- Camping with pets allowed
The best dog-friendly camping near Nambucca Heads
97% (9.7K) • 272 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Nambucca Heads
Vallis Oakes
1. Vallis Oakes
99%
(84)
38km from Nambucca Heads · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Vallis Oakes, your own slice of paradise nestled on over 300 acres, surrounded by the tranquil Oakes State Forest and the vibrant Gumbaynggirr National Parks. Check out our instagram - @vallis_oakes
Swim in the crystal-clear waters and be on the lookout for local wildlife like frogs, turtles, eagles, king parrots, black cockatoos, kingfishers, goannas, and the beautiful Crimson Rosellas. Fireflies have also been spotted!
Discover a variety of activities including hiking trails, lookouts, motorbike and 4WD trails. Vallis Oakes is the perfect base for exploring the national parks and then relaxing by the fire under the stars
SELF CONTAINED CAMPERS ONLY To keep our valley pristine, all campers must be fully self-contained. This means having your own toilet, water supply, and taking all waste with you when you leave. This is non-negotiable to maintain the site's natural beauty
PETS are welcome provided they are good with other dogs and livestock
FLOOD WARNING The property is located on river frontage, it may be subject to flooding during heavy rain. In case of flooding, a full refund will be issued, or an alternate campsite on higher ground may be available. While the photos showcase the stunning blue waters, please note that the water’s appearance may change after heavy rain or prolonged dry periods
You are welcome to enjoy campfires, provided there are no local restrictions. Firewood can be collected onsite - fallen wood only, please don't cut down our trees or take from our timber stockpiles
There is plenty of space for caravans, camper trailers, and tents. The sites are 4WD only due to water crossings and challenging road conditions after heavy rain
PRIMITIVE CAMPING We do not have on-site amenities. Please bring all necessary supplies, including a camp toilet. It is essential to maintain the cleanliness of the site, NO DIGGING HOLES and all waste must be removed upon departure.
Please note that there is no phone reception. If you require internet access, WiFi is available by the main cottage
We look forward to your visit and hope you enjoy everything Vallis Oakes has to offer! If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact us. Have a wonderful stay!
Campfires
from
AU$73
/ night
State Forest, Ocean Views
2. State Forest, Ocean Views
98%
(96)
38km from Nambucca Heads · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come and camp in this quiet, peaceful location. Campers will be able to enjoy
state forest access to explore wildlife or sit back, relax and take in the extensive views of the ocean, farmland and green valley, established tropical fruit trees, wandering cattle in close proximity and occasional native animals wandering by, city lights at night can be seen while under the stars, privacy assured.
There are also bush walks for guests to enjoy.
There are few facilities here, tank water and a sawdust composting toilet, picnic table and small contained fire pit also...
campers need to be self sufficient with optional own toilet/shower facilities
and leave no trace.
The camp site has had an upgrade beautification and facility program that is fully available.
The property is in close proximity to the ocean and the city, just a 10 minute drive too the Coffs Harbour CBD.
You're welcome to bring your pet, but they must be supervised and kept under control.
Campfire are permitted in the provided fire area.
Please note that some sites require 4WD
access and are a steep climb (see photos).
Caravan access is limited to small to medium length only.
Large vans require assistance so not recommended for this site.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
AU$48
/ night
Windermere Farm
3. Windermere Farm
99%
(363)
40km from Nambucca Heads · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Great location near Hat Head and South West Rocks
This lovely 4 acre camping spot is situated at Kinchela on the tidal Kinchela Creek which runs directly into the mighty Macleay river.
Please note that in very wet weather , being riverside camping, the sites can be unsuitable for caravans and camper vans . Please enquire by message with us to verify current conditions. We endeavour to accomodate you but cannot predict the weather. Tent sites usually okay at any time(remember you will need to have your own toilet facilities) .
You can fish , kayak, paddle board, bring the tinny or just relax and enjoy the water view and surrounding farmland.
A few shade trees and quiet surroundings makes this the perfect spot for your next getaway.
Fire pits available at each site with initial load of wood to get you started.
Conveniently located only a 5 minute drive to Gladstone shops and hotel.
There is a tap and hose (town water) on site. NOTE This is not available for vehicle washing, cleaning fish or filling large tanks. No emptying /cleaning of portable toilets please.
