- Camping with Wildlife watching
The best camping near Bundanoon with wildlife watching
98% (4.7K) • 108 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Bundanoon
Lyrebirds Nest
1. Lyrebirds Nest
98%
(82)
7.8km from Bundanoon · 2 sites
Welcome to Lyrebirds Nest, a quiet bush escape.
Lyrebirds Nest cottage is situated in the bush with forest views from the balcony and rooms. The cottage is setup for glamping with an wood stove, queen bed (BYO linen), sofa, electricity, filtered water (hot and cold), hot indoor shower and composting toilet. A bar fridge and microwave is also provided. The open fire is not to be used.
The surrounding land on the property includes a lake with jetty, sauna, olive grove, orchard and chicken coup.
There are great hikes on the property or you can follow the creek and continue into the State Forest.
There is plenty of wildlife to see, a bird lovers paradise with plenty of Lyrebirds, king parrots, black cockatoos to name a few.
You're welcome to stay in the cottage or camp by the lake.
Located half way between Canberra and Sydney, and 15 minutes walk from Penrose station with easy access to all the Southern Highlands has to offer.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$303
/ night
Sutton Farm Equestrian Centre
2. Sutton Farm Equestrian Centre
97%
(159)
8.9km from Bundanoon · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Sutton Farm is located in Sutton Forest, nestled in the Southern Highlands, and just an hour and a half from Sydney. Sutton Farm is easily accessible for all guests as we're just five minutes from the Hume Highway.
Our historic stable complex featured as a setting in the iconic Australian movie, “Phar Lap”, and includes stables boxes immediately adjacent to our indoor arena.
Please note only one tent or one vehicle, one caravan per site.
Just minutes from the shopping delights of Bowral and Moss Vale, and an easy drive to other historic Highlands towns like Berrima, Bundanoon and Robertson, a stay at Sutton Farm puts you right in the middle of everything the area has to offer. This is the perfect weekend escape for busy city folk and a magical getaway for families.
Our Equestrian Centre boasts state of the art equestrian facilities within a beautiful, historic setting. The lush, undulating green hills are shaded with leafy trees. We love our horses.
We host horse lovers events twice a year, and offer boutique training, horse riding lessons, functions and five star events.
We welcome all types of camping guests from tents through to campervans and caravans. The camping area is 2WD accessible.
You are welcome to choose where you’d like to set up on arrival. PLEASE ARRIVE BEFORE 5PM. A gate code will be given on arrival if you need to exit after 5pm. We have a large open, grassy area close to the amenities or you can tuck your campsite away under the trees. PLEASE TAKE ALL YOUR RUBBISH WITH YOU.
We have very comfortable toilet and hot shower facilities, with access to drinking water.
For those wanting an indoor stay please check out our Loft above the Stables listing, a wonderful and quirky accommodation option that puts you right near all the horse action.
No pets please. Take all your rubbish with you. ARRIVAL BEFORE 5PM
We ask while staying with us you do not pat or feed the horses. Please ask one of our staff and they can direct you to something you can pat.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
AU$97
/ night
Joadja Gorge Retreat & Camping
3. Joadja Gorge Retreat & Camping
95%
(196)
20km from Bundanoon · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to 100 acres of natural beauty, where 60% of the land is pristine bushland perched high above the Wingecarribee River. Our 4 secluded campsites offer the perfect retreat for nature lovers, with walking tracks, bush climbing adventures, and exceptional stargazing on clear nights.
We’re a pet-friendly getaway—dogs are welcome on-leash and under control. Share the space with our friendly farm animals, including horses, a donkey, an alpaca, and free-ranging peacocks, chooks, ducks, and guinea fowl.
Our property is fully off-grid, so campers must be self-contained and follow a leave-no-trace policy. To enhance your stay, we’ve recently added a flush toilet, outdoor sink, and cold shower, centrally located near the homestead due to the natural landscape. It’s a short walk from most sites and solar lit at night for easy access. Each site has its own firepit. Firewood is plentiful, fresh drinking water is available, and we can provide table and chair setups on request.
Located just 30 minutes from Mittagong and 20 minutes from Berrima, you're close to great restaurants and cafes, lots of boutique shopping, weekly markets, award-winning cellar doors, and world-class distilleries and farm experiences. Don't miss the World Heritage-listed Joadja town and distillery, just a 15-minute drive away.
To make your stay even more special, indulge in one of our gourmet hampers filled with the best local produce.
Discover the Southern Highlands—peaceful, adventurous, and unforgettable.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$85
/ night
Noonameena - Sleep in the Bush
4. Noonameena - Sleep in the Bush
97%
(62)
20km from Bundanoon · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Noonameena is a 100 acre natural bushland property located approx 7kms outside of Berrima, NSW in the Southern Highlands. While most of the property is covered by a variety of natural bushland, a small flat area of cleared land is perfect for recreational campers.
