The best waterside campgrounds near Maclean, New South Wales

Camping waterside in Maclean means waking up to river views and the sound of birdlife. With over 640 options just for waterside spots, there’s no shortage of places to pitch your tent or park the van. Some sites sit right on the Clarence River, letting you fish from the bank, spot pelicans, or stroll along the muddy edges at sunrise. Prices start at just $12 a night, with most sites averaging around $40. If you’re after trusted favourites, check out Coffs Harbour Camping & Farmstay (860 reviews), The Peach Farm (492 reviews), or Riverside Rest (441 reviews). Many spots let you bring pets, light a campfire, and offer toilets. Fishing, wildlife-watching, and hiking are part of everyday life here. Bring your gear, respect the water, and don’t leave rubbish behind.

97% (5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping waterside in Maclean means waking up to river views and the sound of birdlife. With over 640 options just for waterside spots, there’s no shortage of places to pitch your tent or park the van. Some sites sit right on the Clarence River, letting you fish from the bank, spot pelicans, or stroll along the muddy edges at sunrise. Prices start at just $12 a night, with most sites averaging around $40. If you’re after trusted favourites, check out Coffs Harbour Camping & Farmstay (860 reviews), The Peach Farm (492 reviews), or Riverside Rest (441 reviews). Many spots let you bring pets, light a campfire, and offer toilets. Fishing, wildlife-watching, and hiking are part of everyday life here. Bring your gear, respect the water, and don’t leave rubbish behind.

97% (5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Solitary Islands Farm

98%

(21)

70km from Maclean · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Mullaway, NSW

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. Waterfalls & More

94%

(223)

68km from Maclean · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Sherwood, NSW

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.

3. Evans Head Camping

98%

(66)

45km from Maclean · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Doonbah, NSW

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 · Yuraygir, NSW

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.

Stories from the community

W

Wade

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Solitary Islands Farm

Great quiet spot with a close drive to the surf. Lots of space per site and great we could have a fire.

J

Jacob

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waterfalls & More

Loved every bit of this trip. Great property, most amazing waterfall walk . Highly recommend to get away from people and enjoy nature

Natasha

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Waterfalls & More

Absolutely beautiful spot, away from the crowd and the waterfall is such a hidden gem. Rod is a great host

M

Malcolm

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Evans Head Camping

The deep fresh water lake that you have all to yourself is absolute heaven. Camping facilities are top quality, making it more like glamping.

Our first Hipcampers were so well set up!

H

Helen

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Evans Head Camping

The camp ground is perfect. Just enough amenities to make camping comfortable, shed, fridge, fan, radio, tv, some tables and chairs, undercover area, toilets and shower. Yet rustic enough to still feel like you are camping. Set out so well with area for tents, a camp fire set up and such a beautiful property filled with a chorus of birds, kangaroos and koalas. Cameron was super helpful and went to a great deal of effort to accommodate the needs of our group and the program we were running with our young people and we really appreciated it. I’m pretty sure that most of the staff were thinking about returning with their families it’s such a wonderful spot.

L

Lana

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Waterfalls & More

My partner and I had a lovely stay at the Topshed site. The site was well maintained, the fire pit was large enough to have a decent size fire, and the toilet was a lovely surprise - a private toilet tent with a clean and tidy compost toilet with everything you may need. The highlight for us was absolutely the waterfall on the property, Rod provides an easy to follow map guiding you to the stunning waterfall just 25-30min walk/trek from camp where you can swim and enjoy the serenity. Rod himself was very friendly, stopping by camp to say introduce himself and his pup Reddy without interrupting the peace and quiet, we found him to be a lovely chat and it was clear that he loves having people come and enjoy the property. With the perfect mix of bush and access to the beach 20min drive away this was our ideal stay. Would recommend!

Lenka

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Waterfalls & More

Camping at Rod's place was amazing. Waratah camp side was perfect. Plenty of space to relax, have a campfire and read a book. And what a magical swim at the waterfalls. If you relax and stop for a lunch at the viewing natural platform, you can spot wildlife while enjoying the views of the waterfalls. Rod was great. Knowing the local land, he was able to recommend lovely hikes and definitely saved me many extra km as Google map would take me for a ride to nowhere. If you love hiking, swimming in natural waterfalls and relaxing place to enjoy your time around campfire Rod's place is the right place to go.

