchard to wander. Our Glamping Van's are Set direct on lakefront and our BYO camp spots are in the flower plantation. Oakdale is a lovely rural area; you will pass cow paddocks, mountains and beautiful country vistas on your drive to the property. The area is a mix of houses, hobby farmers, homes on acreage, equestrian centres, produce growers and National Park. There is a glorious look-out in the National Park overlooking the Warragamba dam. Some days it is swept with clouds; enveloping you into the majestic heavens. It’s an easy ten min drive away. There is local towns 15mins drive for eating out and getting coffee.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$79
 / night
La Estancia Hideaway at Jervis Bay

9. La Estancia Hideaway at Jervis Bay

100%
(22)
62km from Bowral · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Woollamia, NSW
🌿 Experience Tranquility and Adventure 🌿 Just a 2.5-hour drive south of Sydney, discover our bush property nestled in the breathtaking beauty of Jervis Bay. Wake up to the harmonious sounds of kookaburras and cicadas in a peaceful bushland setting. Perfect blend of nature and convenience a short 5-minute drive connects you to the South Coast's best eateries, cafes, and breweries, ensuring you can indulge in culinary delights amidst your outdoor adventures. The pristine white sand beaches are just a stone's throw away! All our guests have access to 'The Shed' which is a communal area with ‘glamping’ like commodities. There is a full-size fridge for you to store your perishables, plates, glasses, bowls and cutlery as well as basic seasoning. As well as a toaster, kettle, espresso machine, milk frother as well. We have provided our guests with coffee, sugar and a selection of teas. If you’re up for a friendly game, we’ve got a dartboard and plenty of board games to keep you entertained. Prefer a quiet drink by the fire? You’ll find a selection of books perfect for kicking back and relaxing by the fire. Essential Amenities: Both the campsite and caravan have access to a shared outdoor bathroom, potable water, and power. Please note that we are located in the bushland therefore insect repellent is highly recommended. Mobile reception may be patchy at times. We are Pet-Friendly- Small to medium dogs (under 20kg) are welcome but must be on a leash and supervised at all times. If your dog is larger please contact me directly prior to booking. Endless activities await whether you love beautiful walks, fishing, paddleboarding, biking, or snorkeling, our location provides the perfect base for all your outdoor pursuits. For more information and reservations feel free to message us. We can't wait to welcome you to the natural beauty of Jervis Bay at La Estancia Hideaway! 🏕️🏖️
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$91
 / night
Wattle Run

10. Wattle Run

100%
(42)
68km from Bowral · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Kingsdale, NSW
Located just 10 mins from Goulburn CBD within the picturesque Southern Tablelands area, Wattle Run is a beautiful 100 acre secluded property with plenty of wildlife and spectacular views over the valley into Goulburn. We offer spacious nature based campsites around our property, some with views of the mountains, bush based, or in grassy cleared sites with dam views. Please note, to get to some campsites there is a farm track, we recommend 4WD or SUV to access those campsites. but plenty of campsites available for smaller vehicles also. There are families of kangaroos that live within the property as well as some wild rabbits and hares. Keep your eyes peeled for an abundance of wildlife like kookaburras, owls, parrots and ducks. Plenty more for nature lovers here, including bush walking and bird watching. We are located within 15 mins to Pejar dam for local fishing and kayaking (no motors aloud on the dam). Just 10 mins into Goulburn CBD for all the local amenities, including supermarkets and boutique shops and galleries. We also have a variety of local playgrounds and parks to wonder like the wetlands for more nature and wildlife walks. For the kids, we have our newly finished aquatic centre with splash park, and two bmx pump tracks and skate parks. We are located a short 20min drive to "Rambo" the big ram, which is on the list of big things located within Australia. Walk to the top and experience the local sheep industry history as well as shop local produce and giftware. Located a 20min drive west to the beautiful country towns of Crookwell and Taralga, where you can find country pubs, boutique eateries and shops or why not visit Taralga wildlife park for your up close encounter with some animals. Dogs are welcome but must remain on leads at ALL times as this is a working farm and protecting our wildlife is priorty. You MUST bring your own camping toilet and be COMPLETELY 100% self sufficient with everything including drinking water. We have a Leave No Trace policy, so ask that you please take all waste with you as we dont have a bin service. Strictly No Pre Booking tours of campsites allowed, a good description and photos of each campsite is available online. NO DAY VISITORS ALLOWED Campfires permitted when local/state government restrictions aren't in place. PLEASE NOTE at times Wattle Run has the right to enforce their own restrictions. We are a working property and live on site, therefore at times you may hear farm machinery.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$36
 / night
Wings of the Carribee

11. Wings of the Carribee

98%
(49)
4.7km from Bowral · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Burradoo, NSW
If your heart beats to the vibrant drum of the Southern Highlands but you want the space and freedom of camping on a great river, then Wings of the Carribee is for you. Two campsites share 20 Acres of cottonwood trees on the Wingecarribee river. They are 250m apart and both on the riverfront giving you the seclusion you need while allowing you access to all that the Highlands have to offer. Bring your fishing rod and yabbie net, sit at the large picnic table, rent a kayak and go for a paddle, come say hello to the miniature Hereford cattle and enjoy the half drum fire pit while watching the cows grazing across the river. If you are bringing dog(s) then they must be on a lead or consider Yabbie which is enclosed. Of course you will be tempted to explore the area. Wings sits directly between Bowral and Moss Vale (both are less than 5km away) and is 14 km from historic Berrima so you can leave the camper and head into town to enjoy the old world charm of the area. The Southern Highlands is ideal if you’re wanting to escape Sydney (100km) or Canberra (160km) without lengthy travel. Discover all that the area has to offer including a host of idyllic country towns, fascinating shops and regular country events. With it’s abundant wineries, award-winning restaurants, culinary delights, and natural splendor, it’s the place to unplug, find yourself and indulge in some of life’s finest pleasures. If the birds and the bees are your thing then you are also in for a rare treat. We have eastern greys, rabbits, the odd fox and a host of birdlife (eyes open for the resident wedgetail pair, pelicans, black swans etc.), but whatever you seek from your break, we look forward to hosting you. Note that you have to bring your own toilet facility. Please confirm when you book that you are self sufficient in this regard.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$103
 / night
The perfect place to get away from it all

