95% (4.9K) • 214 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Maclean
Riverbend Retreat
1. Riverbend Retreat
96%
(56)
79km from Maclean · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our 100-acre family farm nestled in the picturesque Eltham Valley, a place where history and nature intertwine. As fifth-generation farmers, we’ve embraced a new chapter, transitioning from dairy to beef farming while still cherishing our roots.
Our property is bordered by 4 kilometers of the Wilson River, where gentle rapids create the perfect backdrop for kayaking, swimming, and bass fishing. Picture yourself camping under a blanket of stars, gathering around a cozy campfire, and listening to the soothing sounds of nature. Here, diverse wildlife thrives: from colourful birds to elusive platypus, and even the charming echidna. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join your adventure, but do keep them supervised, as we share our land with working cattle.
Take a stroll up the hill for a picnic, soaking in breathtaking views of the Eltham Valley, or let the wind guide a kite across the sky on breezy days. We believe in the importance of quality time, whether with family, friends, or simply enjoying your own company. That’s why we offer only one booked site for your exclusive use, with the option to reserve up to five campsites for small groups.
Explore the local area with highlights like the historic Eltham Pub, just six minutes away, or venture to the serene beaches of Ballina and Lennox, 25-30 minute drive. For groceries, Bexhill is only eight minutes away, and Lismore offers a larger selection. Indulge in the fantastic local cuisine in Clunes, Bangalow, Ballina, Byron, and Lennox. And don’t forget to explore the Northern Rivers Rail Trail for an unforgettable biking experience!
We invite you to create your own story here, where every moment spent is an adventure waiting to unfold.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$63
/ night
Waterfalls & More
2. 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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$40
/ night
On The Channel- Caravan only
3. On The Channel- Caravan only
97%
(98)
6.3km from Maclean · 2 sites · RVs
Nice and grassy 3acres of land located right on the channel . Plenty of fishing spots and can launch a kayak straight from your campsite . You can cycle around cane fields and Macadamia farms . Only a 10 minute drive to popular surfing beaches in Yamba and Angourie . We supply fire pits and timber when in stock is available to buy.
from
AU$67
/ night
The Ranch at Howards Grass
4. The Ranch at Howards Grass
75km from Maclean · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to your peaceful escape in the Byron Hinterland—a 10-acre haven where rolling farmland, open skies, and breathtaking sunsets create the perfect setting for a restorative stay.
Just 30 minutes from Ballina and Lennox Head, 15 minutes from the famous Eltham Pub, and only 10 minutes from Lismore for supplies, you’ll feel blissfully away from it all while still being close to everything you need.
Wake each morning to birds chirping through the trees, soft breezes drifting across the hills, and the warm welcome of our three friendly farm dogs who love saying hello to new guests. With sweeping valley views in every direction, this is a place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature.
A guest favourite: you’re welcome to feed the chickens and ducks, making this stay extra fun for kids and animal lovers. Spend your days exploring the property, relaxing in the sun, or simply watching the sky shift and glow as evening arrives.
If you’re seeking space, serenity, and a taste of simple farm living right in the heart of the stunning Byron Hinterland, our little slice of Howards Grass is ready to welcome you.
from
AU$49
/ night
Tall Timbers Retreat
5. Tall Timbers Retreat
90%
(25)
33km from Maclean · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Relax with the whole family at our peaceful rural retreat. Our retreat is a short drive from the M1 motorway. Life on our farm is simple with 'off the grid solar'.
Less than 15 minutes to the gorgeous beaches of Minnie Water and only 25 minutes to fishing and swimming at Wooli. Grafton is our main shopping town.
Your space will be peaceful and warm with the wood heater.
Your doggos are very welcome (leashed when outdoors please).
Car parking for two cars beside the cabin.
Enjoy!!!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
AU$30
/ night
95% (4.9K) • 214 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Maclean
Riverbend Retreat
1. Riverbend Retreat
96%
(56)
79km from Maclean · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our 100-acre family farm nestled in the picturesque Eltham Valley, a place where history and nature intertwine. As fifth-generation farmers, we’ve embraced a new chapter, transitioning from dairy to beef farming while still cherishing our roots.
