Camping in Illawarra with swimming
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95% (1269 reviews)
- Illawarra
95% (1269 reviews)
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12 top campgrounds in Illawarra with swimming
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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
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AU$60
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(349)
Babbling Brook 4WD Camping
14 sites · RVs, Tents800 acres · St. Georges Basin, NSW
Situated on the beautiful Wandandian Creek with 15km creek frontage, 2.5 hours south of Sydney, Babbling Brook offers ten grassed areas with an easy 3km 4WD drive to campsites. 15 mins drive to Huskisson and Sussex Inlet. We do not accommodate large groups as our focus is peace, relaxation and family friendly.
The property is home to an abundance of wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, native birds and reptiles. There are also a lot of wombats so stay on the track and look for burrows.
There are many activities to enjoy including kayaking, fishing, swimming, bush walking, bird watching and 15kms of mountain bike trails.
We are pet friendly, please remember to have your pets protected against ticks.
You will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet, shower and water. Please DO NOT dig toilet hole, even though you leave it covered, it doesn't take long for the foxes to dig it up and leave a real mess!! Campfires permitted in designated areas.
There is mobile reception. No shooting, archery or hunting. No trail bikes. Do not damage trees, there is plenty of firewood on the ground.
Don't forget your mozzie repellent.
Please note we have a moderate cancellation policy thru Hipcamp.
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AU$100
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(46)
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 drive to unload if you have access (i.e. no tents already in the way) and there hasn't bee recent rain (as you could get bogged or ruin the grass) 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
99%
(37)
Wombat Hollow
2 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Budgong, NSW
100 acres of secluded paradise with a kilometer of free flowing pebbled creek. Bound on two sides by the craggy escarpments of the Budgong and Morton National Parks there is ample grassland to give a feeling of space yet an abundance of trees to wander through as you engage with the tame wildlife and magnificent birdlife.
Bring your mountain bike, fishing rod, swimmers, hiking boots, climbing gear, horse riding gear, or tennis racquet, and leave the kids in the play area while you sit by the creek and listen to the water tumbling through the rocks.
If you are as intrigued by rare animals as we are, then this is the place for you. 63 Bird species, 24 mammals, 16 reptiles, and 12 amphibians have been sighted in the area (Clarke 2012) and this includes many rare and endangered species including the Brush-tailed rock wallaby, Giant burrowing frog, Gang-gang cockatoo, Glossy black-cockatoo, Koala, Little Lorikeet, Platypus and the Yellow-bellied glider.
We only have two campsites at present, so you will be guaranteed peace and privacy. However, due to the demand for that site and that all people who have stayed have loved the experience, I am going to open up a few more sites over the course of 2024. You will always however have lots of space and privacy. Please note, that your group must be self-contained, with their own camp toilet, however fresh drinking water is available.
Access is into a valley on a well maintained unsealed road and there are some minor causeways making it unsuitable for busses. An ordinary sedan will do for Billabong site but you will need some power for towing and a 4x4 to tow out in any rain. Riverbend site is only suitable for 4x4's and off-road camp trailers.
You are a 40 minute drive from the sea (try the Shoalhaven 100 beach challenge https://www.shoalhaven.com/100-beach-challenge/ ) and just 15km from the historical town of Kangaroo Valley with its myriad of water activities, golf, wine estates, and quaint shopping. ttps://visitkangaroovalley.com.au/see-and-do/
Our neighbor offers horse riding experiences that are absolutely amazing. (pre-book at www.kangaroovalleyhorses.com)
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AU$60
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(196)
Buxton Getaway
3 sites · RVs, Tents19 acres · Buxton, NSW
Located just one hour from Sydney, our property features 19 acres of pure serenity with two dams and one large enough to kayak on (kayaks supplied). The back of the property is perfect for camping and suitable for a small to medium caravan/camper.
The larger dam has a picnic area and kayaks available to paddle on.
Adjoining our property is Nattai National Park with a lovely 20 minute walk down to Little River. The Aqua Pool Trail in the National Park is just gorgeous.
If you wish to try and catch some yabbies from the dams the only allowable and fun way is by a long stick and sausage. Hooks, fishing lines and traps are not allowed as we have people, dogs and horses swimming in the dams.
We welcome self-contained campers who bring their shower/toilet set up. We do have two drop pit toilets available and each campsite has a pit fire provided. We are getting low on firewood so you will need to bring some along with you. There is access to drinking water.
Our property is 2WD accessible and can accommodate small caravans and camper trailers.
Not far from Buxton is Thirlmere where the Steam Train Museum is and train rides are available on the weekends, a great activity for the kids. Thirlmere Lakes National Park is perfect for a relaxing picnic, walk, birdwatching, and glimpse into locomotive history. Mittagong and Bowral have great wineries with restaurant/bistro.
Pets are welcome.
There's a range of different bushwalking trails in the region, including Starlights trail, a scenic bushwalk suited to experienced hikers, which forms part the Greater Blue Mountains trail network between Mittagong and Katoomba.
