The best forest campgrounds near Gulgong, New South Wales

Looking for a camping adventure near Gulgong, New South Wales in Australia? Hipcamp has got you covered with over 180 available options for your accommodation preference. Whether you're into boating, paddling, or fishing, there's something for everyone. Stay at top-rated campsites like Watton Airstrip (418 reviews), Wattle Valley Farm (339 reviews), or Maiden Jewel, Upper Hunter Valley (271 reviews). And with prices starting as low as $10 per night and popular facilities like cooking equipment, potable water, and toilets, your camping experience will be nothing short of amazing.

98% (775)

Top-rated campgrounds near Gulgong

Looking for a camping adventure near Gulgong, New South Wales in Australia? Hipcamp has got you covered with over 180 available options for your accommodation preference. Whether you're into boating, paddling, or fishing, there's something for everyone. Stay at top-rated campsites like Watton Airstrip (418 reviews), Wattle Valley Farm (339 reviews), or Maiden Jewel, Upper Hunter Valley (271 reviews). And with prices starting as low as $10 per night and popular facilities like cooking equipment, potable water, and toilets, your camping experience will be nothing short of amazing.

98% (775)

Top-rated campgrounds near Gulgong

1. Hillside Camp on Bow River

100%

(195)

66km from Gulgong · 23 sites · Tents, RVs

The ultimate Farm Solitude Camping experience for nature lovers seeking adventure, peace and serenity. This is not a place for parties and loud noise, but if you want to get away from it all and relax in a secluded Campsite surrounded by beautiful Native Bushland or explore miles of trails, gullies, caves, Flight Springs Creek and the exquisite Bow River, take some time to camp at Hillside, which is a remote 2000 acre working cattle property situated 23km west of MERRIWA, 17 km off the Golden Highway, adjoining the Goulburn River National Park. Most sites are in secluded area's far away from each other but at busy times people may pass by some sites to access the river. There are plenty of walking trails and for the enthusiastic bushwalker, the Bow River winds its way 7km down to the Goulburn River through the National Park with its gentle flowing stream and rock pools nestled between sandstone cliffs of caves. All sites are pet friendly, but pets must be kept on leash and cleaned up after. Campfires are allowed when there are no restrictions. Cut firewood is available on request $20 lots, cash only. 4WD and High vehicles are recommended as tracks have rocky outcrops and some areas of loose sand. Some sites can be accessed by 2WD. The Bow River area is strictly 4WD (Low Range) access ONLY as it is extremely steep with loose gravel and rocky outcrops. AWD (All wheel drive) vehicles will not get back out. For all 4WD areas please let your Tyres down to 25psi to help conserve our tracks. Outback 4WD tracks are now open for campers to explore as well as Hidden Valley. All sites have toilets, but guests will need their own shower facilities and must take all waste and rubbish with them on departure. Phone Service is very limited in this area. If you email a request, sometimes it may take a few hours for us to reply. No motorbikes or chainsaws and no hunting allowed. WARNING: There are many areas of cliff edges and shear drops! Children must be supervised at all times while exploring these areas. There are also dams at or near some of the campsite areas that could be dangerous if children wander off exploring alone.

2. Cadagi Farm Stay in Central West NSW

98%

(365)

77km from Gulgong · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

A tranquil 85 acre property with multiple options for your stay, along the banks of the Talbragar River or by wooded areas bordering the beautiful Scrubby Creek. The sites are self-service with no amenities currently available, so best suited to those happy to be self-sufficient and with a 'leave no trace' approach. All sites offer bushwalking options (maps can be provided via email), an abundance of native flora and fauna including wild birds, the occasional echidna and wombats. You'll also find sheep and cattle meandering around the paddocks, along with our horses and free ranging peacock. We also have a super friendly kelpie and dachshund pup making the farm feel complete. Dogs are welcome & we have stables or individual paddocks available if you'd like to bring your equine friends (no riding on the property due to insurance). Only 15 minutes to the centre of town & is a great base for your visit to Dubbo. Located on the Mudgee side of Dubbo, it's an easy place to pull up on your travels and we look forward to your visit. Follow us on Facebook @cadagifarmdubbo

3. Old Bara aka "Baradise"

99%

(223)

34km from Gulgong · 51 sites · Tents, RVs

Old Bara is a stunning cattle property, often described as truly magical. Camp next to the creek and dogs are welcome! Old Bara offers so much more than just a place to park. Suitable for all size vehicles/vans/tents. We have great loos, voted as "the best in Australia" however, we do not have showers or powered sites. Many sites available, avoid the crowds, we do not over crowd our campers. Only 25 mins easy drive to all the wonderful Mudgee wineries, cafes and restaurants. It's the perfect place to unwind and recharge the batteries. Give the kids a screen free holiday! Dogs are welcome as long as they on leads at all times except in the off leash paddock.

