97% (2K) • 82 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Gundaroo
Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping
1. Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping
98%
(668)
77km from Gundaroo · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This property is in Northangera with the Mongarlowe River running along the boundary. It's covered in trees and provides a pristine environment amongst the "Scribbly Gums". It has flat areas with plenty of free timber for the designated fire pits. I have tried to create a haven for wildlife including Kangaroos, wombats, echidnas and platypus. I cherish the cleanliness of the river and surrounds and wish to be able to share this special environment with others who care to preserve all it offers. You can explore the property along the tracks, paddle, swim or fish in the river, enjoy the fauna, wildlife and birdlife.
Located not far from Braidwood, a town steeped in history, with good shopping, coffee shops and great food.
Sloping to flat land amongst the Scribbly Gum trees offering a number of sites and walks through the property. It provides both sun and shade. Access is good for vans of any size along a track through the bushland.
Lovely swimming spots in the Mongalowe River, beautiful clear water, and several lovely bushwalks around the property.
There is only Telstra reception available in this area.
We offer 7 different sites and the maximum stay is 7 nights.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$49
/ night
Maddara.Organic.Farm.and.Art
2. Maddara.Organic.Farm.and.Art
99%
(157)
7.7km from Gundaroo · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Once a much larger property, we purchased our 120-acre (50-hectare) in 1984 as a means to live sustainably and raise a family.
Living in our shed whilst we prepared the garden, installed watering infrastructure, and built our house, which we finally moved into when our daughter was 6 months old in 1990.
Over the ensuing years, we have continued to increase biodiversity on the property and set it up so we can live sustainably, harvesting our own water, electricity, and food.
If you're lucky, you could get a hamper of our product when there is sufficient in season.
With the increased biodiversity, you will find that in the mornings and evenings, kangaroos and wallabies will visit with the occasional echidna, rabbi,t and hare; and to forget the large array of bird life - that may wake you early in the morning with the songs.
This campsite is set on lovely grassy open areas interspersed with gum trees. The sunrise looks spectacular near the dam, when the trees give off a lovely glow.
The main paddock has a Geodome, a shared space for relaxing in. With all that space, you can park and set up camp anywhere in the paddock.
There is access to drinking water, toilets, and a hot shower.
Around the dome is a fire pit, drinking water, and a camp kitchen. The fire pit features an Argentinian BBQ and a plate for cooking. The kitchen has plates, cups, cutlery, and other bits and pieces for you to use.
We also allow your pets to stay on-site; this includes horses.
If you want exclusive use of the paddocks, refer to Group Bush Retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$51
/ night
Burrendah Farm Camp
3. Burrendah Farm Camp
99%
(53)
31km from Gundaroo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
200 acres of beautiful farmland situated on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Enjoy a campsite overlooking the stunning Brindabellas, a small spot next to the dam, if you bring your 4WD, or a fabulous site next to the old cottage that comes complete with a flushing loo!
Our beautiful border collie, Sollie, will naturally want to come say hi no matter which site you pick.
There are plenty of local food and wine venues in the surrounding area for you to enjoy.
Pets are welcome but we do have livestock on the property, so please keep them on leash.
Campfires are allowed as long as there are no fire restrictions in place.
All campers must have their own supplies and be self sufficient as we do not supply any amenities: you will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet, shower and water. Please do not dig a toilet hole, even though you leave it covered, it doesn't take long for the foxes to dig it up!!
There is mobile reception. No shooting, archery or hunting.
Camper trailers and caravans are welcome but can only stay at the easily accessible camp site.
Please note, the road to the river is now impassable even for 4WD - we will update here when it is back up to scratch. But you do get your pick of 2 other lovely sites!
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from
AU$39
/ night
Micalong Gorge
4. Micalong Gorge
64km from Gundaroo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Lost Eden. 210 ha of forest. Mix of tall old growth, dry forest and vegetated creek. Within 20m you become lost in the forest, the song of birds (superb lyrebirds) the smells, the trees. Also has over 2km.of lovely Micalong creek. Flows uninterrupted from Micalong swamp. This is as close to untouched forest you can get.
Pets
from
AU$97
/ night
Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee
5. Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee
99%
(438)
69km from Gundaroo · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Follow us on Facebook and Insta - Jarabin.au
Located along a 2km stretch of the Murrumbidgee River with a mountain backdrop, Riverview is a working Angus cattle farm, it does not get more breathtaking than this!
Little over an hour from Canberra and three from Sydney, you can enjoy large campsites right on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Swimming, floating down rapids, fishing, bike riding, and hiking! So many activities to keep you entertained or just sit back and listen to the rapids from the front of your tent.
We are pet friendly, bring your four-legged family members with you - they'll love it just as much as you! We also have secure yards with water for horses, with plenty of walking and riding trails on the farm, you'll have an unforgettable time!
Please note, no mobile reception at sites. You will receive a notification 2 days before arrival with the gate code, please note this down as you will not be able to access the Hipcamp app on site (due to no mobile reception).
All campers must be self-contained with their own camp toilet, and we kindly ask you take all waste with you when you leave.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$43
/ night
Redlands Camping
6. Redlands Camping
99%
(583)
68km from Gundaroo · 42 sites · Tents, RVs
Hi campers, Nestled among the hills on Old Man Gunyah Creek, this 1400 acre property is owned &and run by John & Jen. It's a sheep farm running 1600 sheep producing fine wool and fat lambs.
Plenty of room to move, walk the hills, catch a fish, or just sit by the camp fire & watch the stars.
Bring your motor home, caravan, camper, tent or swag, the choice is yours. The shearing shed has a fully equipped kitchen & plenty of fresh rain water. You are welcome to roll out your swag in the shearing shed if you prefer.
Controlled dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a leash at all times. There is no mobile service or Wi-Fi. We are 50 kms from a corner store/service station, so don't leave yourselves short. There are toilets scattered around the property, but no shower available.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$19
/ night
Spring Creek Valley Farm
7. Spring Creek Valley Farm
99%
(67)
46km from Gundaroo · 1 site · Tent, RV
Spring Creek Valley Farm is a 2200-acre farm located in the beautiful southern tablelands, 1 hour to the Canberra CBD and just 1 hour to Batemans Bay on the coast.
With over 3km of creek frontage and 100+ acres of untouched native bushland, there are ample options for campsites to suit just about anyone. All campers must be completely self-contained, with their own camp toilet, and take all waste when they go.
The original name of this property is Wooraba which is an aboriginal word for 'hidden' which describes it very well. Here, you will immerse yourself in the Australian bush and enjoy a truly peaceful retreat. Enjoy fantastic bushwalks amongst the native flora and fauna, or take your mountain bike to the high open hilly area to check out the expansive views. Or lay in some of the creek's rock pools and sunbathe.
Whilst we can accept dogs, this absolutely must be discussed with us prior to booking. We are a working farm, with sheep, and it is important that any visiting pets do not hassle our sheep, and are kept on a lead at all times.
Campfires are permitted in the designated fire pit when conditions allow and no local fire bans are in play.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$46
/ night
The Hobby Sheep Farm
8. The Hobby Sheep Farm
99%
(214)
51km from Gundaroo · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
EV Charging station available Type 2 plug (costs applicable).
Come and pitch your tent or caravan in our hobby sheep farm.
Plenty to do from fishing, bush walking or simply relaxing in and around the garden.
There is access to drinking water and a toilet (no shower).
I can offer friendly advice for activities around the area, or you're welcome to go out exploring yourself. The Shoalhaven River is a short 25 minute drive from the property, 25 minutes to Goulburn CBD for all your supply needs, and Canberra is 1 hour away.
Enjoy the evenings warming your toes around the campfire as you gaze at the night sky. The area is peppered with many other quaint villages. Excellent overnight stop from the coast and the wine country.
Please note that firewood is not available and there are no fires permitted
October till April.
Pets welcome.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$37
/ night
Bunyip Jerrawa
9. Bunyip Jerrawa
97%
(51)
31km from Gundaroo · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Located 20 minutes from thriving Yass we offer just under 200 acres of farm land to stay and explore. This really can be the holiday of your choice;
Set up camp and stay onsite to enjoy farm walks, dam and creek swims, wildlife watching and the odd farm animal. And of course cosy up in your camp chair around a fire during winter. Enjoy our 'loo with a view' for a unique toilet experience.
