Camping near Forster, New South Wales

Explore pristine lakes, rivers, and beaches on the NSW mid-north coast.

96% (14864 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Forster

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top campgrounds near Forster

99%
(479)

Bundilla River Camp

14 sites · RVs, Tents260 acres · Ballengarra, Port Macquarie Hastings
Come camp along the beautiful Wilson River on a working cattle property. Shady, grassy campsites by a flowing river, just 25 minutes drive from Port Macquarie. The camp area includes a camp shed, where campers can make use of the picnic table, stainless steel food preparation bench and camp fire pit. There are only 2 sites available with power. Please select power as an ad on extra when booking. Port a loos are available for Hire. If you have 3 or more children please call me for a discount. Kids will love the farm tour and feeding of pigs, sheep and horses. It's an excellent area for mountain bike riding as well! Kayaks available for free. Don't have a caravan, we have partnered up with Wrighty's Caravan Hire & Repairs. linktr.ee/wrightyscaravans. They offer family caravans delivered, setup ready for you to enjoy. Pets allowed but you must discuss with owners prior to booking. Rules: 1. For the piece and quiet of other campers all check-ins must be before 7pm. Check ins after 8pm may be turned away in busy times. 2. No Fireworks - this is very unsettling for our livestock 3. 9pm quiet time. 4. No drones in the camping area, for the privacy of other campers 5. Generators are allowed for short period of time but not permitted after 8pm. 6. Dogs on leads when walking around the farm Rick and I thank you for your support in these matters.
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AU$32
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(91)

Bucketts Way Camp n Stay

20 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Twelve Mile Creek, Port Stephens
Being only 2 hours from Sydney and 470 metres off the Pacific Highway, north of Newcastle, Port Stephens, we are set on 25 acres, with large sites, most drive through (dry weather only) for your convenience. We have hot showers ($1 for 4min hot water), fresh water, amenities and a very large Camp Kitchen. Wonderful amenities facility for campers to enjoy, with access to drinking water, toilets, (wet area) showers. The camp kitchen is a very comfortable space to prepare and eat meals under cover, and there is access to a kettle, toaster and microwave as well as a cooktop. Campers have reception to 4G. We have installed a turning lane entrance with boom gate security. When you arrive and set up, you will be able to ramble around our property and enjoy the ambience of the beautiful tree studded campground. Sit back in the afternoon and enjoy nature at its best and then a beautiful warm campfire, perfect!! ​Whether you're camping in a tent or vehicle, there's plenty of space to set up. The campsite is grassy and level, and 2WD accessible. We offer water hookup for caravans fill then disconnect $2, and there is a dump point for your camping toilet. Generators are permitted from 8am till 5pm (extreme heat on the day consideration). Pets welcome.
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AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(356)

Hodge Lodge Grounds Johns River

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Johns River, Mid Coast
Hodge Lodge Grounds is private property Cabin and Camp in Johns River, NSW. 4 hours north of Sydney, half way between Port Macquarie and Taree. A great stop for the night for traveller's between Sydney, Gold Coast, and Brisbane. Hodge Lodge Grounds NSW is on a sealed road and close to the A1 motorway. If you are Travelling the North Coast, Sydney, Central Coast and Northern NSW, Queensland, we may be your new happy place for the ideal o'nite stop. You can drive any size vehicle into our expansive grounds on our heavy duty driveway that leads you to your green space and large camp site. Responsible pet owners -You can bring your pet! We have one cabin so best to check our booking calendar asap. Second Cabin coming soon! Your groups and additional Guests can be accommodated by contacting your hosts to book additional sites for your group. We offer powered and native unpowered sites. Stay safe in our gated 11 acre private property. Here you can enjoy your music and social atmosphere, have your wood delivered via 'extras booking' for your evening by the fire pit, and wake up to the sounds of our local birds! Situated between the 3 brother mountains NSW, North Brother, Middle Brother and South Brother. We have toilet available for use NOW, with a shower being built for use by campers. We'll update the listing when the shower is operational. We're located within minutes to the beaches which is ideal for swimming, fishing, surfing and walking the local breakwalls. Crowdy Bay National Park and Middle Brother National Park for those 4WD sporting and adventure enthusiasts. Close to the local townships for shopping, dining and visiting local attractions of Kew, Harrington, North Haven and Laurieton for those keen to enjoy the outdoors.
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AU$15
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
83%
(578)

