The best forest cabin rentals in Central Coast

Stretching north of Sydney toward Newcastle, the Central Coast of New South Wales is a favourite, and easily accessible, getaway for both Sydneysiders and visitors from farther afield. Ideal for outdoor adventures for all kinds of travellers, from surfers to equestrians, the region is home to national parks, untouched bushland, beaches, bays, pristine lakes, and charming towns. The area is especially rewarding for campers, who can take their pick from beachside RV parks to forest camps—from basic campsites to sprawling holiday parks.

97% (2.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Central Coast

Stretching north of Sydney toward Newcastle, the Central Coast of New South Wales is a favourite, and easily accessible, getaway for both Sydneysiders and visitors from farther afield. Ideal for outdoor adventures for all kinds of travellers, from surfers to equestrians, the region is home to national parks, untouched bushland, beaches, bays, pristine lakes, and charming towns. The area is especially rewarding for campers, who can take their pick from beachside RV parks to forest camps—from basic campsites to sprawling holiday parks.

97% (2.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Central Coast

1. Mt Nellinda Campsite

98%

(618)

28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cooranbong, NSW

The property rests on the shoulder on Mt Nellinda on nineteen hectares of land, there are one large Greenhouse where we grow potted flowers and some veggies, also several large dams which are used for irrigation and act as a Sanctury for our geese, best of all are the views. The perfect spot for relaxing next to a fire and listening to the Frogs and nightlife and waking to the sounds of kookaburras and bird life, Lots of Rock Wallabies in the evenings and early mornings. Dog friendly, no leads required, portable toilets in the multiple Camp site 1 and an older style toilet in the camping area 2, fresh water available only next to the portable toilets camping area 1. also included is a camp kitchen with fridge, kettle microwave etc for your convenience. Check with host regarding campfires. Please DO NOT invite friends and relatives to your campsite without first notifying Host. (little curtesy goes a long way) Group bookings accepted with prior notice to save camping areas. Range of six camping areas. CAMP 1 allows up to 14 or more campsites to include caravans, motor homes, large or small. tents etc. with flat and slightly flat areas and close to the roadway dead end street. CAMP 2 allows up to eight or more smaller caravans tents rooftops etc also with some flatter areas. CAMP 3 is a private in the bush area and will cater for five or so rooftops tents, difficult for caravans or large vehicles. CAMP 4 smaller possibly two tents or rooftops secluded in the bush. CAMP 5 similar to camp 3 in the bush and completely private great for a get together with friends. CAMP 6 is the very top of the mountain with a long wide strip of cleared area with bush on both sides and a window at the end to the valley below, very private, must be fully contained and would suit most vehicles, may lose traction if pulling a heavy caravan or trailer.

2. Wattle Valley Farm

97%

(954)

33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Paynes Crossing, NSW

Welcome to Wattle Valley Farm! Nestled on 100 stunning acres along the iconic Wollombi Brook, our property is a haven for native wildlife. During your stay, you might spot wombats, kangaroos, echidnas, goannas, kookaburras, or black cockatoos—nature’s most charming neighbors! Explore our property on walking trails that lead to local aboriginal cave art and a scenic river walk, perfect for reconnecting with the great outdoors. Located in the heart of the Wollombi Valley and Hunter Valley wine region, Wattle Valley Farm is your ideal base for adventure. The historic Wollombi village, with its vibrant cafes and famous tavern, is just five minutes away, while the Broke and Pokolbin wine regions are a picturesque 30–40-minute drive. Discover nature, wine, and relaxation—all in one unforgettable escape!

3. Cranky Rock Hunter Valley

92%

(506)

21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Sweetmans Creek, NSW

Set at the base of the mountains on a beautiful valley floor, located in wine country in the lower Hunter Valley, Cranky Rock gets its name from a 25 tonne sandstone rock that graces our home. The 120 acre working beef and horse farm is situated a scenic 2 hour drive North from Sydney or 1 hour East from Newcastle. Whether you chose to stay of one of our campsites or in our pioneer-style cottage, all visitor being awoken to the natural bush sounds of lyre birds and cooling their heels in the crystal creek at the bottom of the property. On your way in or out, be sure to check out the boutique village of Wollombi which is just 10 minutes from Cranky Rock, where you'll enjoy wine tasting, fresh produce and quaint cafes. Other must-see's in the area include the Olney State Forest and the Wattagan National Park.The property is located just off a scenic drive, over a 2wd accessible creek crossing. It is peaceful and secluded. Campers can used shared kitchen and bathroom facilities located at the top of the camp area. Dogs are welcome, but as it's a working farm, we ask the remain on leash at all times. 

