The best waterfall campgrounds near Lakemba, New South Wales

If you’re chasing waterfalls near Lakemba, camping here means rugged bushland, hidden swimming holes, and the sound of water on rock. With over 130 options focused on waterfall access, you’ll pitch your tent in places where platypuses swim and kingfishers dart through the trees. The average night runs about $80, but you can snag a spot for as little as $31. Most sites welcome pets, allow campfires, and offer showers—essentials after a day spent fishing, wildlife-watching, or swimming in clear pools beneath a cascade. Regulars rave about Fern Valley Ranch (788 reviews), Mellows Ridge (98 reviews), and Glenworth Valley Camping Ground (16 reviews) for reliable access to the area’s best falls. Bring sturdy shoes and a camera—the tracks here are worth the mud.

93% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Sunsets are beautiful at Fern Valley Ranch. (This is one group of friends who booked out one Area).

If you’re chasing waterfalls near Lakemba, camping here means rugged bushland, hidden swimming holes, and the sound of water on rock. With over 130 options focused on waterfall access, you’ll pitch your tent in places where platypuses swim and kingfishers dart through the trees. The average night runs about $80, but you can snag a spot for as little as $31. Most sites welcome pets, allow campfires, and offer showers—essentials after a day spent fishing, wildlife-watching, or swimming in clear pools beneath a cascade. Regulars rave about Fern Valley Ranch (788 reviews), Mellows Ridge (98 reviews), and Glenworth Valley Camping Ground (16 reviews) for reliable access to the area’s best falls. Bring sturdy shoes and a camera—the tracks here are worth the mud.

93% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Fern Valley Ranch

99%

(1209)

65km from Lakemba · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · Somersby, NSW

**WE ARE NOT TAKING CHECK-INS ON CHRISTMAS DAY, but you can stay over Christmas Day** ----- 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. CAMPSITES- 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. - 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.

2. Mellows Ridge

95%

(174)

79km from Lakemba · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Calderwood, NSW

Nestled right up against the escarpment at an elevation of 450m, this high-end, off-grid 40 acre property effectively offers your own private slice of Macquarie Pass National Park - amazing views, giant cedar trees, fern forests, cascading waterfalls and palms surround. It feels remote but it's only 90 min from Sydney, 30 min to Kiama and just 15 min to the shops. The property also offers the only hiking path up to the top of the escarpment for some truly amazing views. As of September 2025, many of the trails on the property have been degraded by the rains and are now challenging for 2WD cars. If you're towing or it's wet we recommend AWD or 4WD vehicles. Since this is coastal rainforest and it has been very wet, expect leeches anywhere it is damp. These are easily kept at bay with deet and or trousers tucked into socks. We're not particularly price sensitive - until all those rate rises - but we are extremely value sensitive so we set out to make your stay extremely good value for your hard earned money. The land itself does most of the heavy lifting but also personal service and of course there's Lana to fall in love with. Note, Mellows Rd is 2.6km long and rises 400m - in parts the road is a 15 degree grade. It's all paved but narrow so if you are towing a large heavy load, it's going to strain your car.

3. Glenworth Valley Camping Ground

82%

(25)

59km from Lakemba · 101 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. For all camping styles, offering both powered and unpowered campsites! Enjoy open-ground campfires, waterhole swimming, a petting farm with super cute baby animals and breathtaking Valley views. All alongside epic onsite adventure tours - including horse riding, quad biking, kayaking, abseiling, axe throwing, laser skirmish & more.

4. Little Cat Oasis Garden Glamping

100%

(1)

23km from Lakemba · 1 site · Lodging · Queenscliff, NSW

A studio room located in the backyard of the owner’s cottage residence which was established in 1938,. “The Printery” once operated as a printing factory and housed printing presses and machinery up to the 60's. The local newspaper “The Manly Daily” was printed on the property from 1940-41 The studio rental has a 4.8 star review on Airbnb. Quirky and unusual, Little Cat Oasis Garden Glamping studio offers something a little different to the usual local accomodation offerings. Stays are hosted in a one room garden studio which has a King size bed, 2 seater sofa, tv and tea/coffee making facilities. There is also use of an adjacent outdoor tropical private deck area.

5. Kurrajong Trails & Cottages

90%

(5)

56km from Lakemba · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · Blaxlands Ridge, NSW

