Camping in Illawarra with horseback riding

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94% (555 reviews)

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12 top campgrounds in Illawarra with horseback riding

99%
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Otford Park nr Royal National Park

3 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Otford, NSW
Otford is a historic village in a valley between Sydney and Wollongong, and bounded by the Pacific ocean. Our private acreage backs onto the southern tip of the Royal National Park, so the outlook from the campsite is all leafy trees. Walk to lookouts over the ocean, hike down to the beach or a few minutes drive to dog friendly beaches. Our bathroom and kitchen facilities make it an easy experience for first time campers. We are well-behaved-dog-friendly BUT you must let us know in advance. Our access track to the camping sites has been repaired with a deep layer of asphalt but still best suited to 4WD. . There is also the option of parking roadside, and walking in approx 400m to the sites. Please message us if unsure about your vehicle. IMPORTANT PLEASE READ 1. Please let us know if you are bringing a dog/dogs - we have horses, house dogs, chickens and; wildlife plus likely other campers close by, so need to be forewarned. Dogs must be on lead or contained at all times. 2. If you need to camp out of your 4WD RV (such as a roof top tent), please contact me before booking to ensure those two particular vehicle sites are still available :) and that your vehicle is suitable for our track. Maximum length is approx 5m. Please scroll through the photos to see our amenities and camping sites. 3. We limit the number of people staying at any one time, so weekends book up quickly. That said, due to Covid and weather, people often cancel at the last minute too, so if we are currently booked out, it's always worthile checking again closer to the date for any availability. We are on acreage (approx 7 acres) in Otford, surrounded by forest, backing onto the very southern end of the Royal National Park Sydney/Wollongong. Sleep under the stars, and to the hoot of our local owls, and yips of the gorgeous feather-tail gliders. Lovely, peaceful and private in a bushland backdrop but so close & just a walk to famous sites, beaches, cafes and bushwalking - so the perfect spot to stop, unpack and then go exploring. Max of 3 camp sites booked at a time. Each camp site is within shouting distance of each other, so if looking for absolute privacy, please talk to me first. As bookings come through, I assess the number of people booked for a site, and adjust availability on the others accordingly (such as blocking the rest of the day/s to prevent over-crowding) We usually only have two unconnected groups/families at a time. Our site is the perfect place to camp in comfort and safety, when taking an overnight rest after the long backpacking trek from Bundeena. We have firewood available for our cosy camp firepits (one firepit available for each site) We buy in reclaimed hardwood to reduce the impact of logging of native forest, but also often have seasoned firewood from our own fallen trees. $20 for approx 20kg. Heaps of kindling sticks are around on the forest floor. Please leave large and rotting logs alone for wildlife. Water - Connected to Sydney Catchment drinking water, so supply isn't an issue, but we conserve where we can. Kitchenette We have a tiny house mobile kitchenette with sink, basic table wear, microwave, kettle, toaster, LÓr Nespresso compatible Pod machine (BYO pods) single hot plates, mini bar fridge ,and; USB ports. You can also use the facility to recharge your mobile phone and; torches. We also provide a billy kettle, cast iron fry pan and camp fire hot plate. You'll also find 6 comfy directors chairs stored within the kitchenette, and a deck of cards, jigsaw puzzles, boardgames etc. Cricket bat, Bocce ball game, and Finish Kubbs set are stored within the timber box under the gazebo. "Nature Calls" We have a new long drop compost toilet - only human waste and; toilet paper please. A small bin is provided for sanitary products etc. Please leave the bushland surrounds free of solid waste. Gazebo Weatherproof /insect meshed gazebo and outdoor furniture. Absolutely no fires under the gazebo, otherwise it will melt and catch fire. Quiet Hours Quiet hours between 10pm and 7am Outdoor and Indoor Showers Warm water is heated by LPG gas bottles - please help conserve water and gas QUIET HOURS: To respect other campers who may be staying, and our amazing nocturnal wildlife, our quiet hours are 10pm to 7am, when noise is asked to be kept minimal. Such an exception would be event times like New Years Eve. We have found that camping is a great way to reset your Circadian rhythm - waking and sleeping according to the natural light & darkness , and a drink around a crackling camp fire super relaxing :) CONTACT: If you want me to send you more photographs of the camping sites/facilities , you can look up Otford Park or OtfordParkCamping on Facebook and contact me through there (can't send photos etc via HipCamp messages yet) WHAT TO EXPECT: We have horses, poultry, dogs and abundant wildlife so visiting pets must be either caged or leashed at all times. We have two waterproof dog