98% (4.9K) • 97 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Freshwater
Emerald Park Equine
1. Emerald Park Equine
97%
(178)
73km from Freshwater · 33 sites · Tents, RVs
Located at Mandalong, a small rural community near the town of Morisset and west of Lake Macquarie, New South Wales.
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.
Whilst on property it’s a buzz of horse life and there are many horses in the paddocks that will be curious to see you and hang over the fence for a nice little scratch. You will notice an abundance of wildlife that will be around; lovely birds, kangaroos and wallabies and if you are lucky the local deer might call in either early mornings or on dusk. Plus of a night time stop and look up into the lovely night sky while listening to the abundance of frogs, crickets and other noises that come alive.
If you are wanting to have a fire you are more then welcome and you can go for a walk about to collect as many pieces of wood on the ground. Don’t forget to collect a good marshmallow stick!
While you are on the property and if you want to be apart of any extra activities you see please don’t hesitate to ask.
If you are wanting to explore and head off property and explore the local area there is an array of things to do some close and some further away. We are 40 minutes out from the heart of Hunter Valley wine country, minutes away from a few local beaches; Norah Head, Catherine Hill Bay, Soldiers Beach or Caves Beach. All have cafes or pubs close. If you are wanting to head to the bush the Watagan Mountains which are our backdrop has endless picnic spots/look outs etc where you can enjoy driving, walking, dirt/push bike tracks or if you have a specific mountain bike buzz you can head to Awaba Mountain Bike trail. Download the National Park App and it will give you all the info.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
Cockatoo Island
2. Cockatoo Island
100%
(13)
13km from Freshwater · 135 sites · Tents, Lodging
UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sydney’s best kept secret. Waterfront camping and heritage accommodation in the heart of Sydney Harbour! Ferries to the Island run regularly from Circular Quay and other harbour locations (approx. every 30 mins).
CAMPSITES
We cater for all budgets, group sizes and occasions. Want a hassle-free stay with your kids? Reserve our basic camping package and check into a pre-erected tent. Desire a little luxury? Book a deluxe package and unwind in a premium tent furnished with creature comforts. Prefer an authentic, DIY experience? Select our low-cost 'BYO tent' option.
All campers have access to flushing toilets, hot showers and a communal kitchen with sheltered facilities. The campground kitchen is equipped with 10 barbeques, instant boiling water, 2 fridges, microwaves, sink with hot and cold water, a vending machine and seating for 50 people.
The campground also features a fire pit and campground cinema where movies screen at designated times every night.
HERITAGE ACCOMMODATION
Not a fan of camping? Our holiday houses and apartments combine authentic heritage character with modern amenities. Additionally, they offer epic harbour views, framed by lush gardens.
WATERFRONT CAFES
Cockatoo Island features 2 family-friendly cafes (Cockatoo Overboard and Marina Cafe and Bar), both of which are licensed to serve alcohol and operate 7 days a week. BBQ packs are also available for pre-purchase from Cockatoo Overboard.
ACCESSING THE ISLAND
The easiest way to get to Cockatoo Island is by public ferry. The F3 and F8 services operate to Cockatoo Island daily, departing from Circular Quay and Barangaroo as well as from wharves along Parramatta River. Note: There is no vehicle access to or on the island.
CATERING
There are two cafes on the island, great for breakfast, coffee and lunch. For dinner you can BYO and use the camp kitchen with BBQs, toaster, microwave, instant hot water, fridges, or order pre-order BBQ packs from one of the cafes. Allow at least 24hrs notice for BBQ pack orders.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
AU$72
/ night
Otford Park nr Royal National Park
3. Otford Park nr Royal National Park
99%
(461)
56km from Freshwater · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Otford is a historic village in a valley between Sydney and Wollongong, and bounded by the Pacific ocean. Our private acreage backs onto the southern tip of the Royal National Park, so the outlook from the campsite is all leafy trees. Walk to lookouts over the ocean, hike down to the beach or a few minutes drive to dog friendly beaches. Our bathroom and kitchen facilities make it an easy experience for first time campers. We are well-behaved-dog-friendly BUT you must let us know in advance.
