The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Macksville, New South Wales

If you’re travelling with pets, Macksville packs in over 1,000 pet-friendly camping options—plenty of space for both two- and four-legged adventurers. You’ll find campsites nestled near rivers, dotted along farm paddocks, and tucked beside bushland. Expect showers, campfires allowed, and a warm welcome for your furry mate at most spots. Fishing, surfing, and wildlife-watching are on tap, with locals hitting the water early and winding down by the fire at night. Camp for as little as $8, with an average night sitting at $39. For proven crowd-pleasers, check out The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (669 reviews), Bundilla River Camp (589 reviews), and Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone (482 reviews). Show up ready for salt air, campfire smoke, and muddy paws—Macksville’s pet-friendly camping is built for real adventures.

97% (9.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Macksville

If you’re travelling with pets, Macksville packs in over 1,000 pet-friendly camping options—plenty of space for both two- and four-legged adventurers. You’ll find campsites nestled near rivers, dotted along farm paddocks, and tucked beside bushland. Expect showers, campfires allowed, and a warm welcome for your furry mate at most spots. Fishing, surfing, and wildlife-watching are on tap, with locals hitting the water early and winding down by the fire at night. Camp for as little as $8, with an average night sitting at $39. For proven crowd-pleasers, check out The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (669 reviews), Bundilla River Camp (589 reviews), and Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone (482 reviews). Show up ready for salt air, campfire smoke, and muddy paws—Macksville’s pet-friendly camping is built for real adventures.

97% (9.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Macksville

1. The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

98%

(1390)

75km from Macksville · 15 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Port Macquarie's 'The Hatch Farm'; a pet friendly, interactive animal and fishing farm stay! A 150-acre working farm with a stunning outlook over the saltwater Maria River (with a rustic boat ramp and waterway running into the Hastings River). There is plenty to do and see at this hipcamp which was awarded to be one of the best hipcamps in NSW for 2024, and Australia wide for 2025! Located on the Mid North Coast NSW, 4kms off the Pacific Highway, and a quick 13/15-minute drive to the holiday township of Port Macquarie. Port Macquarie is known for its beautiful beaches, coastal scenery and walks, koala hospital, local strawberry and tomato picking, and 4WDing at nearby beaches and through Cairncross State Forest. Bernard and Susan are custodians of the farm, primarily using the land for poultry (egg), pig, and goat farming. They are transitioning to an off-grid and eco-friendly lifestyle for their retirement. The Hatch Farm is home to many animals, most of whom are rescues - including border collies, cavalier king charles spaniels, chickens, ducks, pigs, sheep, goats, miniature horses, cows, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs. There is plenty to do and see around the farm from complete relaxation, interacting with the friendly animals (there is usually a variety of babies to cuddle!), to casting a line or launching your boat from the rustic boat ramp. Please note that all animal interactions are self-led (including our animal nursery), and children must be supervised by their parents/carers. During NSW School Holidays, host led animal interactions will be available at designated times. Friendly pets welcome. For bookings call or text Susan 0418 842055

2. Port Macquarie Riverside

78km from Macksville · 6 sites · RVs

Port Macquarie Riverside is a peaceful riverside campsite nestled in the natural beauty of Riverside, New South Wales, offering a true outdoor escape with water views and plenty of space to relax by the river. Campers can enjoy private river access where you can swim, paddle, fish, or simply unwind watching the water flow by. The surrounding landscape features native bushland and abundant birdlife, making this a great location for nature lovers and anyone seeking peace and quiet just a short drive from Port Macquarie and the Mid North Coast’s beaches. This is a self‑sufficient campsite with no power or facilities provided, so you’ll want to bring everything you need for your stay and leave no trace behind. Set up your tent, camper, or swag in a scenic spot, build a campfire (when permitted), and enjoy evenings under starry skies with the gentle sounds of the river as your soundtrack. The property’s location also makes it a perfect base for exploring the region’s outdoor attractions, from riverside walks and water activities to nearby national parks, coastal beaches, and local towns with cafes, markets, and shops. Bring your sense of adventure and your camping gear for a memorable off‑grid experience at Port Macquarie Riverside — a quiet, scenic place to reconnect with nature and relax by the water.

from

AU$49

/ night

3. Riverlea Green, Nambucca Valley

98%

(75)

