98% (408) • 35 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Forster
Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach
1. Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach
96%
(65)
76km from Forster · 209 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
While many of our holiday parks offer a beachfront location, Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach takes things up a notch with a 1.6-kilometre stretch of sand, right on your doorstep.
Set on the holiday park’s namesake – One Mile Beach – there’s no need to factor in a commute for your morning beach stroll or swim these holidays.
If you’re feeling adventurous during your stay, you’re in for a treat with over 26 beaches located in the Port Stephens region including the 32-kilometre Stockton Beach, which is home to the largest sand dunes in the southern hemisphere.
It’s these very dunes where you can experience camel rides at sunset or sandboarding down them at high speed.
Choose between camping, caravan sites, cabins or villas for your stay at Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach – with direct beach access available from all villas for those who enjoy the idea of waking up to the sound of rolling waves.
While you’ve got the best of Port Stephens less than 15 minutes’ drive away, there’s plenty to keep the family entertained within the holiday park grounds such as a games room, jumping cushion, playground and ball court.
Given its position along the coastline, seafood lovers will love the local oyster bars and seafood restaurants close by, like restaurant institution Rick Steins at Bannisters.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
AU$194
/ night
Ingenia Holidays Old Bar Beach
2. Ingenia Holidays Old Bar Beach
96%
(68)
25km from Forster · 175 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Breathe in the refreshing coastal air at Ingenia Holiday Parks Old Bar Beach, the park is located on beautiful Old Bar Beach making this the perfect place to stay on your next family holiday. Old Bar Beach is a pet-friendly (leash-off) patrolled beach known for its clear water and long sandy coastline. Ingenia Holiday Parks Old Bar Beach can be found on the sunny mid-north coast of NSW 3.5 hours drive from Sydney, making this the ideal stop for a long weekend or a cheeky midweek getaway.
There is an array of accommodation options available to suit all, including powered sites perfect for caravanners, unpowered sites for those who enjoy camping, and ensuite sites for travelers who enjoy a little bit of luxury. For those who don’t have your own camping equipment Ingenia Holidays Old Bar Beach also has a range of cabins and cottages to suit all budgets and families.
The park is fully equipped for a family-friendly holiday boasting a large swimming pool and playground, camp kitchen, BBQ area as well a large amenities block. Once you have finished exploring the park there is plenty to do in the local area including surfing, beach fishing, kayaking, and amazing bush walking trails just minutes from your doorstep.
If eating is your ideal way to spend time during your holiday you are in luck! you will find loads of cafes and restaurants in the town center, only a few minutes drive from the park. Ingenia Holidays Old Bar Beach is the perfect family-friendly holiday to unwind and get back to nature, whether you are chilling at the park itself or exploring the local area you will leave feeling rejuvenated.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
AU$181
/ night
Jali Farmstay
3. Jali Farmstay
99%
(86)
55km from Forster · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to Jali Farm Stay, a stunning 14-acre riverside retreat set along the tranquil banks of Stewart’s River. With wide open spaces, fresh country air and plenty of room for camping and caravans, guests can enjoy convenient facilities including two toilets, one shower, a full camp kitchen and an inground pool, making it easy to relax and settle in.
Accommodation options include the cosy 'Castle' for couples, and the comfortable 'Tullock Cottage' featuring a queen bed, pull-out double sofa, air-conditioning and TV.
Enjoy lazy days fishing from two private jetties, launch your boat from the on-site ramp, and cruise out to Watson Taylor Lake. Despite its peaceful setting, Jali Farm Stay is located just 2km off the highway, 30 minutes from Port Macquarie and 50 minutes from Forster.
Conveniently positioned close to Lakewood, Laurieton, North Haven, Dunbogan and Harrington, you can easily explore the best of the Mid North Coast while enjoying a peaceful rural stay.
Whether you’re chasing a relaxed camping escape, a fishing getaway, or a comfortable stay close to town, Jali Farm Stay is the perfect place to slow down and soak it all in.
PLEASE NOTE: 🎵🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶
Bookings taken over the Easter weekend will occur a $60 a head payable on arrival due to our annual Mini Woodstock Festival includes 3 days of music 🎶 🎵 if this does not suit please don't book. For more information please call.
