Forest camping near Newcastle with fishing

Sunny shores, surf breaks, and golden sands await campers at this NSW beach town.

97% (1746 reviews)
97% (1746 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Newcastle

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

12 top forest campgrounds near Newcastle with fishing

99%
(448)

La Cascina

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Floraville, NSW
*****No toilet or shower available at this listing. You must bring your own. PLEASE BE AWARE ENTRY TO THE PROPERTY IS STEEP. Entry is not ideal for large caravans or campervans. ***** We do not allow fires at the campsite between the 1st of October and the 1st of March. We apologise for any inconvenience to this rule. La Cascina is a small property on a hill surrounded by trees and bushland. There are two main camping areas which would suite tent and small to medium van/car camping. There is access to neighbouring bushland with nice short walks available in the area. Only 20 minutes by car to Newcastle CBD, 10 minutes by car to Redhead Beach and 5 minutes by car to Lake Macquarie. La Cascina is a great spot to stop overnight on a road trip or to get away for the weekend to relax. We have no toilets so please bring your own. The access to the property is a steep sealed driveway. Site 1 is an open site with plenty of shade. The area is flat. More suited to larger camping setups. This site is less private. There is vision of the neighbouring property and an overflow campsite 50 meters away. Site 2 is a more uneven surface area which is better for smaller vans and tents. Redhead Beach is the closest dog beach 10 minutes by car. Croudace Bay is a dog park on the lake which is 5 minutes by car. This is a family owned acreage that brings the best parts of environmental living with the benefits of being close to the coast and a city. A very long time ago it was the site of a quarry. The nature has returned and we are left with a beautiful forested acreage.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(281)

Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

7 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Pindimar, NSW
We are a "farm stay" style camp in an actively managed pine forest located in the middle of the north shore of Port Stephens. There is lots of space for campers so you will have privacy whilst you enjoy your camping adventure.Our property is conveniently located just 5 mins off the Pacific Highway but a world away. You'll be 2 mins away from Pindimar Beach and 11 mins from Bennetts beach and Jimmy's beach. Good fishing pretty much everywhere you can wet a line. We have clean flush toilets and showers facilities. The campsite has good Mobile Phone Signal. Free firewood. Each campsite has its own fire pit. Pets are welcome, but please pick up after them. We have a gentle and well trained German Shepherd who adores kids but she likes to stay inside the house and doesn't wander around the campsites . Important Note: PLEASE PUT OUT YOUR CAMPFIRE WHEN YOU LEAVE YOUR CAMPSITE TO AVOID STARTING A BUSH FIRE. NO LOUD MUSIC AFTER 10:00 PM. IF You Have more than 1 camper trailer or caravan or more than 3 vehicles/site please contact host before booking. Please note this property is a working private pine forest. Therefore, as and when the weather is right we could be, logging the forest, milling the logs, or drying the large dimension traditional timber framing lumber. In the near future we will be running sustainable building classes from the property. i.e. showing people how to economically build their own tiny homes using timber sourced from their own land.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$70
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
90%
(81)

Mulla Villa Farm

50 sites · RVs, Tents74 acres · Wollombi, NSW
Mulla Villa Farm is set on 74 acres in the beautiful Wollombi Valley Hunter Valley. Set up camp down by the creek and listen to nature at it's best. With fishing, bush walking and exploring right out side you're door. Walk the trails through our land and find the caves up in the bush or just sit and relax by the creek.No amenities so campers will need to have own camping toilet and leave no trace. Dog friendly. Campfires permitted. No drinking water so BYO.The creek is the perfect spot to pitch your tent or camper. Come and take advantage of the Wollombi Valley's beautiful scenery and atmosphere. Sit and relax while taking in fresh air and wild life all around you. Take a walk up the bush track and find the caves.We look forward to welcoming you soon!
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Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$12
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(679)

Wattle Valley Farm

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Paynes Crossing, NSW
Wattle Valley Farm lies is a 100 acre property, bounded by the iconic Wollombi Brook, which many native wildlife call home. During your stay, you might even come across some of our friendly native residents like wombats, kangaroos, echidnas, goannas, kookaburras and black cockatoos. We also have a number of short walks you are welcome to take if you want to explore the property while you are here, including local Aboriginal cave art and our beautiful scenic river walk.Wattle Valley Farm is located in the heart of the Wollombi Valley and the Hunter Valley wine region, making it an ideal base while you explore everything the region has to offer. The historic village of Wollombi is only five minutes up the road, and has a lively cafe scene, unique experiences and the famous Wollombi Tavern. Meanwhile, the popular Broke and Pokolbin wine regions are a short 30-40 minute drive along the beautiful, meandering country roads.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(64)

