The best dog-friendly glamping 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.

92% (3.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

92% (3.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Ingenia Holidays Avina

78%

(18)

171 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Sydney, NSW

Escape to the Vineyard region in Sydney for a country getaway at Ingenia Holidays Avina! Located only 50km from Sydney CBD, this countryside location offers an array of accommodation options, including camping or caravan sites, as well as modern villas and spacious cabins. During your stay, wine taste your way around the region, take a short drive to local attractions such as Featherdale Wildlife Park, Windsor Heritage Walk, Hawkesbury Valley and the Blue Mountains, or stay in and enjoy the resort-style pool. Whether your home base for your holiday is the canvas you packed, caravan or you’ve opted for a well-appointed villa or spacious cabin, you’ll have access to all of the park’s facilities which include a resort-style swimming pool, BBQ facilities and a kiosk.

2. Rosebrook Eco Campgrounds

95%

(82)

4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rutherford, NSW

Enjoy camping in an open paddock with beautiful views over the Hunter River (Coquun) and the rolling countryside. Located in the quiet rural suburb of Rosebrook, just 12 minutes from Maitland, and 30 minutes from Pokolbin. The property has an access point to the river, that guests are able to access at their own risk for fishing, swimming, or exploring. All guests must be fully self-contained, with their own camp toilet and we kindly ask you to take all waste when you go.

3. Ingenia Holiday Sydney Hills

66%

(22)

69 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Sydney, NSW

Located 30 kilometres north-west of Sydney in the suburb of Dural, Ingenia Holidays Sydney Hills provides an escape from the city or the perfect place to pull over for a few nights during a long road trip. Choose to pitch your tent, put down the caravan legs, park your motorhome or check-in to one of the cottages or cabins which accommodate anywhere from two to five guests. While the holiday park offers landscape grounds to relax, there’s plenty of adventure waiting to be explored – whether it be stepping it out along the trails of the Blue Mountains to throwing down the picnic blanket along the banks of the Hawksbury River. For those wanting to stay close to home, you’ll find a tennis court and swimming pool to keep everyone in the family entertained. During your stay fire up the BBQ and prepare your meals in the camp kitchen.

4. Blue Haven Gypsy Paradise

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Blue Haven, NSW

On the Central Coast just 1.5 hours from Sydney is this relaxing peaceful escape suitable for a few families or a group of friends. This place has a truly fascinating history. The huge backyard previously hosted an annual gypsy festival to celebrate International Romani day. The backyard is really the highlight - from the moment you step into it you will feel like you have escaped into your own little paradise. The house itself has 3 bedrooms, with 1 bathroom inside and 1 bathroom outside. Inside the house, which can sleep up to 8 people. In addition to the main house, there are 3 hand-made gypsy style caravans on site. The largest (brown) caravan at the front of the property has a double bed and 2 small single beds - so can sleep up to 4 people. It is suitable for 2 adults and 2 kids. The smallest caravan (green) has 2 single beds in it - please note that these beds are narrower than a standard single bed - see photos. Bed linen and Towels are provided only for the main house occupants - you must bring your own linen and towels when staying in the caravans. The medium caravan (blue) is in the backyard and can be used as a cubby house/chill out area or workspace. The house itself has recently been renovated, with care taken to retain its gorgeous vintage fixtures and furniture. There are coloured stained glass windows and lighting pendants throughout the house. This is our family holiday house so we have set it up with everything that you and your family will need to feel comfortable and at home. It’s an absolute paradise for kids with the trampoline, jetty, gypsy cubby house, kayaks and fishing opportunities. Please note: 2nd bathroom is outside the house Motor boat is not available for use $100 pet fee per booking - please list your pet as a guest

5. Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley

92%

(13)

39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cessnock, NSW

New South Wales’ favorite wine region is where you’ll be nestled when you stay at Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley! Located amongst no fewer than 150 cellar doors with a thriving viticulture and food scene, Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley offers a range of accommodation options including cabins, poolside villas, and camping or caravan sites. Stay at the park and enjoy the swimming pool, jumping cushion, and camp kitchen, or venture out and explore the region’s vineyards, cheese factories, chocolate shops, and restaurants.

Stories from the community

L

Laura

December 2024

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blue Haven Gypsy Paradise

Great views. Nice house. We really enjoyed having the Kayaks and fishing rods available.

Star Hosts in Central Coast

Halifax Hill

96%

(54)

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.

Mt Nellinda Campsite

98%

(617)

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.