Our property is bordered by 4 kilometers of the Wilson River, where gentle rapids create the perfect backdrop for kayaking, swimming, and bass fishing. Picture yourself camping under a blanket of stars, gathering around a cozy campfire, and listening to the soothing sounds of nature. Here, diverse wildlife thrives: from colourful birds to elusive platypus, and even the charming echidna. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join your adventure, but do keep them supervised, as we share our land with working cattle.
Take a stroll up the hill for a picnic, soaking in breathtaking views of the Eltham Valley, or let the wind guide a kite across the sky on breezy days. We believe in the importance of quality time, whether with family, friends, or simply enjoying your own company. That’s why we offer only one booked site for your exclusive use, with the option to reserve up to five campsites for small groups.
Explore the local area with highlights like the historic Eltham Pub, just six minutes away, or venture to the serene beaches of Ballina and Lennox, 25-30 minute drive. For groceries, Bexhill is only eight minutes away, and Lismore offers a larger selection. Indulge in the fantastic local cuisine in Clunes, Bangalow, Ballina, Byron, and Lennox. And don’t forget to explore the Northern Rivers Rail Trail for an unforgettable biking experience!
We invite you to create your own story here, where every moment spent is an adventure waiting to unfold.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$63
/ night
Waterfalls & More
2. 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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$40
/ night
On The Channel- Caravan only
3. On The Channel- Caravan only
97%
(98)
6.3km from Maclean · 2 sites · RVs
Nice and grassy 3acres of land located right on the channel . Plenty of fishing spots and can launch a kayak straight from your campsite . You can cycle around cane fields and Macadamia farms . Only a 10 minute drive to popular surfing beaches in Yamba and Angourie . We supply fire pits and timber when in stock is available to buy.
from
AU$67
/ night
The Ranch at Howards Grass
4. The Ranch at Howards Grass
75km from Maclean · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to your peaceful escape in the Byron Hinterland—a 10-acre haven where rolling farmland, open skies, and breathtaking sunsets create the perfect setting for a restorative stay.
Just 30 minutes from Ballina and Lennox Head, 15 minutes from the famous Eltham Pub, and only 10 minutes from Lismore for supplies, you’ll feel blissfully away from it all while still being close to everything you need.
Wake each morning to birds chirping through the trees, soft breezes drifting across the hills, and the warm welcome of our three friendly farm dogs who love saying hello to new guests. With sweeping valley views in every direction, this is a place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature.
A guest favourite: you’re welcome to feed the chickens and ducks, making this stay extra fun for kids and animal lovers. Spend your days exploring the property, relaxing in the sun, or simply watching the sky shift and glow as evening arrives.
If you’re seeking space, serenity, and a taste of simple farm living right in the heart of the stunning Byron Hinterland, our little slice of Howards Grass is ready to welcome you.
from
AU$49
/ night
Tall Timbers Retreat
5. Tall Timbers Retreat
90%
(25)
33km from Maclean · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Relax with the whole family at our peaceful rural retreat. Our retreat is a short drive from the M1 motorway. Life on our farm is simple with 'off the grid solar'.
Less than 15 minutes to the gorgeous beaches of Minnie Water and only 25 minutes to fishing and swimming at Wooli. Grafton is our main shopping town.
Your space will be peaceful and warm with the wood heater.
Your doggos are very welcome (leashed when outdoors please).
Car parking for two cars beside the cabin.
Enjoy!!!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
AU$30
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Morgan
6 days ago
6 m Class B
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!
See more
Amanda
1 week ago
5 m pop-up camper
With pets
We thoroughly enjoyed our 5 night stay. The camp-site and amenities are well maintained. The river (currently low) and kayaks (additional hire) we are huge hit with our family. We have our own inflatable kyak and row boat but loved hiring the ones available to have our own.
Our first trip not bringing ANY firewood but there was plenty available to purchase.
Host is very friendly and approachable when needed but also respects your space. A++ Host.
Lismore(local town and shops) is a short drive away. Small city with most things you need if forgotten or if issues arise.
We plan to return!
See more
D
David
1 week ago
Tent
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.