4. Camp Crudine

99%

(152)

80km from Gulgong · 2 sites · Tents

New name, same great location. Camp Crudine is the ideal getaway for groups and families to enjoy what nature has to offer. Located approximately 40 mins from Bathurst the camp is the ideal location to enjoy the tranquility of the bush. 4WD access ONLY Suitable for off-road camper trailers, tents and swags. Natural bushland consisting of 80 acres with the Crudine River along the boundary. We are part of the Sofala gold rush history (from the 1850s), sit back and imagine gold miners and their families camped along the banks. There are two campsites, Camp Crudine Kitchen and Camp Crudine Riverside. When you make your booking whether for 2 people or a group of family and friends the chosen campsite is all yours for the length of your stay. If you need supplies Sofala is just 8 km away, drop in and explore the town. Hill End is 28 km which is another Historic town to explore. Camp Crudine is great for kids and adults alike to have a go at panning for gold or try out the metal detector. All findings must be returned to the host, lol. Campfires must comply with the local fire restrictions and guideline and must be contained in the fire pits provided. Bonfires are not permitted at any time. We recommend campers bring their own firewood as campers are requested to source only small amounts of firewood along the riverbank. Under no circumstances are trees to be cut down. Firewood is available at the Sofala General Store. Campers are required to bring everything they need and take all rubbish when leaving. Dogs are welcome but they must be supervised and under control at all times. The owner has livestock on the property which must be respected at all times.

5. The Gateway-Hargraves Bushland

92%

(33)

54km from Gulgong · 1 site · Tent, RV

In the early 1970’s Mr James, the owner of 'Biara', subdivided three 25 acre blocks across the road from the original homestead. The first block was sold to his nephew, the middle block was to be purchased by the Preston family and ‘The Gateway’ was purchased by a Mr Carveth. Unfortunately, the sale of the middle block fell through then, due to family illness, 'Biara' was sold and the family moved to Blackheath. After this move, and as thank you to his son, Mr James transferred the title of the middle of the three subdivided blocks to his only son, William. Back in the late 1960’s, early 1970’s, the area was vastly different than it is today. Travelling to school entailed a car trip to Hargraves then bus to Mudgee which would have been a 2 hour round trip! The area was far more isolated as there was no power and entailed an overland phone line, which had to be regularly repaired if residents wanted to be able to communicate with the outside world. The site allows mainly for camping and relaxing although there are numerous dirt roads to explore, Mudgee wineries close by and Burrendong Dam not far away (accessible via Hill End Road near Erudgere). Hargraves is also known for it's alluvial gold deposits and fossickers still go there regularly to check out Louisa Creek. There is 15km's of dirt road which needs to be traveled to reach the property. Dependent on weather, and if it has been graded recently, this road can be in varying states of repair. In heavy rain it may be difficult to get 2WD access via the public road due to the clay content in the road . Kangaroo, wallaby, owl species, kookaburra, echidna, snakes, various lizards, including shinglebacks, are often seen on these roads and the property.

6. Waykara Hilltop retreat

98%

(24)

69km from Gulgong · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

100 acres amazing bush land, plenty of native wildlife (including koalas), privacy, lovely quiet area to camp near the “shanty” which has shelter and basic area for preparation and eating. The bush is quite thick so children are welcome but need good supervison at all times and are your responsibility.Dogs & pets not permitted (we have our own dogs). You'll need your own amenities (no toilet or shower provided). Campfires permitted in a designated area in winter only and wood supplied. Drinking water at the house if you need it (bit of a walk).Good access for caravans and tents. If you are coming to Hill End which is a short 8 km away it's a great place to base yourself. 69 km to the amazing wineries of Mudgee or head to Bathurst and checkout the amazing mount panorama. Or if you like a 20 km 4x4 drive down to the Macquarie river for a fish or just to enjoy the views. This property offers quiet, private camping for the adventurous who wants the peace and tranquility

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

L

Logan

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Hillside Camp on Bow River

Absolutely loved the camp-site, no one around Sunset and sunrise Absolutely stunning Definitely recommend

M

Michelle

2 weeks ago

5 m travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Cadagi Farm Stay in Central West NSW

Beautiful cleared safe and peaceful site. We stayed on site 1. Slashed walking track to creek. Our dog loved this walk and it was very cool under the trees by the creek for an Arvo drink after a long travel day. Huge site with a fire pit. Easy access for caravans. Flat site. No over hanging trees. Loved it 🫶

M

Meagan

3 weeks ago

7 m Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cadagi Farm Stay in Central West NSW

Excellent stay, flat grassy area. Site 1 had a metal fire pit. Easy to locate and well kept. Thank you Matt and Leanne!