Or use it as a base to explore the local area, with Yass 20mins away, Canberra an hour, Murrambateman wineries 40mins, and Goulburn a 40min drive.
Be sure to visit Dalton Pub and grab a coffee in Gunning if that’s your thing.
Thanks for considering a stay on our property.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
AU$20
/ night
Country Journey, Boxgrove farm
10. Country Journey, Boxgrove farm
99%
(252)
37km from Gundaroo · 43 sites · Tents, RVs
With over 600 acres of Australian bush, our property is ideal for campers that want their own space. We are completely off-grid (no wifi to distract you) and we run off tank water (for this reason showers are only available for two hours in the evening). There are multiple camp sites on the property - some are close to hot showers and toilets, others are within a short walking distance. Some sites are perfect for our self sufficient campers who might want a nice private location and don't need access to amenities.
There are two shared camp kitchen areas (with pizza ovens and bbqs). We have two amenities blocks with toilets and hot showers and two further compost toilets located at other sites. Campfires are permitted in designated areas (check with us when booking) and firewood can be added to your booking - we do require at least 24 hours notice if you want wood.
There are lots of old-style games for the kids such as cricket, tennis, playground, bikes available, a swim in the dam and general country running around fun! Unfortunately we no longer have our flying fox, but there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy. We have some great bush walking areas where you might be lucky enough to see our resident wombats or our breeding pair of Wedge-tailed Eagles.
The property dates back to the early 1900s and there are numerous historic buildings on the property. The earliest is a wooden slab hut that was built around the beginning of the 19th century - the Goulburn Penny Post newspaper, dated 3 December 1904 lines the walls of the hut. It also has a two shearing stand wooden shed built by Marcus Dawe in 1922.
We try to make sure all of our guests have a great experience - so if you have any special requests reach out to us and have a chat!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$33
/ night
Stary Ponds
11. Stary Ponds
92%
(33)
53km from Gundaroo · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A peaceful space with lots of trees and waterways as well as an abundance of wildlife such as deer, kangaroo, black cockatoos, butterflies and so many gorgeous birds.
The landscape is varied, with lots of options to explore. From hiking the mountainous steep terrains, to meandering through the many ponds and waterways, or discovering the cleared trails ready for a beautiful bush walk or ride through nature.
The peace at night and the stars are unlike anything I've seen, absolutely breathtaking, and only 15 minutes from all the modern amenities you may need.
We offer several camping sites, a cabin and a large teepee.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$43
/ night
Themeda Farm Campground
12. Themeda Farm Campground
100%
(6)
68km from Gundaroo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
The Themeda Farm Campground provides a private off-grid experience on the western bank of the Murrumbidgee River. Relax by the camp fire or take the stairs down to a private beach with multiple swimming and fishing holes.
Nature lovers can enjoy the local wildlife that frequent the river or stroll around the 165 acre property. There's also easy access to local attractions including the Namadgi Visitor's Centre, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and popular local walking trails.
Located 30 minutes from the southernmost shopping precinct of the ACT, and 15 mins from the historic village of Tharwa.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$59
/ night
Truffle Farm Camping
13. Truffle Farm Camping
98%
(87)
65km from Gundaroo · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property is a working Truffle Farm, our land is fairly level but backs onto thousands of acres of Crown Land and the Shoalhaven River where you can relax in the fresh water, fossick for gold or enjoy bush trails.
EV Charging station available Type 2 plug (costs applicable).
If you'd rather read a book, you'll find lots of peaceful spots and the nights are just unbelievable with all the stars that shine so brightly.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$43
/ night
Yass River seclusion
14. Yass River seclusion
89%
(9)
14km from Gundaroo · 1 site · Tent, RV
200 acres of wild natural bushland on the Yass River. There's plenty of space for hiķing, with a long River frontage for fishing, canoeing, or fossicking. Old Chinese gold works near the site to inspect. A dam is available for swimming or catching yabbies. It is not safe to swim in the river due to flood wrack. There is plenty of wildlife particularly if you are into bird watching. Outside of the fire danger period you are welcome to build camp fires in the fireplace.
Lots of native animals to see. There are 4 species of macropod, wombats, and 3 possum species. A bird watchers paradise. Bush walking. Close to cold climate wineries and horse riding. We can provide a driver for winery visits.
Completely undeveloped so you will need to bring everything you need and take it away with you including toilet and waste. There is a dump site at Yass. You are welcome to collect the abundant fallen timber to burn in the fireplace when firebans are not in place.
Only 4WD car access. Unsuitable for caravans. Dogs are welcome so long as they do not pass property boundaries. We have neighbours with sheep and cattle. You could also bring your horses we have trails and a small yard and attached shelter.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$40
/ night
Travellers Village Rest
15. Travellers Village Rest
100%
(21)
50km from Gundaroo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Stay on our 2 acre block on the edge of a small village in the southern tablelands of NSW. We are conveniently close to the Hume Highway, with a level grassed site with scattered gum trees providing shade. Travellers between Melbourne and Sydney can easily pull in off the highway for a quick set up for the night, then be back on the road the next morning. Alternatively, our site is an excellent base to stay for a few days while you explore Canberra and surrounds, as it is an hour to the Nation’s capital.
Sure, we can hear the highway and occasional trains as they go past on the main line but there are also plenty of bird calls and some neighbouring wallabies. There is a small creek on the boundary of the camping block that attracts birds but is not suitable for swimming. We have town water available for campers and toilet facilities are a short 400m walk to the middle of the village. The nearest dump point is 15 minutes away in the town of Yass. Winters are excellent for small fires for cooking and then putting another log on to enjoy the rest of the evening under the stars. We have dedicated fire pits or you can use your own.
As an added bonus, there are metal sculptures dotted around the block created by the host.
Each site is spacious enough for up to 4 vans if you are travelling in a group. It is easy to navigate through the trees and use it as a drive through.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$25
/ night
River View Retreat
16. River View Retreat
100%
(2)
72km from Gundaroo · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to your own private pocket of virgin bushland, featuring a spacious, flat clearing ideal for your off-grid setup. Enjoy sweeping views across the river, valley, and surrounding native forest, with wildlife regularly spotted throughout the property. Or just sit around the campfire and relax.
We are PET FRIENDLY.
Lots of local attractions; swimming, gold prospecting, truffle hunting, bushwalking, day trips to the coast, Braidwood, Goulburn, Bungonia, even Canberra and much more. A great nearby Nerriga country pub (breakfasts, lunches and dinners).
All guest bookings go in the annual draw for a free stay of the same duration. Bonus entry if you refer another booking.
Access is easy via 2WD, yet the site feels wonderfully secluded. Please note: campers must be fully self-contained and bring their own toilet.
You’ll be just minutes from the iconic Nerriga Pub and the Oallen Ford swimming and gold-fossicking area, with Braidwood, Goulburn, and even Canberra all within day-trip distance.
The region is filled with things to explore—from local wineries and a truffle farm to beautiful bushwalks and plenty of hidden gems. It’s a peaceful base for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone wanting to switch off and unwind.
Firewood is provided, and your pets are welcome to join you!
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$25
/ night
Camp Rossi
17. Camp Rossi
91%
(99)
56km from Gundaroo · 6 sites · Tents
Small acreage about 400m from the Tallaganda State Forest which is known for picnic area with water wheel, lookouts, trout streams, bush walking, mountain bike riding and single track motorcycles.Campsites are beside the natural spring creek. The creek is suitable for swimming but a word of warning is it's freezing!Includes filtered rain water, shelter, toilet, gas BBQ, fire pit and free firewood.Not suitable for caravans at the moment. 2WD ok and suits camper trailers and tents only. Dogs welcome on a leash/restrained & well controlled.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
AU$49
/ night
Private Bush Camp Exclusively Yours
18. Private Bush Camp Exclusively Yours
97%
(38)
34km from Gundaroo · 7 sites · Tents
Peaceful unspoilt bush and farm land in the Southern Tablelands, on the Great Dividing Range. 1 hour from Canberra, 3 hours from Sydney. Suits tents, rooftop tents and camper trailers only - no caravans or motor homes.