Colo River Hut

100%

(10)

1 site · Lodging · Lower Portland, NSW

We are 1.5 hrs from Sydney. On arrival you will feel the atmosphere of this wilderness area. Colo River Hut is located adjacent to the Colo River. A beautiful, unspoiled location on a pristine river. With it's own private beach and over 400 metres of riverfront. We are on the opposite side of river from the the Wollemi National Park. The hut sits (alone) within the eastern (10 acre paddock) of our property. There are no walls and so you have permanent views across the paddock to large sandstone cliffs and we are less than 30 metres from the riverbank. The Hut has a rustic tin roof, a large bench area with power points and task lighting. Tents or swags can be set up within the Colo River Hut. Or, if you wish, you can set up your tent or camper or small caravan adjacent to the Hut. There is plenty of room as there is a maximum of 8 guests (and 3 vehicles) with each booking. The Hut has a raised hardwood timber floor and enclosed composting toilet and hot/cold shower facilities. It also has ceiling fans for airflow and insect control. We provide a gorgeous shaded area under a large tree with valley views, with a large bbq table and chairs and fire pit (with grill) for your enjoyment. Firewood is also provided. Suitable for swimming, canoes, bikes, Bass fishing, and hiking, the Colo River Hut can be as active or relaxing as you wish. The Colo River Valley remains largely undiscovered, and is on the edge of the Wollemi wilderness. The Colo is fed by the Wolgan and Capertee Rivers. It has a long history and retains much of its' early unspoiled charm.

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.

Available this weekend

Jila Camp Grounds

96%

(1294)

47 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Yarramundi, NSW

Welcome to our family-friendly camping haven nestled in the picturesque Grose Valley, just a short drive from Sydney. Our campsite offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and family-friendly activities to create lasting memories for you and your loved ones. Family-Friendly Atmosphere: At our campsite, families are at the heart of everything we do. We understand the importance of creating a safe and enjoyable environment for kids, ensuring that families can bond and create cherished moments together. Our grounds are designed to cater to the needs of families, with designated family-friendly areas and activities suitable for all ages. Respectful Enjoyment: To maintain the family-friendly atmosphere, we kindly request campers to adhere to our quiet hours starting at 9 PM. We discourage those not oriented towards family activities and serene evenings, ensuring everyone can enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings. River Adventures: For water enthusiasts, our campsite boasts a pristine river where you can swim, fish, and kayak to your heart's content. Imagine spending a lazy afternoon on the water, teaching your kids to fish or paddling along the gentle current. It's an idyllic setting for aquatic family adventures. Riverside Camping: With over 600 meters of riverside campsites spread across 50 acres of lush bushland, you'll find the perfect spot to set up your tent or park your camper. Each site provides a secluded and tranquil escape, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while still enjoying the comforts of a well-maintained camping area. Explore Nature on Foot or Wheels: Nature enthusiasts will delight in the variety of activities available. Embark on a bushwalk, discovering the flora and fauna that call the Grose Valley home. Mountain biking enthusiasts can navigate our trails, exploring the landscape on two wheels. There's always an adventure waiting just beyond your campsite. Campfires and Seasonal Delights: As the sun sets, gather around a crackling campfire with family and friends. We provide plenty of firewood to keep the flames dancing, creating the perfect atmosphere for storytelling and bonding. And when the season is right, don't forget to grab some homegrown avocados or contribute a small donation for kayak hire—all proceeds go to Beyond Blue, supporting mental health initiatives. Proximity to Richmond: Just a 10-minute drive away lies Richmond, a town with a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Explore the blend of modern suburbia and historical landmarks, adding a touch of culture to your camping experience. Supporting a Cause: Extra vehicles are welcome with a small fee, and rest assured, all proceeds go to Beyond Blue, supporting mental health awareness and initiatives. Camp Before Sunset: For a stress-free and safe camp setup, we recommend arriving before sunset. This ensures you have ample time to settle in, allowing you to start your camping adventure on a comfortable note. Discover your secluded spot to swim, camp, fish, or simply relax. Join us in the Grose Valley for a camping experience that caters to the whole family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Kalighat River House

