The best lakeside camping near Crescent Head

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Camping lakeside in Crescent Head means waking up to glassy water and the sound of kookaburras. With over 240 options for pitching your tent or setting up camp by the lake, you can snag a spot for as little as $25 a night, though the average sits around $40. Showers, campfires, and pet-friendly sites are the norm, so you don’t have to leave the dog behind or rough it completely. Surf the breaks, trek bushland trails, or swim straight from your site. Locals love The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (669 reviews) for its riverfront feel, while Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone (482 reviews) offers easy water access and loads of space. If you’re after a touch of comfort, Footprints in Style (418 reviews) blends lush surrounds with a laid-back vibe. You’ll find sites right on the water, perfect for a swim before breakfast or a sunset paddle. Pack your swimmers and don’t forget the marshmallows—this is lakeside camping, Crescent Head style.

96% (2.5K) 269 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Crescent Head

Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone

1. Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone

94%
(1080)
22km from Crescent Head · 175 sites · Tents, RVs
Get Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure at Stoney Park! Picture this: waking up to a breathtaking sunrise over a pristine lake, with your unpowered campsite perfectly positioned on the waterfront. Stoney Park isn't just a place to stay—it's your base camp for an incredible getaway. Spread across 127 acres of stunning, manicured land, Stoney Park offers the ultimate escape. Set up your tent with spectacular views of the lake or next to the serene lagoons. The park is home to Australia's largest inflatable Aqua Park, a floating playground of epic proportions that promises a day full of splashes, slides, and non-stop fun. Located next to the picturesque Wilson River and just a 15-minute drive from Port Macquarie, this is the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and coastal excitement. Ready to make some unforgettable memories?
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$43
 / night
The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

2. The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

98%
(1437)
25km from Crescent Head · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Port Macquarie's 'The Hatch Farm'; a pet friendly, interactive animal and fishing farm stay! A 150-acre working farm with a stunning outlook over the saltwater Maria River (with a rustic boat ramp and waterway running into the Hastings River). There is plenty to do and see at this hipcamp which was awarded to be one of the best hipcamps in NSW for 2024, and Australia wide for 2025! Located on the Mid North Coast NSW, 4kms off the Pacific Highway, and a quick 13/15-minute drive to the holiday township of Port Macquarie. Port Macquarie is known for its beautiful beaches, coastal scenery and walks, koala hospital, local strawberry and tomato picking, and 4WDing at nearby beaches and through Cairncross State Forest. Bernard and Susan are custodians of the farm, primarily using the land for poultry (egg), pig, and goat farming. They are transitioning to an off-grid and eco-friendly lifestyle for their retirement. The Hatch Farm is home to many animals, most of whom are rescues - including border collies, cavalier king charles spaniels, chickens, ducks, pigs, sheep, goats, miniature horses, cows, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs. There is plenty to do and see around the farm from complete relaxation, interacting with the friendly animals (there is usually a variety of babies to cuddle!), to casting a line or launching your boat from the rustic boat ramp. Please note that all animal interactions are self-led (including our animal nursery), and children must be supervised by their parents/carers. During NSW School Holidays, host led animal interactions will be available at designated times. Friendly pets welcome. For bookings call or text Susan 0418 842055
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$61
 / night
Footprints in Style

3. Footprints in Style

98%
(660)
36km from Crescent Head · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
*** Please note, Lucy is away in New Guinea until the 1st of April and cannot respond to messages until then. Looking forward to seeing you all for your Easter bookings! Relax under the big shady fig tree, pitch your tent by the creek and swim in the massive spring-fed lake which covers five acres and never runs dry. This 300-acre bamboo property gives you total tranquillity in nature. There are boats and boards to use, and an island kingdom for kids to play. Kiss and release fishing (Perch) in the awesome lake, which is also great for swimming, and building bamboo rafts. Adventures awaits! Basic, off-grid camp kitchen, big weatherproof wedding venue space to hire, posh dunnies (composting toilets), and a hot water shower shack with a magic view of the lake! There is plenty of shade and we're dog-friendly. Well-behaved dogs are welcome off-lead. Endless space, and plenty of privacy, campers can choose a spot when they get here. A bundle of firewood is provided on arrival, and you're welcome to bring more with you if you need. Price is per person per night, kids under 16 half price. Under 5 stay free so don't include them in booking numbers. Join us for cocktail hour at the brand-new Tiki bar! BYO drinks! We also have a brand-new sauna that campers are welcome to enjoy! All this, close to stunning beaches and cute cafes. Leave only footprints 👣 make awesome memories. NOTE: We currently only advertise availability three months in advance. If you are interested in dates outside this booking window, please still send us an enquiry and we may be able to assist you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$36
 / night
Wild Hope Farm

