The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Norah Head, New South Wales

Norah Head makes camping with your pets straightforward—over 1,180 pet-friendly campsites mean no one gets left behind. Average nights run about $55, but you’ll spot options dipping as low as $12. Sites like Bunyip's Camp (951 reviews), Fern Valley Ranch (788 reviews), and Wattle Valley Farm (578 reviews) stand out for their laid-back atmosphere and space for your furry mates to roam. You’ll find toilets, campfires allowed, and—most importantly—pets welcome across the area. Mornings kick off with birdsong, dogs at your side, and the option to fish, spot wildlife, or cool off with a swim. This stretch of the Central Coast is made for campers who don’t want to leave the four-legged family at home.

95% (11K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Norah Head makes camping with your pets straightforward—over 1,180 pet-friendly campsites mean no one gets left behind. Average nights run about $55, but you’ll spot options dipping as low as $12. Sites like Bunyip's Camp (951 reviews), Fern Valley Ranch (788 reviews), and Wattle Valley Farm (578 reviews) stand out for their laid-back atmosphere and space for your furry mates to roam. You’ll find toilets, campfires allowed, and—most importantly—pets welcome across the area. Mornings kick off with birdsong, dogs at your side, and the option to fish, spot wildlife, or cool off with a swim. This stretch of the Central Coast is made for campers who don’t want to leave the four-legged family at home.

95% (11K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. BIG4 Karuah Jetty Holiday Park

94%

(8)

78km from Norah Head · 93 sites · Tents, RVs · Karuah, NSW

Imagine a peaceful grassy waterfront holiday park, located right on the Karuah River in Port Stephens. Now, picture you and your family arriving and feeling instantly relaxed... Discover our fantastic facilities and activities that will keep the kids entertained for hours. From swimming and splashing in the resort-style pool and splash play area, to bouncing on the giant 20 metre long jumping pillow. Or zoom around the park in our hire pedal go-karts, explore the playground or challenge your friends to a game of volleyball or tennis. Whether you choose our modern villa accommodation or spacious caravan and camping sites for your next holiday, you will be sure to fall in love with our family-friendly park and location. Love to travel with your furry best-friend? We are dog-friendly on all our sites and we even have selected pet-friendly accommodation available, along with a handy dog wash facility. Our friendly team are happy to share their local knowledge with you for the best places to eat, walk, swim, fish, paddle and just explore our wonderful local area.

2. Peaceful Paddocks

97%

(153)

74km from Norah Head · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Swan Bay, NSW

Peaceful Paddocks is located 5minutes to the Pacific Highway from your campsite. Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest are 20 minutes drive North and it is 10 minutes to the village of Karuah. The village of Karuah provides all you require shops, restaurants and the Karuah River. The RSL has a wonderful restaurant. Nelson Bay is a 40 minutes away. Come and enjoy the peace and tranquility! Priority allocation of sites is given to the first campers to arrive on the day of the booking. For your peace of mind, the owner is usually on site. Self contained campers with camping toilet/shower, and drinking water are the expectation. Access to a pool, shower and toilet may be approved upon request. Please contact us for further information. PLEASE NOTE Friendly horses are on the property however you need to stay away unless you have asked the owner to pet or feed them. 🐴💛🐴💛🐴💛🐴💛 HORSES ARE ONLY TO BE FED WHEN OWNER IS PRESENT. Pets welcome, Dogs MUST be on leash. . DO NOT PARTY AFTER 11pm. PLEASE be respectful of your fellow campers. Thanks Peaceful Paddocks & Co

3. Chapman Valley

98%

(447)

89km from Norah Head · 219 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Garland Valley, NSW

With its large, secluded Bush Campsites, 'Chapman Valley' is still Sydney's best-kept secret! Picture this. Your weekend escape is relaxed from the very start - the car trip along the scenic winding Putty Road is slow and leisurely as you know you can arrive at any time for the self serve check-in. After signing in, you meander through this Beef Cattle farm, heading to your own designated camping area. A private corner of the property all to yourselves! After setting up camp, and showing off your awesome (of course) campfire lighting skills, you sink back in your camp-chair and listen to ...the bush. And you see ...the bush. Not a single other camper in site. Oh, except the ones you invited with you of course! There they are. The kids running enthusiastically across the open paddock chasing after their footy, with Buster, the family dog happily nipping at their heels. "They'll sleep well tonight!" you think to yourself happily, as you sink further into your camp-chair and take a long drink on that ice cold beer. 1hr drive from the nearest town (Singleton), "Chapman Valley" is the perfect oasis for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. There are no nearby shops so be sure to bring everything with you. The property offers over 100kms of bush tracks ideal for walking, push-bike riding or 4WDing. On site-horse riding is available, offering rides ranging from 1hr family rides to full day experienced rides. Check out our website for a full list of offerings. The Communal camping area is within walking distance of our amenities block, which offers flushing porcelain toilets and a hot shower. Bush campsites are fully self-sufficient, BYO (bring your own) water and toileting system. All campers are required to take their rubbish home with them as there are no bins on site. Sites available for all vehicle types, from buses and large caravans to fully kitted out off-road vehicles. We offer a self check-in service with full maps and directions, which means you can arrive anytime you like. Free early check-in and late check-out: Check-in anytime from sunrise and check-out anytime before sunset so you can make the most of your getaway.