Drive 6.5km private dirt road off highway to access private individual campsites along short bush tracks. Choice of small number of secluded locations on different parts of the property; each booking enjoys their own private camping area completely to themselves.
Campfires allowed when conditions permit, firewood available to buy. No services (power, water, sewerage, rubbish collection or wifi).
1. PEPPERMINT GUM CAMPGROUND is well established and suits a larger group of friends or 2-3 families (max 16 guests per booking, your group will have this place all to yourself). Located in 1.6ha / 4 acres of grassy woodland, it offers a good choice of mown tent sites in shade or sun. A large centrally located clearing for your group to gather, with a rustic camp kitchen hut for all-weather cooking and eating. A rustic pit toilet is a short walk away, with handwashing station and views!
2. SNOWGUMS CAMPSITE is a smaller camping area for up to 6 people, on a low forested ridge overlooking Sandhills Creek. Choose from separate mown tent sites and gather in a campfire clearing in protected snowgums forest. A rustic pit toilet is a short walk away.
Several kilometres of marked walking trails within the property. Explore the creek line, hike up the mountain to the old stone trig point, walk to the swimming hole on the creek with jetty, picnic area and rowboat. Numerous picnic spots. A swimming dam, jetty, and picnic sites are accessible via marked walking and driving tracks. There are also several kms of walking tracks directly from the campsite along Sandhills Creek and the 'mountain paddock'.
Owners live further along the road on the property, and can be contacted if needed. A separate AirBnB house is located on the property; please respect the privacy of fellow guests.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
AU$73
/ night
The Sanctuary 2580
19. The Sanctuary 2580
100%
(52)
62km from Gundaroo · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 Welcome to The Sanctuary 2580 – A Hidden Bush Retreat close to Sydney, Wollongong and Canberra!
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of our biodiverse, timeless land sprawling across ~500 acres.
Conveniently located just 2.5 hours from Sydney, 1.3 hours from Canberra, and a short 25-minute drive from Goulburn, The Sanctuary 2580 (our postcode) is an exclusive haven for nature enthusiasts and those wanting their own cosy hidden valley experience.
🚗 Getting Here:
Ten kms off the Hume down a tar and gravel rural lane, with the final ~2 kms down a bush track/firetrail.
NOTE: ALL the Map Apps (Garmin Apple Google etc) get the directions Wrong, but on booking we will send you access instructions.
🌳 Nature's Symphony:
The firetrail that brings you to The Sanctuary descends ~2kms of the 3 km long catchment of Lyrebird Creek, where on arriving at our farm, the water slows, down dropping the sediments and nutrients carried by this fast perennial mountain creek onto the open uplands floodplain, enriching and watering a rich tapestry of native grasses and herbs in the woodlands and the poa tussock river grasslands further down. In a wet season the chorus of frogs is deafening along our 1km long main valley.
Lyrebird Creek after leaving the woodlands, descends past several natural springs to our southeast corner where it joins Jerrara Creek, that flows into Bungonia Creek, and then into the Shoalhaven River.
But don't expect to see Lyrebird Creek running, as it's only on the surface for few weeks per year on average in wet years, rarely in average years or standard El Niño years. It only runs on the surface for a few weeks a year in La Niña years after the catchment is saturated, as the rest of the time like many of Australia's creeks, it flows below the surface in ancient riverbed-rocked aquifers
Our quiet mornings and evenings are filled with birdsong from all the small forest, woodlands and creekside birds, over 10 species of cockatoos and parrots, and the second last bird chorus at night is the resident kookaburra family sings their boundaries, and if you listen carefully you’ll hear surrounding kookaburra tribes answering.
It's after the evening kookaburra boundary patrol and just on dark that you'll sometimes hear the male lyrebirds practicing their extensive repertoire. One thing that gives them away is that the birds they are mimicking area all tucked up for the night, and the different calls come from the same areas of the eastern or western ridges that hug the Lyrebird Creek catchment as they move to their overnight lairs deep in the forest.
After dark, if you have young hearing, or the right microphone and frequency converter attached to your smart phone, there’s the very high-pitched ecolocation of the many insect-eating microbats, the quiet calls of the barn and boobook owls as they set out on their nightly hunts, and sometimes the territorial calls and squabbles of the brush-tailed possum tribes.
The local council biodiversity officer told us earlier in 2024 to keep an eye and ear out for the calls of endangered species of glider possums, and over in the western valleys we may have the normally silent koalas. It's only male koalas in mating season who make a lot of noise for a few weeks a year.
Our native fauna also comprises the quiet, shy and camouflaged swamp and red-necked wallabies, echidnas, eastern grey kangaroos, wombats and the even more shy bandicoots.
Reptiles include skinks, blue tongues, water monitors, lace monitors (a species of goanna that can be well over 2m long, snakes include red-belly blacks and eastern browns, and 4+ species of frogs. While in the springs and waterways we have yabbies, freshwater mussels and whopping great leaches.
Some of the bigger waterholes on Jerrara Creek may have rakali, Australia's native rodent version in the ecosystem of the freshwater otters of the Northern Hemisphere. We're hoping the platypus move back once the catchment and stream health improves.
🌋 Ancient Rocks Unveiled:
Explore Hanging Rock and other ancient volcanic pumice-like rock formations, on both the eastern and western sides of the Lyrebird Creek valley standing resilient against hundreds of millions of years of geological erosion. These natural wonders we think are from the Silurian or Ordovician periods ~415-480 million years ago, add to the timelessness to the landscape.
🏞️ The Sanctuary is Spacious and Largely Untouched:
As the most recent custodians of the ~500 acres, we're all about having a small footprint, regenerating and restoring the creeklines impacted by the livestock and feral animals of European invasion. We currently use or travel over ~5% of the land and have a self-imposed limit of -10% maximum in our biodiversity and catchment management plans.
We are setting up remote monitoring systems to keep a check on the native fauna and flora as well as catchment and creek health, ensuring we only intervene if and when necessary.
Our boundary fence-lines dwarf your average suburban block: eastern - 1km, northern - 2.1km, western - 0.8km and the southern creek boundary is 5.6kms long. Luckily the southern boundary fencing is on the other side of the creek, but we are planning how to replace the other ~4kms of boundary fencing, as much of it traverses some quite rugged terrain.
⛰️ Elevate Your Experience with Cool Nights, Scenic Heights:
Experience a change in altitude, ranging from 590 to 810 meters above sea level. Enjoy cool nights even in summer, and as we catch up with the maintenance and add signage, there will be opportunities to walk our internal fire trails leading to Mount William and over to the western valleys.
🌲 Beyond The Sanctuary:
The beautiful Bungonia Gorge and National Park is just 40 minutes away offering well-marked trails for every skill level, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. And for the experienced there's some caves that speleologists love and well-meaning amateurs get rescued from.
Only 30 minutes away is Australia’s oldest inland city of Goulburn. It has great cafés, restaurants and takeways, and regal colonial architecture with the railway station, courthouse and the beautiful 2 cathedrals.
Other interesting tourist features include The Roundhouse (for train fans), the May St Wetlands restoration project, a number of art galleries, the Conservatorium, Lieder Theatre (Australia's oldest inland theatre) and the popular Goulburn Performing Arts Centre.
🌍 Mission and Values of a Social Enterprise – doing good by doing good business
Beyond our birdlife and tranquillity, we're on a social and environmental mission.
Our business plans for The Sanctuary are that becomes a hub for environmental and climate change science education, an example of good science-informed Permaculture design, and updated versions of the farm, garden, and nature therapy we were doing back in the 80s.
So your stay first of all pays the council and local land services rates, abd directly supports environmental management at The Sanctuary and beyond, including regenerative agriculture and agricultural biodiversity, catchment and wetlands restoration, and broadacre Permaculture design.