Hunter Valley Hill Top

32 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Lovedale, NSW
Situated in the heart of the Hunter Valley, our 300 acre property boosts spectacular views over Hunter Valley and Wine country. Set amongst all the wineries this is the perfect spot to camp, set up your caravan or motorhome. We offer showers, toilets, BBQ facilities, function room, kiosk, campfire area, courtesy bus to our local hotel, concerts, wineries and much much more. We offer an extensive range of activities that include horse riding, tractor hayrides, ATV tours including a horse stud tour, bush walking, cray fishing, kayaking, spot lighting and more. Our Property boasts a fantastic array of wildlife, kangarros, wallabies, goannas, Wedge Tail eagles, Black Cockatoos, Possums etc etc. COME STAY AND PLAY AT HILL TOP!
Pets
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Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$150
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
92%
(12)

Hunter River Bush Camp

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Greta, NSW
Located in the heart of the Hunter Valley. Come stay with us at the Hunter River bush camp, located on our 20 acres! The campsites are located on our lower paddock - secluded and private. You will be likely not see another human in your time down there. Theres plenty of space for large groups and vehicles. IAs to maintain the private and secluded nature of this site, we have limited the space to 1 site only so youll have the place to yourself! The Hunter River is a short 5min walk down the stone steps, where you can fish and swim. The property has good access - less than 10mins from Hunter Expressway. 1hr40mins from Wahroonga, 40mins from Jesmond Full phone coverage on all parts of the property Fires are permitted - firewood available for purchase during booking. Dogs are allowed. Note that there are no toilets provide, this is a bush camp.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(25)

Peaceful Pond

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · The Branch, NSW
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.
Pets
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Trash
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
93%
(386)

Cranky Rock Hunter Valley

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Sweetmans Creek, NSW
Set at the base of the mountains on a beautiful valley floor, located in wine country in the lower Hunter Valley, Cranky Rock gets its name from a 25 tonne sandstone rock that graces our home. The 120 acre working beef and horse farm is situated a scenic 2 hour drive North from Sydney or 1 hour East from Newcastle. Whether you chose to stay of one of our campsites or in our pioneer-style cottage, all visitor being awoken to the natural bush sounds of lyre birds and cooling their heels in the crystal creek at the bottom of the property. On your way in or out, be sure to check out the boutique village of Wollombi which is just 10 minutes from Cranky Rock, where you'll enjoy wine tasting, fresh produce and quaint cafes. Other must-see's in the area include the Olney State Forest and the Wattagan National Park.The property is located just off a scenic drive, over a 2wd accessible creek crossing. It is peaceful and secluded. Campers can used shared kitchen and bathroom facilities located at the top of the camp area. Dogs are welcome, but as it's a working farm, we ask the remain on leash at all times. 
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Cooking equipment
from 
AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(74)

Stoney Creek

35 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Boolambayte, NSW
Stoney Creek is on 70 acres, in the middle of the national park, and offers campers a beautiful mixture of rainforested areas and clear grassed paddocks, just 1 hour from Newcastle. It's very peaceful here, with options for bushwalking and birdwatching. Creeks run through the property, providing some lovely areas to explore. Stoney Creek is also the closest property to the famous Grandis - the biggest tree in NSW! There are portable toilet facilities available. Showers are made available by appointment only. Please ask. Large swimming lagoon for the kids - please just ensure they are supervised around the dam at all times. Dogs welcome.
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from 
AU$45
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(17)

Wattagan Mountains View

5 sites · Lodging5 acres · Kurri Kurri, NSW
We offer camping and indoor accommodation. Our property is located on a relaxed 5 acres at the gateway to the Hunter Valley. Enjoy the lush forests and views of the mountain nearby. There's a number of great lookouts nearby if you're up for a walk.  The Barn accommodation is great for groups who enjoy the outdoors. Enjoy your outdoor adventure with open living and eco tourism at the foot of the Watagan Mountains. Wildlife and bush tucker walks available. Firewood provided for your indoor fireplace. You will have access to a camp oven and rotating grill, as well as a kitchenette with a fridge, microwave, electric hot plate and kettle. There are toilet and shower amenities, and access to drinking water. There is phone reception in certain spots and limited wifi. There is no TV. The barn can accommodate sleeping for 10+ and features two double beds, two single beds, one couch, two air mattresses and five floor mattresses. There is also a fully equipped gym. You will need to bring your own sheets, pillows, sleeping bag etc for added comfort. Sleeping close to the fire upstairs is recommended in the cooler months. Camping is optional with nice flat spots near the dam under sheoaks. Our campsites are equally as beautiful. Chill out in the shade by the dam during the day. Firewood is provided and you're welcome to use the camp ovens and the rotating grill, but if you get stuck cooking on the open fire there is a microwave, electric hot plate and kettle. These are situated downstairs in the barn a short walk from site. A great swim in the 50m dam. There is access to toilets, showers, drinking water and rubbish facilities. Your furry friend is welcome to holiday with you.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$500
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(16)