4. Lakic House

74km from Norah Head · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Swan Bay, NSW

Hobby farm in Port Stephens ,secluded but not far from anything it is situated near pacific hwy side of the Port there lots of clear area to park and you get to enjoy some bush walking if interested ...There are sheep on the property roaming around plus some chikens about. Its convenient place to stay if you are looking for a overnight resting place or even to stay for some time as you can use it as a base camp to be near places you want to be at during the day.

5. Whispering Gums Colo River Camping

100%

(13)

79km from Norah Head · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Upper Colo, NSW

Camp beneath the gums and let the breeze and the Colo River whisper you to sleep. Where Nature, Adventure, and Relaxation Meet. Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the Colo River, nestled in the heart of the Hawkesbury region—just a short drive from Sydney. Our riverside campsite offers a tranquil, back-to-nature experience perfect for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts. Pitch your tent beneath towering gum trees or park your camper beside the gentle flow of the Colo River, one of the last unspoiled river systems in New South Wales. Wake up to birdsong, take a morning dip in crystal-clear waters, and spend your days kayaking, fishing, bushwalking, or simply soaking in the serenity of your surroundings. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful weekend getaway, Whispering Gums offers: Spacious, unpowered sites right by the river. Complete off-grid experience. Flushing toilets now installed on-site... Showers coming soon :) Nearby Kayak and canoe access to explore the winding waterways Pet-friendly so your furry friends can join the fun with pre-approval by host. $20 pet fee payable in "extras" at the checkout. Keep pets close at all times and pick up after them. We appreciate you being responsible, respectful dog owners :) Reconnect with nature. Unplug from life. and rediscover the joy of simple pleasures at Whispering gums—a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Book your riverside escape today. Please note: River access involves a short, steep path - best suited for those comfortable with uneven terrain.

Stories from the community

Andrew

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Whispering Gums Colo River Camping

We had a fantastic time at Whispering Gums. There’s lots of space between camping spots and most of them have some cover under trees. It’s right next to the beautiful Colo River which had varied levels of water depth that has good areas for small dogs and kids. Toilets are nice and clean. The firepits were a good size and we got value purchasing the firewood and kindling. Make sure you follow their provided directions on getting there. There’s a big difference in road quality between the two possible routes!

V

Veronica

2 weeks ago

5 m car

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Whispering Gums Colo River Camping

We spent the weekend here with friends and absolutely loved it. The campground is right next to a beautiful river with crystal-clear water and sandy spots, it’s truly stunning and so relaxing. The bathrooms were clean throughout our stay, and Yara and her partner were incredibly friendly and communicative, which made everything even easier. It’s also super handy that the campground is only about two hours from Sydney, making it perfect for a quick 2-night escape over any weekend. We’ll definitely be coming back!

N

Nick

2 weeks ago

6 m Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Whispering Gums Colo River Camping

Beautiful place! Will def go again. Very tranquil

K

Kelly-Anne

3 weeks ago

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Whispering Gums Colo River Camping

Great campsite, distance between campsite is great. Kids and dog loved swimming in the creek. Toilets are a great addition. Definitely would go back. Thanks Yara.

W

Wendy

3 weeks ago

1 m Class B

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Whispering Gums Colo River Camping

Lovely quiet spot amongst the trees by the river Good toilets

S

Sarah

November 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at BIG4 Karuah Jetty Holiday Park

Good location for heading north. Facilities clean and tidy staff helpful.

M

Milly

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Whispering Gums Colo River Camping

We loved camping at Whispering Gums. Beautiful green space and river access perfect to cool down. Yarra was an amazing host and kept in contact with all details before our stay, and popped down to greet us when we arrived. We’ll be back!

zak

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Whispering Gums Colo River Camping

The location is great and exactly what we were looking for. It’s off-grid with plenty of space, making it a quiet setup for those looking to disconnect. Yara and Greg are professional and genuine.