4. Wild Hope Farm

97%
(74)
49km from Crescent Head · 8 sites
Welcome to Wild Hope Farm! We are a developing off-grid farm, located at Grants Beach, minutes from the beautiful Bonny Hills and just 25 minutes south of Port Macquarie. So close to surrounding towns, yet wonderfully secluded, we’re nestled amongst lush bushland with resident kangaroos, wallabies, and abundant birdlife. We consider our land a truly unique place and offer an ideal setting for a peaceful, relaxing getaway. Please note: Bookings are per site/vehicle - 1 booking includes up to 6 guests and 1 vehicle only. Multiple vehicles require separate bookings. Our property spans 177 acres, including 17 acres of open green pasture where you can settle into a spot that feels right for your camp within the allocated area. There’s plenty of sunshine for solar setups, and space to slow down and unwind. We also have access to Queens Lake via a scenic trail you can walk or drive, offering a peaceful spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a quiet afternoon of fishing. Grants Beach is just across the road from our driveway, where you can swim, surf, fish, or enjoy 4WD access along the coastline. We welcome you to find a place to set up and enjoy the land, while respecting the following: - Bookings are per site/vehicle, not per group size. Each booking includes up to 6 guests and 1 vehicle only. Groups travelling with multiple vehicles must make a separate booking for each vehicle (even if total guest numbers are within the limit). - All campers must be self-contained with their own power, water, and waste management. - Pets are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times. - Due to the bush fire danger period, campfires are not permitted from 1st October to 31st March. From 1st April, all fires must be contained in a firepit. We’re creating a thriving and sustainable lifestyle here at Wild Hope Farm and would love for you to share in the experience. As we continue to grow and refine the property, you may notice some areas under development, thank you for being part of the journey.
Pets
from 
AU$43
 / night
Pelican Caravan Park

5. Pelican Caravan Park

90%
(10)
57km from Crescent Head · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Pelican Caravan Park features broad river frontage on the Nambucca River. We boast many features including a private boat ramp, jetty and pontoon, pool with wading pool, riverfront camp kitchen and free wifi. We offer a range of cabins and sites which can cater for group bookings, family reunions, birthdays and fishing trips etc. In total there are cabins including Superior 1 + 2 Bedroom cabins, Deluxe 1 + 2 Bedroom cabins and standard cabins. We also have powered sites, some with absolute river frontage and some approximately 40 meters from the river which can cater for caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, campervans and tents. Since the highway bypass (we were on the old Pacific Highway) the highway noise has been removed. Whilst it has always been a beautiful location, we can now add tranquil to the list. If you have stayed in the past and found it too noisy, or been put off by the proximity to the highway, then come and experience the difference. You won’t be disappointed. An ideal base to explore the Nambucca Valley, Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Dorrigo and discovering the delights of the area. Bring your boat and go fishing all day for flathead and bream or fish from the river’s edge. Pelican Caravan Park is pet friendly all year round.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
AU$46
 / night
Valley View Escape

6. Valley View Escape

98%
(639)
64km from Crescent Head · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
Valley View Escape is a 500 acre working dairy farm located in the beautiful Nambucca Valley just 25 minutes off the highway. There is stunning 360 views of mountain ranges and Lake Lumby from all our sites. We offer powered sites and unpowered sites which are all level grounded with grass and accessible by 2WD. There is non potable water available. Our powered sites are conveniently located close by the amenities with flushing toilet, hot shower and dump point. Enjoy and relax at our communal picnic area with fire pit, shade, picnic table and pontoon on Lake Lumby which is great for kayaking and swimming. Also access to local creek at the front of property. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @valleyviewescape_stay ***CHRISTMAS AND EASTER BOOKINGS*** Extra powered and unpowered sites will be open for peak season periods. Please message for more information
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$37
 / night
Yarrawin Camping