Our access track to the camping sites has been repaired with a deep layer of asphalt but still best suited to 4WD. The majority of standard 2WD cars manage the track fine There is also the option of parking roadside, and walking in approx 300m to the sites. Please message us if unsure about your vehicle.
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ
1. Please let us know if you are bringing a dog/dogs - we have horses, house dogs, chickens and; wildlife plus likely other campers close by, so need to be forewarned. Dogs must be on lead or contained at all times.
2. If you need to camp out of your 4WD RV (such as a roof top tent), please contact me before booking to ensure those two particular vehicle sites are still available :) and that your vehicle is suitable for our track. Maximum length is approx 5m. Please scroll through the photos to see our amenities and camping sites.
3. We limit the number of people staying at any one time, so weekends book up quickly. That said, due to Covid and weather, people often cancel at the last minute too, so if we are currently booked out, it's always worthile checking again closer to the date for any availability.
We are on acreage (approx 7 acres) in Otford, surrounded by forest, backing onto the very southern end of the Royal National Park Sydney/Wollongong. Sleep under the stars, and to the hoot of our local owls, and yips of the gorgeous feather-tail gliders. Lovely, peaceful and private in a bushland backdrop but so close and just a hike to famous sites, beaches, cafes and bushwalking - so the perfect spot to stop, unpack and then go exploring.
Max of 3 camp sites booked at a time. Each camp site is within shouting distance of each other, so if looking for absolute privacy, please talk to me first. As bookings come throu
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$79
/ night
Willow's Leap
4. Willow's Leap
80km from Freshwater · 1 site · Lodging
Nestled in the beautiful Wollombi Valley at the south end of the NSW Hunter Valley, Willow’s Leap is an equestrian training facility offering lessons, horse education and accommodation.
We specialise in tailoring weekends away for you and your horse, with accommodation and yards on site and at the neighbouring Willow's Retreat. Speak to us about your individual needs!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
AU$363
/ night
Halifax Hill
5. Halifax Hill
97%
(60)
59km from Freshwater · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$25
/ night
98% (4.9K) • 97 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Freshwater
Emerald Park Equine
1. Emerald Park Equine
97%
(178)
73km from Freshwater · 33 sites · Tents, RVs
Located at Mandalong, a small rural community near the town of Morisset and west of Lake Macquarie, New South Wales.
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.
Whilst on property it’s a buzz of horse life and there are many horses in the paddocks that will be curious to see you and hang over the fence for a nice little scratch. You will notice an abundance of wildlife that will be around; lovely birds, kangaroos and wallabies and if you are lucky the local deer might call in either early mornings or on dusk. Plus of a night time stop and look up into the lovely night sky while listening to the abundance of frogs, crickets and other noises that come alive.
If you are wanting to have a fire you are more then welcome and you can go for a walk about to collect as many pieces of wood on the ground. Don’t forget to collect a good marshmallow stick!
While you are on the property and if you want to be apart of any extra activities you see please don’t hesitate to ask.
If you are wanting to explore and head off property and explore the local area there is an array of things to do some close and some further away. We are 40 minutes out from the heart of Hunter Valley wine country, minutes away from a few local beaches; Norah Head, Catherine Hill Bay, Soldiers Beach or Caves Beach. All have cafes or pubs close. If you are wanting to head to the bush the Watagan Mountains which are our backdrop has endless picnic spots/look outs etc where you can enjoy driving, walking, dirt/push bike tracks or if you have a specific mountain bike buzz you can head to Awaba Mountain Bike trail. Download the National Park App and it will give you all the info.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
Cockatoo Island
2. Cockatoo Island
100%
(13)
13km from Freshwater · 135 sites · Tents, Lodging
UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sydney’s best kept secret. Waterfront camping and heritage accommodation in the heart of Sydney Harbour! Ferries to the Island run regularly from Circular Quay and other harbour locations (approx. every 30 mins).
CAMPSITES
We cater for all budgets, group sizes and occasions. Want a hassle-free stay with your kids? Reserve our basic camping package and check into a pre-erected tent. Desire a little luxury? Book a deluxe package and unwind in a premium tent furnished with creature comforts. Prefer an authentic, DIY experience? Select our low-cost 'BYO tent' option.