C

Cam

November 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hillside Camp on Bow River

Great spot here bordering Goulburn River National Park. Dave has put a huge effort into building walking trails and has created a great mud map to show you the way. We took a 4wd only campsite. Make sure you do have a good 4wd if you take this option because you definitely need it to get back out. Plenty of wildlife around. Even turtles in the river.. Plenty to explore.

K

Kurt

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Crudine

Absolutely loved the camping at Camp Crudine. Beautiful spot right on the creek with enough water to dunk yourself (and the dog that fell off the kayak!). Entry is not for the faint hearted but worth every clenching moment on the way down the hill! Definitely gonna come back to this little hidden gem!

A

Annalise

November 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Camp Crudine

A stunning riverside camp that is completely private! It definitely needs. 4wd to access but that makes is that much better, it’s very secluded. The river is really clear and great for swimming. Would highly recommend this place to anyone!

P

Paul

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Gateway-Hargraves Bushland

Great communication with the host. Unfortunately was not able to use our booking (work requirements). But will definitely be back 1st chance we get

Fishing at the Talbragar river sites (can be pending water levels and recent rain)

M

Mike

November 2025

7 m travel trailer

2 nights at Cadagi Farm Stay in Central West NSW

Spent a couple of peaceful nights camped by the river. Matt's map & directions made it super easy to find. We had to place to ourselves and didn't see a sole of the entire stay. Would definitely look to revisit if passing through.

J

Jodie

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hillside Camp on Bow River

My partner and I have stayed here twice now this spring and are already keen to go back. The first time we stayed in the group sites but had no issue with noise or neighbours. We explored the tracks and caves and river, and had such a good time that we came back a month later with friends. Stayed on the Flights Ridge site that has awesome views and the cleanest port-a-loo I’ve ever used! (1 loo per site!) 4x4 tracks are well looked after, well sign posted and varied in difficulty. The place is out in the country but the host gives accurate arrival details and meets you at the gate! The site is amazing and super varied, and Dave the host is super hospitable, helpful and friendly. We will absolutely be back!

Paul

November 2025

4 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Hillside Camp on Bow River

awesome place and Dave is such a great host - i'll be back again for the 3rd time

B

Brea

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Cadagi Farm Stay in Central West NSW

Beautiful spot, felt very isolated but was nice and close to Dubbo. Great view of all the farm land around and stream below. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking to visit the area.

T

Taryn

October 2025

10 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cadagi Farm Stay in Central West NSW

Beautiful, peacful spot to be! Gorgeous sunsets and sunrises. A great place to stop for a night or even two. Excellant communication from Matt with directions. Would 100% visit again!

T

Tara

October 2025

5 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cadagi Farm Stay in Central West NSW

Lovely spot to stay. Very close to town and easy to find. Sites are well maintained, flat and clear. Would happily stay again.

K

Kerrie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Cadagi Farm Stay in Central West NSW

I loved camping on the riverbank. Host provided clear instructions and promptly responded to any questions. Lovely quiet location

R

Rebecca

October 2025

5 m car

1 night at Waykara Hilltop retreat

Karen was friendly and ready to show the way. Space was lovely and quiet. You do need to bring everything as stated in the listing. The surrounding towns like Hill End and Sofala are lovely and quaint. Good for cycling.

Jade

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Crudine

Nice easy camp, clear instruction and wonderful part of the world. The best.

S

Shayne

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hillside Camp on Bow River

Gully view was well grassed and flat. We really enjoyed driving the 4x4 trails and views, Exploring Bow river and all it's caves was probably the highlight of our stay. Amazing. Dave was super helpful and laidback. We'll definitely return 🤠

M

Michelle

October 2025

10 m pop-up camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hillside Camp on Bow River

We had a great weekend camp at Flights Ridge camp site. It was very private. Had lovely caves along the caves walk. A trip to the river is well worthwhile. So beautiful down there. Communication with Dave was excellent.

B

Brett

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at The Gateway-Hargraves Bushland

We had another great stay at Home Base. It’s very peaceful and such a great place to relax. Plenty of shelter and love the forge for camp fire cooking. Recommend staying here. Stop at the little shop at Hargraves on the way in. The pies are delicious.

B

Brad

October 2025

11 m pop-up camper

With pets

4 nights at Hillside Camp on Bow River

This was our third time camping at Dave & Lisa's farm. They are wonderful hosts and the property is perfect if you enjoy peace and quiet while being surrounded by nature. Having time away from the crowds and the screens is priceless.