96% (11.1K) • 324 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Newcastle
Platypus Pools
1. Platypus Pools
100%
(545)
73km from Newcastle · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Premium and exclusive natural camping at its best.
Our farm is located on the beautiful Karuah River in the picturesque Monkerai valley. The river is a fresh mountain river running from the foothills of Barrington Tops.
We only offer 5 sites across our 300 acre property giving you absolute privacy and a sense of serenity
We were very pleased to have been recognised by Hipcamp as being one of the top 20 Hipcamp locations in NSW for 2022.
Most of the year the river is lovely and clear and ideal for swimming canoeing floating on airbeds fishing photography or just enjoying. There is also some really nice bike riding and walking opportunities around the valley although you will be on gravel roads and we are only 25 min drive from the popular Dungog mountain bike park.
You are likely to see a variety of birdlife other wildlife including black and white cockatoos ducks some lizards, occasionally wallabies, echidnas and if you are lucky a Platypus or two. We are fortunate to see platypus in the river frequently which is a sign of just how pristine the water running down from the mountains really is.
You will have your campsite completely to yourself with no other camper near you. Privacy, tranquillity, relaxation and just enjoying nature is waiting for you. Be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution.
With some lovely Spring rain the river is running beautifully and is great for a swim, fish or canoe. Swimming, canoeing and running the rapids on surf mats is always popular at our property and as long as the river is it normal levels and a lot of fun. However, we always highly recommend people wear some form of footwear in the river such as rafting sandals or old joggers or similar as the rocks are very hard on your feet and there’s a particular nasty little fish called a “Bullrout” that whilst rare can infect a nasty sting if you tread on one. No need to be overly concerned but be mindful.
Our property is ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, it’s up to you. There are no toilets so only suitable if you have your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All toilet waste, leaving our property is very important and an absolutely essential requirement for all visitors. Public waste dump points are at Stroud, Dungog and Gloucester.
Gloucester Dungog and historic Stroud village are nearby as well as Barrington Tops World Heritage wilderness area and national park.
This is an operating farm and therefore farming activities such as cattle droving, fencing, grass cutting or hay making may occasionally be occurring somewhere near your site but we would always let you know. We are sure you will enjoy our farm far more than a crowded traditional caravan park or campgrounds.
We do have some limited bags of firewood for sale at $20 a bag most of the year. These are heavy bags of very dry local Hardwood. You can also collect firewood along the riverbanks yourself or bring your own firewood for a campfire (subject to any fire restrictions) if that is easier and more convenient for you.
When you make a reservation at the property we will always endeavour to put you in your preferred location as best we can. However if we are impacted by adverse weather or need to run cattle on certain parts of the farm then we may need to make a change to the actual site you are in and trust you understand.
We look forward to you visiting our farm.
Campfires
Potable water
from
AU$121
/ night
Lakestead Farm
2. Lakestead Farm
98%
(341)
50km from Newcastle · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Peaceful farm setting on a working horse property. Offering limited, laser levelled fully turfed sites, to allow space. The large lake is a feature of the property and abounds with bird life of many species. This campsite suits fully self sufficient campers with own drinking water and toilet/shower amenities. Pets are welcome by arrangement, especially your horses (please contact us to arrange holidaying with your dog or horse before booking).
In summer you may see mumma swan and her baby cygnets, as well as lots of ducklings. Drop in your paddle board or kayak for a leisurely paddle.
Take a relaxed stroll around the property and depending on the season you might spy a wylie fox or a turtle laying eggs. Deer occasionally visit and echidnas and wombats, although nocturnal animals sometimes are a precious sight. There are platypus in the creek and fish in the lake.k
Pre-booked riding lessons available. We have a state forest over the road suited to bush walking or mountain bikes. Ammo the horse who galloped out in the Sydney 2000 Olympics opening ceremony is buried here at Lakestead Farm. We love to speak about our Olympic experience.
Please note these campsite are for 2 people with one car only (children welcome to visit with adults). NOTE: There aror showers - campers need to BRING their own. We love our pristine environment so no bush poos allowed.
We are located minutes from the M1, easy to break your journey,
40 minutes from Wahroonga and Newcastle exit. Just 5 minutes drive to Wyong Centre with shopping centre and good restaurants, and 20 minutes drive to beaches. Off the ground fires are allowed outside bushfire season. Wood to be supplied by campers. Our property is designed to welcome small groups of people who want a quiet getaway. Because we like to keep it more intimate, The property is not designed for large groups of 10 or more wanting a social gathering or party.