It also helps us create a walk-the-talk operational base for our other work through Sacred Earth Works and Transforming Lives Australia, in assisting communities, forward-thinking companies, and the 4 levels of Australian government transition to a world working in harmony with the biosphere & restoring the damage to the Planet of the last ~8,000 years of civilisation.
🏡 Off-the-Grid Experience:
Disconnect and unwind with a back-to-basics experience – just you, nature, and the crackling fire.
We're already solar and battery where we can for our work vehicles and plan to offer charging stations for all your devices, followed by onsite EV charging in the next 3-5 years.
🐾 Furry Friends Welcome but Safety for All Comes First:
Well-behaved dogs are part of the family. Bring your canine companions, but they must be on a leash or long lead — respecting both the wildlife and fellow guests.
Remember, that for dogs, as well as kids and adults, the Australian bush has lots of things that will injure or kill you if you don't keep your distance and show respect.
So please keep your distance from all wildlife, and don't let kids or dogs try to go down the wombat warrens. We've never had an incident, and that's the way we intend to keep it
Managing the risks and safely avoiding them means keeping the worst case scenarios in mind. These risks include
~ campfires are hot, and can escape,
~ at least 3 species of poisonous snakes,
~ goannas are not an ancient 2-3m long lizard you want to tangle with,
~ wombats can kill dogs that trespass down their warrens by squashing them against the tunnel roof,
~ pick up an echidna and you'll have lots of holes in your hands
~ male platypus have fighting spurs with poison glands on their back feet
~ open forest-dwelling jack-jumping ants bite and sting at the same time
~ seriously pissed off big male kangaroos can easily disembowel a person or dog,
~ the dominant male feral deer get territorial in mating season and no one wants to become a trophy on their huge antlers, and
~ local farmers shoot stray dogs on sight, then bury them out of view.
Years ago, we lost a few isolated few small farm dogs and puppies when they strayed away from us, to the huge 3m+ wingspan wedge-tailed eagles that visit to hunt roos, wallabies and rabbits
Remember that The Sanctuary is home to these potentially hazardous animals, birds, reptiles and insects, but stick to the rules, keep clear, everyone goes home happy, and we keep a perfect safety record.
Besides I hate incident paperwork !!
🤝 Mutual Respect and Responsibility:
We welcome families of all sorts including: different cultures, colours, rainbow, neurodiverse and AS, members and veterans of the Australian Defence Force, and the self-reliant differently-abled.
We believe in mutual respect for People and Planet. Our values guide us, and we want to ensure a safe, friendly and harmonious environment for all - our volunteers. farm team, contractors, guests and visitors.
If you share these values, we can't wait to welcome you to The Sanctuary 2580! We ask everyone to tread lightly. Respect the land, its inhabitants, and other guests and visitors.
🌳 Your Visit Matters:
Your stay contributes directly to the upkeep of The Sanctuary, environmental custodianship, ongoing conservation efforts. Together, we can work on restoration ecology, control weeds and feral animals, encourage agricultural and wild biodiversity by providing habitat for vulnerable species, protect endangered ecosystems and promote ecoagriculture.
🌈 👍 Connect with Us:
Stay in the loop by liking our Facebook page - The Sanctuary 2580,
Adding a presence on Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube and Tiktok is in the business plans for 2024-25
🌱 Book Your Eco Escape:
Plan your escape through HipCamp, where booking is seamless, and communication is hassle-free. But after your booking, I find email phone and text quicker.
Hipcamp do a great jog handling the booking logistics, camper insurance, dispute resolution, camper and host quality control, and credit cards, allowing us to focus on what we do best—caring for the land and providing you with an unforgettable experience in nature.
🚫 Booking Details:
Please note, bookings exclusively through HipCamp. NO LATE BOOKINGS, NO SHOWUPS and HOPE. When we are Booked Out, we cannot make exceptions. To avoid that book early please.
Your understanding ensures a respectful and honest community of campers.
Book your eco escape at The Sanctuary 2580 and experience the magic of nature! 🍃✨
#TheSanctuary2580 #EcoRetreat #NatureEscape #Goulburn #SouthernTablelands #ForestBathing #NatureTherapy
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$73
/ night
The Ridge
20. The Ridge
100%
(52)
47km from Gundaroo · 1 site · Tent, RV
Only 4.5 kms from the Kings Highway lies this idyllic property where John and Pippa have built their rural home, keep goats, chickens and grow their own vegetables.
Once part of a huge thriving farmstead with lots of local history, a secret Bushrangers grave and scattered gold deposits are rumoured to be hidden
amongst the snow gums. Descendants of the original landowners still live in nearby Heritage listed Braidwood.
We have 104 acres of beautiful and varied terrain with fabulous rolling views.
During your stay enjoy our amazing bird life, kangaroos, wallabies, possibly echidnas, rosenburgs, wombats and even deer.
Guests are required to be fully self sufficient with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste with them on departure. Campfires are welcome permitting there are no restrictions in place at the time of your stay.
This is the ideal location to just relax and enjoy nature at its finest. On a clear night the stars are amazing.
We are only an hour from Canberra situated halfway between the picturesque towns of Braidwood and Bungendore, both within 20 mins away.
Sorry, no pets.
Campfires
Picnic table
from
AU$43
/ night
97% (2K) • 82 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Gundaroo
Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping
1. Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping
98%
(668)
77km from Gundaroo · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This property is in Northangera with the Mongarlowe River running along the boundary. It's covered in trees and provides a pristine environment amongst the "Scribbly Gums". It has flat areas with plenty of free timber for the designated fire pits. I have tried to create a haven for wildlife including Kangaroos, wombats, echidnas and platypus. I cherish the cleanliness of the river and surrounds and wish to be able to share this special environment with others who care to preserve all it offers. You can explore the property along the tracks, paddle, swim or fish in the river, enjoy the fauna, wildlife and birdlife.
Located not far from Braidwood, a town steeped in history, with good shopping, coffee shops and great food.
Sloping to flat land amongst the Scribbly Gum trees offering a number of sites and walks through the property. It provides both sun and shade. Access is good for vans of any size along a track through the bushland.
Lovely swimming spots in the Mongalowe River, beautiful clear water, and several lovely bushwalks around the property.
There is only Telstra reception available in this area.
We offer 7 different sites and the maximum stay is 7 nights.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$49
/ night
Maddara.Organic.Farm.and.Art
2. Maddara.Organic.Farm.and.Art
99%
(157)
7.7km from Gundaroo · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Once a much larger property, we purchased our 120-acre (50-hectare) in 1984 as a means to live sustainably and raise a family.
Living in our shed whilst we prepared the garden, installed watering infrastructure, and built our house, which we finally moved into when our daughter was 6 months old in 1990.
Over the ensuing years, we have continued to increase biodiversity on the property and set it up so we can live sustainably, harvesting our own water, electricity, and food.
If you're lucky, you could get a hamper of our product when there is sufficient in season.
With the increased biodiversity, you will find that in the mornings and evenings, kangaroos and wallabies will visit with the occasional echidna, rabbi,t and hare; and to forget the large array of bird life - that may wake you early in the morning with the songs.
This campsite is set on lovely grassy open areas interspersed with gum trees. The sunrise looks spectacular near the dam, when the trees give off a lovely glow.
The main paddock has a Geodome, a shared space for relaxing in. With all that space, you can park and set up camp anywhere in the paddock.
There is access to drinking water, toilets, and a hot shower.
Around the dome is a fire pit, drinking water, and a camp kitchen. The fire pit features an Argentinian BBQ and a plate for cooking. The kitchen has plates, cups, cutlery, and other bits and pieces for you to use.
We also allow your pets to stay on-site; this includes horses.
If you want exclusive use of the paddocks, refer to Group Bush Retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$51
/ night
Burrendah Farm Camp
3. Burrendah Farm Camp
99%
(53)
31km from Gundaroo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
200 acres of beautiful farmland situated on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Enjoy a campsite overlooking the stunning Brindabellas, a small spot next to the dam, if you bring your 4WD, or a fabulous site next to the old cottage that comes complete with a flushing loo!
Our beautiful border collie, Sollie, will naturally want to come say hi no matter which site you pick.