4. Rustyque Escape in Colo Heights

1 site · Lodging · Colo Heights, NSW

What are you waiting for? Holiday at home. Nestled in the Hawkesbury village of Colo Heights this cosy renovated studio is available for a country escape. With fully fenced yard within 25 acres you’ll feel a million miles away. The bedroom has a comfy Queen bed and a built-in wardrobe. There’s a Combined bathroom/laundry and a lovely modern kitchen. The Living area is air-conditioned with a sofa bed, dining & views of the orchard. Enjoy the garden & outdoors by the fire pit! Self-check in available RUSTYQUE located on the property is a shed full of old wares and collectables where you can shop during your stay. There will be a welcome basket on arrival supporting small local businesses with a variety of goodies including candle, honey, guest soap, lavosh, and other items. Local wine is available with notice for an additional fee.

5. Halifax Hill

96%

(55)

4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · St Albans, NSW

A secluded bush block about 3.5km from the historic village of St Albans. Accommodation includes a quirky 'mountain shack' up the hill, and a grassy paddock for camping nestled at the foot of the hill. 'Halifax Hill' provides an easily accessible bush escape from the hustle and bustle of Sydney, and a great camp from which to explore the local area. Enjoy the local swimming hole, nearby bushwalks, the historic pub ('The Settlers Arms'), explore the historic convict trail and more.

6. Watagan: BYO Horse Holiday

100%

(6)

2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Martinsville, NSW

Watagan presents: Dael's Mill "Dael's Mill" is a charming 2 bedroom cabin with a rich history, dating back to the 1800s. Set upon a breathtaking 50-acre retreat nestled a the foothills of the Watagan Mountains, midway between Sydney and Newcastle. Dael's Mill offers a uniquely horse-friendly escape where guests have the option to bring their beloved ponies for midweek or weekend stays, or enjoy an intimate escape in the mountains, to slow down, recharge, and reconnect. The cabin accommodates 4-6 guests and is equipped with self-contained amenities including: - King or single beds with luxurious linen and towels - Pull out double sofa - Air conditioning - Cedar, wood fired hot tub - Bathroom - Fridge - Kitchenette (microwave, toaster, electric fry pan, tea and coffee facilities) - BBQ - Internal fireplace and outdoor fire pit - TV with Chromecast Horse accommodation: (Maximum 4 horses per booking - 2 paddocks shared between 4 horses). Please let us know if you would like us to feed your horses. They have dedicated adjoining paddocks so you can look out your window and greet your four legged friend. Activities: Guests can unwind in an outdoor hot tub or take a refreshing dip in the property's dam and lagoons, adorned with lillies. The site grants easy access to vast trail networks in the Watagan State Forest, ideal for adventurous souls seeking extensive riding opportunities, either by horse, motor bike, mountain bike or 4WD. Or, you can try your luck fishing in the dam for some silver perch! Property features: For those seeking a more relaxed riding (or hiking) experience, the property boasts kilometers of purpose-built trails that don't require opening gates, catering to groups or individuals, providing spaces for bush bashing, hill climbs and canters. Guests can explore beautiful pockets of the property featuring our spring-fed dam, lagoons, and stunning Blarney Creek, meandering through the landscape. Spot the local wallabies, wombats, echidnas, water dragons, and so much more. Local attractions: Watagan enjoys proximity to takeaway shops, cafes, boutiques and restaurants just 10-15 minutes away, while the award-winning 8 @ Trinity is a mere 20-minute drive, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences. - Beaches within 35 minutes - Wineries within 45 minutes - Lookouts and state forest picnic areas at your door step Tyson & I are excited to welcome you to our little slice of paradise.

7. Madisons Mountain Retreat

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Kurrajong Heights, NSW

A peaceful farmstay located in Kurrajong Heights, set on 85 acres, just a short 75-minute drive from the Sydney CBD. We have 8 standalone cabins, each accommodating a maximum of 5 guests. Every cabin features a cozy slow combustion wood heater and a kitchenette equipped with a stovetop and microwave oven. Additionally, we offer an 18-meter solar-heated pool and a tennis court with rackets and balls provided. As a guest overnighting at Madisons, you are invited to join us at 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM for alpaca feeding.