7. Yarrawin Camping

100%
(213)
66km from Crescent Head · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
Yarrawin is 680 acre cattle farm and hardwood timber plantation in the heart of the Nambucca Valley, offering scenic, secluded, private campsites with their own swimming hole and a river gravel beach on 3km of beautiful double river frontage. Camping options include riverside camps, the Shack and riverside camp and a large secluded valley. Each campsite is separate from the others, giving guests privacy and exclusive use of the swimming hole (except Chinamans Valley) at their site. All riverside sites offer a natural gravel beach entry into the water. There are no amenities here, campers will need to be self contained and leave no trace. Every site has a fire pit which must be used for campfires. If you want to use your own it must be off the ground. Only sand mats or similar, NO TARPS, to be set up on the grassed areas to preserve the grass. Firewood $20/night (CASH ONLY PLEASE). Please let us know in advance if you want firewood. Beautiful drinking rain water is available in a 20lt Jerry can if required on arrival. Bird lovers can enjoy watching the various bird varieties, as well as ducks. Animals include wallabies, goannas, deer and fish as well as cattle and stock horses. Fishing is okay but it is STRICTLY catch and release ONLY. There are many places to go bushwalking, either following the river or heading up the valleys or hiking up the hills through the trees. The property is just 10kms from the convenience of Bowraville, a historic township with a supermarket, folk museum, a war museum, a historic theatre, and other historic buildings. Nambucca Heads and the beautiful surrounding beaches are just 27kms east and Coffs Harbour 80kms away. Please note this is a working farm, so there will be cattle and stock horses on the property that may approach your campsite.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$171
 / night
Paddock Camp

8. Paddock Camp

24km from Crescent Head · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
60 acres of Aussie Bushland located 20 mins from famous Crescent Head. Pull up to the paddock and pick your spot. Beautiful view of surrounding bushland and large dam on property to watch the birdlife. Fires are allowed and firewood can be collected on the property. Paddock is on a slight slope but nothing to serious for any vehicle. All vehicles can access but in wet is recommended to be 4WD. Short drive to all attractions in the Macleay Valley. There are no amenities here, camper will need to be self contained and leave no trace. The property is 10 mins to Kempsey for all your shopping needs. 5-10 mins from nearby rivers and creeks perfect for fishing and swimming. Short drive for any activity in the beautiful Macleay Valley. Beautiful property to walk and look for nature.
Campfires
from 
AU$31
 / night

Camping lakeside in Crescent Head means waking up to glassy water and the sound of kookaburras. With over 240 options for pitching your tent or setting up camp by the lake, you can snag a spot for as little as $25 a night, though the average sits around $40. Showers, campfires, and pet-friendly sites are the norm, so you don’t have to leave the dog behind or rough it completely. Surf the breaks, trek bushland trails, or swim straight from your site. Locals love The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (669 reviews) for its riverfront feel, while Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone (482 reviews) offers easy water access and loads of space. If you’re after a touch of comfort, Footprints in Style (418 reviews) blends lush surrounds with a laid-back vibe. You’ll find sites right on the water, perfect for a swim before breakfast or a sunset paddle. Pack your swimmers and don’t forget the marshmallows—this is lakeside camping, Crescent Head style.

96% (2.5K) 269 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Crescent Head

Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone

1. Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone

94%
(1080)
22km from Crescent Head · 175 sites · Tents, RVs
Get Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure at Stoney Park! Picture this: waking up to a breathtaking sunrise over a pristine lake, with your unpowered campsite perfectly positioned on the waterfront. Stoney Park isn't just a place to stay—it's your base camp for an incredible getaway. Spread across 127 acres of stunning, manicured land, Stoney Park offers the ultimate escape. Set up your tent with spectacular views of the lake or next to the serene lagoons. The park is home to Australia's largest inflatable Aqua Park, a floating playground of epic proportions that promises a day full of splashes, slides, and non-stop fun. Located next to the picturesque Wilson River and just a 15-minute drive from Port Macquarie, this is the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and coastal excitement. Ready to make some unforgettable memories?
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$43
 / night
The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