Kez & Butch Bush Stay

1 site · RV17 acres · Bobs Farm, NSW
Caravans and RV's that are fully self contained eg: has a toilet are welcome. Sorry no tents We are only 10-15 mins to Nelson Bay centre. Beaches are just down the road also which includes Birubi Beach which goes all the way to Stockton and many more near by. Right next door is Murrays Brewery and Sunset in the Vines, very handy to be able to walk next door (a really short walk) and have dinner and a drink. Shark and Ray Centre is 10 mins drive also and then there is the Butterfly House and Shark and Ray Rescue Centre just behind us on Marsh Road. Whilst we offer a space on our front area next to the dam, it is only a small area but plenty of room for a large van or RV with room to put out your awning provided you park where we suggest. We supply a fire pit and wood and a rubbish bin all included in the price. The main house is at the top of the circular drive way of which you will be camping on. Pictures show this.
Campfires
from 
AU$35
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(19)

Willowbank

5 sites · RVs, Tents252 acres · Stroud Road, NSW
"Willowbank" is a stunning 252 acre property located in the picturesque Stroud Road valley with 1km of river frontage. The property has been in our family for 4 generations! Being bought by Ian's great grandfather in the 1920's. We cater for guests that are looking to get back to nature. Enjoy the great outdoors without feeling overcrowded! We want our guests to be happy and have the best experience possible. Located only 8 minutes drive from the historical town of Stroud which was settled by the AA Company in the 1820's as a food growing area. There are still many beautiful buildings from that period to explore. A dairy farm for many years, we switched over to beef around 15 years ago. Currently we run around 120 head of Angus and mixed breed cattle. Within 3 hours drive of Sydney and around an hour from the Barrington National Parks, Newcastle, Maitland, Forster and Nelson Bay, it makes it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway! We are offering four beautiful partly shaded, camping sites along the pristine Upper Karuah River. With two adjoining sites that can be booked seperately or if you would like the whole place to yourselves, book both! If the other sIte is already booked and you would like a little more space we have a few other areas we can show you. Alternatively, there are also two other sites further down the river, these are 4wd accessible only. All sites are site only and no toilet or shower facilities are provided. You will need to bring your own camping toilet or self contained caravan/ camper (which can be emptied at the dump point located in Stroud township 10 minutes drive away). Access to The Paperbarks and Wallaby Green is provided by the unsealed council road right to the sites. The sites themselves are subject to wet weather so 4wd vehicles are preferred though 2wd vehicles may be parked just off the road if it gets a bit wet. Please note, we do have a house up the hill from these sites. It faces away from the area though. The Rapids and Riverview sites are accessed via a laneway through the property. These sites are for 4wd drive vehicles with tents or camper trailers only. As sites are located along the riverbank, at times they are subject to flooding. This may mean that camping there may not be suitable at all times and you may need to move to higher ground in this event. The whole property is also cut off from road access during times of flood. Site 1 (Wallaby Green) the larger of the sites is suited to camper trailers, caravans, camper vans or tents. It has some flat areas and also some slightly sloping with river access. Bring your cricket bat and enjoy a game! Site 2 (The Paperbarks) is slightly smaller and is also suited to camper trailers, caravans, camper vans or tents. It also has a flat area with some slight slope and river access. Put up your hammock between the trees and just relax. Site 3 (The Rapids) and Site 4 (Riverview) are both private, flat sites with 4wd access only. Bring your tent, swag or camper trailer and enjoy the river rapids. The river bank is a little steep in places and access is via a track so please be mindful when walking. River shoes are also encouraged as the rocks in the river can be slippery. Perfect for a relaxing stay in summer with swimming, canoeing or floating on your raft down the river. Bring your fishing gear for some relaxing bass or mullet fishing (catch and release is encouraged). The pristine river is also home to platypus which can be seen early in the morning or late afternoon from the campsites. Please do not try and interact with these beautiful animals, photography is encouraged though! There are numerous birds, water dragons and wallabies that also inhabit the area around the campsites. Sit around the camp fire (restrictions permitting) and watch the stars with family and friends. Firepits are provided for use, subject to fire restriction periods. (Firewood may be purchased for $20 a bag) There are opportunities for bush walking, bird watching and mountain bike riding on the property. With beautiful views from the top of the mountain as well. Our farm is a working beef cattle property. Please be mindful that cattle and horses have free range of the property, which includes the road, so take care when driving. There will also be at times motorbikes, chainsaws and vehicles operating around the farm. We will endeavour to keep the noise away from campers where possible. There will also be the odd cow/horse poo and mooing at night in case anyone has an issue. Small to medium dogs are allowed but must be on a leash at all times. This is due to there being working dogs and cattle in the area. Sorry, NO LARGE DOGS allowed. We do have mobile phone reception with Telstra and Optus on the property. Historic Stroud township has a supermarket, butcher, chemist, cafes, a club and pub along with swimming pool, playground and skate park. Dungog is located 25 minutes drive away and also has many historic buildings and cafes etc. Gloucester is 40 minutes drive and offers similar as well as access to the World renowned wilderness of the Barrington Tops National Park. We hope to make your stay a pleasurable one with many happy memories made. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. ***sorry no parties allowed*** Your hosts, Jo and Ian.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Available this weekend