4.5km from Macksville · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Our riverfront farm now has sites available for self-contained campers! • 300m Nambucca River frontage, with direct access - Perfect for fishing, swimming, boating and lazing by the river 😌 • Flat grassy campsites, for caravans, tents and RV’s (own toilet, electricity & water required). • Campfires permitted April - October • Group camping available • Well behaved pets welcome. Off leash is permitted, provided the pets stay with their owners. Location: • 10 min off the highway, a peaceful halfway stop between Sydney and Brisbane • Centrally located in the Nambucca Valley, perfect for exploring the Valley’s beaches, towns and hinterland • 3km to Riverview Island Wedding and Function Venue • Fresh produce available from the Fruit and Veg Stall next door

4. Heartwood

28km from Macksville · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging

A very private and peaceful slice of the Nambucca Valley, featuring multiple elevated sites with spectacular views. You’ll be greeted at the base camp and directed to the sites that require a short hike. Your equipment will be delivered to you, or 4WD access can be discussed if needed. We never crowd the property — you’ll have entire areas to yourself for maximum privacy. Abundant wildlife makes this a birdwatcher’s paradise. Do as much or as little as you desire.

5. Yarrawin Camping

100%

(188)

18km from Macksville · 26 sites · Tents, RVs

Yarrawin is 680 acre cattle farm and hardwood timber plantation in the heart of the Nambucca Valley, offering scenic, secluded, private campsites with their own swimming hole and a river gravel beach on 3km of beautiful double river frontage. Camping options include riverside camps, the Shack and riverside camp and a large secluded valley. Each campsite is separate from the others, giving guests privacy and exclusive use of the swimming hole (except Chinamans Valley) at their site. All riverside sites offer a natural gravel beach entry into the water. There are no amenities here, campers will need to be self contained and leave no trace. Every site has a fire pit which must be used for campfires. If you want to use your own it must be off the ground. Only sand mats or similar, NO TARPS, to be set up on the grassed areas to preserve the grass. Firewood $20/night (CASH ONLY PLEASE). Please let us know in advance if you want firewood. Beautiful drinking rain water is available in a 20lt Jerry can if required on arrival. Bird lovers can enjoy watching the various bird varieties, as well as ducks. Animals include wallabies, goannas, deer and fish as well as cattle and stock horses. Fishing is okay but it is STRICTLY catch and release ONLY. There are many places to go bushwalking, either following the river or heading up the valleys or hiking up the hills through the trees. The property is just 10kms from the convenience of Bowraville, a historic township with a supermarket, folk museum, a war museum, a historic theatre, and other historic buildings. Nambucca Heads and the beautiful surrounding beaches are just 27kms east and Coffs Harbour 80kms away. Please note this is a working farm, so there will be cattle and stock horses on the property that may approach your campsite.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jacqui

2 weeks ago

5 m travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Yarrawin Camping

Very quiet, peaceful and private location. Great spot to take your dog to wonder and take a dip.

L

Louise

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Loved everything about this place. The location on the river is perfect. The sites are great sizes. Hosts are lovely and I especially loved Jack the border collie. Absolute sweetheart of a dog ❤️

D

Danica

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

We loved our stay at this beautiful riverside spot - there is so much space, many great outdoor activities (we loved kayaking, and the farm animals), and Susan and Bernard are so welcoming and accommodating, and have created a wonderful place to be. Highly recommended.

J

Jane

3 weeks ago

12 m travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Yarrawin Camping

Beautiful camp area. Well kept. Great views and creek. Friendly cows and horses. Lovely host.

T

Tim

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Riverlea Green, Nambucca Valley

Hosts were extremely helpful and it’s such a quiet place to relax and fish with lots of space to run around.

S

Sean

December 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

This is a beautiful place to stay on the river - Bernard and Susan are very welcoming and friendly - the sites are huge and the facilities are great - we have rebooked for our return journey

O

Oliver

December 2025

6 m Class A

With kids

1 night at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

A fabulous farm stay. Susan was accommodating of our late arrival due to bushfire traffic. What a place to watch the sunrise over the river. If you have the opportunity to visit, don’t miss it.

D

Dana

December 2025

5 m Class B

With kids

1 night at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Wir haben uns sehr wohl auf der Farm von Susan und Bernard gefühlt. Sie waren sehr freundlich. Haben sogar mit unserem kleinen Sohn die Tiere gefüttert und haben uns alle Fragen sofort beantwortet. Wir wurden es weiterempfehlen und immer wiederkommen

N

Nicole

December 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Our young family loved staying at The Hatch! Beautiful farm/river views. We had a play on the foreshore, caught a fish, rode our bikes, visited the farm animals, roasted marshmallows on the fire. What more could you want! Thank you so much!