Dungog Showground Camping

18 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Dungog, NSW
Dungog Shire is in the Hunter Region of NSW and is renowned for its forests, mountains and picturesque river villages. Go for a scenic drive through historical villages, you will find beautiful picnic areas or take a walk in the World Heritage listed Barrington Tops National Park. Dungog is bordered in the north by the Barrington Tops plateau, which is part of the Great Dividing Range. The Shire consists predominantly of very rugged to hilly country which becomes less rugged from north to south.
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AU$18
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(117)

Bonneydoon

21 sites · Tents640 acres · Main Creek, Dungog
With over 600 acres of private natural forest, valleys, and mountain top look outs, there's more room to explore than you could possibly cover in one visit.Bordering world heritage listed Barrington Tops national park, the views seem to go on forever, and natural beauty that truly takes your breath away.Previously owned by Yoga australia for 20yrs, upon entering this hilltop getaway, it's easy to understand why this beautiful location has been a highly sought after retreat to relax and unwind.Close to so many wonderful locations and activities in the local Dungog area, there's many options to enjoy.Or just sit back and enjoy the serenity.At Bonneydoon you can visit Sunset Rock, The Big Fig that's hundred's of years old, walk the majestic flatbed rock creeks, etched out over a millennia, adorned with unique flora and fauna, or relax atop the camping grounds and see the mountain tops that seem to stretch on forever.
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AU$65
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(410)

Dean's Green Paddock, Hunter Valley

12 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Martins Creek, NSW
Welcome to our hobby farm, with a pretty creek running through the lush green acreage. Along with our private camping areas, we have an outdoor petting zoo, that kids will love. We also offer holistic music tuition and are a counseling-accredited venue. We have 100 fruit trees, a very wealthy veggie garden, herbs, poultry, sheep, and beef. Wake up to fields of native birds and wallabies. We love animals, so your dog is welcome too! There is a swimming pool you are welcome to use at your leisure and a toilet and shower you can access. The property is 20 min walk to the train station, and the local pub, post office, and shops are just a 7-minute drive away. There is so much to delight kids here. They can feed the goats, sheep, ducks, pigs, chooks, turkeys, and guinea pigs! They can meet Brownie the horse, help care for the baby chicks, and hunt for chook eggs! They can feed the baby ducks and turkeys and socialize with the geese! We have various equipment you can hire, including golf clubs, bbq, chairs and tables, and push bikes. For the family we can organize coits (a traditional Aussie hoop game) and a True Blue Aussie damper or doughboys for you to cook in the fire (all you need to bring is some flour). Firewood can be supplied by arrangement. Please go to YouTube and search "Deans Green Paddock" for a walkthrough. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
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AU$45
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(198)

Fernbank Creek - Port Macquarie

17 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Fernbank Creek, NSW
***FERNBANK CREEK - PORT MACQUARIE*** Six and a half acres of level paddock with two spring fed dams surrounded by tree lines for morning and afternoon shade. Suitable for self-sufficient vans, tents, camper trailers, motorhomes. You will need your own amenities. Suggest families with young toddlers camp away from the dams. You can utilise your own fire pit, strictly no glass to be burned. You can find sticks and branches along the tree lines. All rubbish is to be removed. Direct road access to the property. Just 7 minutes drive to the centre of Port Macquarie and an easy 2 minute drive from the Pacific Highway on a quiet and scenic road. Pets welcome, but please be mindful of other guests and our resident pets. Fernbank Creek Road runs along a natural ‘chain-of-ponds’ water way, wildlife include turtles, ducks, quail, red bills, tawny frogmouth, ring tail possums, sugar gliders and kangaroos to name a few. Walking distance to local winery and horse riding centre. We do our best to allow you to access our piece of paradise.
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AU$35
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
92%
(315)