We are an easy 40 minute drive to the Hunter Valley wineries and concerts in the vines
The Lake can be fun to swim or paddle around but all visitors must wear life vests whilst in the water.
Locally we have some great festivals to visit the Glenworth Food and Wine festival, Yarramalong valley Spring fair with Scarecrow comp, Wyong Love Lanes festival, Harvest festival, Ratmines Catalina Festival, Brisbane water Oyster Festival to name a few.
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ.
Camping toilet
At Lakestead Farm we pride ourselves on our beautiful environment. We have lots of wildlife around. We are very upset when visitors to the Farm dig holes and poo in them. Leaving toilet paper on top. This is so unfair to us and future campers on our sites.
Because this has occurred we will only allow campers with camping toilets.
In order for us to accept your request you need to confirm you have a toilet.
Don’t say yes if you don’t have one, Checks will be done, if you don’t have a portable toilet you will be asked to leave and your fees won’t be refunded.
We are sorry if this offends anyone, we love to share our property but only with people who will love and respect it.
Campfires
from
AU$55
/ night
Domaine De Binet
3. Domaine De Binet
98%
(160)
43km from Newcastle · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in the heart of Australia's renowned Hunter Valley wine region, Binet Wines offers a truly unique and immersive camping experience for those seeking a taste of rustic luxury.
This is our Domaine De Binet - Chapel Block property, just seven minutes up the road from our main property - Binet Family Wines - where you'll find our cellar door, and the Front Paddock (also bookable on Hipcamp).
Surrounded by lush vineyards and picturesque landscapes, this hidden gem is a haven for Hipcampers seeking tranquility and connection with nature. Wake up to the serenity, and sip your coffee against the backdrop of rolling hills. By night gaze under a canopy of stars, while savouring Binet Family Wines!
Whether you are a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a serene escape, Binet Wines invites to you enjoy this one-of-a-kind camping experience.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$109
/ night
Kalimna Stays
4. Kalimna Stays
39km from Newcastle · 1 site · Tent
Experience Riverside Camping at Kalimna Stays — Paterson, NSW
Welcome to Kalimna Stays, a peaceful riverside campsite tucked into the heart of the Hunter Valley near Paterson. This unique Hipcamp site offers a private riverbank setting with direct access to the Paterson River, making it ideal for tent campers and self-contained travelers seeking a quiet escape by the water.
Set on private land just a short drive from Maitland and within easy reach of Newcastle, Kalimna Stays offers the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience. The riverside location provides scenic views, a tranquil atmosphere, and opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing along the riverbank.
This pet-friendly site welcomes well-behaved dogs and offers a true back-to-nature camping experience without crowds. It’s an excellent choice for couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature in a peaceful rural setting.
Highlights:
Riverfront campsite with direct access to the Paterson River
Quiet, private setting surrounded by nature
Pet-friendly environment
Close to Paterson township and the wider Hunter Valley
Ideal base for outdoor activities, local cafes, and regional attractions
Come and enjoy the calm, charm, and simplicity of riverside camping at Kalimna Stays — a relaxing getaway in regional New South Wales.
If you want this shorter, more casual, or tailored specifically to Hipcamp style, I can adjust it easily.
from
AU$25
/ night
99 Hipcamp
5. 99 Hipcamp
100%
(58)
44km from Newcastle · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Close to vineyard concerts; close to vineyard restaurants; close to Hunter Valley wineries.
20 acres of 'almost parkland' with dam and small wooded area. Quiet and peaceful. Plenty of space to wander and explore.
Park you van on the high side, but walk anywhere.
And we have a very friendly cat called Gladys! :)
Places of interest nearby might be the Bimbadeen Lookout, the Watagan Mountains viewing areas, Mount view look out - close to Wollombi and Broke historic villages. Lots of markets held nearby too!
Campfires
Picnic table
from
AU$27
/ night
96% (11.1K) • 324 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Newcastle
Platypus Pools
1. Platypus Pools
100%
(545)
73km from Newcastle · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Premium and exclusive natural camping at its best.
Our farm is located on the beautiful Karuah River in the picturesque Monkerai valley. The river is a fresh mountain river running from the foothills of Barrington Tops.
We only offer 5 sites across our 300 acre property giving you absolute privacy and a sense of serenity
We were very pleased to have been recognised by Hipcamp as being one of the top 20 Hipcamp locations in NSW for 2022.