There are plenty of local food and wine venues in the surrounding area for you to enjoy.
Pets are welcome but we do have livestock on the property, so please keep them on leash.
Campfires are allowed as long as there are no fire restrictions in place.
All campers must have their own supplies and be self sufficient as we do not supply any amenities: you will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet, shower and water. Please do not dig a toilet hole, even though you leave it covered, it doesn't take long for the foxes to dig it up!!
There is mobile reception. No shooting, archery or hunting.
Camper trailers and caravans are welcome but can only stay at the easily accessible camp site.
Please note, the road to the river is now impassable even for 4WD - we will update here when it is back up to scratch. But you do get your pick of 2 other lovely sites!
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from
AU$39
/ night
Micalong Gorge
4. Micalong Gorge
64km from Gundaroo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Lost Eden. 210 ha of forest. Mix of tall old growth, dry forest and vegetated creek. Within 20m you become lost in the forest, the song of birds (superb lyrebirds) the smells, the trees. Also has over 2km.of lovely Micalong creek. Flows uninterrupted from Micalong swamp. This is as close to untouched forest you can get.
Pets
from
AU$97
/ night
Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee
5. Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee
99%
(438)
69km from Gundaroo · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Follow us on Facebook and Insta - Jarabin.au
Located along a 2km stretch of the Murrumbidgee River with a mountain backdrop, Riverview is a working Angus cattle farm, it does not get more breathtaking than this!
Little over an hour from Canberra and three from Sydney, you can enjoy large campsites right on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Swimming, floating down rapids, fishing, bike riding, and hiking! So many activities to keep you entertained or just sit back and listen to the rapids from the front of your tent.
We are pet friendly, bring your four-legged family members with you - they'll love it just as much as you! We also have secure yards with water for horses, with plenty of walking and riding trails on the farm, you'll have an unforgettable time!
Please note, no mobile reception at sites. You will receive a notification 2 days before arrival with the gate code, please note this down as you will not be able to access the Hipcamp app on site (due to no mobile reception).
All campers must be self-contained with their own camp toilet, and we kindly ask you take all waste with you when you leave.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$43
/ night
Redlands Camping
6. Redlands Camping
99%
(583)
68km from Gundaroo · 42 sites · Tents, RVs
Hi campers, Nestled among the hills on Old Man Gunyah Creek, this 1400 acre property is owned &and run by John & Jen. It's a sheep farm running 1600 sheep producing fine wool and fat lambs.
Plenty of room to move, walk the hills, catch a fish, or just sit by the camp fire & watch the stars.
Bring your motor home, caravan, camper, tent or swag, the choice is yours. The shearing shed has a fully equipped kitchen & plenty of fresh rain water. You are welcome to roll out your swag in the shearing shed if you prefer.
Controlled dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a leash at all times. There is no mobile service or Wi-Fi. We are 50 kms from a corner store/service station, so don't leave yourselves short. There are toilets scattered around the property, but no shower available.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$19
/ night
Spring Creek Valley Farm
7. Spring Creek Valley Farm
99%
(67)
46km from Gundaroo · 1 site · Tent, RV
Spring Creek Valley Farm is a 2200-acre farm located in the beautiful southern tablelands, 1 hour to the Canberra CBD and just 1 hour to Batemans Bay on the coast.
With over 3km of creek frontage and 100+ acres of untouched native bushland, there are ample options for campsites to suit just about anyone. All campers must be completely self-contained, with their own camp toilet, and take all waste when they go.
The original name of this property is Wooraba which is an aboriginal word for 'hidden' which describes it very well. Here, you will immerse yourself in the Australian bush and enjoy a truly peaceful retreat. Enjoy fantastic bushwalks amongst the native flora and fauna, or take your mountain bike to the high open hilly area to check out the expansive views. Or lay in some of the creek's rock pools and sunbathe.
Whilst we can accept dogs, this absolutely must be discussed with us prior to booking. We are a working farm, with sheep, and it is important that any visiting pets do not hassle our sheep, and are kept on a lead at all times.
Campfires are permitted in the designated fire pit when conditions allow and no local fire bans are in play.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$46
/ night
The Hobby Sheep Farm
8. The Hobby Sheep Farm
99%
(214)
51km from Gundaroo · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
EV Charging station available Type 2 plug (costs applicable).
Come and pitch your tent or caravan in our hobby sheep farm.
Plenty to do from fishing, bush walking or simply relaxing in and around the garden.
There is access to drinking water and a toilet (no shower).
I can offer friendly advice for activities around the area, or you're welcome to go out exploring yourself. The Shoalhaven River is a short 25 minute drive from the property, 25 minutes to Goulburn CBD for all your supply needs, and Canberra is 1 hour away.
Enjoy the evenings warming your toes around the campfire as you gaze at the night sky. The area is peppered with many other quaint villages. Excellent overnight stop from the coast and the wine country.
Please note that firewood is not available and there are no fires permitted
October till April.
Pets welcome.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$37
/ night
Bunyip Jerrawa
9. Bunyip Jerrawa
97%
(51)
31km from Gundaroo · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Located 20 minutes from thriving Yass we offer just under 200 acres of farm land to stay and explore. This really can be the holiday of your choice;
Set up camp and stay onsite to enjoy farm walks, dam and creek swims, wildlife watching and the odd farm animal. And of course cosy up in your camp chair around a fire during winter. Enjoy our 'loo with a view' for a unique toilet experience.
Or use it as a base to explore the local area, with Yass 20mins away, Canberra an hour, Murrambateman wineries 40mins, and Goulburn a 40min drive.
Be sure to visit Dalton Pub and grab a coffee in Gunning if that’s your thing.
Thanks for considering a stay on our property.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
AU$20
/ night
Country Journey, Boxgrove farm
10. Country Journey, Boxgrove farm
99%
(252)
37km from Gundaroo · 43 sites · Tents, RVs
With over 600 acres of Australian bush, our property is ideal for campers that want their own space. We are completely off-grid (no wifi to distract you) and we run off tank water (for this reason showers are only available for two hours in the evening). There are multiple camp sites on the property - some are close to hot showers and toilets, others are within a short walking distance. Some sites are perfect for our self sufficient campers who might want a nice private location and don't need access to amenities.
There are two shared camp kitchen areas (with pizza ovens and bbqs). We have two amenities blocks with toilets and hot showers and two further compost toilets located at other sites. Campfires are permitted in designated areas (check with us when booking) and firewood can be added to your booking - we do require at least 24 hours notice if you want wood.
There are lots of old-style games for the kids such as cricket, tennis, playground, bikes available, a swim in the dam and general country running around fun! Unfortunately we no longer have our flying fox, but there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy. We have some great bush walking areas where you might be lucky enough to see our resident wombats or our breeding pair of Wedge-tailed Eagles.
The property dates back to the early 1900s and there are numerous historic buildings on the property. The earliest is a wooden slab hut that was built around the beginning of the 19th century - the Goulburn Penny Post newspaper, dated 3 December 1904 lines the walls of the hut. It also has a two shearing stand wooden shed built by Marcus Dawe in 1922.
We try to make sure all of our guests have a great experience - so if you have any special requests reach out to us and have a chat!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$33
/ night
Stary Ponds
11. Stary Ponds
92%
(33)
53km from Gundaroo · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A peaceful space with lots of trees and waterways as well as an abundance of wildlife such as deer, kangaroo, black cockatoos, butterflies and so many gorgeous birds.
The landscape is varied, with lots of options to explore. From hiking the mountainous steep terrains, to meandering through the many ponds and waterways, or discovering the cleared trails ready for a beautiful bush walk or ride through nature.
The peace at night and the stars are unlike anything I've seen, absolutely breathtaking, and only 15 minutes from all the modern amenities you may need.
We offer several camping sites, a cabin and a large teepee.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$43
/ night
Themeda Farm Campground
12. Themeda Farm Campground
100%
(6)
68km from Gundaroo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
The Themeda Farm Campground provides a private off-grid experience on the western bank of the Murrumbidgee River. Relax by the camp fire or take the stairs down to a private beach with multiple swimming and fishing holes.