Kurrajong Trails & Cottages – A Hidden Wilderness Escape Tucked away in the stunning Wollemi National Park, Kurrajong Trails & Cottages is a secluded bush retreat offering a peaceful escape into nature. Just 90 minutes from Sydney, this private sanctuary is perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking quiet rejuvenation. Stay in Comfort: Our four cozy self-contained cottages provide a home away from home, each with breathtaking views of the surrounding bushland. For a touch of romance, The Love Nest is a private retreat designed for couples, complete with a cozy fireplace and a tranquil setting that invites relaxation. Camp Under the Stars: For those who love to sleep under the open sky, we offer picturesque mountain-top campsites with sweeping valley views, as well as serene creekside sites along the pristine Wheeney Creek. Whether you prefer the heights of the ridgeline or the soothing sounds of running water, there’s a perfect spot to pitch your tent and connect with nature. Explore & Unwind: Enjoy bushwalking, kayaking, wildlife spotting, or simply unwinding by the fire. With no crowds, no traffic, and no distractions—just the sounds of birdsong and the rustling of the gum trees—Kurrajong Trails & Cottages is the perfect place to slow down and immerse yourself in the magic of the Australian bush. Disconnect to reconnect. Your wilderness retreat awaits. No motor bikes

6. Rosewood Farm's Riverside Glamping

100%

(13)

56km from Lakemba · 1 site · Lodging · Tahmoor, NSW

Welcome to Rosewood Farm – Bushland Glamping by the Bargo River Rosewood Farm is a charming hobby farm that offers a unique and memorable glamping experience for families or couples. Nestled on five peaceful acres, the property backs directly onto the gorgeous Bargo River State Conservation Area. Over 1 700 hectares of stunning Australian bushland, teeming with native flora and fauna. It's the perfect escape for nature lovers seeking both adventure and tranquility. From your private campsite, enjoy direct access to your own walking track, just 20 metres from the river’s edge. Take in river views right from your tent, and explore nearby swimming holes, soft sandy banks, and sun-warmed sandstone rocks. Bushwalking trails meander along the river and through the surrounding bushland, leading to picnic spots and more secluded swimming areas. Highlights include the stunning See Thru Pools, a family-friendly favourite, and the iconic Mermaid Pools, a 25-minute walk downstream. This remarkable site features dramatic sandstone cliffs, panoramic views of the Tahmoor Canyon, and a cascading waterfall. (no swimming) Back at Rosewood Farm, you’ll be greeted by our friendly alpacas and pygmy goats who love pats, hand-feeding, and attention. Your spacious bell tent will be fully prepared for your arrival, offering flexible sleeping arrangements for up to four guests. The campsite is thoughtfully equipped with quality bedding, a mini Weber BBQ, battery lighting, a dining seating, an open fire pit, and a shared shower and toilet (located in a separate area attached to the farmhouse) Native wildlife adds to the magic of your visit. You may spot bush wallabies, kangaroos, echidnas, frogs, and a wide variety of lizards, especially during the calm of early mornings and late afternoons. The area is also home to an abundance of stunning birdlife, making it a birdwatcher’s delight. Soak in uninterrupted views of the surrounding bushland and the stunning Bargo River. Enjoy peaceful seclusion, connect with nature, and unwind in comfort. Local shops and attractions are only five minutes away, giving you the best of both convenience and wilderness. We look forward to welcoming you to Rosewood Farm—where glamping meets the beauty of the Australian bush.

Stories from the community

This is our largest site - it can easily accommodate double the cars and tents pictured. We're not precious about the ferns - they grow back very quickly. You get at least 400 sqm completely to yourself - no sharing with others.

L

Leonnie

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mellows Ridge

This place is not only amazing but the host is fantastic, a wealth of knowledge, friendly and accommodating and there are so many extras available. This is definitely a place to put on your list of “must visit places” we had a phenomenal time here and plan on going back soon! It was also very dog friendly

G

Guy

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Fern Valley Ranch

Nice and quiet and plenty of room, was a great spot for the first trip in our new van

Ty

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Fern Valley Ranch

I had a blast camping at Fern Valley. It was very easy to find, the location was awesome, I was in the Pines site and we had cows right up next to us. This site is very family friendly. The toilets and showers were very clean. Would certainly like to come back and would highly recommend to anyone else.

P

Phil

2 weeks ago

5 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fern Valley Ranch

This is a great little property so close to Sydney, dog friendly, hot showers, animals, waterfalls and orchards. Highly recommend for a short break away.

180 degree escarpment views and a lovely place to sit and watch the fire

R

Richard

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mellows Ridge

Great spot. Ian was super helpful and the spa was a real treat. Accessing our site wasn't super easy in a 2wd!

Very large site for cars, tents people and pets. View out to southern part of the escarpment. Very well protected, shaded and cool.

D

Daniela

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mellows Ridge

Amazing spot ! Ian and wife very friendly and easy going , highly recommended.

H

Hamish

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Rosewood Farm's Riverside Glamping

Very comfortable setup right next to the river. Melissa was a great host.

