The best camping near Lake Illawarra with fishing

·

Fishing at Lake Illawarra puts you right on the edge of tidal flats and calm waters, with over 90 campsites tailored to anglers. You’ll find campsites tucked along creeks, a stone’s throw from the lake, and close to ocean breaks for those who like to switch between casting a line and catching waves. Top picks include Babbling Brook 4WD Camping (348 reviews), Otford Park nr Royal National Park (251 reviews), and Grady's Riverside Retreat (241 reviews). Prices average $80 per night, but you can unroll your swag for as little as $27. Most sites offer showers, toilets, and welcome pets. After a long day fishing, rinse off, cook up your catch, and get ready for another early start. Bring your rod, check the tide charts, and don’t forget the bait.

95% (1.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Misty Mountain Farm - Farm Stay

1. Misty Mountain Farm - Farm Stay

95%
(311)
37km from Lake Illawarra · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · Coolangatta, NSW
There are camp sites to suit your group of: 2, 4, 6 or up to 12 people (Book extra if required, your group will be allocated together) - Camp sites 11 -12 are for group bookings - 4-12 guests Misty Mountain Farm is a family run working beef cattle property and horse training facility situated at the base of picturesque Coolangatta Mountain. Camp grounds are well maintained grass paddocks surrounded by beautiful picturesque scenery. Campfires are permitted when local restrictions are not in place. - Fire pits can be provided. - Firewood for cooking is supplied. - Firewood can be purchased upon arrival 20kg bag @ $20. LOCAL THINGS TO DO: - Coolangatta Estate Winery cellar door wine tasting and restaurant is next door (First settlement on the south coast) - Local wineries: Mountain Ridge, Two Figs, Silos, Crooked River, Cambewarra. - Bangalay Restaurant is a multi award winning regional restaurant. - Heads Hotel Pub (offers courtesy bus from camp ground and return) - Berry (15 minutes) - Jervis Bay (45 minutes) - Boating and Fishing on Shoalhaven River - Dog friendly 7 mile beach (north of the surf club) - Jamberoo Action Park (40 minutes) Shoalhaven Heads (5 minutes) has: IGA, Chemist, Bottle Shop, Butcher, Bakery, Pizza takeaway, Chinese takeaway, Heads Hotel, Bowling Club, Dr's surgery and more *NOTE: You must provide your own portaloo and dispose of using a sewerage reticulation system or at a waste or resources management facility. Horse Riding - we are on FB - Misty Mountain Equestrian. - Lessons and property trail rides from beginners to advanced. - $120/hr property ride, $90/40min lesson, $60/half hr pony rides - Pricing is per person - Horse agistment - Camp with your horse. Horse $25/night - Qualified and accredited EA L1G Coach and Qualified Veterinary Nurse on site
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$49
 / night
Kookaburra

2. Kookaburra

95%
(152)
74km from Lake Illawarra · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Sussex Inlet, NSW
Kookaburra is a 20-acre farm located between Ulladulla and Nowra on the NSW South Coast, just under a three-hour drive from Sydney and Canberra. It offers a peaceful and authentic bush experience, ideal for a weekend getaway or an overnight stop, especially for those travelling through the Jervis Bay area. Please note: We are a peaceful, family-friendly site and do not accept group bookings under any circumstances. Each site allows one family/vehicle and one trailer/caravan per booking only. No additional vehicles, caravans, or trailers are permitted. If you're unsure whether your setup complies, please contact Christine before booking. You can camp in an open paddock or relax under the shade of tree canopies. A short bushwalk will take you to a quiet creek, and the area is home to local wildlife, including kookaburras, wallabies, and secretive wombats. The farm also has a variety of animals, including cows, chickens, Elmo the horse and Warren the Sheep, who may greet you when you arrive. At Kookaburra, we ensure that guests have plenty of space and privacy, although you may occasionally see other visitors in the area. We operate on a self-sufficient basis, so please take all your rubbish with you and respect the natural environment and the next visitors. Fires are allowed (subject to fire danger conditions), and you're welcome to gather your firewood. 🔥 Firewood for sale at the gate – $20! 🪵🚪. 🥚 Fresh free-range eggs – $6 a dozen 🐔, Text us and we'll drop some down to your site 🚗 Pets are welcome but must be supervised around the farm animals and wildlife. Please note that phone reception is limited, so come prepared. While a 2WD vehicle is usually acceptable, adverse weather conditions may require a 4WD. Be mindful of wombat holes, tree stumps, and snakes when exploring the property. Whether you're stopping by for a short stay or looking for a quiet retreat, Kookaburra offers a unique and relaxing bush escape. We look forward to welcoming you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Site 1 stream