12. 'Elouera Vale' Farm

98%
(617)
8.8km from Bowral · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mittagong, NSW
Elouera Vale is a working farm located just outside Mittagong NSW. We breed and train camels for sale, especially into the Southern Highlands. Camels are excellent for weed control and co-grazing with cattle. 'Elouera Vale' also breeds Belted Galloway cattle, Dorper and Wiltipol sheep and donkeys. Our property covers over 140 acres, 80 acres cleared and pasture improved and the rest consisting of forest. The Chain O Ponds creek runs through the property and makes for a lovely walk. You will probably get to see kangaroo, wallaby, wombats, echidnas, koalas and lots of bird life. The lush green hills abound with walking and cycling trails. You can head to the spectacular Nattai Gorge via the Box Vale Mine walking track, an easy 4.4km circular walk that follows an old railway line through a tunnel to breath-taking views. Enjoy a picnic in the magnificent Lake Alexandra Reserve or hike up extinct volcanic peak Mount Gibraltar. The closest shops are approximately a 15 minute drive to the Mittagong Town Centre where you will find all the shops, cafes and restaurants for your needs. It is well worth a visit to ‘The Shaggy Cow’ cafe, one of our favourite foodie spots (don’t forget to mention Elouera Vale). While you're here please try the Cool Climate wines. The region’s rich soil and high altitude are ideal for cool-climate wine growing. Visit cellar doors in the hills and valleys around Mittagong, including Centennial Vineyards. Enjoy a pleasant wine tasting experience at Centennial (don’t forget to mention us). The Camel Cottage offers a luxe off-the-grid escape for couples just one hour from Sydney but feels like "miles from anywhere". The Gums Cottage is a fully contained, off-grid modern getaway, surrounded by the magnificent white gum trees that are its namesake. The serene setting and stylish interior of The Gums provides all the essentials for a picturesque and peaceful country escape. The White Gum Forest Retreat offers campsites nestled in a white gum forest, not far from a beautiful trickling creek. There is access to toilets and a small dam near campsites for water supply for showers where required. For a truly memorable experience we recommend hiring our function space, White Gum Forest Functions, which is available for day visitors as well as guests staying overnight in our cabins and campsites. Why not book your next special family group gathering, milestone birthday or wedding here! The function space can cater for up to 50 guests, please contact us with your time and date requirements before booking. Feel spoilt in the midst of beautiful waratahs, grevilleas and ferns, watching camels grazing in the adjacent paddock. It's like being on a safari! There is 5G mobile telephone reception at the farm so you can reconnect with the world if need be. No pets please.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$79
 / night
Secret Valley

13. Secret Valley

97%
(15)
69km from Bowral · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · St. Georges Basin, NSW
Our lovely piece of paradise nestled between the hills in Yerriyong State Forest is waiting for you to come and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature! Surrounded by beautiful flowing creeks, lookouts, caves, rainforests, billabongs, mountains just a short drive/ride away. Explore the surrounding state forest in 4x4, on motorbike or horseback, push bike or hiking. Even catch your own freshwater crayfish ! Some of the best beaches in Jervis Bay and Sussex Inlet only 20 minutes drive away. You won’t be disappointed. We have tent sits and caravan sites available. Please advise upon booking, which site you require. We have a lovely flowing creek through our property, your choice of camp sites, fire pit, firewood. Grassy sunny areas and shady grassed areas. Self guided walks throughout the property to explore the creek, mountain and mini rainforest. You must be self sufficient as there are no toilets or showers available and please take all rubbish with you. We are located 8 kilometres off the Princes Highway and we DO recommend 4wd as there is 5 kilometres of rough dirt road with 3 creek crossings that can be flooded in heavy rains. Dogs are accepted but Must be kept on a leash as we have an abundance of wildlife, wallabies, kangaroos, wombats and birds, as well as our own dogs, horses, pigs, goats and a cat. Please be aware of wombat holes. As well as snakes.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$114
 / night
The waterholes along Lyrebird Creek glint in the early morning shadows of our 1 km long valley
Our northern boundary is 2.1 kms, southern 5.6kms