See more
L
Lawson
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
Great little spot perfect for a family would definitely recommend and return
See more
Sam
2 weeks ago
Tent
We spent two nights at Riverside Bend and left feeling completely renewed. There is something incredibly regulating about this spot; between the gentle stream, the birdsong, and the afternoon sun, the rest of the world just melts away. It’s hard to believe such a private, quiet sanctuary exists so close to Byron and Lismore. We spent our days swimming, swinging, and soaking up the silence. With no road noise and total privacy down on the riverbank, it was the most joyful way to welcome in the New Year. Fresh, peaceful, and highly recommended!
See more
Bellā
2 weeks ago
6 m travel trailer
With pets
Beautiful and quiet place on the Channel. 2 x Campsites were a good distance away from each other so great for privacy.
Felt secure and safe as security camera upon entry.
Great place to relax or venture from for local activities.
Recommend +
See more
C
Clint
2 weeks ago
Tent
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!
See more
J
Jacinda
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
This was the most amazing campsite ive ever stayed at!! The river was incredible to swim in, (bring tubes to ride the rapids down stream). Beautiful, quiet spot 10000/10 will be back!!
See more
S
Stuart
2 weeks ago
8 m travel trailer
With pets
We had a very relaxing few days here camped right on the river with our two dogs. Property was well maintained and even managed to catch some mud crabs and bream from off the bank!!
See more
Caitlyn
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
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!
See more
P
Patrick Timothy
2 weeks ago
5 m car
Great value, contact less check in, very clear instructions to find the campsite. Would recommend for a stop heading North/South. Thanks fot having us.
See moreL
Luke
2 weeks ago
Tent
Incredible! Loved it! What a wonderful hike and mountain. Clean toilet
See more
Jacque
2 weeks ago
Tent
We have never stayed at a hip camp before, so weren't sure what to expect, but pulling up to Kate's beautiful property we were blown away! It's location by the river and cows was perfect, the access directions were clear, and we were quite pleasantly surprised and grateful for the amenities provided, including extremely clean portaloos, plenty of firewood and a bin of 'commonly forgotten items' which we definitely needed! The covered picnic table and fire area was an added bonus too. The ground was nice and flat for our one tent and one swag setup, and hearing the birds and bugs in the morning was definitely a highlight for our visiting Canadian friends! Thanks for sharing you place with us Kate!
See moreG
Gareth
2 weeks ago
Tent
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.
See moreR
Rikki
2 weeks ago
7 m Class B
Great spot! Feels like you’re deep in nature! Overlooking the lake, the sound of huge guns swaying!
Definitely recommend!
Nice to have a warm shower too (BYO water though, the tank water was a bit rank).
See moreR
Rachel
2 weeks ago
3 m travel trailer
With pets
What a fantastic spot. Felt like we had the world to ourselves. The river was fantastic to cool off. Massive storm came through and Kate came and set up a Marquee for us. Always on call and always incredibly helpful. We had the most magic Christmas!
See moreS
Sophia
December 2025
Tent
Fantastic private camping spot, toilet and shower available, and thoughtful supplies from the host.
See more
K
Kieren
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
Absolutely loved our weekend stay at the River bend Retreat! Lots of space all to yourself beautiful swimming spot on the Wilsons River just metres away from camp! Own private toilet facilities on the site were very clean and pleasant! The sites big undercover shelter came in handy to keep out of the wet weather and was great as a communal area for the camp! We got the damper kit add on which was wonderfully put together with everything you needed and was delicious! 100% recommended this stay at River Bend Retreat and thank you Kate for having us you were such a delightful host we really enjoyed our stay!
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L
Leigh
November 2025
6 m Class B
With pets
We loved the peace and quiet, no other campers and our furbaby thoroughly enjoyed the space to run around. Great, clean porta-loo. The covered BBQ area and firepit were very useful.
We will be visiting again! 5/5 stars.
See more
Linda
November 2025
9 m travel trailer
We rate this hipcamp in the top 5 of all the hipcamps we have booked. Great location, flat area, plenty of room and space between sites, beautifully maintained, easy access, nice wide entrance for larger caravans, and great communication from host. Wish we could have stayed longer.
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