1 site · Lodging · Bar Point, NSW

Accessible only by boat, this secluded and lovingly decorated house at Bar Point on the Hawkesbury River, (aka Deerubbin,) is only an hour from the Sydney CBD. This beautiful Artists retreat is surrounded by nature. You don't have to be an artist to stay with us, but we do offer free boat transfers for artists and musicians. You will arrive by boat and soak up the serenity. Large deck with river views. Located on the waterfront on the Eastern side of Bar Point. Our custom-designed Finnish sauna offers a unique and holistic experience, the combination of heat, dimmed lights, and the smell of cedar or essential oils creates a healing ambience that is both invigorating and comforting. The house is full of Art, books, games, and DVDs, there is also the 'yoga deck' behind the house with even more expansive views of the river - a perfect place to do some morning meditation or enjoy a bowl of pasta as the sun goes down, highlighting the orange of the sandstone cliffs across the river. Surrounded by National Parks and completely free of cars and traffic, this is a beautiful little retreat, perfect for a family or a group of friends to meet up and re centre. At Bar Point there are no shops or cafes so you must bring everything you need with you, basic pantry staples such as salt, pepper, cooking oil etc are provided. Kayaks, fishing poles and crab pots provided. Our own private residence is a separate apartment upstairs, there are no shared walls or internal stairs and you will have your own private entrance, however as it is a large, old wooden house you may at times hear us moving about upstairs, naturally we try to be as quiet as possible when we have guests visiting. We will leave you entirely to yourselves but if you do need any help or information or even a little guided walking tour of the locality we are very happy to accommodate you. Our sauna deck is a shared area which guests are welcome to use, heating the sauna takes an hour or two, so just let us know and we will get it all ready for you with fresh towels, scented oils and branches of freshly cut lavender or wormwood to create a beautiful ambience.

Lovedale Farm Stay

94%

(157)

34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lovedale, NSW

Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Lovedale Farm Stay invites you to escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in a countryside retreat unlike any other. Set on 300 rolling acres with sweeping vineyard and valley views, you’ll feel a million miles from your daily routine — yet you’re just minutes from world-class wineries, local dining, and the warm charm this region is known for. What makes Lovedale special Choose your pace: Whether you’re setting up your tent beside the campfire, parking your caravan under the gum trees, relaxing in our rustic-cabin, unwinding in one of our four elegant villas, or gathering with family and friends in our guesthouse — lovedale delivers comfort with space and character. Modern meets nature: Enjoy hot showers, clean toilets, fresh wash-up facilities, a brand-new BBQ, a dedicated campfire area, and a welcoming kiosk. We also have a function room on site for events, family celebrations or group getaways. Authentic farm life, for all ages: Guided horse-rides and pony rides let kids and adults explore scenic paddocks safely and with fun. Get hands-on with animal feeding — so many of our guests’ favourite moments are feeding friendly farm animals and making animal-friends. Don’t miss our tractor hayrides, stud tours, bush walks, cray fishing, kayaking, spotlighting at night and more. Wildlife at your doorstep: Kangaroos, wallabies, possums, goannas, wedge-tailed eagles and black cockatoos are often just steps from your door. Lovedale isn’t just somewhere you stay — it’s somewhere you live moments in nature. Wine country by day, retreat by night: Spend your days sampling the best wines the region can offer; return to the quiet of firelight, starry skies, and the cozy calm of rural life. Who will love this stay Families and multi-generational groups who want space, nature, and hands-on fun. Wine lovers who also want authentic countryside experience. Animal lovers, kids, and anyone who’s ever dreamed of waking to birdsong and bush walks. Couples and friends who value a stay that’s as much about the experience as it is about the accommodation.

Wanderlust Retreat

94%

(281)

19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Putty, NSW

We looked for alternative ways of living 6 years ago so we purchased 220 acres to build an off grid camping/eco resort. The property consists of a straw bale house, Tipis, Cottages, 5 stars shared facilities (hot showers, flushing toilets - disable toilet ), outdoor kitchen (gas bbq, pizza oven, all kitchen utensils, pots ), solar system and worm farm septic system. The facilities of the camping are quite luxurious some guests labelling them "better than at home" so you can enjoy the bush experience & still have the comfort of a home. Here you can discover amazing wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, cockatoos, lyre birds and a lot of other birds (designated bird drinking stations through a WIRES program which has a lot of success.) Bring a camera and take in the incredible sights such as wildlife, cliffs, caves, and a magical view of Mount Yengo and Moruben from the top of the property. They are designated walking tracks around the property with all variable lengths & difficulties. Swimming pool, water hole to cool down in summer Pets friendly Access all-wheel drive Events possible Please enjoy some of the reviews our previous guests have left for us: "Wanderlust has a beautiful hidden valley and thanks for sharing with us. We bush walked and climbed mountains (it felt like it). Back at our camp; delicious dinner, some nice reds and a beautifully relaxing camp fire. A great little getaway. " - Michelle and Paul. "Great location, quiet and private, basic accommodation, plenty of space! Great for a group getaway!!" "Absolute gen of a property and such humble owners. Thanks for all your time and effort to make our weekend away so accommodating!"