2. The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

98%
(1437)
25km from Crescent Head · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Port Macquarie's 'The Hatch Farm'; a pet friendly, interactive animal and fishing farm stay! A 150-acre working farm with a stunning outlook over the saltwater Maria River (with a rustic boat ramp and waterway running into the Hastings River). There is plenty to do and see at this hipcamp which was awarded to be one of the best hipcamps in NSW for 2024, and Australia wide for 2025! Located on the Mid North Coast NSW, 4kms off the Pacific Highway, and a quick 13/15-minute drive to the holiday township of Port Macquarie. Port Macquarie is known for its beautiful beaches, coastal scenery and walks, koala hospital, local strawberry and tomato picking, and 4WDing at nearby beaches and through Cairncross State Forest. Bernard and Susan are custodians of the farm, primarily using the land for poultry (egg), pig, and goat farming. They are transitioning to an off-grid and eco-friendly lifestyle for their retirement. The Hatch Farm is home to many animals, most of whom are rescues - including border collies, cavalier king charles spaniels, chickens, ducks, pigs, sheep, goats, miniature horses, cows, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs. There is plenty to do and see around the farm from complete relaxation, interacting with the friendly animals (there is usually a variety of babies to cuddle!), to casting a line or launching your boat from the rustic boat ramp. Please note that all animal interactions are self-led (including our animal nursery), and children must be supervised by their parents/carers. During NSW School Holidays, host led animal interactions will be available at designated times. Friendly pets welcome. For bookings call or text Susan 0418 842055
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$61
 / night
Footprints in Style

3. Footprints in Style

98%
(660)
36km from Crescent Head · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
*** Please note, Lucy is away in New Guinea until the 1st of April and cannot respond to messages until then. Looking forward to seeing you all for your Easter bookings! Relax under the big shady fig tree, pitch your tent by the creek and swim in the massive spring-fed lake which covers five acres and never runs dry. This 300-acre bamboo property gives you total tranquillity in nature. There are boats and boards to use, and an island kingdom for kids to play. Kiss and release fishing (Perch) in the awesome lake, which is also great for swimming, and building bamboo rafts. Adventures awaits! Basic, off-grid camp kitchen, big weatherproof wedding venue space to hire, posh dunnies (composting toilets), and a hot water shower shack with a magic view of the lake! There is plenty of shade and we're dog-friendly. Well-behaved dogs are welcome off-lead. Endless space, and plenty of privacy, campers can choose a spot when they get here. A bundle of firewood is provided on arrival, and you're welcome to bring more with you if you need. Price is per person per night, kids under 16 half price. Under 5 stay free so don't include them in booking numbers. Join us for cocktail hour at the brand-new Tiki bar! BYO drinks! We also have a brand-new sauna that campers are welcome to enjoy! All this, close to stunning beaches and cute cafes. Leave only footprints 👣 make awesome memories. NOTE: We currently only advertise availability three months in advance. If you are interested in dates outside this booking window, please still send us an enquiry and we may be able to assist you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$36
 / night
Wild Hope Farm

4. Wild Hope Farm

97%
(74)
49km from Crescent Head · 8 sites
Welcome to Wild Hope Farm! We are a developing off-grid farm, located at Grants Beach, minutes from the beautiful Bonny Hills and just 25 minutes south of Port Macquarie. So close to surrounding towns, yet wonderfully secluded, we’re nestled amongst lush bushland with resident kangaroos, wallabies, and abundant birdlife. We consider our land a truly unique place and offer an ideal setting for a peaceful, relaxing getaway. Please note: Bookings are per site/vehicle - 1 booking includes up to 6 guests and 1 vehicle only. Multiple vehicles require separate bookings. Our property spans 177 acres, including 17 acres of open green pasture where you can settle into a spot that feels right for your camp within the allocated area. There’s plenty of sunshine for solar setups, and space to slow down and unwind. We also have access to Queens Lake via a scenic trail you can walk or drive, offering a peaceful spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a quiet afternoon of fishing. Grants Beach is just across the road from our driveway, where you can swim, surf, fish, or enjoy 4WD access along the coastline. We welcome you to find a place to set up and enjoy the land, while respecting the following: - Bookings are per site/vehicle, not per group size. Each booking includes up to 6 guests and 1 vehicle only. Groups travelling with multiple vehicles must make a separate booking for each vehicle (even if total guest numbers are within the limit). - All campers must be self-contained with their own power, water, and waste management. - Pets are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times. - Due to the bush fire danger period, campfires are not permitted from 1st October to 31st March. From 1st April, all fires must be contained in a firepit. We’re creating a thriving and sustainable lifestyle here at Wild Hope Farm and would love for you to share in the experience. As we continue to grow and refine the property, you may notice some areas under development, thank you for being part of the journey.
Pets
from 
AU$43
 / night
Pelican Caravan Park

