Lake Camping Near Maclean, New South Wales, AU: 20 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Lake camping in Maclean means early mist on the water, pelicans cruising past your tent, and the call of kookaburras at dawn. With over 30 lakeside campsites around Maclean, you’ll find spots where the banks are shaded by gums and the fishing is reliable. Average price per night sits at $29, with some pitches as low as $15—solid value for the region. The top picks? The Peach Farm (492 reviews) draws campers for its fresh produce and lakeside views, while Sylva Lagoons Primitive Bush Camp (181 reviews) is a favourite if you want to keep things simple and spot birds right from your swag. Near and Far Yamba (146 reviews) sits close to the Clarence River mouth—ideal for a quick swim or a try at flathead. Most sites allow campfires, have showers, and welcome pets. Fishing, wildlife-watching, and hiking are standard fare. If you’re after a lakeside escape with a local edge, Maclean delivers.

94% (436) • 20 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Maclean

Lake camping in Maclean means early mist on the water, pelicans cruising past your tent, and the call of kookaburras at dawn. With over 30 lakeside campsites around Maclean, you’ll find spots where the banks are shaded by gums and the fishing is reliable. Average price per night sits at $29, with some pitches as low as $15—solid value for the region. The top picks? The Peach Farm (492 reviews) draws campers for its fresh produce and lakeside views, while Sylva Lagoons Primitive Bush Camp (181 reviews) is a favourite if you want to keep things simple and spot birds right from your swag. Near and Far Yamba (146 reviews) sits close to the Clarence River mouth—ideal for a quick swim or a try at flathead. Most sites allow campfires, have showers, and welcome pets. Fishing, wildlife-watching, and hiking are standard fare. If you’re after a lakeside escape with a local edge, Maclean delivers.

94% (436) • 20 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Maclean

1. Solitary Islands Farm

98%

(23)

70km from Maclean · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Solitary Islands Farm is a wonderful place for nature enthusiasts and campers to experience the beauty of the Mid-North Coast region. Here's a summary of the key information provided: Location: The retreat is conveniently located just a five-minute drive from the Mid-North Coast's stunning beaches and is surrounded by mountains. Property: Solitary Islands Farm Retreat spans 88 acres of natural beauty. The land features iconic historic trees, abundant birdlife, and a developing Permaculture farm. Campsites are spread across the property, offering campers seclusion within the natural surroundings. Nature Reserve: The property boasts its own untouched nature reserve with walking and bike paths for guests to explore. There is a large dam in the middle of the property, and Darkum Creek on the southern border, providing opportunities for fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking through the natural beauty of the land. Activities: The retreat offers a variety of nature-driven activities, including surfing, diving, golf, nature walks, mountain biking in Bells rainforest, and tree-top climbing 20 min drive. These activities allow guests to immerse themselves in the local attractions. Amenities: Currently, there are no amenities on site. Campers are expected to be fully self-sufficient during their stay, so be sure to come prepared with all the necessary camping gear and supplies. Sustainability: Solitary Islands Farm is committed to sustainability and aims to share its beautiful farm with others. They have plans to develop facilities that can accommodate both small and large groups in the future. Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed on the property, but campers are required to notify the owner. There are designated pet-friendly areas to ensure the safety of wildlife and the farm. When walking around the property, pets must be kept on a lead to protect the local wildlife. Overall, Solitary Islands Farm appears to be a serene and environmentally conscious camping destination where guests can connect with nature and enjoy a range of outdoor activities in a beautiful natural setting. PLEASE MINDFUL OF RESIDENTS LIVING ON THE ENTRANCE TO THE PROPERTY THEY HAVE FREE RANGING ANIMALS CROSSING THE ROADS. PLEASE DRIVE AS SLOW AS POSSIBLE! I don't live onsite but please call me for queries

2. Nature’s Retreat

97%

(15)