All campers have access to flushing toilets, hot showers and a communal kitchen with sheltered facilities. The campground kitchen is equipped with 10 barbeques, instant boiling water, 2 fridges, microwaves, sink with hot and cold water, a vending machine and seating for 50 people.
The campground also features a fire pit and campground cinema where movies screen at designated times every night.
HERITAGE ACCOMMODATION
Not a fan of camping? Our holiday houses and apartments combine authentic heritage character with modern amenities. Additionally, they offer epic harbour views, framed by lush gardens.
WATERFRONT CAFES
Cockatoo Island features 2 family-friendly cafes (Cockatoo Overboard and Marina Cafe and Bar), both of which are licensed to serve alcohol and operate 7 days a week. BBQ packs are also available for pre-purchase from Cockatoo Overboard.
ACCESSING THE ISLAND
The easiest way to get to Cockatoo Island is by public ferry. The F3 and F8 services operate to Cockatoo Island daily, departing from Circular Quay and Barangaroo as well as from wharves along Parramatta River. Note: There is no vehicle access to or on the island.
CATERING
There are two cafes on the island, great for breakfast, coffee and lunch. For dinner you can BYO and use the camp kitchen with BBQs, toaster, microwave, instant hot water, fridges, or order pre-order BBQ packs from one of the cafes. Allow at least 24hrs notice for BBQ pack orders.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
AU$72
/ night
Otford Park nr Royal National Park
3. Otford Park nr Royal National Park
99%
(461)
56km from Freshwater · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Otford is a historic village in a valley between Sydney and Wollongong, and bounded by the Pacific ocean. Our private acreage backs onto the southern tip of the Royal National Park, so the outlook from the campsite is all leafy trees. Walk to lookouts over the ocean, hike down to the beach or a few minutes drive to dog friendly beaches. Our bathroom and kitchen facilities make it an easy experience for first time campers. We are well-behaved-dog-friendly BUT you must let us know in advance.
Our access track to the camping sites has been repaired with a deep layer of asphalt but still best suited to 4WD. The majority of standard 2WD cars manage the track fine There is also the option of parking roadside, and walking in approx 300m to the sites. Please message us if unsure about your vehicle.
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ
1. Please let us know if you are bringing a dog/dogs - we have horses, house dogs, chickens and; wildlife plus likely other campers close by, so need to be forewarned. Dogs must be on lead or contained at all times.
2. If you need to camp out of your 4WD RV (such as a roof top tent), please contact me before booking to ensure those two particular vehicle sites are still available :) and that your vehicle is suitable for our track. Maximum length is approx 5m. Please scroll through the photos to see our amenities and camping sites.
3. We limit the number of people staying at any one time, so weekends book up quickly. That said, due to Covid and weather, people often cancel at the last minute too, so if we are currently booked out, it's always worthile checking again closer to the date for any availability.
We are on acreage (approx 7 acres) in Otford, surrounded by forest, backing onto the very southern end of the Royal National Park Sydney/Wollongong. Sleep under the stars, and to the hoot of our local owls, and yips of the gorgeous feather-tail gliders. Lovely, peaceful and private in a bushland backdrop but so close and just a hike to famous sites, beaches, cafes and bushwalking - so the perfect spot to stop, unpack and then go exploring.
Max of 3 camp sites booked at a time. Each camp site is within shouting distance of each other, so if looking for absolute privacy, please talk to me first. As bookings come throu
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$79
/ night
Willow's Leap
4. Willow's Leap
80km from Freshwater · 1 site · Lodging
Nestled in the beautiful Wollombi Valley at the south end of the NSW Hunter Valley, Willow’s Leap is an equestrian training facility offering lessons, horse education and accommodation.
We specialise in tailoring weekends away for you and your horse, with accommodation and yards on site and at the neighbouring Willow's Retreat. Speak to us about your individual needs!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
AU$363
/ night
Halifax Hill
5. Halifax Hill
97%
(60)
59km from Freshwater · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$25
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jordan
4 days ago
Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill
Lovely shack creatively situated on a rocky outcrop beside the McDonald river.
It has all the charm of a yesteryear hideaway. It’s an experience not a polished hotel, think secret mountain recluse, take your book, your art stuff and a bottle of wine.
we loved the bush views and sounds, the location and the quirk!