beds available - just need to bring their blanket etc for softness As its a sanctuary for wildlife - absolutely No Hunting is permitted. Wildlife can be loud at times - morning and night, from the wild deer that wander through, to domestic roosters that like to visit. Its a bit 'farm country and wild bushland' tucked between Sydney and Wollongong Caravans/large motorhomes cannot access the rear of our property, due the narrowness of the track, but no problem for the many 4wd style camper vehicles. Necessities/consumables We have a supply of toilet paper, hand wash, hand sanitiser, insect repellent , fire lighters, mossie coils, matches, dish soap, paper towels and spray disinfectant. Its an honour system for use just while you're here, so please don't take them home with you. If you need to buy toilet paper for your next journey, just ask me. WHAT'S NEARBY: - easy walk to Otford railway station - easy walk to our free local tennis court just down the road -road walk up to Bald Hill lookout (famous for its hang-gliding and view of the Seacliff Bridge) or hike up the fire trail and around the Stony Batter headland - walk to Otford Lookout and the start of the many trails through the Royal National Park or the hike down (about 20 to 30min) to Bulgo beach to swim, fish or snorkel. Be sure to take water and wear comfy shoes - quick walk to the hidden entrance of the historic abandoned Otford railway tunnel entrance -its also an interesting and fun way to walk to Stanwell Park beach! Otherwise its just few minutes drive to Stanwell Park beach and Coalcliff Beach - all clean and beautiful or go further north to the many stunning beaches of the Royal National Park such as Garie, Burning Palms, Wattamolla - Darkes Forest - for trail horse riding, and the Glenbernie Orchard, for fresh apple and stone fruit produce and apple picking tours * * * * * * * * * * Off Leash Beaches - If you have a dog , it will probably love the northern end of Stanwell Park beach its been designated an off-leash area, north of the creek. - park your carpark of Park Parade. Sharkey's Beach, Coledale. A dedicated off-leash beach for dogs and surfers alike, all year round. Approx 10 min drive south. * * * * * * * * * * Others Sights & Activities - Four km to Symbio Wildlike Park - a lovely day out to see both exotic animals such as cheetahs or more local cuddly koalas and opportunities to hand feed kangaroos and wallabies. A water theme park will keep the kiddies entertained and cool too - On the way to Symbio is the beautiful Kelly's Falls - part of the Garrawarra State Conservation area & historic Princess Marina Cliff Walk. - Seacliff Bridge - Not to be missed and part of the Grand Pacific Drive along the South East Coast, Seacliff Bridge is now an iconic Australian landmark. It beautifully hugs the huge sandstone cliffs around the ocean, and is popular to tourist and film makers alike. - Cafes - yum! Walk to the Otford Pantry on the corner of Domville Rd and Lady Wakehurst Drive, open weekends for great coffee and pastries, overlooking the ocean. Then many other cafes in nearby Stanwell Park and Helensburgh - We are situated in a valley, with the Illawarra train line about 500m to 1km away, so occasionally you might here a coal train passing, or more interesting on many weekends the historic Cockatoo Run steam train comes through around 10am and on its return approx 6pm. If children are at the station waiting to see it, the drivers usually oblige with a friendly toot of the steam horn. - Horse Riding - Book ahead for trail rides at either the local Otford Farm in Lloyd Place, or can drive to Darkes Forest Riding Ranch - Wodi Wodi track at Stanwell Tops - if you're fit and love a challenging hike, the Wodi Wodi track can take you from the Hanging swamp around and down to Coalcliff. Water, comfortable shoes and insect repellent (for the odd leach) etc is essential, but the spectacular views at the top and destination make it worth it FOOD and PROVISIONS Helensburgh shopping centre is just 4km drive away. But if you're hiking on foot from the Royal National Park and would like basic provisions such as milk and bread available on your arrival, please let us know in advance, and we'll do our best to have them here. We have a generator run mini-fridge in the kitchenette to keep such items cold, if needed. TINY HOUSE If you'd like to sleep in a bit of luxury, check out our new tiny house listing here SYDNEY, WOLLONGONG &; BEYOND Otford is 9km by car to Waterfall, Sutherland Shire, 43 km to George St, Sydney CBD, 25km to Wollongong CBD. 44km to Bondi Beach, and 53km to Kiama. All can be accessed by train too. So the perfect area to set up base camp, whilst exploring greater Sydney, as well as the many beautiful spots within walking distance. HIP CAMP REVIEWS When reading and leaving reviews , please have a heart towards your camp hosts. The way the rating % works, it takes about 111 positive reviews out 112 reviews, to over-ride that 1 negative. So for the average Hipcamp, it takes a looong time, to get back to 99 or 100% positive feedback. If you have an issue onsite, please raise it immediately. I know the majority of hosts will try and rectify it for you.
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AU$60
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(43)