14. The Sanctuary 2580

100%
(51)
60km from Bowral · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Boxers Creek, NSW
🌿 Welcome to The Sanctuary 2580 – A Hidden Bush Retreat close to Sydney, Wollongong and Canberra! Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of our biodiverse, timeless land sprawling across ~500 acres. Conveniently located just 2.5 hours from Sydney, 1.3 hours from Canberra, and a short 25-minute drive from Goulburn, The Sanctuary 2580 (our postcode) is an exclusive haven for nature enthusiasts and those wanting their own cosy hidden valley experience. 🚗 Getting Here: Ten kms off the Hume down a tar and gravel rural lane, with the final ~2 kms down a bush track/firetrail the farm which is 99% of the time accessible with 2WD vehicles. NOTE: ALL the Map Apps (Garmin Apple Google etc) get the directions Wrong, but on booking we will send you access instructions. 🌳 Nature's Symphony: The firetrail that brings you to The Sanctuary descends ~2kms of the 3 km long catchment of Lyrebird Creek, where on arriving at our farm, the water slows, down dropping the sediments and nutrients carried by this fast perennial mountain creek onto the open uplands floodplain, enriching and watering a rich tapestry of native grasses and herbs in the woodlands and the poa tussock river grasslands further down. In a wet season the chorus of frogs is deafening along our 1km long main valley. Lyrebird Creek after leaving the woodlands, descends past several natural springs to our southeast corner where it joins Jerrara Creek, that flows into Bungonia Creek, and then into the Shoalhaven River. But don't expect to see Lyrebird Creek running, as it's only on the surface for few weeks per year on average in wet years, rarely in average years or standard El Niño years. It only runs on the surface for a few weeks a year in La Niña years after the catchment is saturated, as the rest of the time like many of Australia's creeks, it flows below the surface in ancient riverbed-rocked aquifers Our quiet mornings and evenings are filled with birdsong from all the small forest, woodlands and creekside birds, over 10 species of cockatoos and parrots, and the second last bird chorus at night is the resident kookaburra family sings their boundaries, and if you listen carefully you’ll hear surrounding kookaburra tribes answering. It's after the evening kookaburra boundary patrol and just on dark that you'll sometimes hear the male lyrebirds practicing their extensive repertoire. One thing that gives them away is that the birds they are mimicking area all tucked up for the night, and the different calls come from the same areas of the eastern or western ridges that hug the Lyrebird Creek catchment as they move to their overnight lairs deep in the forest. After dark, if you have young hearing, or the right microphone and frequency converter attached to your smart phone, there’s the very high-pitched ecolocation of the many insect-eating microbats, the quiet calls of the barn and boobook owls as they set out on their nightly hunts, and sometimes the territorial calls and squabbles of the brush-tailed possum tribes. The local council biodiversity officer told us earlier in 2024 to keep an eye and ear out for the calls of endangered species of glider possums, and over in the western valleys we may have the normally silent koalas. It's only male koalas in mating season who make a lot of noise for a few weeks a year. Our native fauna also comprises the quiet, shy and camouflaged swamp and red-necked wallabies, echidnas, eastern grey kangaroos, wombats and the even more shy bandicoots. Reptiles include skinks, blue tongues, water monitors, lace monitors (a species of goanna that can be well over 2m long, snakes include red-belly blacks and eastern browns, and 4+ species of frogs. While in the springs and waterways we have yabbies, freshwater mussels and whopping great leaches. Some of the bigger waterholes on Jerrara Creek may have rakali, Australia's native rodent version in the ecosystem of the freshwater otters of the Northern Hemisphere. We're hoping the platypus move back once the catchment and stream health improves. 🌋 Ancient Rocks Unveiled: Explore Hanging Rock and other ancient volcanic pumice-like rock formations, on both the eastern and western sides of the Lyrebird Creek valley standing resilient against hundreds of millions of years of geological erosion. These natural wonders we think are from the Silurian or Ordovician periods ~415-480 million years ago, add to the timelessness to the landscape. 🏞️ The Sanctuary is Spacious and Largely Untouched: As the most recent custodians of the ~500 acres, we're all about having a small footprint, regenerating and restoring the creeklines impacted by the livestock and feral animals of European invasion. We currently use or travel over ~5% of the land and have a self-imposed limit of -10% maximum in our biodiversity and catchment management plans. We are setting up remote monitoring systems to keep a check on the native fauna and flora as well as catchment and creek health, ensuring we only intervene if and when necessary. Our boundary fence-lines dwarf your average suburban block: eastern - 1km, northern - 2.1km, western - 0.8km and the southern creek boundary is 5.6kms long. Luckily the southern boundary fencing is on the other side of the creek, but we are planning how to replace the other ~4kms of boundary fencing, as much of it traverses some quite rugged terrain. ⛰️ Elevate Your Experience with Cool Nights, Scenic Heights: Experience a change in altitude, ranging from 590 to 810 meters above sea level. Enjoy cool nights even in summer, and as we catch up with the maintenance and add signage, there will be opportunities to walk our internal fire trails leading to Mount William and over to the western valleys. 🌲 Beyond The Sanctuary: The beautiful Bungonia Gorge and National Park is just 40 minutes away offering well-marked trails for every skill level, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. And for the experienced there's some caves that speleologists love and well-meaning amateurs get rescued from. Only 30 minutes away is Australia’s oldest inland city of Goulburn. It has great cafés, restaurants and takeways, and regal colonial architecture with the railway station, courthouse and the beautiful 2 cathedrals. Other interesting tourist features include The Roundhouse (for train fans), the May St Wetlands restoration project, a number of art galleries, the Conservatorium, Lieder Theatre (Australia's oldest inland theatre) and the popular Goulburn Performing Arts Centre. 🌍 Mission and Values of a Social Enterprise – doing good by doing good business Beyond our birdlife and tranquillity, we're on a social and environmental mission. Our business plans for The Sanctuary are that becomes a hub for environmental and climate change science education, an example of good science-informed Permaculture design, and updated versions of the farm, garden, and nature therapy we were doing back in the 80s. So your stay first of all pays the council and local land services rates, abd directly supports environmental management at The Sanctuary and beyond, including regenerative agriculture and agricultural biodiversity, catchment and wetlands restoration, and broadacre Permaculture design. It also helps us create a walk-the-talk operational base for our other work through Sacred Earth Works and Transforming Lives Australia, in assisting communities, forward-thinking companies, and the 4 levels of Australian government transition to a world working in harmony with the biosphere & restoring the damage to the Planet of the last ~8,000 years of civilisation. 🏡 Off-the-Grid Experience: Disconnect and unwind with a back-to-basics experience – just you, nature, and the crackling fire. We're already solar and battery where we can for our work vehicles and plan to offer charging stations for all your devices, followed by onsite EV charging in the next 3-5 years. 🐾 Furry Friends Welcome but Safety for All Comes First: Well-behaved dogs are part of the family. Bring your canine companions, but they must be on a leash or long lead — respecting both the wildlife and fellow guests. Remember, that for dogs, as well as kids and adults, the Australian bush has lots of things that will injure or kill you if you don't keep your distance and show respect. So please keep your distance from all wildlife, and don't let kids or dogs try to go down the wombat warrens. We've never had an incident, and that's the way we intend to keep it Managing the risks and safely avoiding them means keeping the worst case scenarios in mind. These risks include ~ campfires are hot, and can escape, ~ at least 3 species of poisonous snakes, ~ goannas are not an ancient 2-3m long lizard you want to tangle with, ~ wombats can kill dogs that trespass down their warrens by squashing them against the tunnel roof, ~ pick up an echidna and you'll have lots of holes in your hands ~ male platypus have fighting spurs with poison glands on their back feet ~ open forest-dwelling jack-jumping ants bite and sting at the same time ~ seriously pissed off big male kangaroos can easily disembowel a person or dog, ~ the dominant male feral deer get territorial in mating season and no one wants to become a trophy on their huge antlers, and ~ local farmers shoot stray dogs on sight, then bury them out of view. Years ago, we lost a few isolated few small farm dogs and puppies when they strayed away from us, to the huge 3m+ wingspan wedge-tailed eagles that visit to hunt roos, wallabies and rabbits Remember that The Sanctuary is home to these potentially hazardous animals, birds, reptiles and insects, but stick to the rules, keep clear, everyone goes home happy, and we keep a perfect safety record. Besides I hate incident paperwork !! 🤝 Mutual Respect and Responsibility: We welcome families of all sorts including: different cultures, colours, rainbow, neurodiverse and AS, members and veterans of the Australian Defence Force, and the self-reliant differently-abled. We believe in mutual respect for People and Planet. Our values guide us, and we want to ensure a safe, friendly and harmonious environment for all - our volunteers. farm team, contractors, guests and visitors. If you share these values, we can't wait to welcome you to The Sanctuary 2580! We ask everyone to tread lightly. Respect the land, its inhabitants, and other guests and visitors. 🌳 Your Visit Matters: Your stay contributes directly to the upkeep of The Sanctuary, environmental custodianship, ongoing conservation efforts. Together, we can work on restoration ecology, control weeds and feral animals, encourage agricultural and wild biodiversity by providing habitat for vulnerable species, protect endangered ecosystems and promote ecoagriculture. 🌈 👍 Connect with Us: Stay in the loop by liking our Facebook page - The Sanctuary 2580, Adding a presence on Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube and Tiktok is in the business plans for 2024-25 🌱 Book Your Eco Escape: Plan your escape through HipCamp, where booking is seamless, and communication is hassle-free. But after your booking, I find email phone and text quicker. Hipcamp do a great jog handling the booking logistics, camper insurance, dispute resolution, camper and host quality control, and credit cards, allowing us to focus on what we do best—caring for the land and providing you with an unforgettable experience in nature. 🚫 Booking Details: Please note, bookings exclusively through HipCamp. NO LATE BOOKINGS, NO SHOWUPS and HOPE. When we are Booked Out, we cannot make exceptions. To avoid that book early please. Your understanding ensures a respectful and honest community of campers. Book your eco escape at The Sanctuary 2580 and experience the magic of nature! 🍃✨ #TheSanctuary2580 #EcoRetreat #NatureEscape #Goulburn #SouthernTablelands #ForestBathing #NatureTherapy
Pets
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from 
AU$61
 / night
Glamping Around An Ancient Tree