Most of the year the river is lovely and clear and ideal for swimming canoeing floating on airbeds fishing photography or just enjoying. There is also some really nice bike riding and walking opportunities around the valley although you will be on gravel roads and we are only 25 min drive from the popular Dungog mountain bike park.
You are likely to see a variety of birdlife other wildlife including black and white cockatoos ducks some lizards, occasionally wallabies, echidnas and if you are lucky a Platypus or two. We are fortunate to see platypus in the river frequently which is a sign of just how pristine the water running down from the mountains really is.
You will have your campsite completely to yourself with no other camper near you. Privacy, tranquillity, relaxation and just enjoying nature is waiting for you. Be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution.
With some lovely Spring rain the river is running beautifully and is great for a swim, fish or canoe. Swimming, canoeing and running the rapids on surf mats is always popular at our property and as long as the river is it normal levels and a lot of fun. However, we always highly recommend people wear some form of footwear in the river such as rafting sandals or old joggers or similar as the rocks are very hard on your feet and there’s a particular nasty little fish called a “Bullrout” that whilst rare can infect a nasty sting if you tread on one. No need to be overly concerned but be mindful.
Our property is ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, it’s up to you. There are no toilets so only suitable if you have your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All toilet waste, leaving our property is very important and an absolutely essential requirement for all visitors. Public waste dump points are at Stroud, Dungog and Gloucester.
Gloucester Dungog and historic Stroud village are nearby as well as Barrington Tops World Heritage wilderness area and national park.
This is an operating farm and therefore farming activities such as cattle droving, fencing, grass cutting or hay making may occasionally be occurring somewhere near your site but we would always let you know. We are sure you will enjoy our farm far more than a crowded traditional caravan park or campgrounds.
We do have some limited bags of firewood for sale at $20 a bag most of the year. These are heavy bags of very dry local Hardwood. You can also collect firewood along the riverbanks yourself or bring your own firewood for a campfire (subject to any fire restrictions) if that is easier and more convenient for you.
When you make a reservation at the property we will always endeavour to put you in your preferred location as best we can. However if we are impacted by adverse weather or need to run cattle on certain parts of the farm then we may need to make a change to the actual site you are in and trust you understand.
We look forward to you visiting our farm.
Campfires
Potable water
from
AU$121
/ night
Lakestead Farm
2. Lakestead Farm
98%
(341)
50km from Newcastle · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Peaceful farm setting on a working horse property. Offering limited, laser levelled fully turfed sites, to allow space. The large lake is a feature of the property and abounds with bird life of many species. This campsite suits fully self sufficient campers with own drinking water and toilet/shower amenities. Pets are welcome by arrangement, especially your horses (please contact us to arrange holidaying with your dog or horse before booking).
In summer you may see mumma swan and her baby cygnets, as well as lots of ducklings. Drop in your paddle board or kayak for a leisurely paddle.
Take a relaxed stroll around the property and depending on the season you might spy a wylie fox or a turtle laying eggs. Deer occasionally visit and echidnas and wombats, although nocturnal animals sometimes are a precious sight. There are platypus in the creek and fish in the lake.k
Pre-booked riding lessons available. We have a state forest over the road suited to bush walking or mountain bikes. Ammo the horse who galloped out in the Sydney 2000 Olympics opening ceremony is buried here at Lakestead Farm. We love to speak about our Olympic experience.
Please note these campsite are for 2 people with one car only (children welcome to visit with adults). NOTE: There aror showers - campers need to BRING their own. We love our pristine environment so no bush poos allowed.
We are located minutes from the M1, easy to break your journey,
40 minutes from Wahroonga and Newcastle exit. Just 5 minutes drive to Wyong Centre with shopping centre and good restaurants, and 20 minutes drive to beaches. Off the ground fires are allowed outside bushfire season. Wood to be supplied by campers. Our property is designed to welcome small groups of people who want a quiet getaway. Because we like to keep it more intimate, The property is not designed for large groups of 10 or more wanting a social gathering or party.
We are an easy 40 minute drive to the Hunter Valley wineries and concerts in the vines
The Lake can be fun to swim or paddle around but all visitors must wear life vests whilst in the water.
Locally we have some great festivals to visit the Glenworth Food and Wine festival, Yarramalong valley Spring fair with Scarecrow comp, Wyong Love Lanes festival, Harvest festival, Ratmines Catalina Festival, Brisbane water Oyster Festival to name a few.
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ.
Camping toilet
At Lakestead Farm we pride ourselves on our beautiful environment. We have lots of wildlife around. We are very upset when visitors to the Farm dig holes and poo in them. Leaving toilet paper on top. This is so unfair to us and future campers on our sites.