PLEASE NOTE Campers must be equipped with their own toilet facilities , absolutely no exceptions. People abusing this rule will be asked to leave. We like our riverbank to be pristine and enjoyable for everyone. Thank you.
Safe surroundings for solo travellers.
We live opposite campground if assistance is required.
Enjoyable fishing spot here, however no crab pots thank you. Our lovely waterway is recovering from a major flood.
Last Minute Bookings Welcome ONLY subject to availability and not in holiday period. Long weekends and holidays are subject to a minimum booking 3-5 days 😊
Campfires
Potable water
from
AU$49
/ night
Macleay River private Retreat
4. Macleay River private Retreat
96%
(37)
41km from Nambucca Heads · 5 sites
A beautiful little gem on the river bank just on the outskirts of Gladstone. Gladstone has many beautiful little stores and cafes as well as the amazing Heritage Hotel if you would like a pub meal for lunch or dinner.
It is only a 20 minute drive to South West Rocks or Hat head and 25mins to Crescent Head.
You can sit back on the bank and fish, go for a swim, canoe or enjoy some water skiing and put your boat in the river from the property itself.
from
AU$46
/ night
Never Never Park
5. Never Never Park
100%
(18)
43km from Nambucca Heads · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Never Never Park is a Sub-Tropical Rainforest property which borders the ancient Gondwana World Heritage National Park on 2 sides including along Coopernook creek. Located half an hours drive Northeast of Dorrigo and 1 hour West of Coffs Harbour (via Eastern Dorrigo Way) in the beautiful Bellingen Shire, surrounded by various National Parks with 4WD tracks, crystal clear creeks, waterfalls, cascades, swimming holes and picnic areas.
The property is 400 acres featuring spring fed mountain streams, cascades and waterfalls that run through its central gorge. First surveyed in 1906 and logged in the days of bullocks and hand saws, remnants of a bygone era remain including the “Jack Feeney Memorial Giant Tallowwood Tree”, a Champion Tree of Australia listed in the National Register of Big Trees. It’s over 50m tall, more than 1000 years old, and was around long before Captain Cook reached our shores.
The landscape starts in dense Sub-Tropical Rainforest opening up to lush green pastures overlooking the amazing views to the west showcasing hedge-rowed rolling hillsides and 1600m high mountain range towards Marengo.
The local fauna is amazing and quite rare, featuring the locals of the Gondwana Rainforests, Koala’s, Wallabies, Paddy Melons, Lyre Birds, Satin Bower Birds, Glossy Black Cockatoo’s, King parrots, Crimson Rosella’s, Wedgetail Eagles, Catbirds, Riflebirds, Fairy wrens, Diamond pythons, Water dragons, Giant Panda snails, Glow Worms, Fire Flys and many more… including our Horses, Cows, Chooks and Bees.
Similarly, the flora is very diverse including Native Tall Hardwoods, various types of Palms and tree ferns, Rainforest and flowering Trees, Vines, flowering grasses, Stag Elk horns and other epiphytes, Crows nests, Mosses, Orchids and more.
A magical land that time forgot - Tranquil and Peaceful. Hang out in the lush greenness and read a book, walk barefoot in the paddocks, explore the creeks and waterfalls, walk the many trails through lush rainforest, birdwatching, gold panning, mountain biking or just sit around and enjoy the spectacular scenery…360 degree sky watching, see the Milky Way come alive at night, Clouds being birthed out of mountain gullies after rains, rolling mists and magical sunset views to the mountains… take your pick….
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$49
/ night
97% (9.7K) • 272 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Nambucca Heads
Vallis Oakes
1. Vallis Oakes
99%
(84)
38km from Nambucca Heads · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Vallis Oakes, your own slice of paradise nestled on over 300 acres, surrounded by the tranquil Oakes State Forest and the vibrant Gumbaynggirr National Parks. Check out our instagram - @vallis_oakes
Swim in the crystal-clear waters and be on the lookout for local wildlife like frogs, turtles, eagles, king parrots, black cockatoos, kingfishers, goannas, and the beautiful Crimson Rosellas. Fireflies have also been spotted!