C

CHERYL

December 2025

8 m Class A

With kids

2 nights at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Thanks Susan and Bernard.. what a wonderful idyllic place this is! The children LOVED playing with Sally (their beautiful & clever border collie) all day long, and the adults LOVED the space, right next to the river. It was a wonderful and unique experience, especially for us city dwellers. Make sure you get the campfire package! Susan also brought the kids into her ‘petting zoo’ and they got to cuddle rabbits, baby chicks, guinea pigs… So fun.

T

Tinu

December 2025

6 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Yarrawin Camping

Our stay at Ian's Hipcamp was everything we dreamed of and more. The camping spot is perfectly situated right on a beautiful, winding creek, offering the ultimate private escape. We were able to set up our camper right on the sandy bank, giving us direct access to the water for swimming and relaxing. The location is incredibly picturesque, featuring a stunning contrast between the lush, dense greenery lining the river on one side and an open, sunny field on the other. It feels wonderfully wild yet totally accessible. A huge shout-out to our incredible hosts, Ian and Bobbie! They were so friendly, welcoming, and accommodating. They even surprised us with a batch of homemade brownies—such a thoughtful touch that truly elevated our stay. If you're looking for a truly peaceful, secluded experience to disconnect and enjoy nature, this is the place. Ian and Bobbie have created a hidden paradise—we can't wait to come back!

James

November 2025

9 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Great hosts- super accommodating and flexible - our van broke down and we weren’t able to get a replacement straight away so meant having to stay an extra night. They were great and relaxed about it all. Great fun kayaking as well - would definitely recommend to anyone going on a road trip!

L

Laina

November 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Beautiful property, friendly hosts and the cutest animals!!! Would highly recommend this camp.

m

maddy

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

We loved our stay!! Bernard and Susan were helpful and welcomjng :) Freedom to roam the water on the kayaks, great set ups for camping with fire pits and shelter from sun/wind. Nice clean facilities :)highly recommend

M

Mark

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Yarrawin Camping

We had a great time best camping spot I've ever been fishing and swimming and flying fox shack was great especially when it rained a bit at night animals roaming cows and horses great fire pit and not far to town can't recommend it enough thank u Ian and Bobbie

E

Emma

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Yarrawin Camping

We absolutely loved this camp, it was private, quiet and peaceful. The swimming holes were great with lovely water and fun zip lines. Ian, Bobbie and their friends were amazing and willing to help out every day (plus there were delicious brownies on entry). There was so much space and beautiful views. We cannot recommend staying here more.

A

Amy

November 2025

7 m Class B

With kids

1 night at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Really enjoyed our stay. Very quiet and pleanty of space to spread out. My son loved all the animals, kyaking and the trampoline. Great spot for fishing too. Susan made us feel so at home and made sure we had everything we needed during our stay. Wish we could have extended our stay, but we needed to head home.

Scott

November 2025

8 m travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Another amazing stay! Large sites, welcomeing hosts, pkenty of firewood and fresh eggs. The hosts dogs Jack and Sally are amazing. Great access to the river! This was our second stay and we'll be back again!

M

Marjon

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

I loved my very short overnight stay at Hatch Farm because there were animals everywhere to pat, feed and just have around. I really liked to see all the different birds, feeding the goats, looking at the little lambs and watching the geese waddle. But best of all was patting the friendly Border Collies who came to say hello as the walked around the farm. On arrival, I was greeted by Bernie who explained the facilities and guided me to my perfect little site very close to the amenities. The drop toilet had charm and there was hot water available from an outside tap. There were other campers but everyone kept noise under control so I had a peaceful rest. I had to leave before 6am to continue my long drive home but would love to come back to stay for a longer experience, including a paddle on the river, with all equipment readily available at the farm. After one last pat of one of the dogs that had come to see me off, I left this little slice of paradise with a smile😀.

J

Jamie

November 2025

8 m travel trailer

4 nights at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

From the friendly greeting, to the wonderfull views of the river, The Hatch is a must stay. We couldn’t recommend it more. We have been wanting to camp here for a while, but it was always booked out, we can see now why. There is so much do and so close Port Macquarie, but you wouldn’t know it as the peaceful surroundings made it feel like you could be anywhere.