15. Glamping Around An Ancient Tree

100%
(14)
27km from Bowral · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Barrengarry, NSW
Welcome to Your Private Retreat in Kangaroo Valley. Nestled in the heart of Kangaroo Valley, one of Australia’s most picturesque and serene landscapes, lies a secluded luxury glamping experience like no other. Situated on a private 99-acre farm, this retreat offers breathtaking sweeping views of the escarpment, lush rolling green hills, and a sense of tranquility that invites you to unwind and reconnect with nature. Wake up to the gentle sounds of native birds, watch kangaroos grazing and wombats moving, and at night, be mesmerized by a sky filled with countless stars. Despite its remote feel, this glamping retreat is conveniently located just 10 minutes from Kangaroo Valley town, where you can explore quaint shops, enjoy delicious local produce, swim & kayaking. The Luxury Glamping Pod At the heart of the camping area, is the luxury glamping pod—a 6-meter, The Bowery Dome, a geodesic dome structure designed to blend elegance, comfort, and adventure. This architectural haven offers a unique stay experience — a perfect harmony of modern design and rustic charm. One of the highlights of this retreat is the outdoor experience. Beyond the glamping pod, you’ll find a private campfire area, with outdoor cooking setup including a cast-iron cooking kit, A fire pit with a grill plus crockery etc. A rustic seating area, inviting you to relax and soak in the incredible views while enjoying a meal in the great outdoors. We believe in providing a comfortable stay while maintaining a sustainable footprint. Your stay includes access to: A private outhouse with a hot shower, allowing you to refresh after a day of exploring. A composting toilet, designed to be odor-free and environmentally friendly. A washing-up area, so you can clean up easily after meals. Additional Camping Sites While the luxury glamping pod is the centerpiece of the experience, the property also allows for two additional campsites for those who prefer to bring their own tents or have friends coming along.
Pets
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from 
AU$182
 / night

The biggest town in the Southern Highlands, Bowral is a popular place for Sydneysiders to visit for weekend getaways or Sunday drives. Just 90 minutes south of the Harbour City, the town is brimming with art galleries and boutiques, all while serving as a jumping-off point into the Highlands.

98% (247)

Top-rated campgrounds

Look for the small orange arrow - it's pointing to the property which sits on a ridge line that leads right to the top of the escarpment.

1. Mellows Ridge

95%
(174)
27km from Bowral · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Calderwood, NSW
Nestled right up against the escarpment at an elevation of 450m, this high-end, off-grid 40 acre property effectively offers your own private slice of Macquarie Pass National Park - amazing views, giant cedar trees, fern forests, cascading waterfalls and palms surround. It feels remote but it's only 90 min from Sydney, 30 min to Kiama and just 15 min to the shops. The property also offers the only hiking path up to the top of the escarpment for some truly amazing views. As of September 2025, many of the trails on the property have been degraded by the rains and are now challenging for 2WD cars. If you're towing or it's wet we recommend AWD or 4WD vehicles. Since this is coastal rainforest and it has been very wet, expect leeches anywhere it is damp. These are easily kept at bay with deet and or trousers tucked into socks. We're not particularly price sensitive - until all those rate rises - but we are extremely value sensitive so we set out to make your stay extremely good value for your hard earned money. The land itself does most of the heavy lifting but also personal service and of course there's Lana to fall in love with. Note, Mellows Rd is 2.6km long and rises 400m - in parts the road is a 15 degree grade. It's all paved but narrow so if you are towing a large heavy load, it's going to strain your car.
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from 
AU$97
 / night
Babbling Brook 4WD Camping

2. Babbling Brook 4WD Camping

99%
(594)
69km from Bowral · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · St. Georges Basin, NSW
Situated on the beautiful Wandandian Creek with 15km creek frontage, 2.5 hours south of Sydney, Babbling Brook offers ten grassed areas with an easy 3km 4WD drive to campsites. 15 mins drive to Huskisson and Sussex Inlet. We do not accommodate large groups as our focus is peace, relaxation and family friendly. The property is home to an abundance of wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, native birds and reptiles. There are also a lot of wombats so stay on the track and look for burrows. There are many activities to enjoy including kayaking, fishing, swimming, bush walking, bird watching and 15kms of mountain bike trails. We are pet friendly, please remember to have your pets protected against ticks. You will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet, shower and water. Please DO NOT dig toilet hole, even though you leave it covered, it doesn't take long for the foxes to dig it up and leave a real mess!! Campfires permitted in designated areas. There is mobile reception. No shooting, archery or hunting. No trail bikes. Do not damage trees, there is plenty of firewood on the ground. Don't forget your mozzie repellent. Please note we have a moderate cancellation policy thru Hipcamp.
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from 
AU$121
 / night
Wedderburn Hideaway

3. Wedderburn Hideaway

100%
(145)
53km from Bowral · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Wedderburn, NSW
Hello Campers! Our beautiful property is located on 20 acres in a convenient location just 10 minutes out of Campbelltown. The property is a short drive to Dharawal National Park, and a great 'home base' while you explore everything the area has to offer. There are fire pits provided for campfires, given there are no fire bans or restrictions in place. If you would like to be further away you can camp near our dam which is becoming more popular as of late .If you would like to be totally tucked away in the bush we also have spots totally surrounded by bush, please let us know when booking. There is a hot outdoor shower and a toilet on site just a short walk from all the camp sites. Please take note that our dogs which love people and are super friendly wander around freely and will come and visit you, so if you do not like dogs please do not book in . We also have a day spa and a gut health clinic on site, for additional charges. www.macarthurcolonics.com.au We have fresh water and powered sites available.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$73
 / night
Wombat Hollow