G

Grant

3 weeks ago

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fern Valley Ranch

A lovely spot for a camp with family. Just forty mins from North Sydney. Dog and kid friendly

Lucy

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Mellows Ridge

I really loved the location. Ian was a great host and met up with me despite some difficulties in my journey arriving on time. Ian escorted me to my site as well and I loved the added touch of the printed site map on arrival. The site was great and as described and pictured. It was so lovely with the escarpment views. So quiet despite sound of nature. It was my dogs first camping trip and I can’t have imagined anything better. Was perfect. Lana the pup was so friendly too. Definitely would return.

b

brad

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Mellows Ridge

We stayed at Stump No More overnight, very peaceful & the surrounding bush is lovely. Having the little portaloo toilet tent was handy & clean. The only drawback is that it says in description ‘firewood available’ - however the reality is you get your firewood from fallen branches in the bush - resulting in the trees around the site having had bark stripped off, & hack marks on some trees where people have done damage to trees due to needing firewood . Either cut firewood needs to be provided or make it clear that people need to buy firewood on the way in, or that they need to walk into the forest to search for it, as that was misleading. We plan to come back again as it’s so close to home yet you feel like you’re hours away because it’s so quiet & peaceful.

Large protected site on the way to creek and waterfall.

G

Grace

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mellows Ridge

It was honestly the most beautiful place I’ve ever camped but he wasn’t kidding about needing 4x4. Slight road noise but definitely not unbearable and isn’t loud all night like some places. 100% recommend for a rainforest getaway

H

Henry

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mellows Ridge

Mellows Ridge is my new, favourite, hidden gem. The area is abundant in lush rainforest and the hosts were beyond helpful. Each site has the perfect amount of privacy, especially Waratah Corner where we stayed. We will definitely be booking again in the near future.

N

Nikki

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mellows Ridge

I stayed in the beautiful Bell Tent at Mellows Ridge and absolutely loved it. The setting is incredible, surrounded by tall trees, birdlife, rocky outcrops, and stunning views. It’s so peaceful, with plenty of wildlife around. I even spotted a diamond python and echidnas! The Bell Tent itself was spacious and luxurious, with lights, music, power, and a private toilet - everything you could need. Enjoying delicious wood-fired pizza and wine in the hot tub overlooking the valley was just perfect. My dog had the best time too and even made a new friend, Lana (Ian’s lovely dog), who took us on a tour to the waterfall! Sitting by the campfire listening to the birds was so relaxing. It feels wonderfully secluded yet it’s just a short drive from town. The customer service was exceptional - having a strong coffee delivered at 7am was amazing. I really didn’t have to bring a thing. Highly recommend this spot for anyone looking for peace, comfort, and a touch of luxury in nature.

K

Kate

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mellows Ridge

We loved our weekend at Hidden Terrace campsite at Mellows Ridge. Such a lovely place. Even in the rain it was an easy place to camp with a toilet, power and potable water all on the site. The property is beautiful with views and walks easily accessible from the site - though wear good walking/hiking shoes and be prepared for a steep climb. Even the leeches weren’t that bad 😅. The firewood lasted all weekend and the home made bread was delicious on our first night. Thanks Ian, we will definitely be back!

Steve

November 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fern Valley Ranch

Fern Valley Ranch is a great camp and wonderful experience for the kids. We were in our camper with swags and there was only 1 other family camping in the area. The sites are large and well maintained. The walk to the waterfall and the rock is about a half hour round trip. Perfect for the little ones. Ballyn (the caretaker) was extremely friendly making sure we were all happy and settled in. He even took our youngest to feed the chickens (which he loved). This place is great for family’s being close to Sydney with large open areas to run around and the shops etc are only 10mins away if required.

J

Jessica

November 2025

7 m pop-up camper

With kids

3 nights at Fern Valley Ranch

What a beautiful place! We stayed 3 nights with our 3yo and 7mo in a camper trailer. Loved our stay here and would definitely come back. The caretaker (Ballyn) was super friendly, available if we needed anything and happy to just have a chat. The grounds were really well maintained, with so much to see and do… horses to pat, chickens to feed, stunning waterfall on site. Even a small playground for kids (swings, seesaw, bounce bike). We saw frogs, a turtle, a python (on the waterfall walk - beware), bunnies, cows, sheep, kookaburras and more! Fire pits were perfect size and camp sites spread out well. Flushing toilets and showers were clean and modern, everything was just a short walk away. We had a sink and portaloo toilets next to our site too if needed. We even ventured outside the property to nearby waterfalls, all really accessible too! Thanks for a great few days Fern Valley Ranch! Wish we stayed longer!

P

Peter

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mellows Ridge

The cedar loggers site at Mellow Ridge was a very special location for camping, it is secluded but also not too far from the main property so you can walk to the spa and other places on the property like the waterfall and creek. It was a magical experience to be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest and the illuminated tree fern was a nice touch. We had use of the owners special headlamp which is used by ecologists for searching for wildlife and managed to spot a rare Greater Glider in a tree near our campsite! Relaxing in the spa at sunset with amazing views over the rainforest is a must. The owners were very hospitable and gave lots of good tips and interesting information about the area and their project. My only regret is not being able to stay longer, will definitely have to come back and possibly try one of the other campsites as they all seemed to have their own special attributes.

s

steven

October 2025

8 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fern Valley Ranch

Awesome spacious camps with plenty to do and see especially for the kids

J

Jiayi

October 2025