The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Nelson Bay, New South Wales

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for the perfect camping experience near Nelson Bay, New South Wales in Australia? We've got over 2600 options just for you and your furry friends. Whether you're looking for a cosy cabin, a spacious caravan spot, or a secluded tent site, we've got you covered. With top campsites like Fern Valley Ranch (401 reviews), Rivers Run Colo River (389 reviews), and Bunyip's Camp (577 reviews), you can trust that you'll find the perfect spot. Enjoy popular facilities like campfires, showers, and toilets, and indulge in activities such as biking, swimming, and snow sports. Plus, with an average price per night of £40 and options as low as £6, you'll find a camping experience that suits your budget. Start planning your adventure now!

95% (7.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Nelson Bay

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for the perfect camping experience near Nelson Bay, New South Wales in Australia? We've got over 2600 options just for you and your furry friends. Whether you're looking for a cosy cabin, a spacious caravan spot, or a secluded tent site, we've got you covered. With top campsites like Fern Valley Ranch (401 reviews), Rivers Run Colo River (389 reviews), and Bunyip's Camp (577 reviews), you can trust that you'll find the perfect spot. Enjoy popular facilities like campfires, showers, and toilets, and indulge in activities such as biking, swimming, and snow sports. Plus, with an average price per night of £40 and options as low as £6, you'll find a camping experience that suits your budget. Start planning your adventure now!

95% (7.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Nelson Bay

1. Viney Creek Retreat

92%

(46)

14km from Nelson Bay · 32 sites · Tents, RVs

Embrace the rustic essence of camping without the frills Situated on 29 acres of untouched bushland with excellent mobile coverage, only a 10minute drive from Tea Gardens beaches, our newly established outback retreat is a perfect farm-stay for campers to escape the crowds and reconnect with nature. We welcome self-sufficient campers who have their own toilet/shower facilities. All campers must provide portable toilets used by all their guests and leave no trace. As we are new to Hip camp we still do not offer water or electricity. We will be upgrading with time as nothing happens in a hurry here which you will feel :) Pets are more than welcome, however they must be well behaved and controlled. We do have a very friendly farm dog named Annie who everyone falls in love with (refer reviews fro reference and pics) Campfires are depending on fire restrictions. Access to the property is easy via a grated dirt road 500m off the highway which is very handy for a quick stop or stay as long as you want. Please NOTE! Adress in Google maps is accurate. For some strange reason Apple maps is not as accurate (sorry folks, I have reported it to Apple so watch this space) Please follow instructions in pics to access either Maestros or Pops paddock. ALSO: If it has been raining or is forecast to rain, the ground can get quite wet underfoot so please check conditions and plan accordingly with appropriate recovery gear. Check with us before booking if in any doubt.

from

AU$49

/ night

2. Two Rivers

100%

(11)

63km from Nelson Bay · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Two Rivers ~ Where two waterways meet and the story of our farm begins. Currently at Two Rivers Farm, we only welcome self-sufficient, off-grid campers with maximum of 6 vans and 20 people though this will change as we continue to build and evolve the property. For now, you can choose between two distinctly beautiful spots—each with its own perks and shared access to all the farm’s magic. Camp at Ringer’s Rest: Once the dairy farmer’s quarters, this rustic shed is now a bush-pub style gathering place. Settle by the fire, share stories and music, and raise a glass to farm camaraderie while overlooking the paddocks. Camp nearby and make this communal space your cosy hub. Camp at Riverside Hilltop: For sweeping views, set up at the Hilltop overlooking the river. Launch your fishing rods, canoes, SUPs—or even a jet ski (no jetty, so launch from the riverbank). Watch swans glide, birds greet the dawn, and deer pass by as the river becomes your playground. Your Hosts: Hayden and Ash live on-site and will guide you to your spot—whether riverside or hilltop. They’ll give you the farm rundown, share local tips, and help you feel right at home. The Area: Two Rivers is tucked away in Coolongolook on the Mid North Coast, with waterways flowing right out to Forster—just a 10-minute boat ride away. Nearby Nabiac offers the friendly Nabiac Hotel for a hearty meal or drink, plus The Artisan Farmer, a farm-to-table café, bakery, deli, and butcher showcasing local produce. What to Bring: We welcome self-sufficient campers only, so pack your swag, tent, campervan, or RV. At present there are no amenities, but exciting plans are underway for a camp kitchen and more facilities as the farm grows.