4. Wombat Hollow

99%
(139)
36km from Bowral · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Budgong, NSW
100 acres of secluded paradise with a kilometer of free flowing pebbled creek. Bound on two sides by the craggy escarpments of the Budgong and Morton National Parks there is ample grassland to give a feeling of space yet an abundance of trees to wander through as you engage with the tame wildlife and magnificent birdlife. Bring your mountain bike, fishing rod, swimmers, hiking boots, tennis racket, basketball (a hoop on the tennis court) or climbing gear and leave the kids in the play area while you sit by the creek and listen to the water tumbling through the rocks. If you are as intrigued by rare animals as we are, then this is the place for you. 63 Bird species, 24 mammals, 16 reptiles, and 12 amphibians have been sighted in the area (Clarke 2012) and this includes many rare and endangered species including the platypus, brush-tailed rock wallaby, Giant burrowing frog, Gang-gang cockatoo, Glossy black-cockatoo, Koala, Little Lorikeet and the Yellow-bellied glider. We only have three campsites at present, so you will be guaranteed peace, space and privacy. with a minimum of 400m between all sites. Please note, that your group must be self-contained, with their own camp toilet, however fresh drinking water is available. Access is into a valley on a well maintained unsealed road but there are some minor causeways making it unsuitable for busses or long low slung vans. An ordinary sedan will do for Billabong and Dad's camp sites but you will need some power for towing and a 4x4 to tow out in any rain. Riverbend site is only suitable for 4x4's and off-road camp trailers. You are a 40 minute drive from the sea (try the Shoalhaven 100 beach challenge https://www.shoalhaven.com/100-beach-challenge/ ) and just 15km from the historical town of Kangaroo Valley with its myriad of water activities, golf, wine estates, and quaint shopping. ttps://visitkangaroovalley.com.au/see-and-do/
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from 
AU$79
 / night
Rhapsody

5. Rhapsody

99%
(228)
74km from Bowral · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gingkin, NSW
Welcome to this remote piece of paradise! Rhapsody is located in Gingkin,, which is not far from Oberon NSW, about 3 hours west of Sydney. Campsites are hidden in a remote valley direct frontage to the pristine Hollanders River, adjoining the Kanangra-Boyd National Park. There are two private campsites on grassy river flats surrounded by eucalyptus forest. The sites are very secluded so you will see lots of wildlife and you're guaranteed not to see any other people! Only one group can stay at each campsite and campsites are on different parts of the river so privacy is guaranteed. In dry conditions 2WD is fine for Wallaby flat but in wet weather, 4WD is required. Platypus flat is 4wd only. You can always park at the top of the hill and walk down first if you're not sure. Dog friendly. Campfires permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place. Gather your own wood from fallen timber on the way in or BYO wood. Not much firewood available on site. Both campsites can get quite cool as they are low in the valley. This is a wild and remote area. Guided remote bushwalks also available for those who are fit and adventurous. Both campsites have a pit toilets, cold shower, spring water on tap, picnic tables.. Water is sourced from a distant spring in the mountain and is gravity fed to the site by above ground pipe which heats the water during the day. There is a small area where you can get Telstra mobile reception at the cattle grid on the way into the property, but very limited mobile reception in this area. If you are on Optus or other networks you won't get any reception. There is no mobile reception at camp - perfect for disconnecting and reconnecting with nature!
Pets
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from 
AU$146
 / night
Monastery of 11 Strings

6. Monastery of 11 Strings

99%
(228)
49km from Bowral · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Wombeyan Caves, NSW
Lovingly developed for 15 years as a mindful refuge & wildlife corridor by Victoria, a filmmaker/permaculture designer, the property was completely destroyed in 2018. Thus the mega bushfire cycle began impacting forever most of NSW's flora, fauna & people. Nature ultimately prevails & slowly the untamed terrain is healing. After studying at RMIT School of Architecture & Design for three years with the intention to design tiny living house systems better suited for harsh environments, Victoria has returned. Slowly she rebuilds a humble off-grid existence from the burnt-out bus fusing knowledge of building design with her food forests/aquaponics passion, keen to create an environmentally connected experience to share with like-minded others. By staying you are helping her & all the wild things emerge from the ashes. Thank you. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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from 
AU$40
 / night
Silky Oaks Flower Farm

7. Silky Oaks Flower Farm

97%
(286)
44km from Bowral · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Oakdale, NSW
Silky Oaks is one of Australia’s largest private collections of Native Australian plants. Set on 30 acres; there is 3 lakes, manicured gardens, a cut-flower plantation, rainforest, and orchard to wander. Our Glamping Van's are Set direct on lakefront and our BYO camp spots are in the flower plantation. Oakdale is a lovely rural area; you will pass cow paddocks, mountains and beautiful country vistas on your drive to the property. The area is a mix of houses, hobby farmers, homes on acreage, equestrian centres, produce growers and National Park. There is a glorious look-out in the National Park overlooking the Warragamba dam. Some days it is swept with clouds; enveloping you into the majestic heavens. It’s an easy ten min drive away. There is local towns 15mins drive for eating out and getting coffee.
Pets
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from 
AU$79
 / night
La Estancia Hideaway at Jervis Bay

9. La Estancia Hideaway at Jervis Bay

100%
(22)
62km from Bowral · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Woollamia, NSW
🌿 Experience Tranquility and Adventure 🌿 Just a 2.5-hour drive south of Sydney, discover our bush property nestled in the breathtaking beauty of Jervis Bay. Wake up to the harmonious sounds of kookaburras and cicadas in a peaceful bushland setting. Perfect blend of nature and convenience a short 5-minute drive connects you to the South Coast's best eateries, cafes, and breweries, ensuring you can indulge in culinary delights amidst your outdoor adventures. The pristine white sand beaches are just a stone's throw away! All our guests have access to 'The Shed' which is a communal area with ‘glamping’ like commodities. There is a full-size fridge for you to store your perishables, plates, glasses, bowls and cutlery as well as basic seasoning. As well as a toaster, kettle, espresso machine, milk frother as well. We have provided our guests with coffee, sugar and a selection of teas. If you’re up for a friendly game, we’ve got a dartboard and plenty of board games to keep you entertained. Prefer a quiet drink by the fire? You’ll find a selection of books perfect for kicking back and relaxing by the fire. Essential Amenities: Both the campsite and caravan have access to a shared outdoor bathroom, potable water, and power. Please note that we are located in the bushland therefore insect repellent is highly recommended. Mobile reception may be patchy at times. We are Pet-Friendly- Small to medium dogs (under 20kg) are welcome but must be on a leash and supervised at all times. If your dog is larger please contact me directly prior to booking. Endless activities await whether you love beautiful walks, fishing, paddleboarding, biking, or snorkeling, our location provides the perfect base for all your outdoor pursuits. For more information and reservations feel free to message us. We can't wait to welcome you to the natural beauty of Jervis Bay at La Estancia Hideaway! 🏕️🏖️
Pets
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from 
AU$91
 / night
Wattle Run