Because this has occurred we will only allow campers with camping toilets.
In order for us to accept your request you need to confirm you have a toilet.
Don’t say yes if you don’t have one, Checks will be done, if you don’t have a portable toilet you will be asked to leave and your fees won’t be refunded.
We are sorry if this offends anyone, we love to share our property but only with people who will love and respect it.
Campfires
from
AU$55
/ night
Domaine De Binet
3. Domaine De Binet
98%
(160)
43km from Newcastle · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in the heart of Australia's renowned Hunter Valley wine region, Binet Wines offers a truly unique and immersive camping experience for those seeking a taste of rustic luxury.
This is our Domaine De Binet - Chapel Block property, just seven minutes up the road from our main property - Binet Family Wines - where you'll find our cellar door, and the Front Paddock (also bookable on Hipcamp).
Surrounded by lush vineyards and picturesque landscapes, this hidden gem is a haven for Hipcampers seeking tranquility and connection with nature. Wake up to the serenity, and sip your coffee against the backdrop of rolling hills. By night gaze under a canopy of stars, while savouring Binet Family Wines!
Whether you are a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a serene escape, Binet Wines invites to you enjoy this one-of-a-kind camping experience.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$109
/ night
Kalimna Stays
4. Kalimna Stays
39km from Newcastle · 1 site · Tent
Experience Riverside Camping at Kalimna Stays — Paterson, NSW
Welcome to Kalimna Stays, a peaceful riverside campsite tucked into the heart of the Hunter Valley near Paterson. This unique Hipcamp site offers a private riverbank setting with direct access to the Paterson River, making it ideal for tent campers and self-contained travelers seeking a quiet escape by the water.
Set on private land just a short drive from Maitland and within easy reach of Newcastle, Kalimna Stays offers the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience. The riverside location provides scenic views, a tranquil atmosphere, and opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing along the riverbank.
This pet-friendly site welcomes well-behaved dogs and offers a true back-to-nature camping experience without crowds. It’s an excellent choice for couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature in a peaceful rural setting.
Highlights:
Riverfront campsite with direct access to the Paterson River
Quiet, private setting surrounded by nature
Pet-friendly environment
Close to Paterson township and the wider Hunter Valley
Ideal base for outdoor activities, local cafes, and regional attractions
Come and enjoy the calm, charm, and simplicity of riverside camping at Kalimna Stays — a relaxing getaway in regional New South Wales.
If you want this shorter, more casual, or tailored specifically to Hipcamp style, I can adjust it easily.
from
AU$25
/ night
99 Hipcamp
5. 99 Hipcamp
100%
(58)
44km from Newcastle · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Close to vineyard concerts; close to vineyard restaurants; close to Hunter Valley wineries.
20 acres of 'almost parkland' with dam and small wooded area. Quiet and peaceful. Plenty of space to wander and explore.
Park you van on the high side, but walk anywhere.
And we have a very friendly cat called Gladys! :)
Places of interest nearby might be the Bimbadeen Lookout, the Watagan Mountains viewing areas, Mount view look out - close to Wollombi and Broke historic villages. Lots of markets held nearby too!
Campfires
Picnic table
from
AU$27
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
d
danielle
2 weeks ago
Tent
We loved this camp spot, very peaceful, easy to find. Hosts were lovely. We woke up early to watch the sunrise over the vineyard and the hot air balloons fly above us as we ate breakfast. Would definitely come again.
See more
C
C
2 weeks ago
5 m travel trailer
With pets
Nice clean quiet site close to the lake and Sydney for a quick get away in the van.
See more
T
Timothy
2 weeks ago
5 m pop-up camper
With pets
Great spot very private, creek is beautiful even saw a few platypus.
Chris is a top bloke.
See more
L
Lauren
2 weeks ago
Tent
It was such an amazing spot to go camping for the summer.
Absolute favourite part of the location was how high the quality of the grass was, just as good as a golf course.
Also we had a quick drive up to the hunter valley which was a fun day time activity to do too.
The horses were also adorable!!
See more
T
Tiana
3 weeks ago
6 m travel trailer
With pets
Cedar Glade was absolutely divine. The property is peaceful, beautifully maintained, and feels like a little pocket of calm away from the world. The campsite itself was private, spacious, and thoughtfully set up, making it easy to truly relax and settle in. The other campsites could be seen when leaving the site or when exploring the property, but were all far enough and tucked away that I never heard any of them, everyone had privacy and could enjoy their own slices of heaven
Chris was incredibly welcoming, with great communication from start to finish. You can tell a lot of care has gone into creating this place — it felt safe, grounding, and restorative. Chris gave perfect thorough directions to the property and to the site that made it genuinely impossible to get lost.