Discover a variety of activities including hiking trails, lookouts, motorbike and 4WD trails. Vallis Oakes is the perfect base for exploring the national parks and then relaxing by the fire under the stars
SELF CONTAINED CAMPERS ONLY To keep our valley pristine, all campers must be fully self-contained. This means having your own toilet, water supply, and taking all waste with you when you leave. This is non-negotiable to maintain the site's natural beauty
PETS are welcome provided they are good with other dogs and livestock
FLOOD WARNING The property is located on river frontage, it may be subject to flooding during heavy rain. In case of flooding, a full refund will be issued, or an alternate campsite on higher ground may be available. While the photos showcase the stunning blue waters, please note that the water’s appearance may change after heavy rain or prolonged dry periods
You are welcome to enjoy campfires, provided there are no local restrictions. Firewood can be collected onsite - fallen wood only, please don't cut down our trees or take from our timber stockpiles
There is plenty of space for caravans, camper trailers, and tents. The sites are 4WD only due to water crossings and challenging road conditions after heavy rain
PRIMITIVE CAMPING We do not have on-site amenities. Please bring all necessary supplies, including a camp toilet. It is essential to maintain the cleanliness of the site, NO DIGGING HOLES and all waste must be removed upon departure.
Please note that there is no phone reception. If you require internet access, WiFi is available by the main cottage
We look forward to your visit and hope you enjoy everything Vallis Oakes has to offer! If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact us. Have a wonderful stay!
Campfires
from
AU$73
/ night
State Forest, Ocean Views
2. State Forest, Ocean Views
98%
(96)
38km from Nambucca Heads · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come and camp in this quiet, peaceful location. Campers will be able to enjoy
state forest access to explore wildlife or sit back, relax and take in the extensive views of the ocean, farmland and green valley, established tropical fruit trees, wandering cattle in close proximity and occasional native animals wandering by, city lights at night can be seen while under the stars, privacy assured.
There are also bush walks for guests to enjoy.
There are few facilities here, tank water and a sawdust composting toilet, picnic table and small contained fire pit also...
campers need to be self sufficient with optional own toilet/shower facilities
and leave no trace.
The camp site has had an upgrade beautification and facility program that is fully available.
The property is in close proximity to the ocean and the city, just a 10 minute drive too the Coffs Harbour CBD.
You're welcome to bring your pet, but they must be supervised and kept under control.
Campfire are permitted in the provided fire area.
Please note that some sites require 4WD
access and are a steep climb (see photos).
Caravan access is limited to small to medium length only.
Large vans require assistance so not recommended for this site.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
AU$48
/ night
Windermere Farm
3. Windermere Farm
99%
(363)
40km from Nambucca Heads · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Great location near Hat Head and South West Rocks
This lovely 4 acre camping spot is situated at Kinchela on the tidal Kinchela Creek which runs directly into the mighty Macleay river.
Please note that in very wet weather , being riverside camping, the sites can be unsuitable for caravans and camper vans . Please enquire by message with us to verify current conditions. We endeavour to accomodate you but cannot predict the weather. Tent sites usually okay at any time(remember you will need to have your own toilet facilities) .
You can fish , kayak, paddle board, bring the tinny or just relax and enjoy the water view and surrounding farmland.
A few shade trees and quiet surroundings makes this the perfect spot for your next getaway.
Fire pits available at each site with initial load of wood to get you started.
Conveniently located only a 5 minute drive to Gladstone shops and hotel.
There is a tap and hose (town water) on site. NOTE This is not available for vehicle washing, cleaning fish or filling large tanks. No emptying /cleaning of portable toilets please.
PLEASE NOTE Campers must be equipped with their own toilet facilities , absolutely no exceptions. People abusing this rule will be asked to leave. We like our riverbank to be pristine and enjoyable for everyone. Thank you.
Safe surroundings for solo travellers.
We live opposite campground if assistance is required.
Enjoyable fishing spot here, however no crab pots thank you. Our lovely waterway is recovering from a major flood.
Last Minute Bookings Welcome ONLY subject to availability and not in holiday period. Long weekends and holidays are subject to a minimum booking 3-5 days 😊
Campfires
Potable water
from
AU$49
/ night
Macleay River private Retreat
4. Macleay River private Retreat
96%
(37)
41km from Nambucca Heads · 5 sites
A beautiful little gem on the river bank just on the outskirts of Gladstone. Gladstone has many beautiful little stores and cafes as well as the amazing Heritage Hotel if you would like a pub meal for lunch or dinner.
It is only a 20 minute drive to South West Rocks or Hat head and 25mins to Crescent Head.