Nature lovers can enjoy the local wildlife that frequent the river or stroll around the 165 acre property. There's also easy access to local attractions including the Namadgi Visitor's Centre, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and popular local walking trails.
Located 30 minutes from the southernmost shopping precinct of the ACT, and 15 mins from the historic village of Tharwa.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$59
/ night
Truffle Farm Camping
13. Truffle Farm Camping
98%
(87)
65km from Gundaroo · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property is a working Truffle Farm, our land is fairly level but backs onto thousands of acres of Crown Land and the Shoalhaven River where you can relax in the fresh water, fossick for gold or enjoy bush trails.
EV Charging station available Type 2 plug (costs applicable).
If you'd rather read a book, you'll find lots of peaceful spots and the nights are just unbelievable with all the stars that shine so brightly.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$43
/ night
Yass River seclusion
14. Yass River seclusion
89%
(9)
14km from Gundaroo · 1 site · Tent, RV
200 acres of wild natural bushland on the Yass River. There's plenty of space for hiķing, with a long River frontage for fishing, canoeing, or fossicking. Old Chinese gold works near the site to inspect. A dam is available for swimming or catching yabbies. It is not safe to swim in the river due to flood wrack. There is plenty of wildlife particularly if you are into bird watching. Outside of the fire danger period you are welcome to build camp fires in the fireplace.
Lots of native animals to see. There are 4 species of macropod, wombats, and 3 possum species. A bird watchers paradise. Bush walking. Close to cold climate wineries and horse riding. We can provide a driver for winery visits.
Completely undeveloped so you will need to bring everything you need and take it away with you including toilet and waste. There is a dump site at Yass. You are welcome to collect the abundant fallen timber to burn in the fireplace when firebans are not in place.
Only 4WD car access. Unsuitable for caravans. Dogs are welcome so long as they do not pass property boundaries. We have neighbours with sheep and cattle. You could also bring your horses we have trails and a small yard and attached shelter.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$40
/ night
Travellers Village Rest
15. Travellers Village Rest
100%
(21)
50km from Gundaroo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Stay on our 2 acre block on the edge of a small village in the southern tablelands of NSW. We are conveniently close to the Hume Highway, with a level grassed site with scattered gum trees providing shade. Travellers between Melbourne and Sydney can easily pull in off the highway for a quick set up for the night, then be back on the road the next morning. Alternatively, our site is an excellent base to stay for a few days while you explore Canberra and surrounds, as it is an hour to the Nation’s capital.
Sure, we can hear the highway and occasional trains as they go past on the main line but there are also plenty of bird calls and some neighbouring wallabies. There is a small creek on the boundary of the camping block that attracts birds but is not suitable for swimming. We have town water available for campers and toilet facilities are a short 400m walk to the middle of the village. The nearest dump point is 15 minutes away in the town of Yass. Winters are excellent for small fires for cooking and then putting another log on to enjoy the rest of the evening under the stars. We have dedicated fire pits or you can use your own.
As an added bonus, there are metal sculptures dotted around the block created by the host.
Each site is spacious enough for up to 4 vans if you are travelling in a group. It is easy to navigate through the trees and use it as a drive through.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$25
/ night
River View Retreat
16. River View Retreat
100%
(2)
72km from Gundaroo · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to your own private pocket of virgin bushland, featuring a spacious, flat clearing ideal for your off-grid setup. Enjoy sweeping views across the river, valley, and surrounding native forest, with wildlife regularly spotted throughout the property. Or just sit around the campfire and relax.
We are PET FRIENDLY.
Lots of local attractions; swimming, gold prospecting, truffle hunting, bushwalking, day trips to the coast, Braidwood, Goulburn, Bungonia, even Canberra and much more. A great nearby Nerriga country pub (breakfasts, lunches and dinners).
All guest bookings go in the annual draw for a free stay of the same duration. Bonus entry if you refer another booking.
Access is easy via 2WD, yet the site feels wonderfully secluded. Please note: campers must be fully self-contained and bring their own toilet.
You’ll be just minutes from the iconic Nerriga Pub and the Oallen Ford swimming and gold-fossicking area, with Braidwood, Goulburn, and even Canberra all within day-trip distance.
The region is filled with things to explore—from local wineries and a truffle farm to beautiful bushwalks and plenty of hidden gems. It’s a peaceful base for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone wanting to switch off and unwind.
Firewood is provided, and your pets are welcome to join you!
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$25
/ night
Camp Rossi
17. Camp Rossi
91%
(99)
56km from Gundaroo · 6 sites · Tents
Small acreage about 400m from the Tallaganda State Forest which is known for picnic area with water wheel, lookouts, trout streams, bush walking, mountain bike riding and single track motorcycles.Campsites are beside the natural spring creek. The creek is suitable for swimming but a word of warning is it's freezing!Includes filtered rain water, shelter, toilet, gas BBQ, fire pit and free firewood.Not suitable for caravans at the moment. 2WD ok and suits camper trailers and tents only. Dogs welcome on a leash/restrained & well controlled.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
AU$49
/ night
Private Bush Camp Exclusively Yours
18. Private Bush Camp Exclusively Yours
97%
(38)
34km from Gundaroo · 7 sites · Tents
Peaceful unspoilt bush and farm land in the Southern Tablelands, on the Great Dividing Range. 1 hour from Canberra, 3 hours from Sydney. Suits tents, rooftop tents and camper trailers only - no caravans or motor homes.
Drive 6.5km private dirt road off highway to access private individual campsites along short bush tracks. Choice of small number of secluded locations on different parts of the property; each booking enjoys their own private camping area completely to themselves.
Campfires allowed when conditions permit, firewood available to buy. No services (power, water, sewerage, rubbish collection or wifi).
1. PEPPERMINT GUM CAMPGROUND is well established and suits a larger group of friends or 2-3 families (max 16 guests per booking, your group will have this place all to yourself). Located in 1.6ha / 4 acres of grassy woodland, it offers a good choice of mown tent sites in shade or sun. A large centrally located clearing for your group to gather, with a rustic camp kitchen hut for all-weather cooking and eating. A rustic pit toilet is a short walk away, with handwashing station and views!
2. SNOWGUMS CAMPSITE is a smaller camping area for up to 6 people, on a low forested ridge overlooking Sandhills Creek. Choose from separate mown tent sites and gather in a campfire clearing in protected snowgums forest. A rustic pit toilet is a short walk away.
Several kilometres of marked walking trails within the property. Explore the creek line, hike up the mountain to the old stone trig point, walk to the swimming hole on the creek with jetty, picnic area and rowboat. Numerous picnic spots. A swimming dam, jetty, and picnic sites are accessible via marked walking and driving tracks. There are also several kms of walking tracks directly from the campsite along Sandhills Creek and the 'mountain paddock'.
Owners live further along the road on the property, and can be contacted if needed. A separate AirBnB house is located on the property; please respect the privacy of fellow guests.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
AU$73
/ night
The Sanctuary 2580
19. The Sanctuary 2580
100%
(52)
62km from Gundaroo · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 Welcome to The Sanctuary 2580 – A Hidden Bush Retreat close to Sydney, Wollongong and Canberra!
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of our biodiverse, timeless land sprawling across ~500 acres.
Conveniently located just 2.5 hours from Sydney, 1.3 hours from Canberra, and a short 25-minute drive from Goulburn, The Sanctuary 2580 (our postcode) is an exclusive haven for nature enthusiasts and those wanting their own cosy hidden valley experience.
🚗 Getting Here:
Ten kms off the Hume down a tar and gravel rural lane, with the final ~2 kms down a bush track/firetrail.
NOTE: ALL the Map Apps (Garmin Apple Google etc) get the directions Wrong, but on booking we will send you access instructions.
🌳 Nature's Symphony:
The firetrail that brings you to The Sanctuary descends ~2kms of the 3 km long catchment of Lyrebird Creek, where on arriving at our farm, the water slows, down dropping the sediments and nutrients carried by this fast perennial mountain creek onto the open uplands floodplain, enriching and watering a rich tapestry of native grasses and herbs in the woodlands and the poa tussock river grasslands further down. In a wet season the chorus of frogs is deafening along our 1km long main valley.