3. Peaceful Pond

97%

(71)

21km from Nelson Bay · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Peaceful Pond is our 10-acre property in bushland, just 15 minutes from the village of Karuah, NSW. The pond has an island, reached via a floating bridge. Enjoy the tranquility of listening to the abundant birdlife, or swim in the cool, clear water, among the waterlilies. If you prefer more activity you can paddle a kayak or go for a bush walk. There are pushbikes available to ride through the bush tracks to the river, if you feel energetic. You may see wallabies and kangaroos, goannas, and even echidnas. The dark night skies are ablaze with stars for you to enjoy. Tim and Vicki will welcome you with some fresh eggs for your breakfast, and give you access to drinking water from their rainwater tank. We offer several camping sites tucked around the property. All for self-contained campers, with no access to power or running water, so campers must have their own toilet. Fires are permitted in firepits provided when weather and fire ratings allow. Firewood is provided. Pets are welcome, as long as they are on a lead or under close control, to ensure the safety of the wildlife. Relax, unwind, and listen to the sounds of nature.

4. Lakeside Boathouse

61km from Nelson Bay · 1 site · Lodging

This modern, beautifully styled 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom cottage is less than a 2-minute walk to the stunning Wallis Lake. Lakeside Boathouse is pet-friendly and perfect for families, couples, or friends seeking a tranquil getaway. The main bedroom is spacious, light-filled, and features a four-poster bed, sitting area, walk-in wardrobe, and ensuite, opening onto the front deck. The second bedroom is equally bright and comfortable, with a sitting area, built-in wardrobe, and private deck access. A Koala double sofa bed is available in the living room. The main bathroom includes a freestanding bath, large shower, hairdryer, and straightener. The fully equipped kitchen offers a dishwasher, coffee machine, and NutriBullet. A breakfast bar opens via slip-fold windows to a large elevated patio overlooking lush gardens and offering partial lake views. Open-plan living and dining (seating for six) flows to the patio through slip-fold doors—ideal for BBQs or enjoying sunsets. Outdoors, you’ll find an 8-seat dining table, firepit, enclosed grassy backyard, and double carport with boat space. The home also has a laundry, unlimited Wi-Fi, smart TV, games, and books. Awarded Most Charming Lakeside Cottage Midcoast by LuxLife Magazine in 2022 & 2023, Lakeside Boathouse sits in the peaceful village of Coomba Park—home to friendly kangaroos and bordered by Wallingat and Booti Booti National Parks. The lakefront offers a netted swimming area, playground, boat ramp, jetties, walking track, and general store. Nearby: Boomerang, Elizabeth & Bluey’s Beach – 20 mins Seal Rocks – 25 mins Forster–Tuncurry – 35 mins drive / 10 mins by boat Just 3.5 hours from Sydney or 1.5 from Newcastle, this is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy the pristine waters of Wallis Lake.

5. Lakeside Forster Holiday Park

66km from Nelson Bay · 83 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

**Please note that our office is closed on Christmas Day (25 December), and we do not accept arrivals or departures on this date. Any bookings made with a check-in or check-out on 25 December will be cancelled. Thank you for your understanding.**Discover why Lakeside Forster Holiday Park is consistently recognised as one of the best holiday parks on the NSW North Coast. Lakeside Forster Holiday Park is idyllically located on the tranquil shores of Wallis Lake just minutes from Forster on the mid-north coast of NSW. There's so much to see and do on the Barrington Coast, from whale watching to rainforest treks. Popular for its uncrowded beaches, surfing, swimming, fishing, paddling, cruising, as well as stunning landscape and scenery, Forster is the vibrant heart of the region. Lakeside Forster Holiday Park offers a range of self-contained cabins, along with the region’s largest powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, many featuring private en-suites. During the low season, our sites are also pet-friendly, so your four-legged companions can join the adventure.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jesse

4 days ago

Tent

With pets

7 nights at Two Rivers

Fantastic spot and the most friendly hosts ever. We had a great time, fishing, swimming, crabbing, lounging by the fire with our dogs. Couldn't of had a more relaxing time. Thanks a lot for having us and especially Hayden for going above and beyond and helping us fix a tyre in the rain. Will definately be back

Damien

6 days ago

3 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Two Rivers

I must say this is one for the 1st hipcamps we have been to where the pictures are accurate. The camp sites and surrounding land is manicured. On arrival we met Hayden who took us to our camp site and gave us the lay of the land and local knowledge then Bee and Ash came down to welcome us. Great place to bring a bike,kayak and fishing gear. The ringers hut was awsome to play with the kids some ping pong and an awsome old school arcade machine.