The property has access to the Wingecarribee River to the south, a natural pool and large dam in the camping area.
Other property features include commercial gardens, orchards and free range chicken coop as well as a homestead with surrounding gardens.
There are also plenty of walking tracks on the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$97
/ night
Wombat Hollow
5. Wombat Hollow
99%
(170)
22km from Bundanoon · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Campfires
Water hookup
from
AU$79
/ night
Bebrue Mittagong
6. Bebrue Mittagong
99%
(88)
25km from Bundanoon · 12 sites
Bebrue was created in 1972 when 8¼ acres of natural bushland on the top of Mount Gibraltar (“The Gib”) at Mittagong was donated to the Girl Guides Association for the establishment of a camping and outdoors facility.Today, the site offers a well-protected camping facility set amongst beautiful, natural surrounds that are ideal for many activities. The adjacent north-east side of Mount Gibraltar offers walking trails to explore.The Mount Gibraltar Forest is significant due to its rarity, being identified as an endangered and threatened ecological community. The unique geology of the area supports a collection of flora that, as an assemblage, does not exist outside of The Gib. One very important resident of The Gib that you may meet is the extremely rare Powerful Owl. Bebrue is one of the largest privately own properties on The Gib and Girl Guides have always worked hard to protect the natural bush at Bebrue. Bebrue has also been recognised by the Mount Gibraltar Landcare and Bushcare Group as being an important local wildlife corridor. It is a member of Land for Wildlife.Bebrue is run by volunteers and all funds generated go back into improving the facility for use by the Girl Guides and wider community.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
AU$73
/ night
Young Macdonald’s Farm
7. Young Macdonald’s Farm
100%
(253)
27km from Bundanoon · 4 sites
Young Macdonald’s Farm is 100 acres in the Shoalhaven region on the NSW South Coast. It’s a family farm that was historically dairy-based but is moving to regenerative agriculture.
Your hosts are Mac and his parents, Gina and Shawn. The property is at the base of Brown’s Mountain, 15 mins from Nowra and the Shoalhaven River, 30 mins from beaches, 15 mins from Berry, and 20 mins from Kangaroo Valley.
It boasts private and secluded spaces for camping, two creeks, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
We want to share the farm experience and encourage you to be a part of our adventure as we begin this new chapter of a six-generation family farm on traditional Wodi Wodi land.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
from
AU$78
/ night
'Elouera Vale' Farm
8. 'Elouera Vale' Farm
98%
(617)
30km from Bundanoon · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Elouera Vale is a working farm located just outside Mittagong NSW.
Our property covers over 140 acres, 80 acres cleared and pasture improved and the rest consisting of forest. You will probably see kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and lots of bird life.
The closest shops are approximately a 15 minute drive to either the Mittagong Town Centre or Bowral where you will find a variety of shops, cafes and restaurants.
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. 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.
We have three types of accomodation:
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 the campsites for water supply for showers if required.
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.
There is 5G mobile telephone reception at the farm so you can reconnect with the world if need be. No pets please. Please keep all gates closed.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$85
/ night
Bamarang Camp @ The Nest Cottage
9. Bamarang Camp @ The Nest Cottage
97%
(58)
33km from Bundanoon · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Bamarang Camp @ The Nest Cottage, overlooking beautiful natural billabong's abundant with local flora and fauna. Stroll the laneway to discover the stunning and rejuvenating Shoalhaven River.
Please note, for safety, we ask that you DO NOT camp directly by the river and in the designated camp site near The Barn Studio. However, you're more than welcome to head down there to enjoy during the day!
Indulge in this exclusive, heritage riverside property located on the upper Shoalhaven River. Private use of the 22.2 hectares of farm, forest and river frontage.
You will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet and shower.
Relax, nurture, unwind and nurture one's soul at The Nest.
Revitalize in the tranquil Australian flora with river views and access. Kayak, canoe, SUP Board, or fishing. Stroll to the banks of the Shoalhaven river, wander the trails, birdwatch, or climb Pulpit Rock.
Whether you're into painting, sketching or photography, this is an artist's retreat.
Our property is a 30-minute drive to beautiful Berry, Jervis Bay, Hyams Beach, Gerroa, Kangaroo Valley and Milton.
There are many varied beautiful walking tracks here in the Shoalhaven. Firstly, an intermediate walk is just off Bamarang Road to Pulpit Rock which overlooks the Shoalhaven River and Bundanon. Ben's Walk, Hanging Rock, Nowra,
The Grotto, Bomaderry, Jervis Bay National Park, Greenfield Beach, Wirreecoo Walking Trail & camp; Mangrove boardwalk, Huskisson, Cunjurong Point, Gerroa to Kiama cliffside trail, Pigeon House Mountain, Boyd Lookout, Morton National Park.
These are all within 10 to 45 minutes travelling by car.