Lyrebird Creek after leaving the woodlands, descends past several natural springs to our southeast corner where it joins Jerrara Creek, that flows into Bungonia Creek, and then into the Shoalhaven River.
But don't expect to see Lyrebird Creek running, as it's only on the surface for few weeks per year on average in wet years, rarely in average years or standard El Niño years. It only runs on the surface for a few weeks a year in La Niña years after the catchment is saturated, as the rest of the time like many of Australia's creeks, it flows below the surface in ancient riverbed-rocked aquifers
Our quiet mornings and evenings are filled with birdsong from all the small forest, woodlands and creekside birds, over 10 species of cockatoos and parrots, and the second last bird chorus at night is the resident kookaburra family sings their boundaries, and if you listen carefully you’ll hear surrounding kookaburra tribes answering.
It's after the evening kookaburra boundary patrol and just on dark that you'll sometimes hear the male lyrebirds practicing their extensive repertoire. One thing that gives them away is that the birds they are mimicking area all tucked up for the night, and the different calls come from the same areas of the eastern or western ridges that hug the Lyrebird Creek catchment as they move to their overnight lairs deep in the forest.
After dark, if you have young hearing, or the right microphone and frequency converter attached to your smart phone, there’s the very high-pitched ecolocation of the many insect-eating microbats, the quiet calls of the barn and boobook owls as they set out on their nightly hunts, and sometimes the territorial calls and squabbles of the brush-tailed possum tribes.
The local council biodiversity officer told us earlier in 2024 to keep an eye and ear out for the calls of endangered species of glider possums, and over in the western valleys we may have the normally silent koalas. It's only male koalas in mating season who make a lot of noise for a few weeks a year.
Our native fauna also comprises the quiet, shy and camouflaged swamp and red-necked wallabies, echidnas, eastern grey kangaroos, wombats and the even more shy bandicoots.
Reptiles include skinks, blue tongues, water monitors, lace monitors (a species of goanna that can be well over 2m long, snakes include red-belly blacks and eastern browns, and 4+ species of frogs. While in the springs and waterways we have yabbies, freshwater mussels and whopping great leaches.
Some of the bigger waterholes on Jerrara Creek may have rakali, Australia's native rodent version in the ecosystem of the freshwater otters of the Northern Hemisphere. We're hoping the platypus move back once the catchment and stream health improves.
🌋 Ancient Rocks Unveiled:
Explore Hanging Rock and other ancient volcanic pumice-like rock formations, on both the eastern and western sides of the Lyrebird Creek valley standing resilient against hundreds of millions of years of geological erosion. These natural wonders we think are from the Silurian or Ordovician periods ~415-480 million years ago, add to the timelessness to the landscape.
🏞️ The Sanctuary is Spacious and Largely Untouched:
As the most recent custodians of the ~500 acres, we're all about having a small footprint, regenerating and restoring the creeklines impacted by the livestock and feral animals of European invasion. We currently use or travel over ~5% of the land and have a self-imposed limit of -10% maximum in our biodiversity and catchment management plans.
We are setting up remote monitoring systems to keep a check on the native fauna and flora as well as catchment and creek health, ensuring we only intervene if and when necessary.
Our boundary fence-lines dwarf your average suburban block: eastern - 1km, northern - 2.1km, western - 0.8km and the southern creek boundary is 5.6kms long. Luckily the southern boundary fencing is on the other side of the creek, but we are planning how to replace the other ~4kms of boundary fencing, as much of it traverses some quite rugged terrain.
⛰️ Elevate Your Experience with Cool Nights, Scenic Heights:
Experience a change in altitude, ranging from 590 to 810 meters above sea level. Enjoy cool nights even in summer, and as we catch up with the maintenance and add signage, there will be opportunities to walk our internal fire trails leading to Mount William and over to the western valleys.
🌲 Beyond The Sanctuary:
The beautiful Bungonia Gorge and National Park is just 40 minutes away offering well-marked trails for every skill level, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. And for the experienced there's some caves that speleologists love and well-meaning amateurs get rescued from.
Only 30 minutes away is Australia’s oldest inland city of Goulburn. It has great cafés, restaurants and takeways, and regal colonial architecture with the railway station, courthouse and the beautiful 2 cathedrals.
Other interesting tourist features include The Roundhouse (for train fans), the May St Wetlands restoration project, a number of art galleries, the Conservatorium, Lieder Theatre (Australia's oldest inland theatre) and the popular Goulburn Performing Arts Centre.
🌍 Mission and Values of a Social Enterprise – doing good by doing good business
Beyond our birdlife and tranquillity, we're on a social and environmental mission.
Our business plans for The Sanctuary are that becomes a hub for environmental and climate change science education, an example of good science-informed Permaculture design, and updated versions of the farm, garden, and nature therapy we were doing back in the 80s.
So your stay first of all pays the council and local land services rates, abd directly supports environmental management at The Sanctuary and beyond, including regenerative agriculture and agricultural biodiversity, catchment and wetlands restoration, and broadacre Permaculture design.
It also helps us create a walk-the-talk operational base for our other work through Sacred Earth Works and Transforming Lives Australia, in assisting communities, forward-thinking companies, and the 4 levels of Australian government transition to a world working in harmony with the biosphere & restoring the damage to the Planet of the last ~8,000 years of civilisation.
🏡 Off-the-Grid Experience:
Disconnect and unwind with a back-to-basics experience – just you, nature, and the crackling fire.
We're already solar and battery where we can for our work vehicles and plan to offer charging stations for all your devices, followed by onsite EV charging in the next 3-5 years.
🐾 Furry Friends Welcome but Safety for All Comes First:
Well-behaved dogs are part of the family. Bring your canine companions, but they must be on a leash or long lead — respecting both the wildlife and fellow guests.
Remember, that for dogs, as well as kids and adults, the Australian bush has lots of things that will injure or kill you if you don't keep your distance and show respect.
So please keep your distance from all wildlife, and don't let kids or dogs try to go down the wombat warrens. We've never had an incident, and that's the way we intend to keep it
Managing the risks and safely avoiding them means keeping the worst case scenarios in mind. These risks include
~ campfires are hot, and can escape,
~ at least 3 species of poisonous snakes,
~ goannas are not an ancient 2-3m long lizard you want to tangle with,
~ wombats can kill dogs that trespass down their warrens by squashing them against the tunnel roof,
~ pick up an echidna and you'll have lots of holes in your hands
~ male platypus have fighting spurs with poison glands on their back feet
~ open forest-dwelling jack-jumping ants bite and sting at the same time
~ seriously pissed off big male kangaroos can easily disembowel a person or dog,
~ the dominant male feral deer get territorial in mating season and no one wants to become a trophy on their huge antlers, and
~ local farmers shoot stray dogs on sight, then bury them out of view.
Years ago, we lost a few isolated few small farm dogs and puppies when they strayed away from us, to the huge 3m+ wingspan wedge-tailed eagles that visit to hunt roos, wallabies and rabbits
Remember that The Sanctuary is home to these potentially hazardous animals, birds, reptiles and insects, but stick to the rules, keep clear, everyone goes home happy, and we keep a perfect safety record.
Besides I hate incident paperwork !!
🤝 Mutual Respect and Responsibility:
We welcome families of all sorts including: different cultures, colours, rainbow, neurodiverse and AS, members and veterans of the Australian Defence Force, and the self-reliant differently-abled.
We believe in mutual respect for People and Planet. Our values guide us, and we want to ensure a safe, friendly and harmonious environment for all - our volunteers. farm team, contractors, guests and visitors.
If you share these values, we can't wait to welcome you to The Sanctuary 2580! We ask everyone to tread lightly. Respect the land, its inhabitants, and other guests and visitors.
🌳 Your Visit Matters:
Your stay contributes directly to the upkeep of The Sanctuary, environmental custodianship, ongoing conservation efforts. Together, we can work on restoration ecology, control weeds and feral animals, encourage agricultural and wild biodiversity by providing habitat for vulnerable species, protect endangered ecosystems and promote ecoagriculture.