You can sit back on the bank and fish, go for a swim, canoe or enjoy some water skiing and put your boat in the river from the property itself.
from
AU$46
/ night
Never Never Park
5. Never Never Park
100%
(18)
43km from Nambucca Heads · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Never Never Park is a Sub-Tropical Rainforest property which borders the ancient Gondwana World Heritage National Park on 2 sides including along Coopernook creek. Located half an hours drive Northeast of Dorrigo and 1 hour West of Coffs Harbour (via Eastern Dorrigo Way) in the beautiful Bellingen Shire, surrounded by various National Parks with 4WD tracks, crystal clear creeks, waterfalls, cascades, swimming holes and picnic areas.
The property is 400 acres featuring spring fed mountain streams, cascades and waterfalls that run through its central gorge. First surveyed in 1906 and logged in the days of bullocks and hand saws, remnants of a bygone era remain including the “Jack Feeney Memorial Giant Tallowwood Tree”, a Champion Tree of Australia listed in the National Register of Big Trees. It’s over 50m tall, more than 1000 years old, and was around long before Captain Cook reached our shores.
The landscape starts in dense Sub-Tropical Rainforest opening up to lush green pastures overlooking the amazing views to the west showcasing hedge-rowed rolling hillsides and 1600m high mountain range towards Marengo.
The local fauna is amazing and quite rare, featuring the locals of the Gondwana Rainforests, Koala’s, Wallabies, Paddy Melons, Lyre Birds, Satin Bower Birds, Glossy Black Cockatoo’s, King parrots, Crimson Rosella’s, Wedgetail Eagles, Catbirds, Riflebirds, Fairy wrens, Diamond pythons, Water dragons, Giant Panda snails, Glow Worms, Fire Flys and many more… including our Horses, Cows, Chooks and Bees.
Similarly, the flora is very diverse including Native Tall Hardwoods, various types of Palms and tree ferns, Rainforest and flowering Trees, Vines, flowering grasses, Stag Elk horns and other epiphytes, Crows nests, Mosses, Orchids and more.
A magical land that time forgot - Tranquil and Peaceful. Hang out in the lush greenness and read a book, walk barefoot in the paddocks, explore the creeks and waterfalls, walk the many trails through lush rainforest, birdwatching, gold panning, mountain biking or just sit around and enjoy the spectacular scenery…360 degree sky watching, see the Milky Way come alive at night, Clouds being birthed out of mountain gullies after rains, rolling mists and magical sunset views to the mountains… take your pick….
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$49
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Samantha
3 days ago
5 m Class A
Great property! Lovely private spot with a great swimming hole. The host takes great pride in the property and it shows, the upkeep of the site was immaculate and directions to reach the site were also very clear. We spent one night stopping over at the property at the end of a trip, however we wished we could stay longer and would definitely love to come back in the future.
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T
Ted
2 weeks ago
3 m Class B
The spot is beautiful. Perfectly out the way but still not miles away from everything. Dinner and a beer here will sort anyone out.
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Janine
February 2026
4 m travel trailer
Fabulous spot to stay with fur babies. Beautiful surroundings and great swimming holes. Highly recommended
See more
Georgie
February 2026
7 m travel trailer
With kids
Beautiful property! Very close to hat head beaches. Host were lovely 👍
See more
M
Madds
February 2026
6 m travel trailer
With pets
What a slice of heaven!
We came on a cloudy couple of days but it still did not disappoint.
Our daughter and dog had so much land to run around on and he creek was magnificent!! Yes there is a bit of muck in the water but who cares!? It was still Crystal clear and warm.
We had a visit off the hosts puppy who was adorable anda brief interaction with the host who was super friendly and respectful.
Couldn’t fault a thing!!!
It required three river crossings and a small but steep Hill to get to the campsite. We are no way experienced caravans but we managed all obstacles fine. No need for putting down tyre pressure or using recovery gear.
Superb stay.
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S
Sebastian
February 2026
5 m car
Group trip
Unreal spot on the water, super private and well maintained
See moreJ
Jade
January 2026
4 m pop-up camper
Fast becoming one of our favourite spots to camp. Sammy is a great host, friendly and welcoming. We appreciated the freshly mowed, massive campsite. The swimming, bird watching and star gazing are a great way to switch off for a few days and just relax. Thanks Sammy. We will hopefully be back!