Berry & Beach

9 sites · Tents7 acres · Far Meadow, NSW
Amazing location so close to everything the beautiful Shoalhaven has to offer: beaches, wineries, hiking, kayaking, and more! A 5-minute drive to beautiful Berry town, 5-minute drive to Seven Mile Beach/Shoalhaven Heads (with an amazing off-leash dog area), and 15 minutes to Gerroa/Gerringong. 25-minute drive to Kangaroo Valley. 45-minute drive to Jervis Bay. Lovely forested area adjacent to our house, on acreage with views over paddocks and Coolangatta Mountain (Cullunghutti) in the distance. At the moment we have sheep and a couple of miniature horses!  We purposefully only allow a few tents / limited numbers to keep things quiet and peaceful. Please note that although the suggested camp area is adjacent to our house, there are trees in between and we will be sure to respect your peace and privacy. Each booking/site is for one tent only. PLEASE NOTE: the site is not suitable for campervans, caravans, roof tents or RVs. There is a luxury shared bathroom/shower (please do not flush anything other than toilet paper). There are two designated campfire spots, one is communal with some seating and one more private (first in best dressed!). There is generally kindling around but you will need to bring your own big bits of wood. No other fires are permitted. We request that everyone keeps the noise down / no amplified music after 10pm. (Before 10pm, please make sure your music isn't interfering with the ambience of other campers). This isn't a party place and people come to relax, enjoy nature and a bit of peace and quiet. Our preference is for cars to park in the carpark area to keep the views and vibes nice for everyone. The camp area is only a short 30 second walk to where you can set up your tent. It is fine to unload if you have access (i.e. no tents already in the way) but then please promptly park your car back in carpark. All rubbish/recycling to be taken with you. Please read the rules of the property. Dogs are allowed off leash if well behaved and will stay in the vicinity of your tent. They are not to disturb other campers, otherwise they need to be restrained at all times. Dog poo to be picked up immediately. Please also be aware that this is a farm with fenced dams and inherent risks. While children regularly stay without issues, it's important to remain cautious and mindful of these risks. Fire safety: Do -Ensure fires are currently allowed -Check to see if fires are currently prohibited for any reason. -Sparks can fly! Make sure they stay away from dry brush and that your fire is contained. -Fully extinguish the fire with water. Use water until the hissing stops, and feel a few inches above the ashes to make sure they are cool. (There is a tap / bucket in the corner, and a shovel generally around - ask if you cant find any of these things). Don’t -Leave the fire unattended. A gust of wind could cause your fire to get out of control. Being attentive is key! -Use flammable liquids. Lighter fluid can cause a fire to dangerously flare up and get out of hand. -Build a large fire. Your fire should always be under control and easy to extinguish at any time. Thanks for being careful. Enjoy!
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AU$58
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
65%
(10)

Smiths Camp Site

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Kiama, NSW
Smiths Camp is a 2 acre block of land in the heart of Kiama on the South Coast on New South Wales. Just 1 hour from Sydney, 3 hours from Canberra. You'll be able to set up camp just 500m away from the main town, beaches and the famous Kiama Blow Hole. If you are after a quick stop in the middle of town and experience Kiama‘s farm land, this is the place to stay. Please take your rubbish with you as we don’t have council pick up. Please note checkin is at 2pm and check out is at 11am.
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AU$130
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(2)

