The best big rig friendly campgrounds near Byron Bay, New South Wales

Byron Bay is the most popular holiday spot on the NSW north coast. Celebrated for its laid back boho vibe, the drawcard is the combination of beautiful beaches, surf, buzzy cafes, big name restaurants, boutiques, day spas, yoga retreats, music festivals and nightlife, so there’s something that appeals to everyone, including a host of Hollywood celebrities that call it home. Book yourself a camping spot or campervan site in one of the many caravan parks and join in the fun. Many resorts and holiday parks offer glamping if you want to go luxe. If you prefer a wilder campsite, head up to one of the campgrounds in the rainforest hinterland national parks.The spiritual heartland of the ‘rainbow region’, Nimbin has been famous–or infamous, depending on your point of view–for its alternative lifestyle since the 1970s. Many of the hippies that moved in back then never moved on, and although it’s a bit more commercial these days, the annual Mardi Grass rally and street parade in May is always a colourful event. The shopfronts in Nimbin’s main street are decorated with multi-coloured psychedelic murals and there is a range of shops and cafés selling vegan new age goods, many made from hemp.Drive up into the hills to explore the cute country towns such as Alstonville with its macadamia orchards and rainforest reserves, riverside Lismore, and charming Murwillumbah, sheltered beneath the shadow of the Mt Warning caldera. The rainforest in the mountainous national parks are part of the World Heritage listed Gondwana rainforests, and the battle to save them from logging in places like Protesters Falls kickstarted the conservation movement in Australia. The coastal strip south of Bryon Bay offers quieter back-to-basics camping experiences in the beachfront caravan parks and camping grounds in the seaside villages that stretch along Tallow Beach to Suffolk Park, Broken Head Nature Reserve and the village of Lennox Head.If you fly into Byron Bay you’ll actually land in Ballina, which is around a 30-minute drive south of Byron. Home to one of Australia’s quirkier big things–the Big Prawn–it doesn’t quite have the same holiday buzz as Byron, but the beaches are just as nice and it makes a great base for those looking for affordable camping option, especially for families.

96% (309)

Top-rated campgrounds near Byron Bay

Byron Bay is the most popular holiday spot on the NSW north coast. Celebrated for its laid back boho vibe, the drawcard is the combination of beautiful beaches, surf, buzzy cafes, big name restaurants, boutiques, day spas, yoga retreats, music festivals and nightlife, so there’s something that appeals to everyone, including a host of Hollywood celebrities that call it home. Book yourself a camping spot or campervan site in one of the many caravan parks and join in the fun. Many resorts and holiday parks offer glamping if you want to go luxe. If you prefer a wilder campsite, head up to one of the campgrounds in the rainforest hinterland national parks.The spiritual heartland of the ‘rainbow region’, Nimbin has been famous–or infamous, depending on your point of view–for its alternative lifestyle since the 1970s. Many of the hippies that moved in back then never moved on, and although it’s a bit more commercial these days, the annual Mardi Grass rally and street parade in May is always a colourful event. The shopfronts in Nimbin’s main street are decorated with multi-coloured psychedelic murals and there is a range of shops and cafés selling vegan new age goods, many made from hemp.Drive up into the hills to explore the cute country towns such as Alstonville with its macadamia orchards and rainforest reserves, riverside Lismore, and charming Murwillumbah, sheltered beneath the shadow of the Mt Warning caldera. The rainforest in the mountainous national parks are part of the World Heritage listed Gondwana rainforests, and the battle to save them from logging in places like Protesters Falls kickstarted the conservation movement in Australia. The coastal strip south of Bryon Bay offers quieter back-to-basics camping experiences in the beachfront caravan parks and camping grounds in the seaside villages that stretch along Tallow Beach to Suffolk Park, Broken Head Nature Reserve and the village of Lennox Head.If you fly into Byron Bay you’ll actually land in Ballina, which is around a 30-minute drive south of Byron. Home to one of Australia’s quirkier big things–the Big Prawn–it doesn’t quite have the same holiday buzz as Byron, but the beaches are just as nice and it makes a great base for those looking for affordable camping option, especially for families.