3. The Wandy Donkey Camp

96%
(91)
68km from Lake Illawarra · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Wandandian, NSW
Located 15-minute drive to the glorious beaches of Jervis Bay, 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 families wanting to explore the beauty of the South Coast. 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 donkeys you might get to interact with along with seasonal (spring) baby goats. 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 15 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 coastal 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. Talk to Kate to arrange a detailed, up-close interaction with the farm animals.
Pets
Toilets
from 
AU$73
 / night
Babbling Brook 4WD Camping

4. Babbling Brook 4WD Camping

99%
(594)
70km from Lake Illawarra · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$121
 / night
Grady's Riverside Retreat

5. Grady's Riverside Retreat

96%
(399)
52km from Lake Illawarra · 51 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Burrier, NSW
Grady’s Riverside Retreat was first established in 1979. The retreat is located 20 minutes west of Nowra and is set on 17 secluded acres on the banks of the beautiful Shoalhaven River, surrounded by natural bushland, mountains, cliffs and dairy pastures. This makes Grady’s Riverside Retreat an ideal place to bring your friends and family to relax, unwind and enjoy the scenery. Grady’s has over 500 metres of direct access to the Shoalhaven River. The river is deep and also is tidal which means we have a large variety of fresh and saltwater fish that inhabit these waters. Majority of our well maintained grassy sites are located along the river or have uninterrupted river views. With a boat ramp and beach areas for you to utilise at your leisure. Grady's is a pet friendly Retreat and we also allow campfires. We strongly believe these few extra things are essential to create a true camping experience. The park grounds are well maintained throughout the year. The amenities are fresh and cleaned daily. If you are the adventurous type there are many activities to offer in the vicinity such as canoeing, fishing, swimming, bushwalks, 4WDriving, bike riding, jet skiing, water skiing and much more. Come and enjoy our absolute riverfront camping, -Secluded camping sites are available on request (subject to availability) -We also have powered camp sites and Riverview cabins and cottages available. -The picturesque banks of the Shoalhaven River play host to the perfect escape from the burdens of city life. Only 2 hours from Sydney but feels like a world away. Amongst the trees and under the clear blue sky, sit around your campfire and allow yourself the time to reflect, reconnect, and revel in nature's abundance. Activities:- *Fishing/swimming *kids playground *basketball court/ volleyball court *large reserve for ball sports etc *BMX Track - Grady’s has a BMX track on site *Canoeing and Paddle Boards for hire - Grady’s is a great location for the canoeing and paddle boards beginners or enthusiasts. *4WDing and Dirt Bike Riding - Grady’s is in close proximity to many fire trails and 4WD tracks. *Bushwalking and mountain biking - There are many walking tracks in and around the Yalwal region. *Boating - Bring your own boat or jet ski and enjoy the use of our boat ramp
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$34
 / night
Woodenhead Experiences

6. Woodenhead Experiences

97%
(207)
75km from Lake Illawarra · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Jerrawangala, NSW
This bush campsite is located very close to Sussex Inlet. We are just 10 minutes from the exquisite Bendalong and Berrara beaches. Here you will find great fishing, surfing and access to all watersport activities at Swan Haven. There is fantastic mountain biking through the Jerrawangala National Park. Sit around the campfire and relax (firewood provided). This campsite suits self contained campers with own toilet/shower and water supply. You can use our BBQ and rubbish facilities. Well behaved pets on leashes welcome. Horses can be accommodated. Do not enter the paddocks with our horses but if you would like to meet the horses please ask. Lovely cafes, pubs and shops 20 mins away at Huskisson to the north or Milton to the south. Go for an adventure to see the white sands of Jervis Bay. Enjoy waking up with wildlife and being central to many of the beautiful spots.
Pets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from 
AU$121
 / night
Wombat Hollow

7. Wombat Hollow

99%
(139)
47km from Lake Illawarra · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · 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, tennis racket, basketball (a hoop on the tennis court) or climbing gear 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 platypus, brush-tailed rock wallaby, Giant burrowing frog, Gang-gang cockatoo, Glossy black-cockatoo, Koala, Little Lorikeet and the Yellow-bellied glider. We only have three campsites at present, so you will be guaranteed peace, space and privacy. with a minimum of 400m between all sites. 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 but there are some minor causeways making it unsuitable for busses or long low slung vans. An ordinary sedan will do for Billabong and Dad's camp sites 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/
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$79
 / night
Otford Park nr Royal National Park

8. Otford Park nr Royal National Park

98%
(455)
39km from Lake Illawarra · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. The majority of standard 2WD cars manage the track fine There is also the option of parking roadside, and walking in approx 300m 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 and just a hike 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 throu
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$79
 / night
Lyrebirds Nest

14. Lyrebirds Nest

98%
(79)
60km from Lake Illawarra · 2 sites · Lodging · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$303
 / night

Fishing at Lake Illawarra puts you right on the edge of tidal flats and calm waters, with over 90 campsites tailored to anglers. You’ll find campsites tucked along creeks, a stone’s throw from the lake, and close to ocean breaks for those who like to switch between casting a line and catching waves. Top picks include Babbling Brook 4WD Camping (348 reviews), Otford Park nr Royal National Park (251 reviews), and Grady's Riverside Retreat (241 reviews). Prices average $80 per night, but you can unroll your swag for as little as $27. Most sites offer showers, toilets, and welcome pets. After a long day fishing, rinse off, cook up your catch, and get ready for another early start. Bring your rod, check the tide charts, and don’t forget the bait.