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Forest camping near Newcastle with fishing guide

Overview

Whether you’re a beach lover, adrenaline junkie, or just want to get outside, Newcastle makes a strategic base for discovering central NSW, just a two-hour drive north of Sydney. Head beachside for surfing and water sports, venture inland to hike through rocky gorges and kayak around alpine lakes, or go wine tasting in the Hunter Valley. Camping options aboundseek out remote camping grounds in the heart of the hinterlands, enjoy a glamping experience complete with a traditional campfire BBQ, or park your campervan or camper trailer at a holiday park with a swimming pool.

Lake Macquarie

Just a short drive south, camping spots around Lake Macquarie afford easy access to the town and Stockton Beach. A popular getaway for Sydney-siders, there’s plenty to do, from boat cruises around the lake and bushwalking in the mountains to dining at lakeside restaurants or lounging on sandy beaches.

Great Lakes

North of Newcastle, the road to Port Macquarie passes through one of the most scenic stretches of New South Wales coastline. Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and water sports in the Great Lakes region, where the Myall, Smiths, and Wallis Lakes are bordered by both beaches and rainforest. Pitch your tent in Myall Lakes National Park, or check into one of the camping sites or caravan parks around Forster and Bulahdelah.

Greater Blue Mountains

Extending north of Sydney all the way to Newcastle, the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area encompasses the Yengo, Wollemi, and Blue Mountains national parks. Adventurous campers can sleep beneath the mountain stars in wooded camping grounds or trek to remote campsites accessible only by 4WD. Get set for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

When to go

Newcastle’s balmy summers (December through February) are the ideal time for coastal road trips or mountain getaways, escaping into the hills or cooling off at the region's lakes and beaches. Spring and autumn are the best times for hiking in the national parks, with spring flowers and autumnal leaves brightening the landscapes. Crowds dwindle in winter, but many campsites remain open and the weather is still mild enough for caravanning.

Know before you go

  • Regular buses run between Sydney and Newcastle, as well as to other destinations along the Central Coast, but having your own transport is preferable for exploring the region’s national parks and state forests.
  • Newcastle has a number of grocery stores and camping gear shops, where you can stock up on supplies before heading out. 
  • Fire bans are common in New South Wales during summer and dry periods, so be sure to check local recommendations before lighting your campfire or using designated firepits. 
  • A National Parks pass is required to visit, hike, or camp in Australia’s national parks

Nearby attractions

  • The best surfing beach in the Pacific Palms precinct, Boomerang Beach's unique shape, and rock formations give consistent and powerful waves.
  • An exciting adventure for anyone camping near Port Macquarie, Caves Beach is home to much more than just stunning ocean views.
  • Clean sands and rolling green hills are dotted with remnants of the once bustling coal mining operation at Catherine Hill Bay.
  • Perfect for surfers, offroaders, and nudists alike, Samurai Beach is a hidden gem that has nothing to hide.
  • Small and secluded, the 400-metre shoreline at Frazer Beach lies in a serene protected cove. Perfect for groups with younger campers, the calmer waters inside the cove are great for cooling down after a long day of exploring.
  • A lengthy stretch of golden sands against the backdrop of Belmont Wetlands State Park, Nine Mile Beach is known for its natural beauty and immersive 4WDriving experiences.

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