Grade of walks, leisurely to advanced.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
AU$97
/ night
Pheasant Ground
10. Pheasant Ground
95%
(264)
34km from Bundanoon · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Situated just off Jamberoo Mountain Road, we are ideally located between Bowral and Kiama.
This campsite is a flat grassy area with rural views to the west and north west. Enjoy the lush green grass under the shade of old gnarly trees. Dogs on leashes are very welcome.
Campers will have access to toilet during their stay, just a short walk from the camping area.
Various birds, wombats and wallabies are common around our farm and we're located very close to Carrington Falls (Budderoo National Park), the Illawarra Fly Tree Top Walk
and Barren Grounds Nature Reserve where you can go for a lovely bushwalk or have a swim.
This campsite is best suited to caravans or RVs as we are situated near a
semi-busy tourist road between Robertson and Jamberoo (perfect if you need a safe place to stay on your adventure). Our front paddock has easy access off Gordon’s track.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$91
/ night
Mellows Ridge
11. Mellows Ridge
95%
(212)
38km from Bundanoon · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$140
/ night
Secrets of Terara
12. Secrets of Terara
98%
(121)
39km from Bundanoon · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This enchanting tree-filled, 13-acre property is located in the beautiful South Coast region of NSW, close to the spectacular beaches of Jervis Bay and quaint villages of Berry and Kangaroo Valley.
The property is hidden away among the gumtrees and surrounded by dairy country. It is a perfect, peaceful place to base yourself for a weekend or a week exploring the beaches and nature walks in the region, or the rock climbing areas of Nowra.
Your accommodation is either a cosy room in our converted barn, where you'll be very comfortable with all you need for a great weekend away, or a spacious camping spot in your own tent or van.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$176
/ night
The Sanctuary 2580
13. The Sanctuary 2580
100%
(52)
40km from Bundanoon · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 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.
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
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$73
/ night
Jamberoo Mountain Farm Camp
14. Jamberoo Mountain Farm Camp
94%
(24)
41km from Bundanoon · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property is located in Jamberoo on an elevated working beef cattle farm with unique and beautiful views. We accept bookings with a maximum of 2 nights per stay. Our campsite is best suited to couples or families who would to explore the local area then chill out in the quiet and peaceful surrounds of our place. Take a breathe and enjoy the amazing vista.
The large grassy site has stunning ocean views and is the perfect spot to relax after exploring all the great activities the surrounding area has to offer or play some outdoor sports if you bring a ball.
We are a working farm and have three farm dogs, horses and cattle on the property along with plenty of wildlife. The camp site is approximately 75 metres frome the house. It is in view of he house however we do have a busy life,so you won't see us much unless you need something.
We are only a short drive to Kiama and the stunning beaches of the south coast. Kiama has a great market on each month where you can check out the local offerings and enjoy a stroll along the esplanade or check out the famous Kiama blowhole and lighthouse. We are with easy reach of the Budderoo National Park which is full of stunning walks and waterfalls that are always popular.
We are a short drive to the Jamberoo Action Park and Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk which are both great places to visit for kids and families.
Please note our dogs can sometimes bark during the night as they are protecting the house and areas nearby.
You must bring your own portable toilet. You are unable to bring your own dogs.
Our site maximum is 2. Sites are opened at short notice when weather permits and not in conflict with farm activities. Weather permitting sites are generally available XMAS, NYE and Easter.
from
AU$97
/ night
Buenpaso - good step
15. Buenpaso - good step
100%
(18)
41km from Bundanoon · 3 sites
Private, quiet and secluded; Perry Lane is a no-through road used by only two other neighbours. "Buenpaso" is 118 acres of woodland and meadow. Stroll around and see Kangaroos, Wombats, Deer and a variety of native parrots. 29 klms away (25 mins) from the Bungonia National Park, 20 mins to Goulburn.
Pets
from
AU$79
/ night
Currambene Creek Farm
16. Currambene Creek Farm
97%
(62)
43km from Bundanoon · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The farm is a rolling 17 acres with Currambene Creek making up the property's northern boundary. We have an abundance of native birds, kangaroos, and a few wombats. Our primary purpose here is horse agistment, with four horses currently on the farm, along with 12 lovely chickens that free range during the day.
The farm is a beautiful haven to take a stroll and explore, enjoy a peaceful breakfast in the gentle mornings, or sit and enjoy wine and cheese at the end of the day as the sun goes down.
We are located 15 minutes from the local beaches and a little bit further to get to the Huskisson township with the famous Husky pub, 5 Pigs Cafe, and various other restaurants and cafes.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$49
/ night
Buxton Getaway
17. Buxton Getaway
97%
(470)
48km from Bundanoon · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Located just one hour from Sydney, our property features 19 acres of pure serenity with two dams and one large enough to kayak on (kayaks supplied). The back of the property is perfect for camping and suitable for a small to medium caravan/camper.
The larger dam has a picnic area and kayaks available to paddle on.
Adjoining our property is Nattai National Park with a lovely 20 minute walk down to Little River. The Aqua Pool Trail in the National Park is just gorgeous.