10. Wattle Run

100%
(42)
68km from Bowral · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Kingsdale, NSW
Located just 10 mins from Goulburn CBD within the picturesque Southern Tablelands area, Wattle Run is a beautiful 100 acre secluded property with plenty of wildlife and spectacular views over the valley into Goulburn. We offer spacious nature based campsites around our property, some with views of the mountains, bush based, or in grassy cleared sites with dam views. Please note, to get to some campsites there is a farm track, we recommend 4WD or SUV to access those campsites. but plenty of campsites available for smaller vehicles also. There are families of kangaroos that live within the property as well as some wild rabbits and hares. Keep your eyes peeled for an abundance of wildlife like kookaburras, owls, parrots and ducks. Plenty more for nature lovers here, including bush walking and bird watching. We are located within 15 mins to Pejar dam for local fishing and kayaking (no motors aloud on the dam). Just 10 mins into Goulburn CBD for all the local amenities, including supermarkets and boutique shops and galleries. We also have a variety of local playgrounds and parks to wonder like the wetlands for more nature and wildlife walks. For the kids, we have our newly finished aquatic centre with splash park, and two bmx pump tracks and skate parks. We are located a short 20min drive to "Rambo" the big ram, which is on the list of big things located within Australia. Walk to the top and experience the local sheep industry history as well as shop local produce and giftware. Located a 20min drive west to the beautiful country towns of Crookwell and Taralga, where you can find country pubs, boutique eateries and shops or why not visit Taralga wildlife park for your up close encounter with some animals. Dogs are welcome but must remain on leads at ALL times as this is a working farm and protecting our wildlife is priorty. You MUST bring your own camping toilet and be COMPLETELY 100% self sufficient with everything including drinking water. We have a Leave No Trace policy, so ask that you please take all waste with you as we dont have a bin service. Strictly No Pre Booking tours of campsites allowed, a good description and photos of each campsite is available online. NO DAY VISITORS ALLOWED Campfires permitted when local/state government restrictions aren't in place. PLEASE NOTE at times Wattle Run has the right to enforce their own restrictions. We are a working property and live on site, therefore at times you may hear farm machinery.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$36
 / night
Wings of the Carribee

11. Wings of the Carribee

98%
(49)
4.7km from Bowral · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Burradoo, NSW
If your heart beats to the vibrant drum of the Southern Highlands but you want the space and freedom of camping on a great river, then Wings of the Carribee is for you. Two campsites share 20 Acres of cottonwood trees on the Wingecarribee river. They are 250m apart and both on the riverfront giving you the seclusion you need while allowing you access to all that the Highlands have to offer. Bring your fishing rod and yabbie net, sit at the large picnic table, rent a kayak and go for a paddle, come say hello to the miniature Hereford cattle and enjoy the half drum fire pit while watching the cows grazing across the river. If you are bringing dog(s) then they must be on a lead or consider Yabbie which is enclosed. Of course you will be tempted to explore the area. Wings sits directly between Bowral and Moss Vale (both are less than 5km away) and is 14 km from historic Berrima so you can leave the camper and head into town to enjoy the old world charm of the area. The Southern Highlands is ideal if you’re wanting to escape Sydney (100km) or Canberra (160km) without lengthy travel. Discover all that the area has to offer including a host of idyllic country towns, fascinating shops and regular country events. With it’s abundant wineries, award-winning restaurants, culinary delights, and natural splendor, it’s the place to unplug, find yourself and indulge in some of life’s finest pleasures. If the birds and the bees are your thing then you are also in for a rare treat. We have eastern greys, rabbits, the odd fox and a host of birdlife (eyes open for the resident wedgetail pair, pelicans, black swans etc.), but whatever you seek from your break, we look forward to hosting you. Note that you have to bring your own toilet facility. Please confirm when you book that you are self sufficient in this regard.
Pets
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from 
AU$103
 / night
The perfect place to get away from it all

12. 'Elouera Vale' Farm

98%
(617)
8.8km from Bowral · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mittagong, NSW
Elouera Vale is a working farm located just outside Mittagong NSW. We breed and train camels for sale, especially into the Southern Highlands. Camels are excellent for weed control and co-grazing with cattle. 'Elouera Vale' also breeds Belted Galloway cattle, Dorper and Wiltipol sheep and donkeys. Our property covers over 140 acres, 80 acres cleared and pasture improved and the rest consisting of forest. The Chain O Ponds creek runs through the property and makes for a lovely walk. You will probably get to see kangaroo, wallaby, wombats, echidnas, koalas and lots of bird life. The lush green hills abound with walking and cycling trails. You can head to the spectacular Nattai Gorge via the Box Vale Mine walking track, an easy 4.4km circular walk that follows an old railway line through a tunnel to breath-taking views. Enjoy a picnic in the magnificent Lake Alexandra Reserve or hike up extinct volcanic peak Mount Gibraltar. The closest shops are approximately a 15 minute drive to the Mittagong Town Centre where you will find all the shops, cafes and restaurants for your needs. It is well worth a visit to ‘The Shaggy Cow’ cafe, one of our favourite foodie spots (don’t forget to mention Elouera Vale). While you're here please try the Cool Climate wines. The region’s rich soil and high altitude are ideal for cool-climate wine growing. Visit cellar doors in the hills and valleys around Mittagong, including Centennial Vineyards. Enjoy a pleasant wine tasting experience at Centennial (don’t forget to mention us). The Camel Cottage offers a luxe off-the-grid escape for couples just one hour from Sydney but feels like "miles from anywhere". The Gums Cottage is a fully contained, off-grid modern getaway, surrounded by the magnificent white gum trees that are its namesake. The serene setting and stylish interior of The Gums provides all the essentials for a picturesque and peaceful country escape. The White Gum Forest Retreat offers campsites nestled in a white gum forest, not far from a beautiful trickling creek. There is access to toilets and a small dam near campsites for water supply for showers where required. For a truly memorable experience we recommend hiring our function space, White Gum Forest Functions, which is available for day visitors as well as guests staying overnight in our cabins and campsites. Why not book your next special family group gathering, milestone birthday or wedding here! The function space can cater for up to 50 guests, please contact us with your time and date requirements before booking. Feel spoilt in the midst of beautiful waratahs, grevilleas and ferns, watching camels grazing in the adjacent paddock. It's like being on a safari! There is 5G mobile telephone reception at the farm so you can reconnect with the world if need be. No pets please.
Potable water
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Campfires
from 
AU$79
 / night
Secret Valley

13. Secret Valley

97%
(15)
69km from Bowral · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · St. Georges Basin, NSW
Our lovely piece of paradise nestled between the hills in Yerriyong State Forest is waiting for you to come and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature! Surrounded by beautiful flowing creeks, lookouts, caves, rainforests, billabongs, mountains just a short drive/ride away. Explore the surrounding state forest in 4x4, on motorbike or horseback, push bike or hiking. Even catch your own freshwater crayfish ! Some of the best beaches in Jervis Bay and Sussex Inlet only 20 minutes drive away. You won’t be disappointed. We have tent sits and caravan sites available. Please advise upon booking, which site you require. We have a lovely flowing creek through our property, your choice of camp sites, fire pit, firewood. Grassy sunny areas and shady grassed areas. Self guided walks throughout the property to explore the creek, mountain and mini rainforest. You must be self sufficient as there are no toilets or showers available and please take all rubbish with you. We are located 8 kilometres off the Princes Highway and we DO recommend 4wd as there is 5 kilometres of rough dirt road with 3 creek crossings that can be flooded in heavy rains. Dogs are accepted but Must be kept on a leash as we have an abundance of wildlife, wallabies, kangaroos, wombats and birds, as well as our own dogs, horses, pigs, goats and a cat. Please be aware of wombat holes. As well as snakes.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$114
 / night
The waterholes along Lyrebird Creek glint in the early morning shadows of our 1 km long valley
Our northern boundary is 2.1 kms, southern 5.6kms