Yarralen Retreat

44 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Yarrahapinni, Kempsey
Yarralen is a beautiful 40 acre property on the mid-north coast of NSW. Situated under Mt Yarrahapinni on the Eastern side of the Pacific Hwy. Halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. We are surrounded by National Parks and close to pristine beaches , grassy heads , scotts head and the Macleay River. Please note there is a $10 pet fee for the campsites, and $15 pet fee for lodgings (the two Vans and Units). We offer a magical bush retreat with all the modern felicities with a range of camping and accommodation options: -The Eclectic Bush Haven is a family-friendly camping area where kids under 12 yrs camp for free, campers booking this option have access to camp kitchen, toilets and electricity. -The Yarralen Retreat Camp Ground 2 is a more secluded camping area for off-road campers that are completely self-contained with their own toilet, kitchen facilities and power. -The Butterfly Caravan and Retro Glam Vans are renovated caravans nestled in the rainforest. -Yarralen Retreat Glamping are glamping tents offering the perfect romantic escape, or if you just like camping but don't want to set up a tent, this is the perfect choice. - Our Entire Property Exclusive option means you can book out the whole place for your group to enjoy privately. Please thoroughly read the site description which explains exactly what this option does and does not include. Our 40-acre property features eclectic, arty, and striking sculptures and artworks. Stroll through the beautiful bush surroundings, visit the water lilies, and say hello to the roaming peacocks. The campsites are located on a grassed area surrounded by a corridor of tall trees for your shade and comfort. We're not far from the beach, with Grassy Heads being the closest beach. While you're exploring why not check out Scott’s Head and South West Rocks for the amazing vistas. Refresh and recharge in the Magnesium pool and detox in our sauna (please book access under our Extras). Warm your soul around the campfire in the evening. Firewood is available (please see our Extras). Campers at the Eclectic Bush Haven will enjoy our fantastic camp kitchen, along with amenities including hot showers and flushing toilet. The kitchen is fully equipped with a Webber BBQ, gas cooktop, large fridge, lighting and power. (IMPORTANT: Campers who book the Yarralen Retreat Camp Ground 2 area DO NOT have access to these facilities, we expect campers in this area to be fully self-contained) For your convenience entry to the property and main camping area is via our asphalt driveway, which suits all vehicles. (IMPORTANT: Campers who book the Yarralen Retreat Camp Ground 2 will need a 4WD to access this secluded part of the property). Overnight or longer stays are also available for private parties, weddings, retreats, team building - anything possible. Please message us to have a chat. Peaceful tall timbered bushland with abundant wildlife throughout the property. It's a great experience for kids, feeds the chooks, free-ranging peafowl, rainforest and billabong walks, and amazing gardens. Campfires are permitted in the communal fire pit area or individual firepits are available to enjoy at your site. Please use tank water sparingly (for cooking, cuppas) and BYO drinking water. We offer a range of Extras to make your stay memorable and comfortable: -Infra-red Detox Sauna -Magnesium heated Pool -Firewood for your campfire We look forward to welcoming you!
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AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(88)

Camping @ Emerald Park Equine

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents112 acres · Mandalong, NSW
Located at Mandalong, a small rural community near the town of Morisset and west of Lake Macquarie, New South Wales.We offer campsites and glamping. Glamping @ Emerald Park means nothing better than relaxing. Imagine having your own glamping tent waiting for your arrival for the duration of your stay on a private property with amazing views.The established green 112 acre equine property has the Watagan Mountains as the backdrop. We are approximately 5 minutes off the M1 Motorway and 1 hour drive north of Sydney. For those wanting to explore further, we are 40 minutes out from the Hunter Valley and a nice drive to stunning local beaches, cafes and restaurants.Groups welcome! Special events, weddings birthdays, family gatherings - just ask.
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AU$20
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(166)

Ol Dairy Camp 🏕

32 sites · RVs, Tents860 acres · Bellangry, Port Macquarie Hastings
Welcome to Ol Dairy Camp - Your Home Away From Home! At Ol Dairy Camp, we offer a unique camping experience that combines the beauty of nature with the comforts of home. Nestled in the heart of the countryside, our campsite is surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic vistas that are sure to take your breath away. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or an action-packed adventure, Ol Dairy Camp has something for everyone. Our well-maintained campsites provide a comfortable base from which to explore the great outdoors, while our range of facilities and activities will keep you entertained from dawn until dusk. From fishing and hiking to kayaking and horseback riding, there's no shortage of things to see and do at Ol Dairy Camp. And with our friendly staff on hand to help with anything you need, you can relax and enjoy your time in nature without a care in the world. So why not book your stay today and experience the magic of Ol Dairy Camp for yourself? We can't wait to welcome you to our little corner of paradise!
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AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(271)

Peace and Paradise

14 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Yarrahapinni, NSW
Family avocado farm located on the south side of Yarrahapinni mountain. The property is quiet and private. There are dams and a bore on the property with an aviary, several sheds and warehouses. Nearby there are gorgeous rivers and beaches and Yarriabini National Park to explore. Or just enjoy our animals and the peace and quiet.
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from 
AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(172)

Kookabookra Falls

13 sites · RVs, Tents6000 acres · Kookabookra, Armidale
Check out this clip of our property: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qvozr9R1ULI Come see our genuine Northern Territory Water Buffalo. Kookabookra Falls are simply stunning! cascading down 100mtrs of stepping rocks. Located within the property of Dunooki which consists of 6000 acres of pristine wilderness. We are a part of the historical area of Kookabookra Township which boasted a population of 5000. Once a bustling Gold Town sharing its spoils with the nearby famous gold rush town of Bear Hill. Our unique location puts you right in the middle of some of the best fossicking grounds for both gold and gems. Your bush getaway is said by many to be the equivalent of your very own private Nature Park and is home to some unique and endangered species. This property has so much character and points of interest in and around, that you will be hard-fixed in exploring it all. We also have a number of Campsites to choose from, each of them offering its own set of differences to suit your Adventure and requirements.
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AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Available this weekend