If you wish to try and catch some yabbies from the dams the only allowable and fun way is by a long stick and sausage. Hooks, fishing lines and traps are not allowed as we have people, dogs and horses swimming in the dams.
We welcome self-contained campers who bring their shower/toilet set up. We do have two drop pit toilets available and each campsite has a pit fire provided. We are getting low on firewood so you will need to bring some along with you. There is access to drinking water.
Our property is 2WD accessible and can accommodate small caravans and camper trailers.
Not far from Buxton is Thirlmere where the Steam Train Museum is and train rides are available on the weekends, a great activity for the kids. Thirlmere Lakes National Park is perfect for a relaxing picnic, walk, birdwatching, and glimpse into locomotive history. Mittagong and Bowral have great wineries with restaurant/bistro.
Pets are welcome.
There's a range of different bushwalking trails in the region, including Starlights trail, a scenic bushwalk suited to experienced hikers, which forms part the Greater Blue Mountains trail network between Mittagong and Katoomba.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$79
/ night
The Old Air Strip
18. The Old Air Strip
95%
(42)
49km from Bundanoon · 1 site · Tent, RV
Pitch your tent on what used to be an air strip for local farmers and enjoy access to 100 acres of rolling hills, forest and a creek all to yourself.
The property is a 10-minute drive to Taralga where you can pick up fresh delights from the bakery Grand Ettie, unwind at one of two amazing pubs, including the hatted Argyle Inn or Taralga Hotel, and browse boutiques. Need to entertain the family? Head to Wombeyan Caves (now open) or Taralga Wildlife Park.
A little about us (Hannah and Craig): we are a young couple who live in Canberra and recently purchased the property. We plan to build on the property but want campers to enjoy the beautiful nature and wildlife in the meantime.
Please note there are few sheds and caravans on the property that are not for use by Hipcampers.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$55
/ night
Monastery of 11 Strings
19. Monastery of 11 Strings
99%
(241)
50km from Bundanoon · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
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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Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$40
/ night
Stary Ponds
20. Stary Ponds
93%
(37)
51km from Bundanoon · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A peaceful space with lots of trees and waterways as well as an abundance of wildlife such as deer, kangaroo, black cockatoos, butterflies and so many gorgeous birds.
The landscape is varied, with lots of options to explore. From hiking the mountainous steep terrains, to meandering through the many ponds and waterways, or discovering the cleared trails ready for a beautiful bush walk or ride through nature.
The peace at night and the stars are unlike anything I've seen, absolutely breathtaking, and only 15 minutes from all the modern amenities you may need.
We offer several camping sites, a cabin and a large teepee.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$43
/ night
98% (4.7K) • 108 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Bundanoon
Lyrebirds Nest
1. Lyrebirds Nest
98%
(82)
7.8km from Bundanoon · 2 sites
Welcome to Lyrebirds Nest, a quiet bush escape.
Lyrebirds Nest cottage is situated in the bush with forest views from the balcony and rooms. The cottage is setup for glamping with an wood stove, queen bed (BYO linen), sofa, electricity, filtered water (hot and cold), hot indoor shower and composting toilet. A bar fridge and microwave is also provided. The open fire is not to be used.
The surrounding land on the property includes a lake with jetty, sauna, olive grove, orchard and chicken coup.
There are great hikes on the property or you can follow the creek and continue into the State Forest.
There is plenty of wildlife to see, a bird lovers paradise with plenty of Lyrebirds, king parrots, black cockatoos to name a few.
You're welcome to stay in the cottage or camp by the lake.
Located half way between Canberra and Sydney, and 15 minutes walk from Penrose station with easy access to all the Southern Highlands has to offer.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$303
/ night
Sutton Farm Equestrian Centre
2. Sutton Farm Equestrian Centre
97%
(159)
8.9km from Bundanoon · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Sutton Farm is located in Sutton Forest, nestled in the Southern Highlands, and just an hour and a half from Sydney. Sutton Farm is easily accessible for all guests as we're just five minutes from the Hume Highway.
Our historic stable complex featured as a setting in the iconic Australian movie, “Phar Lap”, and includes stables boxes immediately adjacent to our indoor arena.
Please note only one tent or one vehicle, one caravan per site.
Just minutes from the shopping delights of Bowral and Moss Vale, and an easy drive to other historic Highlands towns like Berrima, Bundanoon and Robertson, a stay at Sutton Farm puts you right in the middle of everything the area has to offer. This is the perfect weekend escape for busy city folk and a magical getaway for families.
Our Equestrian Centre boasts state of the art equestrian facilities within a beautiful, historic setting. The lush, undulating green hills are shaded with leafy trees. We love our horses.
We host horse lovers events twice a year, and offer boutique training, horse riding lessons, functions and five star events.
We welcome all types of camping guests from tents through to campervans and caravans. The camping area is 2WD accessible.