2.9km from Maclean · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Located, just 25 minutes from the pristine beaches of Yamba and Iluka. Across the river and just 15 minutes from the Scottish town of Maclean, nestled high in the Yamba hinterland. You will not hear traffic, you will not see headlights. Pure peace and tranquility for you to relax, chill and enjoy. The sites are surrounded by rugged mountainous bush land with views, trails, cliffs, 3 creeks to explore and includes a private lake ‘Lake Arid’ with its own island, ‘Dead Dog Island’. Swim, paddle, fish, play. Metres away is another private swimming hole ‘Pants Off Pond’ stocked with Silver Perch and Bass. So whether you indulge in pants off, or leave them on and just fish it’s up to you. Explore a little further and you’ll find ‘The Abyss’ a former micro quarry, 9m deep waterhole. The creeks have waterfalls, swimming holes, pure and clean, though are a rugged unmarked hike. The sites are site only. You’ll need to take care of your waste, water, rubbish and power. Generator is ok, we’re out of earshot, so is everyone else. Each site has a picnic table and a fire pit and an abundance of ‘cut your own’ firewood upon the ground. Remember, fires this time of year are for ‘cooking only’, so be sure to bring those marshmallows… Pet Friendly, 4WD friendly with a bunch of serious challenges too… Horse friendly too, yep, there’s a yard to keep them too, up by the house. Accessible by 2WD with sites with enough space for any size caravan or motor home. While exploring, if you find a spot you’d rather camp, simply ask. We live on the property so help is nearby for any issues and the access road is shared. Peace, quiet and nature abounds.

3. Evans Head Camping

96%

(69)

45km from Maclean · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Our powered site gives you a bathroom with hot water shower, septic toilet and sink. Part of a shed with a tv, radio, fridge and tables, a bbq, fire pit and plenty of space to spread out. Firewood is available on site only for $25.00 per night and includes 30 kg of seasoned split firewood and 10 kg of kindling/fire starters per night. Firewood must be ordered through Hipcamp with no refunds available. TO BE CONSCIOUS OF BIOSECURITY COMPLIANCE, NO FIREWOOD IS TO BE BROUGHT INTO OR TAKEN FROM OUR PROPERTY. Evans Head Camping is a peaceful, tranquil, private property within 4km of the beautiful beaches, river and township of Evans Head, on the Far North Coast of NSW. Surfing, fishing, bushwalking, swimming are popular activities in Evans Head. There are ample shops, IGA, SPA, Post Office, Newsagents, Butcher, Muzza's Milk Bar, just to name a few. Dining options - Evans Head RSL, Evans Head Bowlo, Illawong Hotel, plus thai, Japxican, fish and chip take away. 4WD Beach Access is located at Airforce Beach, about 4km's away. Woodburn-Evans Head Golf Club is a 5min drive. Activities include kayaking, bird watching, bushwalking, photography and just relaxing while listening to the birdlife. Koalas and kangaroos are regular visitors. The property is only available for camping weekends (varied nights) public holidays, and Easter and Christmas holidays. Enjoy the benefits of beautiful Evans Head, without sharing your campsite with the tourist crowds! Evans Head Camping also provides a safe and secure location for your holiday set up while you're explore the beautiful Northern Rivers and beyond. Take a day trip to some of the most interesting places on the NSW Far North Coast, knowing that your van/tent is in a safe secure setting. We are only a 45min drive from world famous Byron Bay in the north or Yamba in the south, just over an hour to the Queensland Border, with many coastal, country and hinterland towns and National Parks, inviting many adventures.

4. Bower Camp Co. Yuraygir NP

18km from Maclean · 2 sites · Lodging

Book a fully catered group camping experience and arrive with a Bower Camp Co. tents perfectly set up, test out your real bed mattress with luxe eco cotton sheets, and settle in for a nature immersive stay at Yuraygir National Park. Enjoy the pristine wilderness coastline of Yuraygir Explore the many national park tracks to cool creeks, awe-inspiring vistas and abundant wildlife. Tents can set up on at any of the many bush camps at Yuraygir subject to availability. The tents can be set up as singles, double/twin share or family size with a bedroom and living space. Have meals prepared by an onside chef from locally sourced mainly organic ingredients. Search Bower Camp Co. for more details. We do the work, you get wild.

