Waterfall caravan camping in Hawkesbury River
Discover historic towns and national parks along the banks of the Hawkesbury River.
90% (1439 reviews)
- Hawkesbury River
90% (1439 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Hawkesbury River
Under $50
7 top waterfall caravan sites in Hawkesbury River
98%
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Hawkesbury River Rural Campground
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Wisemans Ferry, NSW
We do this because we believe humans in nature bring out the best of human nature.
The 350 acres comprises of native bushland, riverside mangroves and cleared pastures. It is completely surrounded by the Marramarra National Park. The property dates back to early English settlement and is entwined into the Hawkesbury’s rich history.
There are a number of activities that can be experienced on the farm including kayaking, bushwalking, fishing, crabbing (in warmer months) and boating to name a few.
These campsites suit self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower and drive 4WD or AWD vehicles. It's not advisable to use a 2WD vehicle to come along our road due to it's condition, we are currently waiting for Hornsby Council to repair and maintain the approach road to the property. knowing I've highlighted my concerns about the road allows me peace of mind that guests have been informed. We have a toilet and warm shower available if needed up at the farm cottage. The cottage is also for rent which is clean and cosy with two queen sized bedrooms that open out onto the wrap around verandah which over looks the Hawkesbury River. It has a self-contained kitchen with a gas oven and separate island style gas cooktop. The small fridge is also gas but there is a 12v fridge that runs off solar too, the kitchen is equipped with cooking utensils, tea and coffee, oil, salt and pepper and dishwashing liquid etc. There is a nice living and dining area in the cottage with a wood burning fire for heat if needed, firewood is supplied free of charge when renting the cottage. Also there is a large undercover outdoor living area with a barbeque. The cottage is powered by solar so things like hair dryers, microwaves and any high powered electrical equipment can not be used. The battery packs recharge during sun light hours so any mobiles or alike should be charged up during the day. There is a back up generator in case there's a problem so you will always have power one way or another. The cottage comes with it's own private jetty which gives you another means of transport, bring your own boat or arrive by water taxi. There is access to a drinking water supply which comes from a natural spring high up in the sandstone cliffs which can also be shown to you if you don't mind a hike. Arriving by boat or taxi is an option also, as there are a number of water taxi services from Brooklyn who will ferry you to the farm at a cost. Campground 2 is the smaller of the two sites but comes with its own private jetty and water access. It also boasts it's own bathroom, with toilet and shower for exclusive use by campground 2 guests only. Campground 1 is much larger and can be adapted to whatever the campers needs are, it has fantastic views of the surrounding cliffs and is only five minutes walk from the jetty and amenities. Campground 3 and 4 has a communale jetty and a boat/jet-ski slip, it also has a bush toilet and indoor camp kitchen. Campground 5 is a three minute walk to the jetty but stands alone. Campground 6 is a secluded site in amongst Ironbark trees and Campground 7 is a large site in an open paddock. Extras can be added depending on the occupancy of the other sites. The towing of traditional caravans along our approach road is not advised at the moment however we are working on improving that. Rubbish and recycling facilities are also catered for too.
We supply fishing gear and crab pots for a small cost, but you have to bring your own bait for both. We also offer a $10 cow feeding experience which the kids love, in fact everyone does. Firewood can be gathered in amongst the trees surrounding the camp sites, but we can supply wood if needed, please see Extras.
Enjoy the evenings telling tall tales around the campfire. You may experience a number of animals throughout your stay including native birds, cows, goannas, wallabies and bush turkeys. There are a number of walks in the surrounding area that we can provide information on if you're wanting to explore. On our adjoining property (40 acres) there is an amazingly beautiful waterfall with a little refreshing dip pool at the base. This is obviously only appreciated when there has been some good rain in the area. There are also cafes and pubs in the nearby towns that can be enjoyed plus a fantastic Thai restaurant located just across the river at Spencer. If you are truly looking for a rural camping experience then look no further than the Hawkesbury River Rural Campground, we will do everything possible to make your stay enjoyable.
On the southern shore of the Hawkesbury upstream from Mangrove Creek in Haycock Reach. Peter Hibbs (1762-1847) was a seaman who was a member of Governor Phillip’s party which explored the Hawkesbury. In 1823 he was granted 60 acres here. He is buried in the Wisemans Ferry Cemetery at Laughtondale. Reed gives “Cooranggoorah” as meaning “grass tree”. The Aborigines used the gum from these to attach spear heads and for a variety of other purposes. These grasstrees are abundant in much of the Hawkesbury sandstone region.
Access by road:
Hawkesbury River Rural Campground is approximately a 1 hour and 50-minute drive from Sydney CBD, a 2-hour drive from Gosford or a 3-hour drive from Newcastle CBD. The road is sealed for the most part except for the last 3 km’s which is unsealed and can be rough at times. Arrival before dark is advised.