95% (1.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Misty Mountain Farm - Farm Stay

1. Misty Mountain Farm - Farm Stay

95%
(311)
37km from Lake Illawarra · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · Coolangatta, NSW
There are camp sites to suit your group of: 2, 4, 6 or up to 12 people (Book extra if required, your group will be allocated together) - Camp sites 11 -12 are for group bookings - 4-12 guests Misty Mountain Farm is a family run working beef cattle property and horse training facility situated at the base of picturesque Coolangatta Mountain. Camp grounds are well maintained grass paddocks surrounded by beautiful picturesque scenery. Campfires are permitted when local restrictions are not in place. - Fire pits can be provided. - Firewood for cooking is supplied. - Firewood can be purchased upon arrival 20kg bag @ $20. LOCAL THINGS TO DO: - Coolangatta Estate Winery cellar door wine tasting and restaurant is next door (First settlement on the south coast) - Local wineries: Mountain Ridge, Two Figs, Silos, Crooked River, Cambewarra. - Bangalay Restaurant is a multi award winning regional restaurant. - Heads Hotel Pub (offers courtesy bus from camp ground and return) - Berry (15 minutes) - Jervis Bay (45 minutes) - Boating and Fishing on Shoalhaven River - Dog friendly 7 mile beach (north of the surf club) - Jamberoo Action Park (40 minutes) Shoalhaven Heads (5 minutes) has: IGA, Chemist, Bottle Shop, Butcher, Bakery, Pizza takeaway, Chinese takeaway, Heads Hotel, Bowling Club, Dr's surgery and more *NOTE: You must provide your own portaloo and dispose of using a sewerage reticulation system or at a waste or resources management facility. Horse Riding - we are on FB - Misty Mountain Equestrian. - Lessons and property trail rides from beginners to advanced. - $120/hr property ride, $90/40min lesson, $60/half hr pony rides - Pricing is per person - Horse agistment - Camp with your horse. Horse $25/night - Qualified and accredited EA L1G Coach and Qualified Veterinary Nurse on site
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$49
 / night
Kookaburra

2. Kookaburra

95%
(152)
74km from Lake Illawarra · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Sussex Inlet, NSW
Kookaburra is a 20-acre farm located between Ulladulla and Nowra on the NSW South Coast, just under a three-hour drive from Sydney and Canberra. It offers a peaceful and authentic bush experience, ideal for a weekend getaway or an overnight stop, especially for those travelling through the Jervis Bay area. Please note: We are a peaceful, family-friendly site and do not accept group bookings under any circumstances. Each site allows one family/vehicle and one trailer/caravan per booking only. No additional vehicles, caravans, or trailers are permitted. If you're unsure whether your setup complies, please contact Christine before booking. You can camp in an open paddock or relax under the shade of tree canopies. A short bushwalk will take you to a quiet creek, and the area is home to local wildlife, including kookaburras, wallabies, and secretive wombats. The farm also has a variety of animals, including cows, chickens, Elmo the horse and Warren the Sheep, who may greet you when you arrive. At Kookaburra, we ensure that guests have plenty of space and privacy, although you may occasionally see other visitors in the area. We operate on a self-sufficient basis, so please take all your rubbish with you and respect the natural environment and the next visitors. Fires are allowed (subject to fire danger conditions), and you're welcome to gather your firewood. 🔥 Firewood for sale at the gate – $20! 🪵🚪. 🥚 Fresh free-range eggs – $6 a dozen 🐔, Text us and we'll drop some down to your site 🚗 Pets are welcome but must be supervised around the farm animals and wildlife. Please note that phone reception is limited, so come prepared. While a 2WD vehicle is usually acceptable, adverse weather conditions may require a 4WD. Be mindful of wombat holes, tree stumps, and snakes when exploring the property. Whether you're stopping by for a short stay or looking for a quiet retreat, Kookaburra offers a unique and relaxing bush escape. We look forward to welcoming you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Site 1 stream