It was such a genuinely dog-friendly stay. With my pup enjoying exploring, relaxing, and soaking up the calm as much as we did. It’s always special finding a place where your dog is not just “allowed” but truly welcomed.
Waking up to the sounds of nature and ending the days under the stars was exactly what we needed. The water holes and small rapids along the river were so fun to explore and swim in, with lots of fish and other little creatures around. Even a goanna popped by the site to say gday! We left feeling refreshed and grateful, and would absolutely recommend this spot to anyone looking for a quiet, special place to unwind. We can’t wait to return
See more
J
Jade
3 weeks ago
5 m car
Beautiful, secluded little spot. Perfect for us and our old dog.
See more
a
abe
3 weeks ago
5 m car
Such a peaceful spot, great to set up a tent or swag or park up the 4wd with a rooftop tent. The river is so beautiful. Couldn’t recommend it higher.
See more
P
Phil
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Our stay at Cedar Glade on Chris’s property was fantastic. Loads of flat space, afternoon shade, river was so nice to float about in. Our dogs loved the freedom to roam and fossick and chase the magpies (never got within cooee of them). Thanks for keeping the cows well clear Chris. Our area was also very private. Chris’s instructions to our site were very clear and it was nice to meet him later that day. Plenty of firewood of varying size for collection if you want a fire. No need to bring any. Thanks for hosting us Chris. We’ll be back for sure.
See moreR
Ruth
3 weeks ago
6 m pop-up camper
With pets
Been here 8 or 9 times and it never disappoints.
The camps are spaced out so you have your own little section of river.
The area is flat with both morning and afternoon sun available, with a move of the folding chair 😄
Had 2 days, in our 5 day stay, over 40 degrees but being right on a shady stretch of river it was very manageable.
The swimming hole is just lovely with shade, deep and shallow sections plus rapids for the kids as well.
Platypus can be seen at dusk and dawn upstream but one of my favourite aspects is the bird life. Too many types to list.
My dog loves it as well.
The hosts are terrific with communication and work so hard to keep the sites just lovely.
It is a privilege to be able to come to the property and we, as always, are extremely grateful.
We will be back soon
See more
J
Jo-Anne
December 2025
7 m pop-up camper
With pets
Such a beautiful little spot with a lovely view of the rapids and river. Although it was quite hot, the river provided a peaceful and relaxing place to cool down. Chris was a great host. Would definitely recommend and hope to be back again soon.
See more
Karin
December 2025
7 m Class A
Group trip
The owner was amazing! Hospitality was top notch! We would highly recommend this place for a stay.
See more
J
Julia
December 2025
6 m travel trailer
With pets
Great for an overnighter. Flat areas to park up and lots of room. Quiet too. No facilities but tidy and very easy to get in and out. Also easy to find. We’d certainly use it again.
See more
J
Josh
November 2025
8 m travel trailer
With kids
Great spot to stay
Beautiful and quiet by the lake
Will be back
See more
I
Ian
November 2025
10 m travel trailer
With kids
2nd time staying at plateaus pools. Beautiful as always. Nice and private. Chris the host is always friendly and accomodating. Can’t wait for our next visit.
See more
D
Daniel
November 2025
8 m Class A
Really nice spot! Sandy & Janette provided really good info on the local area. Instructions were easy to follow. The spot itself was really nice by the lake. Heaps of birds cruising about, happy horses & a friendly pup that came to say hi a couple of times. You also feel well out in the country but are still super close to shops and local attracations. We will definitely be back.
See more
Brad
November 2025
J
Julie
November 2025
7 m travel trailer
Great stay for a few nights will exploring the Hunter Valley
See moreJ
Julie
November 2025
7 m travel trailer
Great spot in the heart of all the HV wineries. Very peaceful area
See more
R
Rebecca
November 2025
11 m travel trailer
With pets
Absolutely beautiful spot. Perfect for relaxing, swimming and exploring. The platypus sightings were an extra bonus.
Easy access and large private site.
See more
T
Todd
November 2025
6 m travel trailer
With pets
Had an amazing time at the rapids. The site had great views over the river top little swimming hole below the rapids and floating down the river. If you are looking for a relaxing break I highly recommend Chris’s farm. We will definitely be back in the near future. Thanks Chris we Loved our stay.
See more