For all enquiries call Ann 0422 226 659
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$309
/ night
Altamira Along Bakers Creek
4. Altamira Along Bakers Creek
98%
(159)
49km from Forster · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Altamira Along Bakers Creek is a country escape in the heart of the beautiful Mid North Coast. Our property is located just 30 minutes from Gloucester, 50 minutes from the Pacific Highway from Nabiac, 2.5hours from Newcastle and 4/5hours from Sydney.
There are plenty of activities including tennis courts, swimming in the pool, strolling to the creek or sitting by the bar where a pool table and kids toy room are available.
Our property is set on 250 acres of private farming land set in the majestic Wako Mountain Ranges with 50 of these acres being available for camping. We have unpowered campsites walking distance to the creek. Caravans, tents and roof top tents all welcome.
There are free range animals for the kids for the kids to interact with a licensed bar for the adults to have an afternoon drink.
Enjoy access to a communal pool, tennis court, shower and toilet block facilities. There are BBQ’s available for cooking, outdoor communal fireplace and sitting area for your comfort. Please note our drinking water is fed from the creek, you are welcome to purify it or bring your own drinking water.
We have free range animals on our farm and ask that you keep your pets on leash when not at your campsite.
Come enjoy your stay at Altamira.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$327
/ night
NRMA Myall Shores Holiday Park
5. NRMA Myall Shores Holiday Park
100%
(11)
42km from Forster · 71 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is what you’ve been daydreaming about from your office chair. A peaceful getaway in a quiet bushland setting where the ‘locals’ have feathers, fur, and pouches. Waterfront accommodation or a lush grassy campsite overlooking clear, shallow waters where kids can splash and play. Meandering coastal estuaries fringed with paperbark trees providing endless possibilities for discovery by kayak, SUP, or tinnie. A café for freshly brewed coffee and meals without the mess. A jetty over the lake just begging for the old run-and-jump treatment. Friendly staff to help plan your adventure and make the most of every moment.
NRMA Myall Shores Holiday Park welcomes you for a restorative and fun holiday in a very special destination.
Come for our incredible location, stay for our fantastic facilities and warm hospitality. Lakeside accommodation or grassy campsite with space for the family. An on-site, licenced restaurant for when dinner needs to be tasty, not taxing. A sparkling pool, playground, and school holiday activities to entertain the kids. And of course, a deck chair with your name on it.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$116
/ night
Bush Paddock near Stroud
6. Bush Paddock near Stroud
99%
(91)
62km from Forster · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property 'Bush Paddock' and 'Bush Cabin' are located just 10 minutes from the historical town of Stroud, and offer a secluded peaceful getaway for those that love the outdoors and simple living.
Book this site or cabin for just you and your group exclusively, or book both for your exclusive use. Enjoy quiet, private surroundings during the day, and dazzling star shows at night.
The large campsite and cabin are located on a level, grassed area with plenty of space to pitch tents, or park campers and caravans.
Children just love the level grassy land to run and just be a kid. It's perfect for games like cricket, soccer, and football to name a few.
The amenities block has both toilet and shower, and there is also power available to connect up to. A large sheltered area, our camp kitchen, includes fridge, barbeque, electricity, kettle, table, chairs and more.
Enjoy bird watching, visiting wallabies in the late afternoon, or looking for fossils in the seasonal creek just a few metres away.
The historical town of Stroud is only 10 or so minutes away if you need supplies.
Karuah River is close by for swimming and fishing, and the Barrington Tops National Park is approximately 50 minutes away.
Ride Dungog is located at The Common in Dungog, for mountain bike enthusiasts. The area includes 650 acres offering trails for all different levels.
While visiting Dungog, there are boutique cafes and shops, a historic cinema, and a lot more to see as you wander through the streets.
Unfortunately we no longer have parties, including 18ths, 21sts etc.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$206
/ night
Manning River Retreat
7. Manning River Retreat
100%
(42)
43km from Forster · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to paradise at the Manning River Retreat and holiday on 125 acres nestled beside the pristine river. This tranquil haven offers a plethora of delights. Experience the rustic charm of a cattle hobby farm and indulge in a range of activities along the river's edge. Swim in deep holes perfect for relaxation, cast a line for a leisurely fishing experience, or explore the waters by paddleboard, kayak or dinghy. Shallow, calm areas are ideal for young children to splash around safely. And don’t forget your water shoes for the best comfort and grip—your feet will thank you!