Tiny Stay at Otford Park

1 site · Lodging7 acres · Otford, NSW
A tiny home is on private bushland acreage, right on the edge of the Royal National Park. If you love to wake to native bird calls, while snuggled under a fluffy doona, walk to iconic ocean lookouts or hike the many trails, followed by a twilight barbeque on the deck or marshmallows over the firepit - this is the tiny stay for you! Nestled between the iconic Bald Hill and Otford valley , and alongside the famous Grand Pacific drive, there is much to do, or luxuriate and do nothing! Our tiny house is compact but abundant in anything you may need. - All on one level, accessed by just 3 steps and approximately 20m wood chip covered slope between your car and the cabin. If mobility is an issue for you, please talk to us first -Queen sized bed with soft mattress topper. firm pillows, soft pillows. Doona, blankets and throw rugs and optional soft waterproof pads. Large skylight over the bed to view the stars at night -Two adults maximum can stay in the Tiny House but the sofa bed folds out to be a comfy double bed too for small children. So if you'd like to bring your young children too, please message to discuss suitability -Bedside tables feature lamps, power access and double USB power points. - A Walk in shower big enough for two . -Gas BBQ features not only a grill but also a burner for outdoor cooking with wok and fry pans. - Large microwave and electric rice cooker - A portable electric hot plate. -Coffee, tea and milk provided. Espresso machine for an awesome cappuccino and instant if you prefer -The large merbau deck has full sun all morning - to soak up the rays on the sunbeds or relax in the deep shade of the large market umbrella - Below the deck is the large fire pit area with comfy seating, Split firewood is provided for your stay - Also included is the 10 kg washer and dryer set, if you need to wash clothes over an extended stay - Our property is abundant in widlife from parrots, to sugar-gliders to herds of deer strolling through. You may also want to visit our pet horses, ducks and chickens (please ask first if you wish to help feed them)
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AU$210
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(1)

Caballo Retreat

2 sites · Lodging14 acres · Bargo, NSW
Welcome to Caballo Retreat! A beautiful family farm located in Bargo, just off the Hume highway Bargo exit and entry. Our farm is equipped with horse facilities available for hire to individuals, clubs, camps or equine professionals requiring a venue. We are in an ideal location for travelers with horses requiring over night accommodation close to Sydney, preparing for shows in the area and supporting our local equine enthusiasts! Accommodation Options Include: - Caballo Cottage Accommodation / Caballo Cottage with Horses 2 Bedroom self contained cottage, including private bathroom, kitchen, lounge / dining & onsite parking. There are two accommodation packages for Caballo Cottage - Cottage Accommodation Only or Cottage Accommodation with horses. Please click on & select the specific site that you require. - Camping with Horses If you are traveling with horses & require a camping site near the onsite horse facilities (sand arena, round yard, holding pens etc.) this site has bathroom facilities (shower / toilet), water & electricity hook up available. This site is available for camping floats etc. We consist of 14 acres with facilities listed below: - 6 x private paddocks available - Electric fencing if required - Automated water feeders - 15m round yard - 53m x 23m sand arena - Holding pens located close to sand arena - Hot and cold wash bay - Larger open paddock for short trail rides Please reach out for your individual needs!
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AU$350
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(52)

Lyrebirds Nest

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · Penrose, NSW
Welcome to Lyrebirds Nest, a quiet bush escape. Lyrebirds Nest cottage is situated in the bush with forest views from the balcony and rooms. The cottage is setup for glamping with an wood stove, queen bed (BYO linen), sofa, electricity, filtered water (hot and cold), hot indoor shower and composting toilet. A bar fridge and microwave is also provided. The open fire is not to be used. The surrounding land on the property includes a lake with jetty, sauna, olive grove, orchard and chicken coup. There are great hikes on the property or you can follow the creek and continue into the State Forest. There is plenty of wildlife to see, a bird lovers paradise with plenty of Lyrebirds, king parrots, black cockatoos to name a few. You're welcome to stay in the cottage or camp by the lake. Located half way between Canberra and Sydney, and 15 minutes walk from Penrose station with easy access to all the Southern Highlands has to offer.
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AU$250
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(220)

Silky Oaks

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Oakdale, NSW
Silky Oaks is one of Australia’s largest private collections of Native Australian plants. Set on 30 acres; there is 3 lakes, manicured gardens, a cut-flower plantation, rainforest, and orchard to wander. Our 2 x Vintage Glampers are now available for retro nostalgic Glamping! Set direct on lake front on our premium lake spot. The camp ground is a secluded part of the property on an untouched lake with wildlife and horses surrounding. leave the packing and hassl at home and just show up! Each Camper sleep 2 and can be arranged into 2 single beds, Perfect for 2 couples, friends and parents with kids! There is also the option to byo more tents and more friends! We also have campsites that are completely BYO for the camping enthusiasts! Oakdale is a lovely rural area; you will pass cow paddocks, mountains and beautiful country vistas on your drive to the property. The area is a mix of houses, hobby farmers, homes on acreage, equestrian centres, produce growers and National Park. There is a glorious look-out in the National Park overlooking the Warragamba dam. Some days it is swept with clouds; enveloping you into the majestic heavens. It’s an easy ten min drive away. There is local towns 15mins drive for eating out and getting coffee.
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AU$65
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
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The Farm at Sussex Inlet