You are welcome to choose where you’d like to set up on arrival. PLEASE ARRIVE BEFORE 5PM. A gate code will be given on arrival if you need to exit after 5pm. We have a large open, grassy area close to the amenities or you can tuck your campsite away under the trees. PLEASE TAKE ALL YOUR RUBBISH WITH YOU.
We have very comfortable toilet and hot shower facilities, with access to drinking water.
For those wanting an indoor stay please check out our Loft above the Stables listing, a wonderful and quirky accommodation option that puts you right near all the horse action.
No pets please. Take all your rubbish with you. ARRIVAL BEFORE 5PM
We ask while staying with us you do not pat or feed the horses. Please ask one of our staff and they can direct you to something you can pat.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
AU$97
/ night
Joadja Gorge Retreat & Camping
3. Joadja Gorge Retreat & Camping
95%
(196)
20km from Bundanoon · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to 100 acres of natural beauty, where 60% of the land is pristine bushland perched high above the Wingecarribee River. Our 4 secluded campsites offer the perfect retreat for nature lovers, with walking tracks, bush climbing adventures, and exceptional stargazing on clear nights.
We’re a pet-friendly getaway—dogs are welcome on-leash and under control. Share the space with our friendly farm animals, including horses, a donkey, an alpaca, and free-ranging peacocks, chooks, ducks, and guinea fowl.
Our property is fully off-grid, so campers must be self-contained and follow a leave-no-trace policy. To enhance your stay, we’ve recently added a flush toilet, outdoor sink, and cold shower, centrally located near the homestead due to the natural landscape. It’s a short walk from most sites and solar lit at night for easy access. Each site has its own firepit. Firewood is plentiful, fresh drinking water is available, and we can provide table and chair setups on request.
Located just 30 minutes from Mittagong and 20 minutes from Berrima, you're close to great restaurants and cafes, lots of boutique shopping, weekly markets, award-winning cellar doors, and world-class distilleries and farm experiences. Don't miss the World Heritage-listed Joadja town and distillery, just a 15-minute drive away.
To make your stay even more special, indulge in one of our gourmet hampers filled with the best local produce.
Discover the Southern Highlands—peaceful, adventurous, and unforgettable.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$85
/ night
Noonameena - Sleep in the Bush
4. Noonameena - Sleep in the Bush
97%
(62)
20km from Bundanoon · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Noonameena is a 100 acre natural bushland property located approx 7kms outside of Berrima, NSW in the Southern Highlands. While most of the property is covered by a variety of natural bushland, a small flat area of cleared land is perfect for recreational campers.
The property has access to the Wingecarribee River to the south, a natural pool and large dam in the camping area.
Other property features include commercial gardens, orchards and free range chicken coop as well as a homestead with surrounding gardens.
There are also plenty of walking tracks on the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$97
/ night
Wombat Hollow
5. Wombat Hollow
99%
(170)
22km from Bundanoon · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Campfires
Water hookup
from
AU$79
/ night
Bebrue Mittagong
6. Bebrue Mittagong
99%
(88)
25km from Bundanoon · 12 sites
Bebrue was created in 1972 when 8¼ acres of natural bushland on the top of Mount Gibraltar (“The Gib”) at Mittagong was donated to the Girl Guides Association for the establishment of a camping and outdoors facility.Today, the site offers a well-protected camping facility set amongst beautiful, natural surrounds that are ideal for many activities. The adjacent north-east side of Mount Gibraltar offers walking trails to explore.The Mount Gibraltar Forest is significant due to its rarity, being identified as an endangered and threatened ecological community. The unique geology of the area supports a collection of flora that, as an assemblage, does not exist outside of The Gib. One very important resident of The Gib that you may meet is the extremely rare Powerful Owl. Bebrue is one of the largest privately own properties on The Gib and Girl Guides have always worked hard to protect the natural bush at Bebrue. Bebrue has also been recognised by the Mount Gibraltar Landcare and Bushcare Group as being an important local wildlife corridor. It is a member of Land for Wildlife.Bebrue is run by volunteers and all funds generated go back into improving the facility for use by the Girl Guides and wider community.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
AU$73
/ night
Young Macdonald’s Farm
7. Young Macdonald’s Farm
100%
(253)
27km from Bundanoon · 4 sites
Young Macdonald’s Farm is 100 acres in the Shoalhaven region on the NSW South Coast. It’s a family farm that was historically dairy-based but is moving to regenerative agriculture.
Your hosts are Mac and his parents, Gina and Shawn. The property is at the base of Brown’s Mountain, 15 mins from Nowra and the Shoalhaven River, 30 mins from beaches, 15 mins from Berry, and 20 mins from Kangaroo Valley.
It boasts private and secluded spaces for camping, two creeks, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
We want to share the farm experience and encourage you to be a part of our adventure as we begin this new chapter of a six-generation family farm on traditional Wodi Wodi land.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
from
AU$78
/ night
'Elouera Vale' Farm
8. 'Elouera Vale' Farm
98%
(617)
30km from Bundanoon · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Elouera Vale is a working farm located just outside Mittagong NSW.