5. Pelican Caravan Park

90%
(10)
57km from Crescent Head · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Pelican Caravan Park features broad river frontage on the Nambucca River. We boast many features including a private boat ramp, jetty and pontoon, pool with wading pool, riverfront camp kitchen and free wifi. We offer a range of cabins and sites which can cater for group bookings, family reunions, birthdays and fishing trips etc. In total there are cabins including Superior 1 + 2 Bedroom cabins, Deluxe 1 + 2 Bedroom cabins and standard cabins. We also have powered sites, some with absolute river frontage and some approximately 40 meters from the river which can cater for caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, campervans and tents. Since the highway bypass (we were on the old Pacific Highway) the highway noise has been removed. Whilst it has always been a beautiful location, we can now add tranquil to the list. If you have stayed in the past and found it too noisy, or been put off by the proximity to the highway, then come and experience the difference. You won’t be disappointed. An ideal base to explore the Nambucca Valley, Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Dorrigo and discovering the delights of the area. Bring your boat and go fishing all day for flathead and bream or fish from the river’s edge. Pelican Caravan Park is pet friendly all year round.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
AU$46
 / night
Valley View Escape

6. Valley View Escape

98%
(639)
64km from Crescent Head · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
Valley View Escape is a 500 acre working dairy farm located in the beautiful Nambucca Valley just 25 minutes off the highway. There is stunning 360 views of mountain ranges and Lake Lumby from all our sites. We offer powered sites and unpowered sites which are all level grounded with grass and accessible by 2WD. There is non potable water available. Our powered sites are conveniently located close by the amenities with flushing toilet, hot shower and dump point. Enjoy and relax at our communal picnic area with fire pit, shade, picnic table and pontoon on Lake Lumby which is great for kayaking and swimming. Also access to local creek at the front of property. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @valleyviewescape_stay ***CHRISTMAS AND EASTER BOOKINGS*** Extra powered and unpowered sites will be open for peak season periods. Please message for more information
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$37
 / night
Yarrawin Camping

7. Yarrawin Camping

100%
(213)
66km from Crescent Head · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
Yarrawin is 680 acre cattle farm and hardwood timber plantation in the heart of the Nambucca Valley, offering scenic, secluded, private campsites with their own swimming hole and a river gravel beach on 3km of beautiful double river frontage. Camping options include riverside camps, the Shack and riverside camp and a large secluded valley. Each campsite is separate from the others, giving guests privacy and exclusive use of the swimming hole (except Chinamans Valley) at their site. All riverside sites offer a natural gravel beach entry into the water. There are no amenities here, campers will need to be self contained and leave no trace. Every site has a fire pit which must be used for campfires. If you want to use your own it must be off the ground. Only sand mats or similar, NO TARPS, to be set up on the grassed areas to preserve the grass. Firewood $20/night (CASH ONLY PLEASE). Please let us know in advance if you want firewood. Beautiful drinking rain water is available in a 20lt Jerry can if required on arrival. Bird lovers can enjoy watching the various bird varieties, as well as ducks. Animals include wallabies, goannas, deer and fish as well as cattle and stock horses. Fishing is okay but it is STRICTLY catch and release ONLY. There are many places to go bushwalking, either following the river or heading up the valleys or hiking up the hills through the trees. The property is just 10kms from the convenience of Bowraville, a historic township with a supermarket, folk museum, a war museum, a historic theatre, and other historic buildings. Nambucca Heads and the beautiful surrounding beaches are just 27kms east and Coffs Harbour 80kms away. Please note this is a working farm, so there will be cattle and stock horses on the property that may approach your campsite.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$171
 / night
Paddock Camp

8. Paddock Camp

24km from Crescent Head · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
60 acres of Aussie Bushland located 20 mins from famous Crescent Head. Pull up to the paddock and pick your spot. Beautiful view of surrounding bushland and large dam on property to watch the birdlife. Fires are allowed and firewood can be collected on the property. Paddock is on a slight slope but nothing to serious for any vehicle. All vehicles can access but in wet is recommended to be 4WD. Short drive to all attractions in the Macleay Valley. There are no amenities here, camper will need to be self contained and leave no trace. The property is 10 mins to Kempsey for all your shopping needs. 5-10 mins from nearby rivers and creeks perfect for fishing and swimming. Short drive for any activity in the beautiful Macleay Valley. Beautiful property to walk and look for nature.
Campfires
from 
AU$31
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field