Access by water:
Hawkesbury River Rural Campground is approximately a 35-minute boat ride from Brooklyn Marina and Hawkesbury River Train Station. You may take your own boat or catch a Water Taxi which we can help organise.
Hawkesbury RIver Rural Campground acknowledges the Dharug and Darkinjung people as the Traditional Custodians of the Hawkesbury and pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$100
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(773)
Fern Valley Ranch
20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Somersby, NSW
**FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE AVAILABILITY, PLEASE CHECK AND BOOK THROUGH THE CALENDAR (If you write to us, we may not get to your message in time)**
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** We are not taking bookings Mon to Thu. Please check back here for updates if we start again 😊
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Are you looking for a retreat to get away from the city, or a refreshing alternative to a caravan park along your journey?
We have CAMPSITES nestled in our Orchard or in the Pine Trees paddock, (with nearby amenities); or for more of a comfortable and unique stay, try our CHARMING, CONVERTED SCHOOL BUS!
Fern Valley Ranch has it all- waterfall viewing, bush walks, animal feeding.
Unwind; relax by the campfire with quiet cup of tea (or a beer). Leave the city behind and tune back in to the birdlife and whistle of the breeze among the tall trees.
CAMP SITES- Max 5 campers (see Campsite Listing for number and type of dwellings allowed per site.)
SCHOOL BUS- Max 4 guests (no pets)- can book separate bus campsites after booking Bus.
SCHOOL BUS CAMPING- Get friends to camp next to you in the Bus.
*** NO ENTERING ANY WATER ON THE PROPERTY, YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE IMMEDIATELY IF YOU DO NOT RESPECT OUR RULES ***
If you want to swim, there are beaches within half an hour from our farm.
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We are just an hour between Sydney and Newcastle; and 15 minutes to Gosford.
THINGS TO DO IN THE CENTRAL COAST:
- Australian Reptile Park
- Great North Walk
- Fire Creek Botanical Winery
- Mount Penang Farmers Market
- Mangrove Creek Dam
- Many Cafes & chocolate shop
-BEACHES: The Entrance, Toowoon Bay, Shelley, Terrigal
- Gosford Regional Gallery
- Edogawo Commemorative Gardens
- Take a drive to the small village of Spencer
- Golf clubs
are all nearby.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$55
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(847)
Blue Mountains Grass Tree Bush Camp
7 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Katoomba, NSW
Firstly, a big thankyou for all of the positive reviews. They have just contributed to Grass Tree Campground being awarded 3rd place in NSW for Hipcamp venues. It is great to get the feedback that campers appreciate this for what it is, a simple little Primitive Campground with generous spacing for each group to enjoy their own camping experience.
The Grass Tree Bush Camp is conveniently located just 2.5km north of Katoomba town center, so you can easily take advantage of all the upper mountain attractions in this amazing ‘World Heritage’ listed area. If we are booked out, we do have a couple of overflow sites that might suit your rig, so please reach out and we will see if we can help out.
If you are planning on having a fire, please do not remove firewood from the surrounding bushland. As you can imagine, if campers did that, the atmosphere of the campground would quickly deteriorate. Please plan to bring some from home, purchase some from the local service stations ($18 for 15kg), or alternatively, we can drop a 25+kg crate of mixed hardwood at your site for $20. If the later suits, just let me know. However, it is ok to collect small amount of kindling to start your fire.
Fires are restricted to existing fire pits to minimize scars on the ground. If you prefer to bring your own fire pit we ask that you leave no trace. Fires are only permitted when there are no RFS bans in place, we will communicate directly with you, in advance, if there are any upcoming 'Extreme' or 'Catastrophic' fire day warnings from the RFS. Please be extra vigilant around this as our community is only just recovering after the devastating recent fires. Fires are to be modest and discrete. Out of respect for our neighbors and other campers, please do not use a chainsaw at the campground. Please do not leave rubbish in your fire pit. Things like cigarette butts, cans, beer caps and food scraps need to be taken with you. We pride ourselves with keeping the sites as pristine as possible and ask that you follow our 'leave no trace' policy.
Note: there is no water on the property so you will need to allow enough to ensure you have completely extinguished your fire before you depart.
We have a unique 'BYO Hot water' shower for those looking to freshen up at the end of the day. Watch our instructional video to see how it works. You can find it in Instagram by typing in ''grasstreecamping'. It will come up as the first video. Or, type in https://www.instagram.com/reel/CjBmHdWBYhY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link.
We have seven unique sites that can accommodate various groups needs. Use this link to view our Site Map https://hipcamp-res.cloudinary.com/image/upload/v1664433572/campground-photos/wqnesuvdekhlfuo7ic2x.jpg. Please read the following information and select the most appropriate site when you request to book.
Site 1- Will fit a group booking of up to, two small (or 1 large) size camping rig/s with two cars.