K

Kate

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waterfalls & More

We had an amazing time staying on Rod’s property. We loved being away free from phone reception and surrounded by nature. The waterfall was a clear highlight as was the rapids at the creek nearby camp. My nervous dog enjoyed her wild escape and it was so fun to see her enjoy herself in the bush being a dog. We will definitely be back!

K

Kaz

October 2025

6 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Waterfalls & More

Rod is a pleasant host & supplied easy to follow directions to his property, my girlfriend & I had the most amazing time exploring the beautiful waterfall & lovely surrounds, Rod happily supplied extra firewood when needed for a fair amount of cash and the fire pit was a great size, nice & big! It was a very memorable experience all round,. Thank you for allowing us to explore your very special land Rod, we will return! :)

M

Madi

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Evans Head Camping

Great spot, very private, very clean- had more than you need. Cameron is very friendly.

S

Sam

September 2025

5 m travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Evans Head Camping

2nd time here and just booked for a 3rd. Great location and central enough to everything within a short drive. Great facilities (clean etc) and great host. Cameron has loads of local knowledge and let's you get on with things.

Tyson

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Evans Head Camping

Came down from the gold coast for one night with my parents and it was perfect. Host is very polite and easy to get on with, and he keeps an extremely tidy space for you to use. I still got to feel like I was really camping even with all the facilities available, and my dad still got to watch the footy on the TV so whole family was happy.

C

Crystal

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Evans Head Camping

Having access to shower and toilet and still camping is a quiet peaceful area was really good

P

Paul

August 2025

15 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Evans Head Camping

Great camp area. Shed with fridge, microwave, kettle, TV, chairs. Separate shower and toilet facility - very clean. We had the entire site to ourselves so it was peaceful, quiet and secure.

J

Jacob

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Evans Head Camping

Good solitary spot. You can walk around the trails. Heaps of space. Toilet, water, shower. Microwave, fridge, Fire cooking only, so bring butane/electric hot plates if don't use the fire. It was nice and very peaceful.

S

Sam

July 2025

5 m travel trailer

2 nights at Evans Head Camping

Cameron is an absolute gent with solid local knowledge. The site was perfectly clean and ready to go. The water in shower - HOT; and just what I needed in a winter's morning. Pitch pretty much anywhere you wish. It's lovely and flat, so no messing about leveling etc. Generous amounts of wood purchased from site owner. Burnt like a dream. Bringing the rest of family down next time (as there will 100% be a next time here). Site and everything else easily met, if not exceeded expectations.

L

Laz

June 2025

10 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Waterfalls & More

Rod was very helpful with what ever we needed and explained his map with detail easy to understand And as for the place WOW we had to pinch ourselves to know it was real the waterfall was on only a 20 minute walk if that deadset was epic didn’t look real it was beautiful Will definitely be back to relax and enjoy the peaceful grounding effect rods property had for us

James

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Evans Head Camping

Was a lovely bloke and very helpful with all things regarding the property and surrounding areas. Would recommend to ppl as it’s a big space and very private. Can have music as loud as you want with no neighbours and fire place is very nice. Price could be a touch lower but overall we were stoked with our weekend away.

T

Tom

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Waterfalls & More

Absolutely beautiful place. Rod is a great host, very kind and cares about his property. The waterfall was probably the most magical, beautiful site that I’ve seen in my life.

G

Gabrielle

June 2025

7 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Waterfalls & More

We LOVED camping at Rods place it was absolutely magical and we highly recommend it for families. What Rod has done in creating a refuge for wildlife and his caring for country is truly remarkable. After driving through state forest and cow paddocks arriving at Rods is like driving in a sanctuary where the rainforest has been nurtured back to life. Fantastic views from the camp-site and plenty of privacy. Our dogs absolutely loved it because they could be off leash at our camp-site. The kids absolutely loved the tractor ride, even the big kids too! The waterfalls were absolutely breathtaking taking such an incredible experience to spend time in such an ancient untouched,majestic landscape. I feel so grateful for the opportunity to have stayed with you Rod, thank you for sharing this remarkable country with us. We will be back and look forward to seeing you again soon!