A

Andrew

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Whispering Gums Colo River Camping

We had a beautiful two-night stay at Whispering Pines. Communication from Yara before our visit was friendly and helpful, making our arrival super easy. The sites are flat, grassy, and shaded by lovely trees right on the banks of the Upper Colo River. There’s easy river access – just a short walk down a steep sandbank, or you can take a gentle stroll out the gate to the Upper Colo Bridge area for a swim or explore. The campsites are well spaced, giving you plenty of privacy and room to relax. At night, it’s incredibly peaceful – all you can hear is the wildlife. A perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature. Highly recommend.

Mande

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Chapman Valley

Great location for simple tent camping. Toilet amenities were top notch, the boys went exploring 4wd and had a blast. Would recommend.

Kayaks available for hire in shallow but crystal clear water

T

Tom

October 2025

6 m pop-up camper

With kids

2 nights at Whispering Gums Colo River Camping

Beautiful peaceful campsite with literally crystal clear river running beside it for morning dips. Silent at night apart from wildlife. No facilities yet, but definitely one of our favourite campsites in out 3 month trip. We prefer to be away from the crowds and this was perfect. Rented kayaks for a spectacular and fun kayak down the river. Very friendly owners as well. Would 100% return here if we are in the area again

L

Lorilyn

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Chapman Valley

I loved that the communal campsite is not crowded. You can camp anywhere. The campground is well maintained. Staffs are very friendly and accommodating. The check in process is very smooth, professional, and organised. They are very responsive to emails and other inquiries via hipcamp or direct email. This gave us so much peace of mind especially leading up to the day of the camp. They email so many important information about the camp rules, check in process, and the directions to the camp site. This will definitely be one of our favourite campsites. It’s not just a campground, it’s home away from home.

N

Neerja

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Chapman Valley

We loved camping at Chapman Valley. We had a great little spot. The location, off grid, serenity was all our group needed for a weekend away. Fantastic customer service from all the folks at the office. Such kind and approachable staff. Loved being close to nature and enjoyed the 4wd off road exploration to see the amazing natural beauty of the land. Horses were beautiful, great for kids and families and friends to share and make memories.

J

Jay

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Whispering Gums Colo River Camping

Beautiful place to spend a few nights! Would have stayed the week if it wasn’t for work! Plenty of trees and spots for shade, beautiful river to take a abit of a dip in couldn’t have been better. Yara was also very helpful and welcoming :)

M

Manjyot

April 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Chapman Valley

I recently visited Chapman Valley and had a fantastic camping experience. The campsite was clean, check-in was smooth, and there were plenty of activities to enjoy throughout the day. The highlight, though, was the stunning night sky—absolutely breathtaking and perfect for stargazing.

B

Bikash Raj

April 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Chapman Valley

Amazing place. We camped at the base of the hill next to the firewood pile. Absolutely loved it. Toilets could be managed better but being Easter weekend, there were lots of people and maybe that was the cause. Kids loved horse 'Toby' riding. My son already wants to go there again.

K

Kerry

April 2025

4 m Class B

With kids

2 nights at Peaceful Paddocks

We were two mums And our kids on our first camp together, a caravan and a tent, it rained and rained some more before we arrived for our two night adventure. Barb had sent out a message advising us it was wet, but we got it 20 mins before we arrived, we meet barb and we walked the paddocks looking for the best spot for our needs, no shoes slipping in muddy puddles. Kids where excited and sometimes overly loud, we walked the bush behind our camp and kids still swam in the pool, and enjoyed marshmallows by the fire pit( this was pre approved). Thank you for welcoming visitors to your land and giving some of our tribe a first time experience of camping.

C

Craig

April 2025

16 m travel trailer

Group trip

1 night at Peaceful Paddocks

Barb was extremely welcoming, and very open to adjusting our setup location to suit the size of our van and accessibility. Plenty of trees and birdlife. We would highly recommend this place.

John

April 2025

12 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Peaceful Paddocks

Nice quite spot for resting overnight close to Pacific Highway. Good instructions from Barb as to entering the property and setting up.

D

Daryl

March 2025

7 m travel trailer

1 night at Peaceful Paddocks

Second time staying. Good location. Barb was accommodating as usual. Had lots of rain up until we got there, so we had limited areas to set up, but not an issue