96% (309)

Top-rated campgrounds near Byron Bay

1. Rainforest Gateway

98%

(361)

68km from Byron Bay · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Escape to serenity at Rainforest Gateway. Relax and unwind to the gentle murmur of the creek, go for a paddle, take a hike or simply put your feet up and enjoy a crackling campfire under a sky bursting with stars. With great views, tranquil bushland, abundant wildlife and the stunning Border Ranges National Park close by, there is always something to do. The park is nestled alongside the everflowing Gradys Creek and features large, easily accessed, grassy powered and unpowered sites overlooking the creek. For those after more of a glamping experience, there are 3 x one bedroom cabins available. On-site amenities include hot showers, flush toilets, fully equipped camp kitchen with a large undercover area (perfect for large groups or private functions), and a laundry. We are a dog-friendly park so the whole family is welcome. Dogs need to be controlled at all times and cleaned up after. No aggressive dogs please. Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits only and may be subject to fire bans. Firewood and ice are available for purchase (cash preferred). Recycling bins are provided, otherwise campers are required to take their rubbish with them. Wi-Fi and Telstra coverage are available. Rainforest Gateway is located approximately 8klms along Grady's Creek Road, just 20 klms north of Kyogle and 15 klms from the Queensland border on the popular scenic tourist route, Lions Road. Kyogle is a bustling town with an IGA supermarket, MTB riding tracks, lovely gift shops, cinema, bowling alley, and a selection of dining outlets. For those wanting to immerse themselves in nature, the Border Ranges National Park is a short drive away. Please note Lions Road is temporarily closed for road repairs and expected to be reopened late January 2026. We can still be reached on Gradys Creek Road off Summerland Way, ignore Google maps if it directs you to Lynches Creek Rd. Check in is strictly between 2 - 5pm. Please contact us to make arrangements if you are unable to arrive between these times. Feel free to message if you have any questions prior to booking :)

2. Evans Head Camping

98%

(68)

53km from Byron Bay · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Our powered site gives you a bathroom with hot water shower, septic toilet and sink. Part of a shed with a tv, radio, fridge and tables, a bbq, fire pit and plenty of space to spread out. Firewood is available on site only for $25.00 per night and includes 30 kg of seasoned split firewood and 10 kg of kindling/fire starters per night. Firewood must be ordered through Hipcamp with no refunds available. TO BE CONSCIOUS OF BIOSECURITY COMPLIANCE, NO FIREWOOD IS TO BE BROUGHT INTO OR TAKEN FROM OUR PROPERTY. Evans Head Camping is a peaceful, tranquil, private property within 4km of the beautiful beaches, river and township of Evans Head, on the Far North Coast of NSW. Surfing, fishing, bushwalking, swimming are popular activities in Evans Head. There are ample shops, IGA, SPA, Post Office, Newsagents, Butcher, Muzza's Milk Bar, just to name a few. Dining options - Evans Head RSL, Evans Head Bowlo, Illawong Hotel, plus thai, Japxican, fish and chip take away. 4WD Beach Access is located at Airforce Beach, about 4km's away. Woodburn-Evans Head Golf Club is a 5min drive. Activities include kayaking, bird watching, bushwalking, photography and just relaxing while listening to the birdlife. Koalas and kangaroos are regular visitors. The property is only available for camping weekends (varied nights) public holidays, and Easter and Christmas holidays. Enjoy the benefits of beautiful Evans Head, without sharing your campsite with the tourist crowds! Evans Head Camping also provides a safe and secure location for your holiday set up while you're explore the beautiful Northern Rivers and beyond. Take a day trip to some of the most interesting places on the NSW Far North Coast, knowing that your van/tent is in a safe secure setting. We are only a 45min drive from world famous Byron Bay in the north or Yamba in the south, just over an hour to the Queensland Border, with many coastal, country and hinterland towns and National Parks, inviting many adventures.

3. Swampwood

92%

(6)

37km from Byron Bay · 1 site · Tent, RV

Quiet rural area with sealed road access north and south to the Pacific Motorway. Slashed grassy area with scattered trees, two dams, lowland rainforest, wetland with abundant birds and wildlife. Private ensuite with flush toilet, basin and solar shower with 240v light and power. Rainwater and bore water available and dump point. Caravan power available via 15A outside socket limited by 10A breaker. Reasonably flat 5-acre area one hundred meters off the main road via slightly rough but reasonably flat driveway. Mosquitoes are about day and night and a few ticks so repellent recommended. Blue billy goat weed is present and can cause allergies to dogs. Only cooking fires are allowed in the bushfire danger period, a portable fireplace and free kindling is available and some firewood but you may need to cut it up. Electric kettle & tea/coffee in container in shed. Prefer no pets unless they are indoor or on a lead under control as this property has a private conservation covenant, pets should have tick and heartworm medication. Fifteen minutes' drive to Alstonville or Patches and Broadwater beaches., 20 minutes' drive to Ballina and Evans Head. Wildlife includes abundant birdlife , Swamp Wallaby, Koala, Echidna, Bandicoot, Possums, goannas, carpet snakes and green and brown tree snakes. A good location to explore the Tuckean Swamp, the property takes in 20 ha of Lowland Subtropical Rainforest on floodplain and Melaleuca Swamp. Heading 4.5 km south along the road is the Bagotville Barrage from which you can explore the Tuckean Swamp by canoe for kilometres and observe the birdlife including ducks, comb-crested jacana and black swan.