Site 2- Will fit a group booking of up to, two small (or 1 large) size camping rig/s with two cars.
Site 3- Will fit a group booking of up to, two small (or 1 large) size camping rig/s with two cars.
Site 4- Will fit 1 large rig or multiple tents (on adjacent grassed area).
Site 5- One caravan, camper trailer or tent + car.
Site 6- This is a long pull-through site and will fit 1 extra large rig or multiple tents (on adjacent grassed area.
Site 7- One caravan, camper trailer or tent + car.
Only use allocated area as indicated by campsite site colour on site map. The logs at each site define site area, please do not drive through the grass clearing. Site numbers are on trees. Unless previously discussed, you are required to camp on the site you book and will be asked to move if you set up on another site. All traffic is to drive clockwise around ring road. The site numbers correspond with this direction of travel.
The campground is tranquil and has a large open, flat grassy clearing in the middle for family games. The secluded clearing is boarded by a Woodland forest with stunning flora like Waratahs, Xanthorrhoea's (Grass Trees), Orchids and Banksias. The property is home to many beautiful species of fauna like Gang-gang Cockatoo's, Eastern Rosella's and the cheeky iconic Magpie which will warble a warm welcome. The grassy clearing is occasionally frequented by Kangaroos at dawn and dusk.
Just a stones throw from the property you have easy access to world class lookouts and bush walks. If you are into climbing, canyoning, trekking, trail running, cafes, restaurants or walking along breath taking National Park trails, then you will love visiting our area. If you are unfamiliar with the area, we recommend visiting the Information Centre at Echo Point to get all the information you need for your intended activities.
This camp is perfect for groups/families wanting to have a campfire, a bit of space from other campers and to have room for the kids to run around and kick a ball.
There is a composting toilet on-site with toilet paper and Hand Sanitizer supplied. When you visit the toilet, after you have finished, please place 1 cup of Sawdust into the toilet after a wee, and 2 cups after a Number Two. This bulkage is a significant element to the success of the composting process. If you use the last of the paper on a toilet roll, the cardboard roll can be thrown into the toilet as well to be composted. If you think anything is not how it should be with the composting Toilet, please reach out and we will come and take a look.
Well behaved pets are welcome and we encourage you to keep your dog on a lead if they are likely to adventure too far from your site and disturb the local wildlife or other campers.
If you are interested in a longer free stay and are open to a trade for a small amount of labor each day, please reach out. There is always lots of things we need to get done, but don't always have the time.
Acknowledgement of Country:
Our property is located within the Country of the Dharug and Gundungurra peoples. My family recognises that Dharug and Gundungurra Traditional Owners have a continuous and deep connection to their Country and that this is of great cultural significance to Aboriginal people, both locally and in the region. For Dharug and Gundungurra People, Ngurra (Country) takes in everything within the physical, cultural and spiritual landscape - landforms, waters, air, trees, rocks, plants, animals, foods, medicines, minerals, stories and special places. It includes cultural practice, kinship, knowledge, songs, stories and art, as well as spiritual beings, and people: past, present and future.
My family and I pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging while recognising the strength, capacity and resilience of past and present Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Blue Mountains region.
Our hope is that by being custodians of this beautiful property, we will help preserve it for future generations as a place to connect with nature and each other. We hope you love and respect this property as much as our family does. It is a privilege to share it with like minded people who enjoy stepping out of our busy lives to connect with nature, family and friends.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$35
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(25)
Bonnie Doon at Bell
9 sites · RVs, Tents500 acres · Bell, NSW
Our property is located in the Blue Mountains, nestled right in the middle of the national park and all that the Blue Mountains bush has to offer. Gums, ferns, fresh air and swimming holes.
I only allow one group to camp at any one time per site. Other groups will be well away from you. However the dam is available for everyone to use. I adjust each booking with each group depending on size of the group and time of year. I also hold large events so will book out the entire site for large groups.
Just a short drive from Sydney but a world away with its ancient forests and meandering pathways. All photos are from the site or within a 2km walk of the camping site in National Park or reserve.
I welcome self-contained campers with your own camping toilet/shower, and drinking water. However there are facilities on site for smaller groups at an extra cost.
The property offers a number of sites that can accommodate various group numbers. Please message me if you're interested in booking one or more listings for your special get together.
Dogs are welcome as long as they are friendly, but no cats please. Also please be aware that we are surrounded by nature and part of nature are snakes and ticks.
- we need to keep this environment for the wildlife. Please take all your belongings and rubbish with you when you leave. Leave it better than as you found it.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Glenworth Valley Camping Ground
100 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Glenworth Valley, NSW
Just 20 minutes from Gosford & Hornsby, this hidden natural oasis offers the most unique camping experience anywhere in Australia.