5. Waterfalls & More

95%

(230)

68km from Maclean · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

HIDING IN THE MIDDLE OF EVERYWHERE! Pure. Unadulterated. WILD. 104 very private acres, securely sandwiched between a National Park Nature Reserve and State Forest. On a dead end road. No agriculture or farms upstream, only one other like-minded property owner. Secluded, but hiding smack bang in the middle of everywhere! From vertiginous sandstone cliffs on which epipetrics cling tight, right through to palm-filled rainforests, and with two quite different creek systems (including a monster waterfall), you'll be spoiled for things to do and places to explore - without even leaving the property! HISTORY This land is Gumbaynggirr land. Please be particularly mindful of our First Nation's long presence on this land. In the 1800's, white men came seeking Red Cedar, closely followed by settlers having a go at dairying; though logging has remained this area's mainstay. This special property, despite last being selectively logged about 50 years ago, hosts many huge old-growth trees remaining steadfast for your discovery and wonder. And many more are continuing to grow out too. About 35 years ago about nine of this property's eastern-most 104 acres became part of a far larger nashi pear orchard which filled much of the flats of this top end of the valley that you see today. Ultimately they failed to set good commercial fruit, and the rootstocks took over. You can see remnant rows of these trees just south of the property, from along the road. (Beware though - they have spikes that could puncture Caterpillar tracks!) MORE RECENTLY extensive lantana control efforts have been undertaken as we now move into revegetating with native species and implementing a permaculture plan. Today the property is registered with Land For Wildlife and hosts a very wide mix of native vegetation communities. ACTIVITIES Bird watch. Climb. Abseil. Photograph wildflowers. Paint. Swim. In the next valley there's even gold to be found. Explore trails by mountain bike. Whale watch. Surf. Learn SCUBA. Go beach-combing. Catch a mudcrab. Go whitewater river rafting. Ask your host about where to find all the local waterfalls, the best walking, how to find gold, the gnarliest off-road tracks, Anything is possible here in this magnificent part of the world, except perhaps snow and ice.

6. The Old Peach Farm

100%

(7)

53km from Maclean · 1 site · Tent, RV

This is an old peach farm, set over 25 acres with a quarter of the property cleared (our house and gardens there) and the rest left untouched. Only seven minutes off the Pacific highway but it feels like a world away. Perfect for a nice overnight stop. We've set up the camping area in a nice clearing immersed into the lovely natural forest surroundings. You will be camping next to an awesome lake where you can go for a paddle or a swim. Other than the summer hum of cicadas or the cackle of some resident kookaburras, it's peaceful and private. There are plenty of roos and wallabies around, as well as lots of birdlife including black swans in the lake. You can paddle in the lake and try to catch a fish there. We've set up a little homemade pontoon. So far only one spot to camp (that will fit up to 4 cars if you come in a group), so you will have the place all to yourselves. The next house (our Shouse) is at least 300m away from the camping area, so solitude and privacy is guaranteed. The property is close to plenty of beach options or nice little towns such as Woolgoolga (25 min south) and Grafton (25 minutes north).

7. Bungawalbin Wildlife Reserve

86%

(14)

40km from Maclean · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

I moved here from Sydney in 1987. In that time I have seen many changes. I have come to love the Bungawalbin and have formed a very real bond with the whole area and have learnt so much in the journey. Like most parts of the East Coast the land has been badly managed since European invasion in the way of logging, grazing, farming and burning practices that have degraded the diversity of what was once possibly the most diverse part of Australia. The bush is resilient but there is a limit to what it can withstand and I fear this precious wetlands is disappearing fast. 5 years ago bushfires devastated the whole forest leaving very little undamaged and it is still struggling to recover. Then catastrophic flooding in 2022 destroyed the homestead. The property offers spacious, private campsites in a natural and tranquil setting. Bush walking and birdwatching are a must, or just relaxing by the billabong may reward you with a wildlife encounter. The billabong is perfect for canoeing or paddleboarding and normally flows for up to 9 months of the year. Come and enjoy Bungawalbin Wildlife Retreat. www.bungawalbinwildliferetreat.com