🌈 👍 Connect with Us:
Stay in the loop by liking our Facebook page - The Sanctuary 2580,
Adding a presence on Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube and Tiktok is in the business plans for 2024-25
🌱 Book Your Eco Escape:
Plan your escape through HipCamp, where booking is seamless, and communication is hassle-free. But after your booking, I find email phone and text quicker.
Hipcamp do a great jog handling the booking logistics, camper insurance, dispute resolution, camper and host quality control, and credit cards, allowing us to focus on what we do best—caring for the land and providing you with an unforgettable experience in nature.
🚫 Booking Details:
Please note, bookings exclusively through HipCamp. NO LATE BOOKINGS, NO SHOWUPS and HOPE. When we are Booked Out, we cannot make exceptions. To avoid that book early please.
Your understanding ensures a respectful and honest community of campers.
Book your eco escape at The Sanctuary 2580 and experience the magic of nature! 🍃✨
#TheSanctuary2580 #EcoRetreat #NatureEscape #Goulburn #SouthernTablelands #ForestBathing #NatureTherapy
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$73
/ night
The Ridge
20. The Ridge
100%
(52)
47km from Gundaroo · 1 site · Tent, RV
Only 4.5 kms from the Kings Highway lies this idyllic property where John and Pippa have built their rural home, keep goats, chickens and grow their own vegetables.
Once part of a huge thriving farmstead with lots of local history, a secret Bushrangers grave and scattered gold deposits are rumoured to be hidden
amongst the snow gums. Descendants of the original landowners still live in nearby Heritage listed Braidwood.
We have 104 acres of beautiful and varied terrain with fabulous rolling views.
During your stay enjoy our amazing bird life, kangaroos, wallabies, possibly echidnas, rosenburgs, wombats and even deer.
Guests are required to be fully self sufficient with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste with them on departure. Campfires are welcome permitting there are no restrictions in place at the time of your stay.
This is the ideal location to just relax and enjoy nature at its finest. On a clear night the stars are amazing.
We are only an hour from Canberra situated halfway between the picturesque towns of Braidwood and Bungendore, both within 20 mins away.
Sorry, no pets.
Campfires
Picnic table
from
AU$43
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Matthew
3 days ago
Tent
With pets
Margot met us at the gate and was really warm and welcoming, even though we arrived a bit later than planned. The facilities were great—the showers were excellent and refreshing, the composting toilets were well-maintained, and the camping setup overall was just spot on. We’d definitely go back again.
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Aaron
4 days ago
5 m travel trailer
Absolutely loved it, peaceful and scenic, I have stayed a few times and will come again.
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Anthony
6 days ago
Tent
With kids
No matter how many times I visit Jarabin it feels just as good as the first time, hands down my favourite spot to camp 10/10 as always ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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mitch
1 week ago
6 m Class B
With pets
Unbelievable!! By far the best spot yet! We will be back
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J
John
1 week ago
Tent
This is a really beautiful spot.
Really peaceful and feels like you’re a million miles from anywhere but Braidwood is an easy 40 minute drive away and Oallen Ford is just down the road.
Clear sky for star gazing .Great little spot to relax and unwind. We thoroughly enjoyed taking our dogs for walks and swims along the creek. Nerriga Pub is open in the morning for coffee also Lunch & Dinner 5 minutes from site.Went home via Nowra & Kangaroo Valley . Looking forward to another visit
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Damien
1 week ago
6 m travel trailer
Very nice spot with 3 camping areas separated by about 100 meters or so, providing a good amount of privacy.
Easy access to the river, which is nice and cold even during a heat wave! River is fast moving in some places so something to consider if swimming with kids. We were there in an off road caravan with a total length of about 12 meters with the car and plenty of room to manoeuvre.
Campfires were allowed but was a tad hot when we went. Was a nice little fire teepee set up for us ready to go, with kindling and a small supply of wood provided by the owner which was a nice gesture :-)
Overall a great stay and will definitely be back.
See moreK
Kerri
1 week ago
5 m travel trailer
Amazing spot right on the Murrumbidgee River. Beautiful wide river with a flowing current, we had a dip near the edge where the water was clear and shallow. Steaks and sausages in meat pack were fantastic. Other campers nearby, but did not take away from our experience.
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David
1 week ago
7 m travel trailer
Great views, peace and quiet, great swimming hole, good facilities; with prompt and clear comms from the hosts
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Jo
1 week ago
5 m Class A
With kids
Jarabin might be one of my top spots to camp! Big, private sites 👌🏻 We camped by the rapids but a short walk up the river there was a quiet spot we could all swim safely with our 6yo.
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Lauren
2 weeks ago
Tent
Incredible views and great privacy having the whole spot to yourselves. Recommend bringing a gazebo to put over the table in summer as the only shade is if you tuck into the side of the pine forest. Couldn’t find a direct route from the campsite directly down to the river, but it’s a 1km walk or short drive to the steps up near the house (the steps are a hike enough and I wouldn’t have enjoyed walking the kilometre then back to the campsite). The river is gorgeous though. The steps aren’t super dog friendly. Not sure how windy it gets down there but it’s an awesome spot for stargazing and you’d get great sun in winter.
Awesome little farm box at the entrance that had all sorts of yummy sauces, pickles, honey and eggs one day too. Thanks Paula!
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U
Uma
2 weeks ago
5 m car
With pets
Sarah, the gracious host met us at the entrance and made us feel comfortable.
The paddock we were allocated had a beautiful view of the Rowley Hills of Canberra, and by Moonlight was divine.
See moreD
Daniel
2 weeks ago
6 m travel trailer
With kids
Jarabin is sensational place to stay. We stayed for 4 nights and loved it. Its peaceful, serene, picturesque all in one. Ben is also a fantastic host who is very friendly and welcoming. We can't wait to come back.
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H
Hannah
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Nice helpful host and beautiful natural campground! Was very nice to camp here over new years :)
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K
Kim
2 weeks ago
4 m Class B
Large property, plenty of space between campsites. Found the perfect tree to camp under. Good to have facilities. Host welcoming. Would definitely come again.
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K
Kerri
2 weeks ago
5 m travel trailer
We enjoyed our 3 night stay on Spring Creek Farm. Bill was a great host and guided us to our site on arrival. Peaceful spot with panoramic views of the country side, out in the open but private. Lots of firewood around and we caught a glimpse of the resident wombat.
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S
Sarah
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
We absolutely loved our time at scribbly gum! We stayed at site 4. The scenery was beautiful, river not to far from camp wildlife all around even a little wombat came out to visit regularly 😍 Phil & family were amazing hosts nice friendly and even willing to lend a swag as the tent was broke 😅
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i
izaiah
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Dam view campsite was easy to access and overall had a pleasant stay.
Toilet was a short walk and was easy to access throughout the night.
It was lovely to wake up to roosters crowing in morning.
There is two sites one near the dam and the other that overlooks the actual dam itself.
Would definitely come back for another stay
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M
Molly
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
It’s always so peaceful at box grove and so much for the kids to do. We enjoyed spotting many different types of birds and waking up with kangaroos all around. The dam is great to cool down in on a hot summers day and at night the starts are spectacular. Karen and Jo are wonderful hosts often surprising us with some lovely treats.
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T
Travis
2 weeks ago
10 m pop-up camper
With pets
Fire trail in was quite challenging with a hybrid van due to erosion of the track, a 4WD is necessary.
The property was home to many of wildlife, during our one night stay we witnessed deer, kookaburras, a southern boobook owl, lyrebird, goats, plenty of butterflies, and a neighbouring property had a camel that greeted us both entering and leaving.
Danielle was very knowledgeable of the area and of all the different species of animals.
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Jigme
2 weeks ago
With pets
We had an amazing glamping experience! The host and service were excellent—very welcoming and thoughtful. The place is peaceful and perfectly located in the middle of nature, which made it truly relaxing. The host generously provided lots of free firewood and fresh eggs, which was a lovely touch. The tent was spacious and comfortable and my dog enjoyed the stay even more than we did! We were also given free BBQ equipment and gas, which made our evenings even better. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a calm getaway close to nature. Just make sure to bring enough drinking water.
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