Embrace nature's symphony with abundant birdlife in a serene and private setting. Explore undulating countryside and stargaze under beautiful skies.
With a diverse range of accommodations, from camping to glamping in a cosy log cabin or even an historic church, we have something to suit everyone. Our amenities, including toilets at various locations and a rustic bush shower, ensure your comfort in the great outdoors. You also have a private fire pit - subject, of course, to weather conditions.
This hidden gem in NSW's stunning Mid North is easily accessible by bitumen road. Located just 2.5 hours north of Newcastle and 4 hours from Sydney, the historic town of Wingham, with its cafes, quirky shops, and amazing museum is only 20 minutes away. Offering you an ideal spot to unwind, reconnect with nature, and experience a truly memorable escape, why not book your stay now!
Note:
You can reach the church with a 2WD vehicle, but camping and log cabin sites require a 4WD (not AWD). In adverse weather, we may allocate you to a more suitable site.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$186
/ night
Riverside Privacy - 200 acres 4 you
8. Riverside Privacy - 200 acres 4 you
100%
(17)
75km from Forster · 104 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
400 river bound acres of bush, pristine rainforest and rolling pasture for you to explore and enjoy. 4 kilometres of river fontage to explore - spot a platypus, swim in the gently flowing river, catch a bass, explore the rainforest or bush. Or just relax, and let the sounds of silence wash away your cares and restore your soul.
We know you want a complete escape from the pressures of modern life and we offer the stillness and serenity from immersion in Nature and sleeping under star studded skies.
With 4 kilometres of river to share with our guests, we guarantee you the space and silence to really get back to nature.
We welcome self-sufficient experienced bush campers who take only photos and leave only footprints.
No pets. 4WD ONLY. TWO NIGHT MINIMUM STAY
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$291
/ night
98% (408) • 35 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Forster
Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach
1. Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach
96%
(65)
76km from Forster · 209 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
While many of our holiday parks offer a beachfront location, Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach takes things up a notch with a 1.6-kilometre stretch of sand, right on your doorstep.
Set on the holiday park’s namesake – One Mile Beach – there’s no need to factor in a commute for your morning beach stroll or swim these holidays.
If you’re feeling adventurous during your stay, you’re in for a treat with over 26 beaches located in the Port Stephens region including the 32-kilometre Stockton Beach, which is home to the largest sand dunes in the southern hemisphere.
It’s these very dunes where you can experience camel rides at sunset or sandboarding down them at high speed.
Choose between camping, caravan sites, cabins or villas for your stay at Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach – with direct beach access available from all villas for those who enjoy the idea of waking up to the sound of rolling waves.
While you’ve got the best of Port Stephens less than 15 minutes’ drive away, there’s plenty to keep the family entertained within the holiday park grounds such as a games room, jumping cushion, playground and ball court.
Given its position along the coastline, seafood lovers will love the local oyster bars and seafood restaurants close by, like restaurant institution Rick Steins at Bannisters.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
AU$194
/ night
Ingenia Holidays Old Bar Beach
2. Ingenia Holidays Old Bar Beach
96%
(68)
25km from Forster · 175 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Breathe in the refreshing coastal air at Ingenia Holiday Parks Old Bar Beach, the park is located on beautiful Old Bar Beach making this the perfect place to stay on your next family holiday. Old Bar Beach is a pet-friendly (leash-off) patrolled beach known for its clear water and long sandy coastline. Ingenia Holiday Parks Old Bar Beach can be found on the sunny mid-north coast of NSW 3.5 hours drive from Sydney, making this the ideal stop for a long weekend or a cheeky midweek getaway.
There is an array of accommodation options available to suit all, including powered sites perfect for caravanners, unpowered sites for those who enjoy camping, and ensuite sites for travelers who enjoy a little bit of luxury. For those who don’t have your own camping equipment Ingenia Holidays Old Bar Beach also has a range of cabins and cottages to suit all budgets and families.
The park is fully equipped for a family-friendly holiday boasting a large swimming pool and playground, camp kitchen, BBQ area as well a large amenities block. Once you have finished exploring the park there is plenty to do in the local area including surfing, beach fishing, kayaking, and amazing bush walking trails just minutes from your doorstep.