Our property covers over 140 acres, 80 acres cleared and pasture improved and the rest consisting of forest. You will probably see kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and lots of bird life.
The closest shops are approximately a 15 minute drive to either the Mittagong Town Centre or Bowral where you will find a variety of shops, cafes and restaurants.
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. 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.
We have three types of accomodation:
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 the campsites for water supply for showers if required.
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.
There is 5G mobile telephone reception at the farm so you can reconnect with the world if need be. No pets please. Please keep all gates closed.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$85
/ night
Bamarang Camp @ The Nest Cottage
9. Bamarang Camp @ The Nest Cottage
97%
(58)
33km from Bundanoon · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Bamarang Camp @ The Nest Cottage, overlooking beautiful natural billabong's abundant with local flora and fauna. Stroll the laneway to discover the stunning and rejuvenating Shoalhaven River.
Please note, for safety, we ask that you DO NOT camp directly by the river and in the designated camp site near The Barn Studio. However, you're more than welcome to head down there to enjoy during the day!
Indulge in this exclusive, heritage riverside property located on the upper Shoalhaven River. Private use of the 22.2 hectares of farm, forest and river frontage.
You will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet and shower.
Relax, nurture, unwind and nurture one's soul at The Nest.
Revitalize in the tranquil Australian flora with river views and access. Kayak, canoe, SUP Board, or fishing. Stroll to the banks of the Shoalhaven river, wander the trails, birdwatch, or climb Pulpit Rock.
Whether you're into painting, sketching or photography, this is an artist's retreat.
Our property is a 30-minute drive to beautiful Berry, Jervis Bay, Hyams Beach, Gerroa, Kangaroo Valley and Milton.
There are many varied beautiful walking tracks here in the Shoalhaven. Firstly, an intermediate walk is just off Bamarang Road to Pulpit Rock which overlooks the Shoalhaven River and Bundanon. Ben's Walk, Hanging Rock, Nowra,
The Grotto, Bomaderry, Jervis Bay National Park, Greenfield Beach, Wirreecoo Walking Trail & camp; Mangrove boardwalk, Huskisson, Cunjurong Point, Gerroa to Kiama cliffside trail, Pigeon House Mountain, Boyd Lookout, Morton National Park.
These are all within 10 to 45 minutes travelling by car.
Grade of walks, leisurely to advanced.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
AU$97
/ night
Pheasant Ground
10. Pheasant Ground
95%
(264)
34km from Bundanoon · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Situated just off Jamberoo Mountain Road, we are ideally located between Bowral and Kiama.
This campsite is a flat grassy area with rural views to the west and north west. Enjoy the lush green grass under the shade of old gnarly trees. Dogs on leashes are very welcome.
Campers will have access to toilet during their stay, just a short walk from the camping area.
Various birds, wombats and wallabies are common around our farm and we're located very close to Carrington Falls (Budderoo National Park), the Illawarra Fly Tree Top Walk
and Barren Grounds Nature Reserve where you can go for a lovely bushwalk or have a swim.
This campsite is best suited to caravans or RVs as we are situated near a
semi-busy tourist road between Robertson and Jamberoo (perfect if you need a safe place to stay on your adventure). Our front paddock has easy access off Gordon’s track.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$91
/ night
Mellows Ridge
11. Mellows Ridge
95%
(212)
38km from Bundanoon · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$140
/ night
Secrets of Terara
12. Secrets of Terara
98%
(121)
39km from Bundanoon · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This enchanting tree-filled, 13-acre property is located in the beautiful South Coast region of NSW, close to the spectacular beaches of Jervis Bay and quaint villages of Berry and Kangaroo Valley.
The property is hidden away among the gumtrees and surrounded by dairy country. It is a perfect, peaceful place to base yourself for a weekend or a week exploring the beaches and nature walks in the region, or the rock climbing areas of Nowra.
Your accommodation is either a cosy room in our converted barn, where you'll be very comfortable with all you need for a great weekend away, or a spacious camping spot in your own tent or van.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$176
/ night
The Sanctuary 2580
13. The Sanctuary 2580
100%
(52)
40km from Bundanoon · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 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.
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,
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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.
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🚫 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
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$73
/ night
Jamberoo Mountain Farm Camp
14. Jamberoo Mountain Farm Camp
94%
(24)
41km from Bundanoon · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property is located in Jamberoo on an elevated working beef cattle farm with unique and beautiful views. We accept bookings with a maximum of 2 nights per stay. Our campsite is best suited to couples or families who would to explore the local area then chill out in the quiet and peaceful surrounds of our place. Take a breathe and enjoy the amazing vista.
The large grassy site has stunning ocean views and is the perfect spot to relax after exploring all the great activities the surrounding area has to offer or play some outdoor sports if you bring a ball.