Swimming in the river near by, zipping into town for a coffee or beer and enjoying the cute town of St Albans. Loved it so much we can’t wait to come back!
See more
S
Sarah
1 week ago
With pets
Loved the cabin, very unique stay, tucked into the rocks it is very very cool!
See more
Clémence
2 weeks ago
With pets
Lovely stay in nature, away from everything, the owners were really nice and understanding, such a beautiful place would definitely go back :)
See more
l
laetitia
2 weeks ago
5 m car
I loved this camp, the property is beautiful, all horses and animals are beautiful and friendly.
It’s quiet place. I recommend 👍
See more
J
Josh
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Nice location tucked into the hills. All of the facilities are great, and the host was very friendly.
See more
s
scott
3 weeks ago
Tent
natasha has a wonderful camping area, complete with fireplaces, ammenities and so close the ocean while still being in the bush.
our interactions were swift and we found natasha to be very kind and generous.
See moreN
Natalia
December 2025
Tent
We really love this peaceful place to spent a weekend surrounded by nature. It has everything you need. Natasha was very kind.
See moreE
Elle
December 2025
1 night at Halifax Hill
Helen and Steve were super accomodating and the shack was an incredible place to stay at! Facilities, view and location were all 5 five stars, would definitely recommend staying!
See more
A
Allison Michelle
November 2025
Tent
Loved this campsite. Even though it was only an hour from Sydney, it really feels like you’re away from it all. The facilities are awesome and the property is beautiful. We had the camping area to ourselves for most of the weekend but even with another group there it felt very private. Great access to Sea Cliff Bridge area. My dog also loved this place. I would love to come back!
See moreB
Behrooz
November 2025
Tent
The place is a nice option if you’re after a no-fuss camping experience without heading hours out of town. It’s close enough to the city to make a quick getaway feel doable, but still secluded enough that you get that proper “away from it all” vibe. The setup is simple and suits soft-core campers who just want an easy spot to pitch a tent without wrestling with the wilderness. There are plenty of amenities around — a kitchen with the basics, fire-compatible pans and kettles, and a great shower that’s a nice surprise after a day outside — so you’re not roughing it. The space has a relaxed feel that makes it easy to unwind. It’s the kind of place where you can switch off for a night or two without doing a full-on camping mission.
See more
Katie
November 2025
4 m Class B
With pets
Absolutely loved Natasha's beautiful property. Hidden gem. We cannot wait to come back again soon. 😀
See more
Kelly
November 2025
Tent
Lovely open space. Great if you have both sites. Amenities are good quality and well maintained
See more
I
IsabelleStoessel
November 2025
Tent
Helen and Steve’s spot of the world is a little paradise. We saw lots of wildlife and enjoyed a very peaceful stay. The township of St Albans is charming and welcoming, I highly recommend a trip to the pub.
See moreA
Anne
November 2025
Tent
Peaceful, beautiful, very reasonably equipped and prompt response times. Entry driveway a little scary for my small 2WD hatchback, but I got used to it.
See more
I
Ingelise
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Great space! Lots of room. Kitchen facilities, toilet and shower amenities made the camping experience so easy. Even took the opportunity to have an outdoor tub time! Easy to find with great communication from Natasha and only an hour from home. This was the perfect space for a first time camping with our dog.
See moreI
Isha
November 2025
Group trip
We enjoyed a ur stay at this unique and quite spooky place in mountain shack. We were intrigued by the whole maximalist vibe of the house and loved everything about it. It was peaceful we had everything we needed and our host were communicative and great which made everything perfect
See moreK
Klaas
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
A great natural hideaway close to Sydney. Great facilities which made camping easy.
See moreD
Darcy
November 2025
Tent
I was greeted at emerald park equine by one of their workers which was more than welcome to show mw my campsite. Beautiful veiws and very peaceful. :)
See moreC
Claudia
November 2025
Tent
With pets
We loved staying at the Otford Park nr Royal National Park. It had above and beyond amenities for a camping experience, very private, beautiful fire pit and gorgeous surroundings. We felt very comfortable here.
See moreG
Gudrun
November 2025
Tent
With pets
We loved the stunning rain forest around the site and the protected tent site. The camp kitchen and amenities also tea stood out. Thank you, Natasha , for a really nice experience
Gudrun
See more