If eating is your ideal way to spend time during your holiday you are in luck! you will find loads of cafes and restaurants in the town center, only a few minutes drive from the park. Ingenia Holidays Old Bar Beach is the perfect family-friendly holiday to unwind and get back to nature, whether you are chilling at the park itself or exploring the local area you will leave feeling rejuvenated.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
AU$181
/ night
Jali Farmstay
3. Jali Farmstay
99%
(86)
55km from Forster · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to Jali Farm Stay, a stunning 14-acre riverside retreat set along the tranquil banks of Stewart’s River. With wide open spaces, fresh country air and plenty of room for camping and caravans, guests can enjoy convenient facilities including two toilets, one shower, a full camp kitchen and an inground pool, making it easy to relax and settle in.
Accommodation options include the cosy 'Castle' for couples, and the comfortable 'Tullock Cottage' featuring a queen bed, pull-out double sofa, air-conditioning and TV.
Enjoy lazy days fishing from two private jetties, launch your boat from the on-site ramp, and cruise out to Watson Taylor Lake. Despite its peaceful setting, Jali Farm Stay is located just 2km off the highway, 30 minutes from Port Macquarie and 50 minutes from Forster.
Conveniently positioned close to Lakewood, Laurieton, North Haven, Dunbogan and Harrington, you can easily explore the best of the Mid North Coast while enjoying a peaceful rural stay.
Whether you’re chasing a relaxed camping escape, a fishing getaway, or a comfortable stay close to town, Jali Farm Stay is the perfect place to slow down and soak it all in.
PLEASE NOTE: 🎵🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶
Bookings taken over the Easter weekend will occur a $60 a head payable on arrival due to our annual Mini Woodstock Festival includes 3 days of music 🎶 🎵 if this does not suit please don't book. For more information please call.
For all enquiries call Ann 0422 226 659
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$309
/ night
Altamira Along Bakers Creek
4. Altamira Along Bakers Creek
98%
(159)
49km from Forster · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Altamira Along Bakers Creek is a country escape in the heart of the beautiful Mid North Coast. Our property is located just 30 minutes from Gloucester, 50 minutes from the Pacific Highway from Nabiac, 2.5hours from Newcastle and 4/5hours from Sydney.
There are plenty of activities including tennis courts, swimming in the pool, strolling to the creek or sitting by the bar where a pool table and kids toy room are available.
Our property is set on 250 acres of private farming land set in the majestic Wako Mountain Ranges with 50 of these acres being available for camping. We have unpowered campsites walking distance to the creek. Caravans, tents and roof top tents all welcome.
There are free range animals for the kids for the kids to interact with a licensed bar for the adults to have an afternoon drink.
Enjoy access to a communal pool, tennis court, shower and toilet block facilities. There are BBQ’s available for cooking, outdoor communal fireplace and sitting area for your comfort. Please note our drinking water is fed from the creek, you are welcome to purify it or bring your own drinking water.
We have free range animals on our farm and ask that you keep your pets on leash when not at your campsite.
Come enjoy your stay at Altamira.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$327
/ night
NRMA Myall Shores Holiday Park
5. NRMA Myall Shores Holiday Park
100%
(11)
42km from Forster · 71 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is what you’ve been daydreaming about from your office chair. A peaceful getaway in a quiet bushland setting where the ‘locals’ have feathers, fur, and pouches. Waterfront accommodation or a lush grassy campsite overlooking clear, shallow waters where kids can splash and play. Meandering coastal estuaries fringed with paperbark trees providing endless possibilities for discovery by kayak, SUP, or tinnie. A café for freshly brewed coffee and meals without the mess. A jetty over the lake just begging for the old run-and-jump treatment. Friendly staff to help plan your adventure and make the most of every moment.
NRMA Myall Shores Holiday Park welcomes you for a restorative and fun holiday in a very special destination.