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from
AU$45
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(112)
Dharawal Camp
1 site · RV, Tent25 acres · Wedderburn, NSW
Dharawal Camp offers all the benefits of glamping. Enjoy a peaceful night's rest in your tent/vehicle, then hop out of bed and enjoy the peaceful surrounds of the cabin with access to a kitchen area supplying fresh rainwater. With the secluded bush surroundings and the quiet, it's hard to believe you're only an hour away from Sydney.
You might even see a Koala
There is strictly no accomodation in the Cabin.
The camp features a camping toilet and bathing facilities, a kitchen washing area, a recreation space and dining table when the weather is bad. All you need to do is roll out your swag.
Campers are encouraged to take their rubbish with them.
There is access to power for campervans/caravans.
Warm your toes at the outdoor fireplace whilst you chat with friends. (Please bring own firewood).
You will be a 10 minute drive from the beautiful Dharawal National Park which has wonderful swimming holes and bush walks.
The site is 15 minutes drive from Campbelltown, which offers all amenities of a large metropolitan city.
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AU$95
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(63)
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
96%
(56)
Tibohine Farm
6 sites · RVs5 acres · Balmoral, NSW
Small sustainable farm located on the Southern Highlands of NSW and only 10 mins off the Hume Hwy. Peaceful location offering a safe and relaxing stay. As we are a rural property on tank water and with limited services, please ensure you are fully self-contained with your own toilet, shower and drinking water.
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AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(15)
Currambene Creek Farm
4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Falls Creek, NSW
The farm is a rolling 17 acres with Currambene Creek making up the property's northern boundary. We have an abundance of native birds, kangaroos, and a few wombats. Our primary purpose here is horse agistment, with four horses currently on the farm, along with 12 lovely chickens that free range during the day.
The farm is a beautiful haven to take a stroll and explore, enjoy a peaceful breakfast in the gentle mornings, or sit and enjoy wine and cheese at the end of the day as the sun goes down.
We are located 15 minutes from the local beaches and a little bit further to get to the Huskisson township with the famous Husky pub, 5 Pigs Cafe, and various other restaurants and cafes.
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from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(13)
Noonameena - Sleep in the Bush
4 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Berrima, NSW
Noonameena is a 100 acre natural bushland property located approx 7kms outside of Berrima, NSW in the Southern Highlands. While most of the property is covered by a variety of natural bushland, a small flat area of cleared land is perfect for recreational campers.
The property has access to the Wingecarribee River to the south, a natural pool and large dam in the camping area.
Other property features include commercial gardens, orchards and free range chicken coop as well as a homestead with surrounding gardens.
There are also plenty of walking tracks on the property.
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AU$80
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(36)
The Wandy Donkey Camp
7 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · NSW
Located 2.5 hrs south of Sydney and 2.5hrs east of Canberra The Wandy Donkey Camp offers 150 acre property for you to rest without the hustle and bustle of the south coast.
Created for couples wanting to rough it! Meaning you bring everything yourself.
With a natural stream that traverses the property there is much for you to observe and enjoy. Watching the Cows and Sheep graze or admiring the Alpacas long necks. There is also a Donkey Tour you can book into whilst on the farm.
You will be able to sit with nature by the little stream watching for the wombats, kangaroos and lizards as they do their thing.
Only 20 minute drive to nearest beaches, you can enjoy some great cafes and restaurants around the local Shoalhaven area.
Head west up the mountain to beautiful Jerrawangla lookout and Tianjara Falls.
Located in the heart of the Shoalhaven, The Wandy Donkey Camp is central to all your experiences.
Kate your host, has a wealth of local knowledge that will get you started on your South Coast adventure.
This is a, you bring, you take, experience leaving no physical trace behind. But leaving with a great story to share with your loved ones.
You want to book in for a relaxing massage or an adventurous farm tour Kate will hook you up. All you have to do is ask.
Campfires
from
AU$50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(41)
Bamarang Camp @ The Nest Cottage
2 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Bamarang, NSW
Welcome to
Bamarang Camp @ The Nest overlooking beautiful natural billabong's abundant with local flora and fauna. Stroll the laneway to the the Shoalhaven River.
Indulge in this exclusive, heritage riverside property located on the upper Shoalhaven River. Private use of the 22.2 hectares of farm, forest and river frontage.
You will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet and shower.
Relax, nurture and cosy up at The Nest. Revitalise in the tranquil garden with river views. Stroll to the banks of the Shoalhaven river, climb Pulpit Rock. Whether you're into painting, sketching or photography, this is an artist's retreat.
Our property is a 30
minute drive to beautiful Berry, Jervis Bay, Kangaroo Valley and Milton.
There are many varied beautiful walking tracks here in the Shoalhaven. Firstly an intermediate walk is just off Bamarang Road to Pulpit Rock which overlooks the Shoalhaven River and Bundanon. Ben's Walk, Hanging Rock, Nowra, The Grotto, Bomaderry, Jervis Bay National Park, Greenfield Beach, Wirreecoo Walking Trail & Mangrove boardwalk, Huskisson, Cunjurong Point, Gerroa to Kiama along the cliffside, Pigeon House Mountain, Boyd Lookout, Morton National Park.
These are all within 10 to 40 minutes travelling by car. Grade of walks, leisurely to advanced.
Potable water
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from
AU$60
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
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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.