4. Kerry Valley Secret, Scenic Rim

100%

(41)

74km from Byron Bay · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Kerry Valley Secret - Stockyard Creek, Kingfisher and Platypus Campsites in the Scenic Rim are exclusive bush campsites - once you have booked no-one else will be able to camp at that site - and they are perfect for groups! The Stockyard Creek Campsite is situated on the babbling Stockyard Creek and there is a short walk to the bigger Albert River waterhole. This pretty spot features Silky Oaks and Ironwood trees, views to Luke's Bluff and Ding Bing falls in Lamington National Park, has plenty of shade for tents and a huge space for caravans and camper trailers to turn around in Family groups love the site for the babbling but shallow child friendly Stockyard Creek - perfect for paddling and playing in. The Kingfisher and Platypus Campsites have larger waterholes than the Stockyard Creek Campsite and you are able to wander the 2km of river frontage while fishing. They have easy access off the main Kerry Road. Friends love our campsites for catch ups, the bird watching, small historical or nature walks around the property and of course the cool waterholes in the Albert River. Other groups use Kerry Valley Secret as a base camp for hiking adventures in the wilderness end of Lamington National Park. Bring your togs and floaties to cool down in the waterhole on the Albert River. Don't forget the marshmallows to roast on the fire at night (firewood provided). Binoculars and boots are a must for bird watching and exploring our walking tracks through the forest. All campsites have basic toilet facilities (a portaloo) and firepit (with a free bag of kindling provided). Stockyard Creek Campsite also includes a picnic table. Exclusivity is a feature of all our campsite and for that reason we only take a flat rate booking. Once you have booked no one else will be able to camp at the site, it is all yours.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Maddison

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Rainforest Gateway

One of the most incredible & welcoming campsite’s I have ever been fortunate enough to find. The owners & the groundskeeper (Frank) are so incredibly kind & accommodating! Such a beautiful space for big celebrations or even a pit stop along the way to your destination. I can’t wait to come back :)

B

Brooke

3 weeks ago

15 m travel trailer

With pets

7 nights at Rainforest Gateway

Amazing atmosphere, fantastic hosts. We stayed for a week and wished it was longer. The bird life was amazing too.

T

Tahli

December 2025

4 m Class B

With pets

4 nights at Rainforest Gateway

A beautiful spot above a little flowing creek. Nice and flat with some shady areas. Shower/toilet not too far away. There is also a fully equipped kitchen and communal area where you can relax and charge phones etc. The lovely lady filling in for Peter and Jannine (sorry, I didn't get your name!) was very friendly, helpful and accommodating. Both myself and my dog felt very welcome and comfortable. I would definitely stay again :-)

A

Alliyah

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Evans Head Camping

Absolutely gorgeous stay. Will be back for sure, Cameron goes above and beyond with the hospitality and amenities. Favourite part of our trip up the coast.

P

Peter

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rainforest Gateway

Beautiful place to camp facilities were very clean, beautiful big well kept grassy camp spots, pet friendly, there is a cool lil shop about 10 -20min out called Wiangaree General Store that has nearly everything from tent pegs to pork chops so handy if need to stock up, Rainforest Retreat sell fire wood and ice which was handy for the esky and the fire pit,

Our first Hipcampers were so well set up!

E

Ethan

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Evans Head Camping

great location, great hosts, great time. would recommend.

Ellie

November 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

3 nights at Rainforest Gateway

Janine was super friendly and accomodating. The place is beautiful, it has large flat sites and I think is a very reasonable price for power and water. Quiet mid week with just two other campers there. Trains do go past across the road through the night, but I just shut my window on that side and it didn't bother me.

S

Sue

November 2025

7 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Rainforest Gateway

It is a beautiful spot. So well maintained and clean. The hosts were very friendly and helpful. We will definitely come back again

R

Richard

November 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Swampwood

It was a quick stop on my way back down the country, but a lovely peaceful field. Unfortunately it decided to rain a lot so didn’t really get out of the van, but I sat in the front and watched the countryside until it got dark which was very peaceful.

Debi

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Rainforest Gateway

This is one of the nicest camp grounds we have ever been too. Flat, level sites. Amenities are clean and well kept. The common area and camp kitchen is a highlight. Hosts: Peter and Jannine are extremely accommodating and super friendly. The creek is beautiful. Its a magical place with the birdlife & fireflies at the right time of the year!