Come for our incredible location, stay for our fantastic facilities and warm hospitality. Lakeside accommodation or grassy campsite with space for the family. An on-site, licenced restaurant for when dinner needs to be tasty, not taxing. A sparkling pool, playground, and school holiday activities to entertain the kids. And of course, a deck chair with your name on it.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$116
/ night
Bush Paddock near Stroud
6. Bush Paddock near Stroud
99%
(91)
62km from Forster · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property 'Bush Paddock' and 'Bush Cabin' are located just 10 minutes from the historical town of Stroud, and offer a secluded peaceful getaway for those that love the outdoors and simple living.
Book this site or cabin for just you and your group exclusively, or book both for your exclusive use. Enjoy quiet, private surroundings during the day, and dazzling star shows at night.
The large campsite and cabin are located on a level, grassed area with plenty of space to pitch tents, or park campers and caravans.
Children just love the level grassy land to run and just be a kid. It's perfect for games like cricket, soccer, and football to name a few.
The amenities block has both toilet and shower, and there is also power available to connect up to. A large sheltered area, our camp kitchen, includes fridge, barbeque, electricity, kettle, table, chairs and more.
Enjoy bird watching, visiting wallabies in the late afternoon, or looking for fossils in the seasonal creek just a few metres away.
The historical town of Stroud is only 10 or so minutes away if you need supplies.
Karuah River is close by for swimming and fishing, and the Barrington Tops National Park is approximately 50 minutes away.
Ride Dungog is located at The Common in Dungog, for mountain bike enthusiasts. The area includes 650 acres offering trails for all different levels.
While visiting Dungog, there are boutique cafes and shops, a historic cinema, and a lot more to see as you wander through the streets.
Unfortunately we no longer have parties, including 18ths, 21sts etc.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$206
/ night
Manning River Retreat
7. Manning River Retreat
100%
(42)
43km from Forster · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to paradise at the Manning River Retreat and holiday on 125 acres nestled beside the pristine river. This tranquil haven offers a plethora of delights. Experience the rustic charm of a cattle hobby farm and indulge in a range of activities along the river's edge. Swim in deep holes perfect for relaxation, cast a line for a leisurely fishing experience, or explore the waters by paddleboard, kayak or dinghy. Shallow, calm areas are ideal for young children to splash around safely. And don’t forget your water shoes for the best comfort and grip—your feet will thank you!
Embrace nature's symphony with abundant birdlife in a serene and private setting. Explore undulating countryside and stargaze under beautiful skies.
With a diverse range of accommodations, from camping to glamping in a cosy log cabin or even an historic church, we have something to suit everyone. Our amenities, including toilets at various locations and a rustic bush shower, ensure your comfort in the great outdoors. You also have a private fire pit - subject, of course, to weather conditions.
This hidden gem in NSW's stunning Mid North is easily accessible by bitumen road. Located just 2.5 hours north of Newcastle and 4 hours from Sydney, the historic town of Wingham, with its cafes, quirky shops, and amazing museum is only 20 minutes away. Offering you an ideal spot to unwind, reconnect with nature, and experience a truly memorable escape, why not book your stay now!
Note:
You can reach the church with a 2WD vehicle, but camping and log cabin sites require a 4WD (not AWD). In adverse weather, we may allocate you to a more suitable site.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$186
/ night
Riverside Privacy - 200 acres 4 you
8. Riverside Privacy - 200 acres 4 you
100%
(17)
75km from Forster · 104 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
400 river bound acres of bush, pristine rainforest and rolling pasture for you to explore and enjoy. 4 kilometres of river fontage to explore - spot a platypus, swim in the gently flowing river, catch a bass, explore the rainforest or bush. Or just relax, and let the sounds of silence wash away your cares and restore your soul.
We know you want a complete escape from the pressures of modern life and we offer the stillness and serenity from immersion in Nature and sleeping under star studded skies.
With 4 kilometres of river to share with our guests, we guarantee you the space and silence to really get back to nature.
We welcome self-sufficient experienced bush campers who take only photos and leave only footprints.
No pets. 4WD ONLY. TWO NIGHT MINIMUM STAY
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$291
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
John
November 2025
3 nights at Jali Farmstay
What a beautiful property, beautifully maintained, clean, tidy, very friendly hosts, the donga was very nice and the big verandah was very handy as we had other family members with small children camping with us, this made meal time outside very nice. I would recommend this property to anyone. The fishing was good too.
See more
J
Jay
October 2025
With kids
Great spot with lots of activities for kids.