8. Wombat's Forrest

100%

(15)

1 site · Lodging · Brunkerville, NSW

Wombat's Forrest is a 30 acre off grid property of bluegum forest and rainforest running either side of Brunkerville creek. Booking includes 2 cabins and an equipped campsite. You will have access to the entire property during your stay, complete privacy. Staying here, you are completely hidden from any other man made structure, immersed in nature. The property is located less than 2 hours from Sydney, 20 mins from Cessnock and the Hunter wineries, adjacent to Sugarloaf Conservation area. You'll love the morning and evening birdsong and be surrounded by the colour green by day. At night, be lulled by the music of the froggy symphonies, watch the moon rise over the forrest, and being mesmerised by the warmth and dancing light of a fire. Wallabies visit at dusk and dawn and a Koala has been heard calling at night. A 1km drive from the main road leads to the open living space. There are two cabins, just within sight of each other, a campsite with an outdoor kitchen shed and a large oval lawn. The Sky Cabin (blue) has a very comfortable queen size bed, a large deck, bbq, composting toilet, small equipped kitchen, solar lighting, hot and cold running water, an outdoor hot shower, and slow combustion fireplace inside. The Earth Cabin has an exceptionally comfortable queen size bed, deck, composting toilet, solar lighting, a slow combustion fireplace inside and running water outside a short distance away. If you want to include Belle tents in your booking rather than bring your own you have the option to add those to your booking and we will set them up for you with lighting included, though you will need to BYO beds and bedding. The campsite adjacent to the shed has running water, an outdoor shower and outdoor toilet. The property has short (circular) walks through the bush, and access to Sugarloaf Conservation area (with further walks and access to the Great North Walk). But its the ideal place to just chill. Access from Brunkerville, keys can be picked up from a lockbox at the property gate. Find us on instagram at @wombatsforrest for more photos and updates.

9. Wild Woods

5 sites · Lodging · Pokolbin, NSW

Wild Wood’s cabins are best described as peaceful and private, a homely escape in the native bushlands of Pokolbin. The interiors of the cabins are relaxed but comfortable, with all your essentials covered. Surrounding by 15 acres of bushland, our cabins are designed to make you feel welcome and comfortable whether you are staying with family and friends or a solo escape. Wild Woods is centrally located in the heart of Pokolbin. From our doorstep, you have easy access to all of the area by foot, bicycle or car.

10. Willow's Leap

1 site · Lodging · Fernances Crossing, NSW

Nestled in the beautiful Wollombi Valley at the south end of the NSW Hunter Valley, Willow’s Leap is an equestrian training facility offering lessons, horse education and accommodation. We specialise in tailoring weekends away for you and your horse, with accommodation and yards on site and at the neighbouring Willow's Retreat. Speak to us about your individual needs!

11. Magical Bush at Murrays Run

2 sites · Lodging · Murrays Run, NSW

Kawalang is nestled on 100 acres of stunning bushland on Wonnarua Country, in the midst of the Watagan Forest in the Lower Hunter Valley. We’re just 1.5 hours from Sydney and Newcastle, and 45 minutes from the Central Coast. Nearby, you’ll find the Yengo Lookout and Rock Platform with remarkable Indigenous art, as well as wineries, horse farms, and the historic villages of Wollombi and Laguna. We grow food organically — from citrus, figs, and quinces to pears, mulberries, elderberries, finger limes, feijoas, garlic, vegetables, and greens — and strive to live sustainably. We keep waste to a minimum by composting food scraps and reducing plastic use. Most of our energy comes from solar panels, while rainwater collected in filtered tanks provides our water supply. An electric car charger is available for visitors to support their journey around the Valley. We live in harmony with the wildlife here — wombats, wallabies, possums, bandicoots, kookaburras, cockatoos, and more. On walks down to the bottom field, you’ll pass striking cliffs and rock formations, and discover a private valley with a meandering creek to explore and enjoy. We are about an hour from an exquisite lookout toward Big Yengo, a sacred mountain as significant to Aboriginal people in this region as Uluru is in Central Australia. For thousands of years, Aboriginal communities have gathered on this mountain. The area offers rock carvings, walking tracks, and campsites to explore. The name Kawalang was gifted to us by Aniwan Gamilaroi Wonnarua Elder Uncle Bill Smith. It means “abundance” in language, acknowledging the spirit of the land and the food and joy it brings.