8. Sylva Lagoons Primitive Bush Camp

99%

(269)

59km from Maclean · 14 sites · Tents, RVs

Sylva Lagoons is a 570 acre beef cattle and native timber producing farm, which we, Pete and Elaine bought seven years ago, for somewhere beautiful and peaceful for our retirement. It is so beautiful living here we thought we should share it. If you are booking to join us, please give a rough eta so we can be at the campground to welcome you The lagoon at the campground is over 10 acres of water, with native forest on three sides. It is great for canoeing or bushwalking and our bird life is spectacular. No phone or internet since 3G was removed. Sorry! Dog friendly - with limitations. Flushing disabled toilet available. Good access for 2WD. Campfires permitted in a designated area and firewood available for a donation to cut it all. CRITICAL! As we are farmers we need to know your ETA. Please advise us your ETA before arrival so we can be there to greet you.

9. BUNGAWALBIN WILDLIFE RETREAT

67%

(6)

40km from Maclean · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

The Bungawalbin Wildlife reserve is 100 acres of natural wetlands that backs onto the Bungawalbin Creek. I have owned the property for 35 years and have spent that time re-establishing the diversity on the property.   over the years the property had been logged mercilessly and used for cattle production. It was also subject to the devastating bushfires of 2019. The Bungawalbin wetlands is home to a vast selection of wildlife and I have created a purpose built waterbird sanctuary to attract and provide habitat to the many species of waterbirds that frequent the property.I know you will enjoy your stay at the Bungawalbin Wildlife Reserve.

10. Pasture And Paws

66km from Maclean · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Pasture & Paws, a 15-acre rural retreat in Shannon Brook, NSW. Surrounded by open paddocks, friendly animals, and fresh country air, this is the perfect spot to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature. Why you’ll love it: • Wide-open grassy campsites – plenty of space for tents, vans, and camper trailers. • Farm friends – meet our goats, chickens, sheep, and two loveable golden retrievers, Sunflower and Honey Bee. • Peaceful rural views – sunrises over the pasture and star-filled night skies. • Wildlife spotting – from kookaburras to wallabies, nature is always close by. • Convenient location – just 15 minutes to Casino for supplies, dining, and markets. Nearby adventures: • Scenic drives through the Northern Rivers countryside. • National parks, waterfalls, and bushwalks. • Day trips to Evans Head, Ballina, or Byron Bay. Good to know: • BYO drinking water. • Campers must have their own shower and toilet facilities. • Pets welcome, though please be mindful there is livestock on site. • Dog day cages available if you need to leave your dog on-site while you explore (owners responsible for animal care and safety). • Horses welcome – plenty of space for float parking and paddock grazing (owners responsible for animal care and safety). • Please shut all gates behind you to keep our animals safe. • 4WD access only during wet periods – the property can become boggy after rain. Come for the fresh air, stay for the peaceful pace of life. Pasture & Paws is where open pasture meets wagging tails and warm country hospitality.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

M

Morgan

4 days ago

6 m Class B

3 nights at Waterfalls & More

We were looking for a secluded place to set up camp on our way back to Sydney. We camped at watermelon flat, it was everything we could ask for. Rod welcomed us along with Reddy the dog that came and greeted us each morning. You Must do the walk to the waterfall it’s truely a hidden paradise to behold. Worth the adventure. Campsite was well maintained and the stars are wonderful at night. The nearby town Glenreagh is such a hidden gem be sure to check out the bakery and say hi to the team there! Thanks for having us to stay!

D

David

1 week ago

Tent

4 nights at Waterfalls & More

Second time staying here with my partner and our dog. Such a lovely place, with plenty to see and do. Rod is an amazing host, friendly and helpful. Would happily come back again.