14. The Sanctuary 2580

100%
(51)
60km from Bowral · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Boxers Creek, NSW
🌿 Welcome to The Sanctuary 2580 – A Hidden Bush Retreat close to Sydney, Wollongong and Canberra! Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of our biodiverse, timeless land sprawling across ~500 acres. Conveniently located just 2.5 hours from Sydney, 1.3 hours from Canberra, and a short 25-minute drive from Goulburn, The Sanctuary 2580 (our postcode) is an exclusive haven for nature enthusiasts and those wanting their own cosy hidden valley experience. 🚗 Getting Here: Ten kms off the Hume down a tar and gravel rural lane, with the final ~2 kms down a bush track/firetrail the farm which is 99% of the time accessible with 2WD vehicles. NOTE: ALL the Map Apps (Garmin Apple Google etc) get the directions Wrong, but on booking we will send you access instructions. 🌳 Nature's Symphony: The firetrail that brings you to The Sanctuary descends ~2kms of the 3 km long catchment of Lyrebird Creek, where on arriving at our farm, the water slows, down dropping the sediments and nutrients carried by this fast perennial mountain creek onto the open uplands floodplain, enriching and watering a rich tapestry of native grasses and herbs in the woodlands and the poa tussock river grasslands further down. In a wet season the chorus of frogs is deafening along our 1km long main valley. Lyrebird Creek after leaving the woodlands, descends past several natural springs to our southeast corner where it joins Jerrara Creek, that flows into Bungonia Creek, and then into the Shoalhaven River. But don't expect to see Lyrebird Creek running, as it's only on the surface for few weeks per year on average in wet years, rarely in average years or standard El Niño years. It only runs on the surface for a few weeks a year in La Niña years after the catchment is saturated, as the rest of the time like many of Australia's creeks, it flows below the surface in ancient riverbed-rocked aquifers Our quiet mornings and evenings are filled with birdsong from all the small forest, woodlands and creekside birds, over 10 species of cockatoos and parrots, and the second last bird chorus at night is the resident kookaburra family sings their boundaries, and if you listen carefully you’ll hear surrounding kookaburra tribes answering. It's after the evening kookaburra boundary patrol and just on dark that you'll sometimes hear the male lyrebirds practicing their extensive repertoire. One thing that gives them away is that the birds they are mimicking area all tucked up for the night, and the different calls come from the same areas of the eastern or western ridges that hug the Lyrebird Creek catchment as they move to their overnight lairs deep in the forest. After dark, if you have young hearing, or the right microphone and frequency converter attached to your smart phone, there’s the very high-pitched ecolocation of the many insect-eating microbats, the quiet calls of the barn and boobook owls as they set out on their nightly hunts, and sometimes the territorial calls and squabbles of the brush-tailed possum tribes. The local council biodiversity officer told us earlier in 2024 to keep an eye and ear out for the calls of endangered species of glider possums, and over in the western valleys we may have the normally silent koalas. It's only male koalas in mating season who make a lot of noise for a few weeks a year. Our native fauna also comprises the quiet, shy and camouflaged swamp and red-necked wallabies, echidnas, eastern grey kangaroos, wombats and the even more shy bandicoots. Reptiles include skinks, blue tongues, water monitors, lace monitors (a species of goanna that can be well over 2m long, snakes include red-belly blacks and eastern browns, and 4+ species of frogs. While in the springs and waterways we have yabbies, freshwater mussels and whopping great leaches. Some of the bigger waterholes on Jerrara Creek may have rakali, Australia's native rodent version in the ecosystem of the freshwater otters of the Northern Hemisphere. We're hoping the platypus move back once the catchment and stream health improves. 🌋 Ancient Rocks Unveiled: Explore Hanging Rock and other ancient volcanic pumice-like rock formations, on both the eastern and western sides of the Lyrebird Creek valley standing resilient against hundreds of millions of years of geological erosion. These natural wonders we think are from the Silurian or Ordovician periods ~415-480 million years ago, add to the timelessness to the landscape. 🏞️ The Sanctuary is Spacious and Largely Untouched: As the most recent custodians of the ~500 acres, we're all about having a small footprint, regenerating and restoring the creeklines impacted by the livestock and feral animals of European invasion. We currently use or travel over ~5% of the land and have a self-imposed limit of -10% maximum in our biodiversity and catchment management plans. We are setting up remote monitoring systems to keep a check on the native fauna and flora as well as catchment and creek health, ensuring we only intervene if and when necessary. Our boundary fence-lines dwarf your average suburban block: eastern - 1km, northern - 2.1km, western - 0.8km and the southern creek boundary is 5.6kms long. Luckily the southern boundary fencing is on the other side of the creek, but we are planning how to replace the other ~4kms of boundary fencing, as much of it traverses some quite rugged terrain. ⛰️ Elevate Your Experience with Cool Nights, Scenic Heights: Experience a change in altitude, ranging from 590 to 810 meters above sea level. Enjoy cool nights even in summer, and as we catch up with the maintenance and add signage, there will be opportunities to walk our internal fire trails leading to Mount William and over to the western valleys. 🌲 Beyond The Sanctuary: The beautiful Bungonia Gorge and National Park is just 40 minutes away offering well-marked trails for every skill level, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. And for the experienced there's some caves that speleologists love and well-meaning amateurs get rescued from. Only 30 minutes away is Australia’s oldest inland city of Goulburn. It has great cafés, restaurants and takeways, and regal colonial architecture with the railway station, courthouse and the beautiful 2 cathedrals. Other interesting tourist features include The Roundhouse (for train fans), the May St Wetlands restoration project, a number of art galleries, the Conservatorium, Lieder Theatre (Australia's oldest inland theatre) and the popular Goulburn Performing Arts Centre. 🌍 Mission and Values of a Social Enterprise – doing good by doing good business Beyond our birdlife and tranquillity, we're on a social and environmental mission. Our business plans for The Sanctuary are that becomes a hub for environmental and climate change science education, an example of good science-informed Permaculture design, and updated versions of the farm, garden, and nature therapy we were doing back in the 80s. So your stay first of all pays the council and local land services rates, abd directly supports environmental management at The Sanctuary and beyond, including regenerative agriculture and agricultural biodiversity, catchment and wetlands restoration, and broadacre Permaculture design. It also helps us create a walk-the-talk operational base for our other work through Sacred Earth Works and Transforming Lives Australia, in assisting communities, forward-thinking companies, and the 4 levels of Australian government transition to a world working in harmony with the biosphere & restoring the damage to the Planet of the last ~8,000 years of civilisation. 🏡 Off-the-Grid Experience: Disconnect and unwind with a back-to-basics experience – just you, nature, and the crackling fire. We're already solar and battery where we can for our work vehicles and plan to offer charging stations for all your devices, followed by onsite EV charging in the next 3-5 years. 🐾 Furry Friends Welcome but Safety for All Comes First: Well-behaved dogs are part of the family. Bring your canine companions, but they must be on a leash or long lead — respecting both the wildlife and fellow guests. Remember, that for dogs, as well as kids and adults, the Australian bush has lots of things that will injure or kill you if you don't keep your distance and show respect. So please keep your distance from all wildlife, and don't let kids or dogs try to go down the wombat warrens. We've never had an incident, and that's the way we intend to keep it Managing the risks and safely avoiding them means keeping the worst case scenarios in mind. These risks include ~ campfires are hot, and can escape, ~ at least 3 species of poisonous snakes, ~ goannas are not an ancient 2-3m long lizard you want to tangle with, ~ wombats can kill dogs that trespass down their warrens by squashing them against the tunnel roof, ~ pick up an echidna and you'll have lots of holes in your hands ~ male platypus have fighting spurs with poison glands on their back feet ~ open forest-dwelling jack-jumping ants bite and sting at the same time ~ seriously pissed off big male kangaroos can easily disembowel a person or dog, ~ the dominant male feral deer get territorial in mating season and no one wants to become a trophy on their huge antlers, and ~ local farmers shoot stray dogs on sight, then bury them out of view. Years ago, we lost a few isolated few small farm dogs and puppies when they strayed away from us, to the huge 3m+ wingspan wedge-tailed eagles that visit to hunt roos, wallabies and rabbits Remember that The Sanctuary is home to these potentially hazardous animals, birds, reptiles and insects, but stick to the rules, keep clear, everyone goes home happy, and we keep a perfect safety record. Besides I hate incident paperwork !! 🤝 Mutual Respect and Responsibility: We welcome families of all sorts including: different cultures, colours, rainbow, neurodiverse and AS, members and veterans of the Australian Defence Force, and the self-reliant differently-abled. We believe in mutual respect for People and Planet. Our values guide us, and we want to ensure a safe, friendly and harmonious environment for all - our volunteers. farm team, contractors, guests and visitors. If you share these values, we can't wait to welcome you to The Sanctuary 2580! We ask everyone to tread lightly. Respect the land, its inhabitants, and other guests and visitors. 🌳 Your Visit Matters: Your stay contributes directly to the upkeep of The Sanctuary, environmental custodianship, ongoing conservation efforts. Together, we can work on restoration ecology, control weeds and feral animals, encourage agricultural and wild biodiversity by providing habitat for vulnerable species, protect endangered ecosystems and promote ecoagriculture. 🌈 👍 Connect with Us: Stay in the loop by liking our Facebook page - The Sanctuary 2580, Adding a presence on Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube and Tiktok is in the business plans for 2024-25 🌱 Book Your Eco Escape: Plan your escape through HipCamp, where booking is seamless, and communication is hassle-free. But after your booking, I find email phone and text quicker. Hipcamp do a great jog handling the booking logistics, camper insurance, dispute resolution, camper and host quality control, and credit cards, allowing us to focus on what we do best—caring for the land and providing you with an unforgettable experience in nature. 🚫 Booking Details: Please note, bookings exclusively through HipCamp. NO LATE BOOKINGS, NO SHOWUPS and HOPE. When we are Booked Out, we cannot make exceptions. To avoid that book early please. Your understanding ensures a respectful and honest community of campers. Book your eco escape at The Sanctuary 2580 and experience the magic of nature! 🍃✨ #TheSanctuary2580 #EcoRetreat #NatureEscape #Goulburn #SouthernTablelands #ForestBathing #NatureTherapy
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$61
 / night
Glamping Around An Ancient Tree