Camper favorites in and near Central Coast

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Madisons Mountain Retreat

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Kurrajong Heights, NSW

A peaceful farmstay located in Kurrajong Heights, set on 85 acres, just a short 75-minute drive from the Sydney CBD. We have 8 standalone cabins, each accommodating a maximum of 5 guests. Every cabin features a cozy slow combustion wood heater and a kitchenette equipped with a stovetop and microwave oven. Additionally, we offer an 18-meter solar-heated pool and a tennis court with rackets and balls provided. As a guest overnighting at Madisons, you are invited to join us at 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM for alpaca feeding.

Wombat's Forrest

100%

(15)

1 site · Lodging · Brunkerville, NSW

Wombat's Forrest is a 30 acre off grid property of bluegum forest and rainforest running either side of Brunkerville creek. Booking includes 2 cabins and an equipped campsite. You will have access to the entire property during your stay, complete privacy. Staying here, you are completely hidden from any other man made structure, immersed in nature. The property is located less than 2 hours from Sydney, 20 mins from Cessnock and the Hunter wineries, adjacent to Sugarloaf Conservation area. You'll love the morning and evening birdsong and be surrounded by the colour green by day. At night, be lulled by the music of the froggy symphonies, watch the moon rise over the forrest, and being mesmerised by the warmth and dancing light of a fire. Wallabies visit at dusk and dawn and a Koala has been heard calling at night. A 1km drive from the main road leads to the open living space. There are two cabins, just within sight of each other, a campsite with an outdoor kitchen shed and a large oval lawn. The Sky Cabin (blue) has a very comfortable queen size bed, a large deck, bbq, composting toilet, small equipped kitchen, solar lighting, hot and cold running water, an outdoor hot shower, and slow combustion fireplace inside. The Earth Cabin has an exceptionally comfortable queen size bed, deck, composting toilet, solar lighting, a slow combustion fireplace inside and running water outside a short distance away. If you want to include Belle tents in your booking rather than bring your own you have the option to add those to your booking and we will set them up for you with lighting included, though you will need to BYO beds and bedding. The campsite adjacent to the shed has running water, an outdoor shower and outdoor toilet. The property has short (circular) walks through the bush, and access to Sugarloaf Conservation area (with further walks and access to the Great North Walk). But its the ideal place to just chill. Access from Brunkerville, keys can be picked up from a lockbox at the property gate. Find us on instagram at @wombatsforrest for more photos and updates.

Wild Woods

5 sites · Lodging · Pokolbin, NSW

Wild Wood’s cabins are best described as peaceful and private, a homely escape in the native bushlands of Pokolbin. The interiors of the cabins are relaxed but comfortable, with all your essentials covered. Surrounding by 15 acres of bushland, our cabins are designed to make you feel welcome and comfortable whether you are staying with family and friends or a solo escape. Wild Woods is centrally located in the heart of Pokolbin. From our doorstep, you have easy access to all of the area by foot, bicycle or car.

Willow's Leap

1 site · Lodging · Fernances Crossing, NSW

Nestled in the beautiful Wollombi Valley at the south end of the NSW Hunter Valley, Willow’s Leap is an equestrian training facility offering lessons, horse education and accommodation. We specialise in tailoring weekends away for you and your horse, with accommodation and yards on site and at the neighbouring Willow's Retreat. Speak to us about your individual needs!

Magical Bush at Murrays Run

2 sites · Lodging · Murrays Run, NSW

Kawalang is nestled on 100 acres of stunning bushland on Wonnarua Country, in the midst of the Watagan Forest in the Lower Hunter Valley. We’re just 1.5 hours from Sydney and Newcastle, and 45 minutes from the Central Coast. Nearby, you’ll find the Yengo Lookout and Rock Platform with remarkable Indigenous art, as well as wineries, horse farms, and the historic villages of Wollombi and Laguna. We grow food organically — from citrus, figs, and quinces to pears, mulberries, elderberries, finger limes, feijoas, garlic, vegetables, and greens — and strive to live sustainably. We keep waste to a minimum by composting food scraps and reducing plastic use. Most of our energy comes from solar panels, while rainwater collected in filtered tanks provides our water supply. An electric car charger is available for visitors to support their journey around the Valley. We live in harmony with the wildlife here — wombats, wallabies, possums, bandicoots, kookaburras, cockatoos, and more. On walks down to the bottom field, you’ll pass striking cliffs and rock formations, and discover a private valley with a meandering creek to explore and enjoy. We are about an hour from an exquisite lookout toward Big Yengo, a sacred mountain as significant to Aboriginal people in this region as Uluru is in Central Australia. For thousands of years, Aboriginal communities have gathered on this mountain. The area offers rock carvings, walking tracks, and campsites to explore. The name Kawalang was gifted to us by Aniwan Gamilaroi Wonnarua Elder Uncle Bill Smith. It means “abundance” in language, acknowledging the spirit of the land and the food and joy it brings.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Steve