Within one hour of Forster

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Camping near Forster guide

Surrounded by beaches, lakes and rivers, Forster is paradise for water lovers. Drive over the bridge from sister town Tuncurry on a sunny day, and you’ll be welcomed by the turquoise hues of Wallis Lake, which is dotted with deserted islands and sand bars beckoning to be explored. The area is popular for boating, fishing, water-skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Swim in secluded coves, ocean baths and rock pools, roll down the sandhill at One Mile Beach, and book a cruise to spot dolphins or whales during their annual migration.

Forster

Wander down the main street of Forster perusing its boutiques and surf shops, before grabbing fish and chips for a picnic on the grass by Wallis Lake, followed by an ice-cream. It’s the quintessential Forster experience. Hire a tinnie to explore the lake and frolic around Miles Island at low tide, or book a dolphin, whale watching or charter fishing cruise. Head to the easily accessible Forster Beach (known as Main Beach), or one of the other beautiful beaches nearby. They include One Mile Beach, which has sandhill you can slide down, or the unpatrolled Pebbly Beach. The nearby natural rock formation known as The Tanks is a popular swimming spot for locals and visitors alike. There are plenty of caravan parks and holiday parks to stay in the Great Lakes area.

Tuncurry

Just over the bridge, the sister town of Tuncurry has a cinema and a carnival over summer, with rides such as dodgem cars and swinging chairs, arcade games and food trucks.

Pacific Palms

Drive along the Lakes Way to explore Pacific Palms, one of the best hidden gems to be found on the north coast of New South Wales. Around 15km south of Forster, you’ll find Booti Booti National Park. Set on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and the lake, it is blessed with beautiful beaches, walking tracks, lookouts, and coastal rainforest. At the northern end of the park, the Cape Hawke lookout offers 360-degree views along the coast from the top of a 8m-high tower, ideal for whale watching. On a clear day you can see as far as Barrington Tops, more than 100km away.

Wallingat National Park

A little further along, Wallingat National Park is a great destination for hiking, mountain biking, horseriding, birdwatching and fishing or swimming in the river and lake. Walk through the tall flooded gum trees to Sugar Creek, where you’ll also find stands of cabbage palms. Whoota Whoota Lookout offers sensational views over the eucalypt forest and the winding, rugged coastline and if you’re lucky you may even spot a sea eagle soaring through the air.

When to Go

The best time to visit for warm weather and water sports is from October to March, however it can be crowded during the summer school holidays (late December until late January). While it rains there year-round, it tends to get the most rainfall in February, and the least in August. June to October is the best time to spot whales as they pass by on their annual migration.

Know Before You Go

  • Forster is around 3.5 hours’ drive north of Sydney, and makes a great first stop on a road trip north to Byron Bay or Queensland
  • Busways operates daily coach services from Newcastle to Forster via Hawks Nest, Tea Gardens and Pacific Palms
  • Forster is part of the Destination Barrington Coast tourist region, which also includes the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops National Park 
  • Stockland Forster, a short drive from the centre of town on The Lakes Way, has two supermarkets and department stores such as Kmart, Target Country and Best & Less
  • Bushland in the vicinity of Forster was severely impacted by the 2019 bushfires, but is now regenerating in most areas, leading to wildlife returning.

Nearby Attractions

  • An excellent surfing beach with stunning sights for beachgoers, Blueys Beach's coastline stretches for 900 metres between Blueys Head and Boomerang Point.
  • A scenic headland bordered by two pristine beaches, Crowdy Head boasts panoramic views over the ocean and an excellent vantage point of the Three Brothers Mountains.
  • The best surfing beach in the Pacific Palms precinct, Boomerang Beach's unique shape, and rock formations give consistent and powerful waves.
  • A lakeside getaway in the Barrington Coast region, Smiths Lake is a great alternative to the often bustling, nearby beaches.
  • The best all-around beach for those camping near Port Stephens, One Mile Beach is patrolled during the holidays and has a consistent swell perfect for those looking to get out and surf.
  • A remote stretch of golden sand with a unique surf break, Treachery Beach is a lesser-known locale with plenty of hidden surprises.

Safety partners

Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.