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N
Nicole
January 2026
6 m travel trailer
Helen was very welcoming and it was such a relaxing spot near the river.
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J
Jodie
January 2026
5 m travel trailer
Lovely spot right on the river.
Only a short drive to Hat head and South West Rocks.
See more
J
Jane
January 2026
6 m travel trailer
With pets
Beautiful spot.
Very private.
Great hosts.
Perfect for watching the weather
Lots of beautiful places to explore around the area.
Fantastic stay.
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Ashlee
January 2026
6 m travel trailer
With pets
The camp ground was immaculate and very well looked after. The swimming hole was lovely and would be even better after a bit of rain to top it up and clear out the moss. The march flies were relentless so make sure to pack some spray and stop itch for the trip
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A
April
January 2026
12 m pop-up camper
With kids
It was a lovely spot. We unhitched our camper van and went to the local pub for dinner only seven minutes down the road.. would highly recommend and would go back for sure
See more
T
Tracey
January 2026
5 m pop-up camper
With kids
What an incredible experience. Staying in between the trees, going to bed to the sound of kookaburras, with a beautiful swim hole to enjoy. We miss it already!
Sammy was awesome and friendly, was great to meet him.
Highly recommend!!
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J
Joel
January 2026
Weekend Trip to Never Never Park
Sharon and Rob are amazing hosts! The Belle tent was perfect and the facilities are top-notch, especially the hot shower. Would definitely stay again, thanks for a great experience!
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Madeline
January 2026
Tent
Stunning view that overlooks bushland with the ocean in the distance. Lovely private site that makes you feel separate from the rest of the world. Composting toilet is very primitive.
See mores
sue
January 2026
8 m travel trailer
We had a wonderful relaxing 8 days at our his site. It’s the perfect place to use as a base to explore the area. There was so much space for our dogs to play. Annie and Peter are great hosts and we enjoyed meeting them. We will be booking again when we pass by this area.
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E
Emma
January 2026
9 m travel trailer
Just had a beautiful week at Windermere Farm stay on the McLeay River.
Very peaceful just what the doctor ordered only three vans for the whole week and nicely spread out so we were on our own.
Annie & Peter were an absolute delight and being able to buy some of their homegrown and butchered beef was fabulous.
I cannot recommend this place highly enough, close to South West rocks beaches and hat head but far enough away from the madness of the school holiday camping scene.
Without having to bend or move anything out of the way.
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Veronica
January 2026
9 m travel trailer
With pets
Lovely spot by the river only 3 sites so plenty of space between each site to still have privacy. Very friendly hosts. Highly recommend for a quiet get away
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Helen
January 2026
6 m travel trailer
With kids
OMG.♥️♥️♥️
This place that Sammy and his family has made is an absolute piece of paradise.
Absolutely everything we loved about this place, our own patch of lush green grass, some spectacular trees and the best little swimming hole. Deep in some sections which was great for the big kids and adults and shallow in areas that was great for the little ones.
I don't have words to say how beautiful this off-grid spot is. I wish it was closer as I
would come here every chance i got.
Thanks for sharing your dream with us.
On a personal note: thanks for going above and beyond to help us with finding a Vet for our Golden.
Helen & Brendan Scully
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Terri
January 2026
6 m travel trailer
With kids
Getting away from holiday madness of beaches and highways for a rainforest stay was much needed end of year.
Completely off grid so bring your own shower and toilet facilities. (Only Optus gets a little service. Telstra the occasional sms but that’s all.) enjoyed listening to roosters and horses from our site. Cows only visited once. Their dogs let you know of coming/going of anyone.
Got the large site away from main house so plenty of privacy and space for van (dogs & roosters a background noise :) )
Ensure you have a 4wd if you are pulling a caravan so you can make the climb/decent through the driveway and its rainwater humps. Do not recommend anything low to ground or those huge caravans!
Unfortunately we’re unable to spot any glow worms or fireflies and no swimming in creek within property bounds as only toe/ankle waters. Some better signage of walks and the bridge danger ⚠️ would be advisable.
Went for adventures in cascade and dorrigo instead.
Bring your salt for leeches or be quick enough to flick those suckers off lol. Only saw 2 grass ticks and lots of different ladybug 🐞. Watch the cow and horse pats with little kids & ensure your dogs/kids are well behaved around the animals who live here.
Overall a nice recharge spot away from the modern world & hosts are great.
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