3. The Wandy Donkey Camp

96%
(91)
68km from Lake Illawarra · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Wandandian, NSW
Located 15-minute drive to the glorious beaches of Jervis Bay, 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 families wanting to explore the beauty of the South Coast. 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 donkeys you might get to interact with along with seasonal (spring) baby goats. 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 15 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 coastal 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. Talk to Kate to arrange a detailed, up-close interaction with the farm animals.
Pets
Toilets
from 
AU$73
 / night
Babbling Brook 4WD Camping

4. Babbling Brook 4WD Camping

99%
(594)
70km from Lake Illawarra · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$121
 / night
Grady's Riverside Retreat

5. Grady's Riverside Retreat

96%
(399)
52km from Lake Illawarra · 51 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Burrier, NSW
Grady’s Riverside Retreat was first established in 1979. The retreat is located 20 minutes west of Nowra and is set on 17 secluded acres on the banks of the beautiful Shoalhaven River, surrounded by natural bushland, mountains, cliffs and dairy pastures. This makes Grady’s Riverside Retreat an ideal place to bring your friends and family to relax, unwind and enjoy the scenery. Grady’s has over 500 metres of direct access to the Shoalhaven River. The river is deep and also is tidal which means we have a large variety of fresh and saltwater fish that inhabit these waters. Majority of our well maintained grassy sites are located along the river or have uninterrupted river views. With a boat ramp and beach areas for you to utilise at your leisure. Grady's is a pet friendly Retreat and we also allow campfires. We strongly believe these few extra things are essential to create a true camping experience. The park grounds are well maintained throughout the year. The amenities are fresh and cleaned daily. If you are the adventurous type there are many activities to offer in the vicinity such as canoeing, fishing, swimming, bushwalks, 4WDriving, bike riding, jet skiing, water skiing and much more. Come and enjoy our absolute riverfront camping, -Secluded camping sites are available on request (subject to availability) -We also have powered camp sites and Riverview cabins and cottages available. -The picturesque banks of the Shoalhaven River play host to the perfect escape from the burdens of city life. Only 2 hours from Sydney but feels like a world away. Amongst the trees and under the clear blue sky, sit around your campfire and allow yourself the time to reflect, reconnect, and revel in nature's abundance. Activities:- *Fishing/swimming *kids playground *basketball court/ volleyball court *large reserve for ball sports etc *BMX Track - Grady’s has a BMX track on site *Canoeing and Paddle Boards for hire - Grady’s is a great location for the canoeing and paddle boards beginners or enthusiasts. *4WDing and Dirt Bike Riding - Grady’s is in close proximity to many fire trails and 4WD tracks. *Bushwalking and mountain biking - There are many walking tracks in and around the Yalwal region. *Boating - Bring your own boat or jet ski and enjoy the use of our boat ramp
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$34
 / night
Woodenhead Experiences

6. Woodenhead Experiences

97%
(207)
75km from Lake Illawarra · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Jerrawangala, NSW
This bush campsite is located very close to Sussex Inlet. We are just 10 minutes from the exquisite Bendalong and Berrara beaches. Here you will find great fishing, surfing and access to all watersport activities at Swan Haven. There is fantastic mountain biking through the Jerrawangala National Park. Sit around the campfire and relax (firewood provided). This campsite suits self contained campers with own toilet/shower and water supply. You can use our BBQ and rubbish facilities. Well behaved pets on leashes welcome. Horses can be accommodated. Do not enter the paddocks with our horses but if you would like to meet the horses please ask. Lovely cafes, pubs and shops 20 mins away at Huskisson to the north or Milton to the south. Go for an adventure to see the white sands of Jervis Bay. Enjoy waking up with wildlife and being central to many of the beautiful spots.
Pets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from 
AU$121
 / night
Wombat Hollow

7. Wombat Hollow

99%
(139)
47km from Lake Illawarra · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · 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, tennis racket, basketball (a hoop on the tennis court) or climbing gear 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 platypus, brush-tailed rock wallaby, Giant burrowing frog, Gang-gang cockatoo, Glossy black-cockatoo, Koala, Little Lorikeet and the Yellow-bellied glider. We only have three campsites at present, so you will be guaranteed peace, space and privacy. with a minimum of 400m between all sites. 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 but there are some minor causeways making it unsuitable for busses or long low slung vans. An ordinary sedan will do for Billabong and Dad's camp sites 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/
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$79
 / night
Otford Park nr Royal National Park

8. Otford Park nr Royal National Park

98%
(455)
39km from Lake Illawarra · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. The majority of standard 2WD cars manage the track fine There is also the option of parking roadside, and walking in approx 300m 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 and just a hike 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 throu
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$79
 / night
Lyrebirds Nest

14. Lyrebirds Nest

98%
(79)
60km from Lake Illawarra · 2 sites · Lodging · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$303
 / night

Camper favorites near Lake Illawarra

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stories from the community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field