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Sussex Inlet, NSW
Staying at The Farm is relaxing, peaceful and quiet, and makes for a great basecamp from which to explore this beautiful part of the world. There is 5 acres of bushland at the back of the property that has been partially cleared and has plenty of room for you to set up camp, with lots of space. There is a toilet and shower nearby for your use. You can bring your dog or dogs with safe fencing, and even bring your horses along with options of walking trails on the property and nearby. Please note, there is no access to power, all campers will need to supply their own power source. There is plenty to do nearby. You can go for bush walks through the National Park, directly from the property, or take the short drive to the local beaches for a swim. There's a golf course down the road as well as the Inlet and lake to hire a boat or do some fishing. We have a little Cinema that has the latest movies, as well as a few local shops to buy food and necessities. There are 3 clubs to attend that offer courtesy buses for your convenience.
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AU$95
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(78)

Majestic Stays couples getaway

7 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Woollamia, NSW
We specialise in camping and camper/caravanning getaways for couples. Welcome to the couples' getaway! Enjoy the Majestic campsite - pitch your tent, sleep in your 4WD rooftop tent or in your swag. There's plenty of space and shade. You'll be surrounded by quiet bush scenery your a five minute drive to the heart of husskison There is access to water. You will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet/shower. Campfires permitted - please speak to me first about fire location. We also offer spaces for RVs. Bring your recreational vehicle, whether it's a campervan or a caravan, and park on our property for a quiet and relaxing holiday. We are located just 5 minutes from the village of Huskisson where you can enjoy cafes, shopping and beautiful beaches. Head further east for a drive out to Jervis Bay and its world renowned whitest sand, Booderee National Park for a bushwalk or book a charter boat out or dolphin and whale watching.
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AU$95
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(86)

Weathertop

8 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Canyonleigh, NSW
Our property is located in Canyonleigh in the Southern Highlands region of NSW. We have a bush track on the property where you can enjoy some beautiful walking and the roads surrounding the property are quiet and great for those who enjoy their mountain bike riding. Bring a fishing rod and try your luck in the dam. Please note this is catch and release fishing only. Enjoy some excellent wildlife watching on the property and relax around your campfire in the evenings and gaze up at the stars. Pets are welcome.
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AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
90%
(29)

68 Battunga

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · St. Georges Basin, NSW
This property offers a level and clear grassed area located on our 15 acre property, surrounded by bushland. Close to the prestigious Jervis Bay, St George's Basin, Ulladulla and Nowra so you will have endless stunning beaches, walking trails and cafes to enjoy in the surrounding area. Guests will have access to a portable toilet and town drinking water throughout their stay. Power can be made for an additional cost to guests. Campfires are allowed in the communal fire pit, permitting their are no restrictions in place.
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AU$120
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(2)

Garden Space - Bundanoon

1 site · Tent1 acre · Bundanoon, NSW
We are a family of 4 with 2 school aged boys. We have travelled extensively around Australia and are familiar with the caravanning lifestyle. Pitch your self contained camper or caravan in our secluded garden in Bundanoon. We are only 0.5 acre but there is plenty of space for kids and well behaved dogs. Depending on the size of your set up and rainfall you will either be on grass at the back of our garden with moderate privacy or at the front of the house on gravel - not as much privacy.  We have a fire pit, (fire wood available) and chooks and a thriving veggie garden. There is a zip line, cubby house, swings, sand pit, paddling pool and toys for younger children. We hand feed the wild king parrots who come frequently. Hook up to water and power and you can manually empty cassettes. Wifi is available but can be unreliable. Bundanoon village is only 1.4kms away. The pub is even closer! Moreton National park is only 2.5kms away and we are familiar with the walks there. We will mostly be around if you need us and are more than happy to recommend places to visit and eat. I can also offer wholesome home cooked meals or meal hampers - please message me ahead of time to enquire / arrange. Bundanoon has a small IGA, several restaurants (including a decent thai and Italian), pharmacy, post office, newsagent, multiple cafes and various shops.
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AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

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