Set in spectacular natural bushland without marked sites, a 200-acre creekside campground gives you the freedom to find your own patch and sprawl out - making it perfect for families and groups of all sizes.
Enjoy open-ground campfires, waterhole swimming, a petting farm with super cute baby animals and breathtaking Valley views. All alongside incredible onsite guided tours and adventures - including horse riding, quad biking, kayaking, abseiling, axe throwing, laser skirmish & more.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
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Trash
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(96)
Central Coast Valley Farm
2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Cedar Brush Creek, NSW
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature at our stunning valley acreage, just one hour from Sydney.
With a quiet brook that meanders through the property, wombats burrowing in the hillside, and wallabies grazing in the paddocks, you'll feel like you're in a whole new world.
Our limited number of campsites means you can enjoy the beauty of nature without being crowded. Plus, your furry friends are welcome to join in on the adventure!
Be self-contained with your own camping toilet/shower, water, and supplies, and enjoy fires in the provided firepits. Please note that there is no power, or amenities provided, but trust us, the escape from civilization will be worth it!
As a working hobby farm, you may see the owners tending to the land during your stay. Don't be shy to say hi! Come and experience a unique and unforgettable camping experience in the heart of nature.
Book your stay now!
Pets
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from
AU$50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
60%
(5)
Mountain Lagoon Wildlife Retreat
2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Mountain Lagoon, NSW
We're located in a little picture-perfect paradise nook on the backside of the Wollemi National Park 14 kilometres North East of Bilpin in a little hollow called Mountain Lagoon.We have 5 acres of gentle flowing grassy open areas surrounded by towering trees brimming with birdlife. We also have native animals (Koalas) (Goannas) (Wombats) which all reside within an ear's reach of this property. There are trees that are over 200 years old and 40 metres high with real birds and nests that don't run on batteries or solar. Plenty of area for the kids to wear themselves out.Some of the most scenic bushwalks in the country are at our doorstep, The wildlife, flora, and fauna are truly spectacular and extremely untamed. Close to the Colo river (20 mins) where the cliffs of the mountain are at your backdrop, There is also the Wheeny Creek swimming hole, Or just chill out with an ice-cold one in front of the dedicated firepit as you gaze up at the night sky.There is access to bore water for cleaning but you should bring your own drinking water supply. You will need to be a fully self-contained camper with your own camping toilet/shower amenities. There are 2 dedicated powered sites are available at an extra cost of $12 per night, Add an additional $8.00 for 2nd vehicle on the campsite, plenty of room to spread out and truly let nature be your guide as you totally unwind and reintegrate with yourself and nature on this stunning breathtaking property hidden away from the world. A truly invigorating relaxing experience you will never want to forget. Spoil yourself today.
Potable water
Campfires
from
AU$60
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Star Hosts in Hawkesbury River
Dog-friendly getaways
Waterfall caravan camping in Hawkesbury River guide
Overview
Looping around Sydney, the Hawkesbury River winds its way from the Blue Mountains in the west to the estuaries of Broken Bay along the Pacific Coast. Set sail along the river on a boat cruise, ride the historic cable ferry at Wisemans Ferry, or stop at colonial towns such as Pitt Reach, Ebenezer, and Windsor. National parks flank the riverbanks, affording campers plenty of choices, and the region’s mild temperatures mean that outdoor activities are enjoyable year-round. Cruise around coastal estuaries, hike through rainforest gorges, discover glow-worm caves, or enjoy wine tasting at a Hawkesbury Valley winery.
Where to go
Hawkesbury
North of Sydney, Wisemans Ferry sits at the meeting point of the Hawkesbury and Macdonald rivers. Hiking, mountain biking, and canoeing are the main activities on offer in the neighbouring Dharug National Park, and to the north, Yengo National Park has thrilling 4WD tracks and remote bush campgrounds. Wisemans Ferry is also the starting point of the Old Great North Road, an important site in Australia’s convict history.
Broken Bay
The Hawkesbury River meets the ocean at Broken Bay, flanked by two coastal national parks. Cruise the waterways, fish along the coast, or trek between Aboriginal heritage sites in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. On the north shore, Brisbane Waters National Park bursts with colour during spring wildflower season—explore by bike, kayak, or boat, then camp at Pindar Cave.
The rainforest-clad peaks of the Blue Mountains rise on the horizon along the western section of the Hawkesbury River. Head into the Blue Mountains National Park to hike and mountain bike through the rainforest, ride the Scenic Railway to the Three Sisters lookout, and discover gorges, waterfalls, and natural swimming holes. Camping comes with views, too—pitch your tent by the creek or in tranquil forest valleys.
Australia’s largest city might not seem like an obvious choice for camping, but there are lots of ways to get outdoors in and around the Sydney. Swim and surf along the North Shore, cruise around Sydney Harbour, or even attempt a daring Sydney Harbour Bridge climb.
Popular Hawkesbury River holidays
Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.