We are a working farm and have three farm dogs, horses and cattle on the property along with plenty of wildlife. The camp site is approximately 75 metres frome the house. It is in view of he house however we do have a busy life,so you won't see us much unless you need something.
We are only a short drive to Kiama and the stunning beaches of the south coast. Kiama has a great market on each month where you can check out the local offerings and enjoy a stroll along the esplanade or check out the famous Kiama blowhole and lighthouse. We are with easy reach of the Budderoo National Park which is full of stunning walks and waterfalls that are always popular.
We are a short drive to the Jamberoo Action Park and Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk which are both great places to visit for kids and families.
Please note our dogs can sometimes bark during the night as they are protecting the house and areas nearby.
You must bring your own portable toilet. You are unable to bring your own dogs.
Our site maximum is 2. Sites are opened at short notice when weather permits and not in conflict with farm activities. Weather permitting sites are generally available XMAS, NYE and Easter.
from
AU$97
/ night
Buenpaso - good step
15. Buenpaso - good step
100%
(18)
41km from Bundanoon · 3 sites
Private, quiet and secluded; Perry Lane is a no-through road used by only two other neighbours. "Buenpaso" is 118 acres of woodland and meadow. Stroll around and see Kangaroos, Wombats, Deer and a variety of native parrots. 29 klms away (25 mins) from the Bungonia National Park, 20 mins to Goulburn.
Pets
from
AU$79
/ night
Currambene Creek Farm
16. Currambene Creek Farm
97%
(62)
43km from Bundanoon · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The farm is a rolling 17 acres with Currambene Creek making up the property's northern boundary. We have an abundance of native birds, kangaroos, and a few wombats. Our primary purpose here is horse agistment, with four horses currently on the farm, along with 12 lovely chickens that free range during the day.
The farm is a beautiful haven to take a stroll and explore, enjoy a peaceful breakfast in the gentle mornings, or sit and enjoy wine and cheese at the end of the day as the sun goes down.
We are located 15 minutes from the local beaches and a little bit further to get to the Huskisson township with the famous Husky pub, 5 Pigs Cafe, and various other restaurants and cafes.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$49
/ night
Buxton Getaway
17. Buxton Getaway
97%
(470)
48km from Bundanoon · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Located just one hour from Sydney, our property features 19 acres of pure serenity with two dams and one large enough to kayak on (kayaks supplied). The back of the property is perfect for camping and suitable for a small to medium caravan/camper.
The larger dam has a picnic area and kayaks available to paddle on.
Adjoining our property is Nattai National Park with a lovely 20 minute walk down to Little River. The Aqua Pool Trail in the National Park is just gorgeous.
If you wish to try and catch some yabbies from the dams the only allowable and fun way is by a long stick and sausage. Hooks, fishing lines and traps are not allowed as we have people, dogs and horses swimming in the dams.
We welcome self-contained campers who bring their shower/toilet set up. We do have two drop pit toilets available and each campsite has a pit fire provided. We are getting low on firewood so you will need to bring some along with you. There is access to drinking water.
Our property is 2WD accessible and can accommodate small caravans and camper trailers.
Not far from Buxton is Thirlmere where the Steam Train Museum is and train rides are available on the weekends, a great activity for the kids. Thirlmere Lakes National Park is perfect for a relaxing picnic, walk, birdwatching, and glimpse into locomotive history. Mittagong and Bowral have great wineries with restaurant/bistro.
Pets are welcome.
There's a range of different bushwalking trails in the region, including Starlights trail, a scenic bushwalk suited to experienced hikers, which forms part the Greater Blue Mountains trail network between Mittagong and Katoomba.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$79
/ night
The Old Air Strip
18. The Old Air Strip
95%
(42)
49km from Bundanoon · 1 site · Tent, RV
Pitch your tent on what used to be an air strip for local farmers and enjoy access to 100 acres of rolling hills, forest and a creek all to yourself.
The property is a 10-minute drive to Taralga where you can pick up fresh delights from the bakery Grand Ettie, unwind at one of two amazing pubs, including the hatted Argyle Inn or Taralga Hotel, and browse boutiques. Need to entertain the family? Head to Wombeyan Caves (now open) or Taralga Wildlife Park.
A little about us (Hannah and Craig): we are a young couple who live in Canberra and recently purchased the property. We plan to build on the property but want campers to enjoy the beautiful nature and wildlife in the meantime.
Please note there are few sheds and caravans on the property that are not for use by Hipcampers.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$55
/ night
Monastery of 11 Strings
19. Monastery of 11 Strings
99%
(241)
50km from Bundanoon · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
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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Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$40
/ night
Stary Ponds
20. Stary Ponds
93%
(37)
51km from Bundanoon · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A peaceful space with lots of trees and waterways as well as an abundance of wildlife such as deer, kangaroo, black cockatoos, butterflies and so many gorgeous birds.