S

Siobhan

1 week ago

3 m Class B

2 nights at BUNGAWALBIN WILDLIFE RETREAT

Such a beautiful and peaceful place to stay. Adrian is an amazing host, the bird life in the mornings is beautiful and taking a stroll around the pond was lovely. The property is beautifully unkept and loved the added addition of the Hot plate will definitely be back 🙂

C

Clint

1 week ago

Tent

2 nights at Waterfalls & More

We loved our stay at Rod’s slice of paradise! The bird life is spectacular, so peaceful at night & the waterfalls are next level! It is a must to go see them!

M

Mark

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at The Old Peach Farm

Fantastic location, very private, lovely lake and views. We’ll be back for the Paella next time!

E

Elaaf

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at BUNGAWALBIN WILDLIFE RETREAT

Adrian's camp site was amazing. We did a roadtrip up from Newcastle to Brisbane and back, camping at 5 different sites along the way. Adrian's was the best one we found. It had the perfect balance of amenities (all of which were nice and clean) and isolated. There are only 3 sites on his property so it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. Highly recommend.

Caitlyn

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waterfalls & More

Had an absolute amazing stay, I took my pup stitch on his first camping trip and couldn’t gone better amazing creek for dogs to play in as well as yourself. The waterfalls up the mountain was stunning as well plus pup can come most of the way , and a place to tie them up with water while you find the waterfalls. Plus Rod was an amazing host, very kind ! I also suggest it to my friends and they will be enjoying it over new years ! Plus I definitely plan on coming back . Also about 20 ish + min drive up the road is scot falls busy but gorgeous!

S

Sascha

2 weeks ago

6 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Nature’s Retreat

Pop is one of the most perfect places we’ve ever stayed ! Just so pretty - ideal for off grid. Fire pit and table supplied all beside a picturesque little pond! We met Luke and had the perfect nights stay. Can’t wait to return

L

Libby

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Nature’s Retreat

My family had a great time camping here, the owner Luke made us feel very welcome and showed us to our campsite site and was super friendly. We would definitely come again! Thanks for being awesome, Luke!

A

Amir

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sylva Lagoons Primitive Bush Camp

My wife, I and ours 9 and 6-year-old daughters, have had a wonderful stay at Sylva Lagoons Camp for 2 nights. We liked the quiet and tranquility, and the perfect tent spot. My daughter and I enjoyed kayaking at the lagoon! The toilet was very clean, and the nature hot shower was great! But above all, Peter and Elaine are very friendly and were willing to help with everything with a big smile! Highly recommended for a family vacation!!

L

Luke

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Waterfalls & More

Incredible! Loved it! What a wonderful hike and mountain. Clean toilet

T

Troy

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Nature’s Retreat

Was happy with everything from the interaction with owner of the property to the privacy of our stay.

S

Sarah

2 weeks ago

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Solitary Islands Farm

Great quiet, private stay with different sites. Easy to get to.

G

Gareth

2 weeks ago

Tent

7 nights at Waterfalls & More

The place you want to keep secret but also tell everyone about. Waterfall and walk is well worth it, as is any walk around Rod's land. Warratas area is perfectly shaded. Rod is an awesome host.

Rudy

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Nature’s Retreat

Great location in bush yet close to the river and beaches. Great place for your Dog to be off leash. Luke came around to say G'day great bloke. Very peaceful.

Rodney

December 2025

6 m travel trailer

1 night at Bungawalbin Wildlife Reserve

Easy to get to, but far enough away to feel peaceful and quiet. Unfortunately, the weather was very stormy during our stay, so we didn’t get to explore much of the property, however there was still a reasonable amount of birdlife around the campsites. The house is currently undergoing extensive renovations, so the bathroom is fairly basic at the moment, but it was clean and perfectly functional.

D

Dillon

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at The Old Peach Farm

Sight was nice and secluded, felt like we were in the middle of nowhere. And the hoast was very gracious

A

Alliyah

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Evans Head Camping

Absolutely gorgeous stay. Will be back for sure, Cameron goes above and beyond with the hospitality and amenities. Favourite part of our trip up the coast.