L

Lachie

3 weeks ago

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Peaceful Pond

This is a real hidden gem! The pond was beautiful to swim in and a great place to camp next to. Tim was very accommodating and it really made the stay perfect. I will definitely be back soon!

Z

Zico

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

7 nights at Peaceful Pond

Pond is pretty deep and lovely to swim in. Very very nice owners. Would recommend.

J

Jenny

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Two Rivers

It was a great spot right next to the river! Thanks for a great stay. 😀

S

Stephen

October 2025

5 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Two Rivers

Wow-what a spot! Cracking place to spend a few days. River is great for a dip, kayak/boat and we managed to catch a few fish which is always a bonus. Hosts are lovely and very helpful. Can’t wait till we can return!

Sandy

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

2 nights at Two Rivers

Camping at camp site one would have to be one of the best we have had the pleasure to stay at you couldn’t get any closer to the water great access the best view ever ash and Hayden where great hope it stays the same we will be back

T

Tracey

October 2025

8 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Two Rivers

Absolutely perfect, clean sites, beautiful property. We camped waterfront, had the place to ourselves, stunning views. Definitely will be back. Hayden and Ash are so lovely.

L

Lynne

October 2025

7 m Class B

With pets

2 nights at Two Rivers

A little peace of heaven. Loved this spot and the stillness, peace and privacy. Perfect location to get away from it all and relax. The riverside setting was perfect and we enjoyed a refreshing swim or two. It was easy to access in our 7m motorhome. Our hosts were wondering and gave us a warm welcome, being very attentive. Highly recommended and worth the drive in on the unsealed road. Five stars.

R

Robert

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

6 nights at Two Rivers

We loved everything about our stay. Ash and Hayden were amazing hosts, they went out of their way for everyone. Our spot on the river was amazing. It was so peaceful. We couldn't find one negative thing about it

J

Jannelle

October 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Viney Creek Retreat

What a wonderful camp. I would highly recommend, so much space, peaceful just divine

S

Steve

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Peaceful Pond

Such a beautiful, secluded spot! The area was so well maintained and you can tell Tim really cares for the land. He was the perfect host, always ensuring we were looked after but also conscious of being overly involved (which he NEVER was by the way). There was so much wildlife to enjoy - we really did have the best time!

h

helena

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Viney Creek Retreat

It was an amazing place to stay hosts were so kind especially Annie who would come for pats each morning as we woke up or on our way back from going out. would definitely come back !

D

Derek

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Viney Creek Retreat

Very conveniently located and easily accessible for all. Jeda was very accommodating and a great host, supported by family and a lovely pooch named Annie. Would recommend.

George

October 2025

7 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Peaceful Pond

We booked a few nights as a city break from Sydney. Super quiet, lots of wildlife and Tim was really friendly / welcoming. Would recommend this place to stay.

nicole

October 2025

7 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Two Rivers

Absolutely beautiful spot! Plenty of flat areas for camping and the river is just gorgeous. Hayden and Ash were incredible hosts — they went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed. Highly recommend this place and can’t wait to go back!

Julie

October 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Two Rivers

Such a great hosts, easy to find with their directions. Amazing property on the river. The communal area is a great space to enjoy with family and friends. Also very safe for solo travellers. I will be back.

H

Harry

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Viney Creek Retreat

Camping here was nothing short of amazing, great campsite, I highly recommend it

P

Phill

October 2025

15 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Viney Creek Retreat

Nice and peaceful, close to Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest. Hosts are great and their dog is so friendly and doesn’t bother you if don’t want him around. Reasonable price and just off the highway so it’s handy to drop in for a night or 2.