P

Peter

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rainforest Gateway

I camped here for a quick recharge, this place is amazing, I was very happy with the facilities, the site, and the welcoming vibe, access to the river, well kept flat camp sites, dog friendly, very highly recommend and will be booking again soon ❤️

A

Anthony

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Rainforest Gateway

Beautiful spot and so close to Brisbane. Great base to birdwatch from with so many national parks nearby. Slept so well with the sound of the creek just below our tent

A

Allan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rainforest Gateway

I love the camping. The campsis were big and rig6 on the river, beautiful

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rainforest Gateway

Beautiful spot will definitely be going back soon

Camp kitchen set up a little higher overlooking other sites.

C

Colleen

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

7 nights at Rainforest Gateway

Location awesome on running river. Shallow in parts few deeper sections. Plenty of turtles, eels and fish. Don’t bother you whilst swimming. Beautiful manicured large grass flat area some with power and water but be sure to take extra long hose and electrical cord. You can locate close to edge of rubber but need longer cord. Great for kicking a footy and frisbees. Creek is down an embankment and not accessible from most sites, just have to walk down to certain places. Awesome big camp kitchen with everything, only thing sad to say is very very small fridge for size of place and kitchen. Facilities old but spotless located behind cabins. Cabins I think don’t have own bathrooms. Yes 20 mins out of town but the drive to town is worth it as just beautiful hills and great rd. Train runs past a couple of times per day and only for 15 secs and enjoyed seeing but only a glimpse through the trees. Not noisy at all. Town is plenty big enough, had all and 3 op shops too. Last Saturday of month a great wellness market. Different things to see and a tad up town was a small farmers market. That may be every Saturday. Overall highly recommend.

Graham and Chris

October 2025

10 m travel trailer

1 night at Rainforest Gateway

Paradise! A beautiful camp ground with all the trimmings not usually found in a rural setting as well as fabulous hosts to make this an amazing stay. Highly recommended.

D

Donna

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

Group trip

2 nights at Rainforest Gateway

The property is in a beautiful remote location with large areas, power and water and a beautiful creek which was the perfect for our group’s happy hour. The camp kitchen area provided everything needed for us (8 adults) for a long lazy brunch and a game of cards. The hosts were very welcoming and friendly.

W

Will

October 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Rainforest Gateway

Me and my partner had a lovely stay with our van! If you are birdlovers like us, you’re in the right place, what a treat! Also saw beautiful cicadas, frogs, lizards. Toilets/showers were kept very clean. There is a train that comes by sporadically but did not bother us at all, don’t let it keep you from booking a stay. We already miss the dogs! :-)

M

Malcolm

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Evans Head Camping

The deep fresh water lake that you have all to yourself is absolute heaven. Camping facilities are top quality, making it more like glamping.

C

Catherine

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Swampwood

Perfect for what I needed! I was driving south and just needed to pull in for the night somewhere, pop up the swag, and get going in the morning. This more than ticked the boxes for me. Garry's communication was great, and he welcomed me on arrival to show me where everything was. I was able to put the swag up in a bay in the shed so was undercover. The shed had lights so I didn't need to fumble about with all my torches, and the bathroom was a definite bonus with a light and power, too. Garry even offered a ground sheet for my swag if I wanted it. Legend!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best big rig friendly camping near Byron Bay guide

When to go

Summer is warm and winter is mild, which helps ensure that fashionable Byron Bay is popular year round. It gets really busy during summer holidays, so make sure you book ahead. Byron’s also a hotspot during Schoolies Week (mid to late November) and is best left to the teenagers at this time. At Easter, Byron is home to the Byron Bay Bluesfest, one of the biggest blues festivals in the country. Winter, between June and October, is a great time to see whales.

Know before you go

Cape Byron is mainland Australia’s most easterly point and being among the first in the country to see the sunrise from Byron lighthouse is a rite of passage for many young Australians, especially on New Years Eve.
Alstonville disappears in a purple haze in autumn, when the Tibouchina trees that line the town's streets burst into bloom with big purple and mauve flowers.
You never know what you’ll find at the weekend craft markets. Most stall holders move with the markets between Byron Bay, Nimbin, Bangalow and The Channon on alternate weekends. Visit https://www.byron-bay.com/byronbay/market.html for details.
There’s no free camping in the town centre of Byron Bay. Don’t be tempted to sleep in your campervan in a beachside carpark, rangers can fine you up to AUD$2200 if you get caught.