3 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest

Fantastic place with friendly and helpful owners - everything's been thought of. The 2 cabins are well equiped, clean and very comfortable. There's several different places set up in the shade with seating, fireplaces and sinks/taps. Lots of good camping sites. Highly recommended - we'll be back!

E

Elle

3 weeks ago

1 night at Halifax Hill

Helen and Steve were super accomodating and the shack was an incredible place to stay at! Facilities, view and location were all 5 five stars, would definitely recommend staying!

S

Sandy

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Wattle Valley Farm

Our stay in the malee cabin was perfect! Matt and Jenna are super friendly and helpful. The land was beautiful and we loved that we could explore some bush tracks on the property. The amenities were nice and clean and they even have a family friendly shower room which was really helpful! We will definitely be back.

I

Isha

November 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We enjoyed a ur stay at this unique and quite spooky place in mountain shack. We were intrigued by the whole maximalist vibe of the house and loved everything about it. It was peaceful we had everything we needed and our host were communicative and great which made everything perfect

Lisa

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest

Wombat Forest was the perfect get away for our 2 families. Camping for the kids & glamping for the adults. The place is beautifully set up, with lots of space for families to come together around the large fire pit or disappear into a secluded corner to chill. Perfect stay. Thank you Lucy.

V

Vanessa

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We loved the shack with the living rock wall. It was so peaceful out there. Helen and Steve sent us all the information we needed before we arrived so it was very easy to find.

N

Nikolai

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We absolutely loved the shack! It was full of life, art and amazing sculptures and it was so lovely during the summer. Lots of animals and insects around the place, so definitely felt like the whole place was alive and happy! We had an amazing time.

Karolin

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We absolutely loved our stay at The Mountain Shack & having the whole place to ourselves in the middle of nature. It’s such a unique property — full of charm, quirks, and thoughtful touches. We spent the evening playing board games and drinking wine by candlelight, which made it feel like we’d stepped back in time (a little spooky, but in the best possible way!). There’s plenty of space to explore, we ducked into the nearby town to the Settlers Arms pub during the day, where there was live music playing in the courtyard, it was lovely. The hosts were incredibly communicative and helpful throughout our stay. If you’re after a rustic, one-of-a-kind getaway, this is it.

L

Lisa

October 2025

With kids

4 nights at Wombat's Forrest

I wish we didn’t need to leave a review- as then we could have this remaining a secret. But that would be mean because it is super lovely and we are thankful for Lucy and family- for their amazing property. Quiet, private, thoughtful, beautiful. Birds galore, lovely detail and simplicity. Really really loved our stay.

M

Megan

October 2025

1 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Watagan: BYO Horse Holiday

Dael’s Mill is a gorgeous old cottage packed with charm and character. We loved the place, the fire pit, the hot tub, the birds, the wallaby’s, the dam, the jetty, all of which surrounded by horses and natural beauty! Thanks Chantelle and Tyson for enabling us to share your place for a short while!

J

Jamie

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We stayed here with our three children. While it wasn’t the most ideal setup for a young family, the quirky, back-to-basics charm really shone through for our 5- and 8-year-olds. No phones, no iPads – just fire, play, and conversations. With St Albans only a few kilometres away, we were able to enjoy a day of adventure there, as well as Wisemans Ferry, where the girls loved paddling on the sandbanks by the park. The shack itself has loads of charm and would be especially perfect for a couple or a small group of adults wanting to cook, share a bottle of wine, relax, and soak up the nature all around. We still thoroughly enjoyed our stay with the girls – and they did too, which is the main thing. The host was super communicative and responsive, and we were well looked after. Shack charm – a winner.