The landscape is varied, with lots of options to explore. From hiking the mountainous steep terrains, to meandering through the many ponds and waterways, or discovering the cleared trails ready for a beautiful bush walk or ride through nature.
The peace at night and the stars are unlike anything I've seen, absolutely breathtaking, and only 15 minutes from all the modern amenities you may need.
We offer several camping sites, a cabin and a large teepee.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$43
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Sam
2 weeks ago
Tent
Setting was lovely on our site with bush and large dam views.
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J
Jacob
2 weeks ago
Tent
It was a nice little getaway and Kristy was accommodating. Would recommend as it is also close to great beach locations
See more
Y
Yuvraj
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Absolutely lovely property and the hosts were super friendly. The bush walks are insane. Amenities are very close, heaps of space. Can't get better.
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K
Kishani
2 weeks ago
12 m travel trailer
With pets
A great campsite for groups. We had a blast playing games and camping for the night.
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L
Lara
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
I loved the space, beautiful area and easy access.
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b
brooke
2 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful spot! Decent camp ground with two cute little waterholes and short walk too a natural swimming hole. Amenities are basic but very clean. Worth a visit!
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Raoul
3 weeks ago
16 m travel trailer
Beautiful location with picturesque views. We had the entire area to ourselves and Kathryn is a great host. Bathroom facilities are well maintained and close by if needed. I have stayed several times and would highly recommend Sutton Farm. I hope to return on future trips.
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Kirk
3 weeks ago
6 m travel trailer
The Crossing at Wombat Hollow is an idyllic spot beside the fresh, flowing creek.
We appreciated that there was just a handful of sites on the property, thoughtfully spaced for the feeling of seclusion and ultimate peace and quiet. The site was well-maintained, freshly mown, and provided a great firepit and rustic log seating, as well as a quality picnic table.
Host Vallance was responsive, helpful, and made communication easy.
We had a lovely stay, in the company of kangaroos, wallabies, and abundant birdlife (and it was nice to know that the wombats and platypus were also neighbours, although we didn't see them).
Thank you for sharing this special place. We plan to return in the future.
See moreE
Elaine
3 weeks ago
3 m Class B
Lucinda responded quickly to all enquiries. Lovely little bush camp for people with dogs. Fire pit was lovely and very clean compost toilets. So accessible to the little river and the lovely aqua pool. Certainly more expensive than most of the NSW parks but we haven’t used hip camp before.
See moreJ
Jez
3 weeks ago
5 m car
With pets
Very nice Area! Lots of Wildlife and the journey to the little River was fun and a medium hike level. Our puppies absolutely loved it there and like to swim and run around. Very spacious areas so campers are not on top of each other.
Communication between myself and Luvina was easy and clear. Would definitely recommended and would love to stay again.
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B
Bel
3 weeks ago
6 m travel trailer
Beautiful quiet location location. Would definitely recommend. Make sure you have a 4x4 for towing out in the wet
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J
James
3 weeks ago
7 m Class B
With kids
Great spot. Weather wasn’t great so didn’t get to properly explore but we still enjoyed ourselves.
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J
Jess
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We had a great stay at the sunset site. Lovely and remote but still had facilities and close enough to all the local towns. Our boxer boy loved the freedom on the site too. Leanne was great, even when we couldn’t find the site late at night and in the dark! Looking forward to a return.
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Janette
3 weeks ago
7 m Class A
With pets
2nd stay at Billabong and as enjoyable as the first. Nice large, flat and private spot for our 2 vans and 2 dogs, right by a flowing river. Easy communication with Valence. Won’t be our last stay.
See moreT
Tarlinga
3 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful location. Friendly hosts with great communication.
See moreb
brendan
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Really tranquil, lovely spot. Had everything you need for a small getaway! Not to mention the strawberry farm 2 minutes down the road!
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John
February 2026
6 m travel trailer
With pets
Really enjoyed our stay - next to two dams with turtles and yabbys !
The swimming hole was fantastic and beautiful to trek to - 15min.
Flushing w/c is available next to sites 1&2 which was a welcome surprise
Sites were spaced out adequately and kids enjoyed the kayaks on the dam
We would stay agin
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Luke
February 2026
Tent
Had a great time camping here again! The sites are well maintained, friendly and helpful hosts, the dam is also a nice way to cool off. Toilets are also a huge plus, would definitely come back here again!
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Sean
February 2026
5 m pop-up camper
With pets
Directions and map were clear and the property is conveniently close to small towns / shops. The large dam looked inviting but we opted to go to the pools which was a 20min walk or so innthe heat, but definitely worth it is gorgeous! Composting toilet near site 5 was supriprisingly clean.
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P
Phil
February 2026
12 m travel trailer
With kids
Beautiful scenery and plenty of space around our camp. Camp was situated at the top of a flowing river which the kids enjoyed all day. Highly recommend staying here, very clean and well maintained.
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