15. Glamping Around An Ancient Tree

100%
(14)
27km from Bowral · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Barrengarry, NSW
Welcome to Your Private Retreat in Kangaroo Valley. Nestled in the heart of Kangaroo Valley, one of Australia’s most picturesque and serene landscapes, lies a secluded luxury glamping experience like no other. Situated on a private 99-acre farm, this retreat offers breathtaking sweeping views of the escarpment, lush rolling green hills, and a sense of tranquility that invites you to unwind and reconnect with nature. Wake up to the gentle sounds of native birds, watch kangaroos grazing and wombats moving, and at night, be mesmerized by a sky filled with countless stars. Despite its remote feel, this glamping retreat is conveniently located just 10 minutes from Kangaroo Valley town, where you can explore quaint shops, enjoy delicious local produce, swim & kayaking. The Luxury Glamping Pod At the heart of the camping area, is the luxury glamping pod—a 6-meter, The Bowery Dome, a geodesic dome structure designed to blend elegance, comfort, and adventure. This architectural haven offers a unique stay experience — a perfect harmony of modern design and rustic charm. One of the highlights of this retreat is the outdoor experience. Beyond the glamping pod, you’ll find a private campfire area, with outdoor cooking setup including a cast-iron cooking kit, A fire pit with a grill plus crockery etc. A rustic seating area, inviting you to relax and soak in the incredible views while enjoying a meal in the great outdoors. We believe in providing a comfortable stay while maintaining a sustainable footprint. Your stay includes access to: A private outhouse with a hot shower, allowing you to refresh after a day of exploring. A composting toilet, designed to be odor-free and environmentally friendly. A washing-up area, so you can clean up easily after meals. Additional Camping Sites While the luxury glamping pod is the centerpiece of the experience, the property also allows for two additional campsites for those who prefer to bring their own tents or have friends coming along.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$182
 / night

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Where to go

Mt. Gibraltar Reserve

The highest point between Sydney and Canberra, Mt. Gibraltar is believed to have been formed by a collapsed volcanic core which pushed through the sandstone 150 million years ago. The reserve has seven walks to suit all levels, ranging from short treks from the car park to longer circuits with steep tracks. One of the best is the 25-minute The Rim, which takes you to lookouts on the western side of the reserve. 

When to go

Temperatures in the Southern Highlands are mild, so it’s not too hot to visit in summer. At an average temperature of 19°C, January is the hottest month. July is the coldest, with temperatures averaging 7°C, making it a great time to sit in front of an open fire. There are regular farmers’ markets and events, such as the Tulip Time Festival, held from late September until early October.

Know before you go

  • Bowral is about 1.5 hours’ drive south of Sydney. You can also catch the train from the city to Bowral on the Southern Highlands Line.
  • There are three supermarkets in town to stock up on supplies: Coles, Woolworths, and ALDI. For camping-specific gear, try Botanex or Field and Stream.