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.

Dog-friendly getaways

Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley

92%

(13)

39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cessnock, NSW

New South Wales’ favorite wine region is where you’ll be nestled when you stay at Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley! Located amongst no fewer than 150 cellar doors with a thriving viticulture and food scene, Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley offers a range of accommodation options including cabins, poolside villas, and camping or caravan sites. Stay at the park and enjoy the swimming pool, jumping cushion, and camp kitchen, or venture out and explore the region’s vineyards, cheese factories, chocolate shops, and restaurants.

Blue Haven Gypsy Paradise

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Blue Haven, NSW

On the Central Coast just 1.5 hours from Sydney is this relaxing peaceful escape suitable for a few families or a group of friends. This place has a truly fascinating history. The huge backyard previously hosted an annual gypsy festival to celebrate International Romani day. The backyard is really the highlight - from the moment you step into it you will feel like you have escaped into your own little paradise. The house itself has 3 bedrooms, with 1 bathroom inside and 1 bathroom outside. Inside the house, which can sleep up to 8 people. In addition to the main house, there are 3 hand-made gypsy style caravans on site. The largest (brown) caravan at the front of the property has a double bed and 2 small single beds - so can sleep up to 4 people. It is suitable for 2 adults and 2 kids. The smallest caravan (green) has 2 single beds in it - please note that these beds are narrower than a standard single bed - see photos. Bed linen and Towels are provided only for the main house occupants - you must bring your own linen and towels when staying in the caravans. The medium caravan (blue) is in the backyard and can be used as a cubby house/chill out area or workspace. The house itself has recently been renovated, with care taken to retain its gorgeous vintage fixtures and furniture. There are coloured stained glass windows and lighting pendants throughout the house. This is our family holiday house so we have set it up with everything that you and your family will need to feel comfortable and at home. It’s an absolute paradise for kids with the trampoline, jetty, gypsy cubby house, kayaks and fishing opportunities. Please note: 2nd bathroom is outside the house Motor boat is not available for use $100 pet fee per booking - please list your pet as a guest

Ingenia Holiday Sydney Hills

66%

(22)

69 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Sydney, NSW

Located 30 kilometres north-west of Sydney in the suburb of Dural, Ingenia Holidays Sydney Hills provides an escape from the city or the perfect place to pull over for a few nights during a long road trip. Choose to pitch your tent, put down the caravan legs, park your motorhome or check-in to one of the cottages or cabins which accommodate anywhere from two to five guests. While the holiday park offers landscape grounds to relax, there’s plenty of adventure waiting to be explored – whether it be stepping it out along the trails of the Blue Mountains to throwing down the picnic blanket along the banks of the Hawksbury River. For those wanting to stay close to home, you’ll find a tennis court and swimming pool to keep everyone in the family entertained. During your stay fire up the BBQ and prepare your meals in the camp kitchen.

Ingenia Holidays Avina

78%

(18)

171 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Sydney, NSW

Escape to the Vineyard region in Sydney for a country getaway at Ingenia Holidays Avina! Located only 50km from Sydney CBD, this countryside location offers an array of accommodation options, including camping or caravan sites, as well as modern villas and spacious cabins. During your stay, wine taste your way around the region, take a short drive to local attractions such as Featherdale Wildlife Park, Windsor Heritage Walk, Hawkesbury Valley and the Blue Mountains, or stay in and enjoy the resort-style pool. Whether your home base for your holiday is the canvas you packed, caravan or you’ve opted for a well-appointed villa or spacious cabin, you’ll have access to all of the park’s facilities which include a resort-style swimming pool, BBQ facilities and a kiosk.

Rosebrook Eco Campgrounds

95%

(82)

4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rutherford, NSW

Enjoy camping in an open paddock with beautiful views over the Hunter River (Coquun) and the rolling countryside. Located in the quiet rural suburb of Rosebrook, just 12 minutes from Maitland, and 30 minutes from Pokolbin. The property has an access point to the river, that guests are able to access at their own risk for fishing, swimming, or exploring. All guests must be fully self-contained, with their own camp toilet and we kindly ask you to take all waste when you go.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best dog-friendly glamping 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.