V

Victoria

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest

The cabin was peaceful, beautifully maintained, and the perfect cozy retreat surrounded by nature. Lucy is a great host 🙂

L

Lillian

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We had a gorgeous stay at the Mountain Shack at Halifax Hill. A delightful shack with rustic beauty and an earthy, artsy feel. It had everything we needed and more- indoor and outdoor fires, board games galore, electric blankets on the bed, cooking facilities- all in a beautiful and peaceful location. Steve & Helen were responsive and prompt communicators and the whole trip was smooth and easy from start to finish. Our toddler and our dog had a ball, too. Highly recommend to anyone wanting a relaxing hideaway, perfect for couples, families or friends! Thanks Steve & Helen- we will be back!

H

Harry

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest

Had a great time! The property was amazing and very private

B

Brendan

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

Such a fantastic experience. The mountain shack is an incredible property in a stunning piece of landscape. Helen and Steve were such a accommodating host's with great communication. I highly, highly recommend the mountain shack on Halifax Hill to anyone looking for a private retreat with rustic charm.

L

Larni

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

This was the most incredible place we have ever stayed. Thanks so much for having us 💜

e

ellen

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

I absolutely loved my stay at Halifax hill!! It’s such a beautiful home, bursting with art and so very cosy. It’s incredibly serene and filled with sunshine throughout the day. A great collection of records and games, the lounge room was a perfect place to relax and unwind! The kitchen was very spacious and had all you needed to make a delicious meal. Located a 5 min drive from the settlers inn and pickled wombat it’s a very sweet retreat for couples, families or groups <3

Sean

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wattle Valley Farm

It's a beautiful place, very relaxing and close to Wollombi. Loved it. Will be booking again.

c

cherie

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Wattle Valley Farm

Thank you Mat and Jenna for having us !! When we arrived Mat was so welcoming and showed us where everything was, the property is so big and beautiful plenty of space for everyone to pick there camping spot. The bathrooms and showers were well maintained and very clean. This place is nice for families and couples. If your someone who wants to sleep on a bed the cabins are perfect as you can sit outside all night in front of the bon fire then go inside to your cabin to sleep!! Wifi wasnt to bad !! but if you need to make calls to fam and friends you can just walk up closer to the main house :) I would def come back here again ❤️ There is also a small spot in the town 7 mins away with 2 cafes me and my partner drove up there and spent 4 hours exploring everything there all in the same street the wine tasting, art gallery, cafe, museum, 2x thrif stores was really nice !!! 100000/10

J

Jason

June 2025

With pets

5 nights at Halifax Hill

I wanted to leave a one star review just because I want this place to myself but that would be unfair. Such a eclectic quirky little mountain shack with all the conveniences of home right in the middle of the bush. Comfortable and cosy even in the middle of the winter with the fireplace.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best forest cabins in Central Coast guide

Where to go

Patonga

Quiet Patonga sits on the edge of the secluded Brisk Bay about an hour and a half north of Sydney by road. You can set up camp around Brisk Bay and Brisbane Water National Park, where surrounding campgrounds offer powered and unpowered sites with access to electric BBQs, showers, and laundry facilities. Camp here to be perfectly positioned for beginning the 3-kilometre Patonga to Pearl Beach walking track, which takes you through the national park and ends on a beach.

Bouddi

Wake up to the sounds of waves and wildlife in Bouddi National Park by staying at Tallow Beach, Putty Beach, or Little Beach campgrounds. Putty Beach has showers, smaller Little Beach has sheltered barbecues, and the remote, hike-in Tallow Beach is fairly basic, with just toilets. Each is just steps from the shoreline and well placed for swimming, surfing, fishing, and embarking on the park’s walking tracks, including the 8-kilometre Bouddi Coastal Walk, which runs through bush and along dramatic cliffs. Look out for migrating whales between May and November.

Gosford

The coastal town of Terrigal is known for its long stretch of white-sand beach—a major draw for surfers and fishers—while the neighbouring town of Avoca Beach is a favourite of families and the gateway to the surfing beaches of Macmasters and Copacabana. To the west, Ettalong Beach, Woy Woy, and Gosford are on the calmer waters of the barrier estuary of Brisbane Water. After enjoying all the coast has to offer, head inland for unspoilt bush camping spots.

Wyong

To the north, you’ll find more beaches and watersports at The Entrance, perhaps best-known for the spectacle of its daily pelican feeding. Minutes from The Entrance, a handful of holiday parks offer powered camping sites, wifi, and cabins. Head an hour northwest into the hinterland to Olney State Forest for its walking trails through lush native forest: Casuarina, Pines, Olney, and Turpertine sites all offer sheltered camping areas with access to barbecues, picnic areas, and toilets.