Would come back.
See more
m
mark
October 2025
Group trip
We loved staying in the church, it is simply unique and swimming in the pristine river so refreshing! Graham and Chris are so lovely and very hospitable, little touches such as vases of fresh home grown flowers and herbs make it special! The bucket shower is the best!! Dinner cooked over an open fire was delicious.
See more
K
Kristina
October 2025
With kids
We absolutely loved our stay at the treehouse. Sophie was an amazing host and went out of her way to make our stay enjoyable. The accommodation was immaculate and beautifully appointed. We normally camp so it was wonderful to be totally “off-grid” but with the luxury of electricity, hot showers, a flushing toilet, comfy furniture to relax in, and even Starlink - what a rare find! We did almost everything on Sophie’s suggested activities - 4WD’ing, swimming & kayaking along the pristine river, the breathtaking drive out to Ellenborough falls, and we even had a bonfire. The kids loved the flying fox and all the friendly animals - they loved the al pacas, played with the dogs, patted the cows, fed the horses and chooks and collected delicious fresh eggs every morning. The full farmstay experience. We can’t wait to come back again - thanks Sophie!
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O
Oliver
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Bush Paddock near Stroud
Our Bush Camp near Stroud was fantastic. The whole camp area was ours to use with our group only making it a perfect getaway. The camp kitchen and open fire was the hub for our weekend with many laughs and memories shared and made. Thanks Cherie- we’ll be back!
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V
Veronica
July 2025
2 nights at Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach
Had a great time. On arrival we were informed we had received a free upgrade. Nice surprise. Had a nice few days sheltering from bad weather. Clean and in a nice location. The staff were Super friendly. Thanks
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Carolynne
June 2025
With kids
We booked the Cabin in Conjunction with the paddock, in order to accommodate the "Non-campers" in our family. I highly recommend you do the same. It was brilliant to finally have those members join us for a family weekend. There are not many places that can provide this. The cabin was cute and cosy and perfectly adequate for a few days stay. It is located right near the communal camp kitchen. The cabin has it's own kitchen so the camp kitchen for us was a place to come together. Cherie has done a great job with the cabin.
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Toby
May 2025
Weekend Trip to Bush Paddock near Stroud
We absolutely loved our time on Cherie’s property.
She is a fantastic, and generous host.
The location is outstanding and there are so many wonderful amenities.
The kitchen facilities, dining area, outdoor fireplace, fire-pit, bathroom/shower, and awnings provide a wonderful ambiance and experience.
Our group will be back.
See more
J
Joanna
April 2025
Tent
With kids
We really enjoyed our time at Graham and Chris’s property. It’s a lovely place and the log cabin was very cozy and a lovely place to stay.
Graham and Chris were very welcoming and checked in on us every day to make sure we had everything we needed ; even bringing us beautiful mandarins from their garden and worms to fish with! The river was a nice place to have a swim and skim some rocks. We will definitely be back. Thank you
See more
C
Candice
February 2025
2 nights at Manning River Retreat
Chris and Graham were so hospitable. Chris met us with organic tomatoes from her garden and Graham checked in daily to ensure we had what we needed.
The church itself is amazing and very comfortable. The river is a 5--10 minute walk away and we headed down each morning for a delicious swim.
However our absolute favourite was sitting by the fire under the stars at night. We were blessed to have amazing weather whilst we were there.
I would thoroughly recommend staying in the church, it's an amazing experience.
I did overlook the fact that no power means no plugs to charge a phone, and I hadn't bought a battery pack. However, Graham kindly showed us where we could use some power sockets up near their house.
See moreS
Sissi
January 2025
With kids
Great location. Facilities are very convenient. Kids had great time!
See moreT
TANIA
December 2024
With kids
We had a great time staying in the old church. My 7 year old enjoyed delivering regular sermons to her heathen parents from the pulpit, complete with massive bible! The set up is completely off grid so make sure you bring plenty of food, a good cold esky, water and pre-charged devices if you can’t quite go electronics free. We had a lovely daily swim down at the river. Graham even gave my husband and daughter a ride with his friendly old dog in tow in the farm jeep up from the river one day which my daughter loved. Highly recommend this as an off grid get away!
See more
The best family-friendly glamping near Forster guide
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.