Mountainous camping in North Coast
The North Coast offers campers mountainous hinterlands, sandy shores, and famous vineyards.
93% (2183 reviews)
- North Coast
93% (2183 reviews)
Popular camping styles for North Coast
Dog-friendly getaways
Under $50
12 top mountainous campgrounds in North Coast
99%
(720)
Bundilla River Camp
15 sites · RVs, Tents260 acres · Ballengarra, NSW
Come camp along the beautiful Wilson River on a working cattle property. Shady, grassy campsites by a flowing river, just 25 minutes drive from Port Macquarie.
The camp area includes a camp shed, where campers can make use of the
picnic table, stainless steel food preparation bench and camp fire pit.
There are only 2 sites available with power. Please select power as an ad on extra when booking.
Toilet block newly built.
If you have 3 or more children please call me for a discount.
Kids will love the farm tour and feeding of pigs, sheep and horses. It's an excellent area for mountain bike riding as well!
Kayaks available for free.
Don't have a caravan, we have partnered up with Wrighty's Caravan Hire & Repairs. linktr.ee/wrightyscaravans. They offer family caravans delivered, setup ready for you to enjoy.
Pets allowed but you must discuss with owners prior to booking.
Rules:
1. For the piece and quiet of other campers all check-ins must be before 4.30pm during the colder months. Check ins after 8pm may be turned away in busy times.
2. No Fireworks - this is very unsettling for our livestock
3. 9pm quiet time.
4. No drones in the camping area, for the privacy of other campers
5. Generators are allowed for short period of time but not permitted after 8pm.
6. Dogs on leads when walking around the farm
Rick and I thank you for your support in these matters.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(198)
Cracknback Riverside Campground
30 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Lower Creek, NSW
Our working farm is located between Kempsey and Armidale in the beautiful Macleay Valley in the Northern Tablelands of NSW. We offer large, grassy campsites on the beautiful Macleay River and a modern amenities block with hot showers and flushing toilets.
**IMPORTANT INFORMATION**
Cracknback Campground is situated almost half way between Kempsey and Armidale shires. They are each responsible for this road. The boundary between the two shires is at Blackbird Flat - which is 12 km from us towards Kempsey. The Armidale Shire section of road is officially closed - however we do have permission to operate. DO NOT USE GPS! Because the road is closed on Live Traffic, GPS will take you into the back hills.
From Kempsey
1.5 hours. Travel through Willawarrin, Bellbrook and continue straight for 40 mins until you see our signs on the left.
From Armidale
1.5 hours. Travel app 41km on Waterfall Way. Turn right onto Kempsey-Armidale Road. Cracknback is app 54km on the right.
* Heaps of flat ground for kids to ride bikes
* Watch tortoises and fish in the river
* Free kayaks for use
* Beautiful mountain ranges and such an open sky you can see the Milky Way!
* 30 roomy sites, flushing toilets, hot showers
* Family friendly
* We are dog friendly...if your dog is friendly.
* Fire pits provided but bring your own wood
Additional guests welcome at $20 per head per night over 15 years old. Kids 5 - 15 years $5 per night. Under 5 years free
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(264)
Valley View Escape
19 sites · RVs, Tents500 acres · Buckra Bendinni, NSW
Valley View Escape is a 500 acre working dairy farm located in the beautiful Nambucca Valley just 25 minutes off the highway. There is stunning 360 views of mountain ranges and Lake Lumby from all our sites.
We offer powered sites and unpowered sites which are all level grounded with grass and accessible by 2WD. There is non potable water available.
Our powered sites are conveniently located close by the amenities with flushing toilet, hot shower and dump point. Each site has a fire pit, or you can use your own as long as it is not directly on the ground. There is also firewood available for purchase which can be done through HipCamp at checkout or cash on arrival
We are a pet friendly campsite but we ask you to keep your pets on a leash and always have full control.
Enjoy and relax at our communal picnic area with fire pit, shade, picnic table and pontoon on Lake Lumby which is great for kayaking and swimming.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for Discount codes and updates
@valleyviewescape
***CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS***
We are currently in the process of creating more powered and unpowered sites that will be open from Friday 20th of December to Sunday the 5th of January. These sites aren't live to be booked yet but please swing us a message if you are interested and want any more information.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$27
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
93%
(376)
Yarralen Retreat
44 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Yarrahapinni, NSW
Yarralen is a beautiful 40 acre property on the mid-north coast of NSW. Situated under Mt Yarrahapinni on the Eastern side of the Pacific Hwy. Halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. We are surrounded by National Parks and close to pristine beaches , grassy heads , scotts head and the Macleay River.
Please note there is a $10 pet fee for the campsites, and $15 pet fee for lodgings (the two Vans and Units).
We offer a magical bush retreat with all the modern felicities with a range of camping and accommodation options:
-The Eclectic Bush Haven is a family-friendly camping area where kids under 12 yrs camp for free, campers booking this option have access to camp kitchen, toilets and electricity.
-The Yarralen Retreat Camp Ground 2 is a more secluded camping area for off-road campers that are completely self-contained with their own toilet, kitchen facilities and power.
-The Butterfly Caravan and Retro Glam Vans are renovated caravans nestled in the rainforest.
-Yarralen Retreat Glamping are glamping tents offering the perfect romantic escape, or if you just like camping but don't want to set up a tent, this is the perfect choice.
- Our Entire Property Exclusive option means you can book out the whole place for your group to enjoy privately. Please thoroughly read the site description which explains exactly what this option does and does not include.
Our 40-acre property features eclectic, arty, and striking sculptures and artworks. Stroll through the beautiful bush surroundings, visit the water lilies, and say hello to the roaming peacocks.
The campsites are located on a grassed area surrounded by a corridor of tall trees for your shade and comfort.
We're not far from the beach, with Grassy Heads being the closest beach. While you're exploring why not check out Scott’s Head and South West Rocks for the amazing vistas.
Refresh and recharge in the Magnesium pool and detox in our sauna (please book access under our Extras).
Warm your soul around the campfire in the evening. Firewood is available (please see our Extras).
Campers at the Eclectic Bush Haven will enjoy our fantastic camp kitchen, along with amenities including hot showers and flushing toilet. The kitchen is fully equipped with a Webber BBQ, gas cooktop, large fridge, lighting and power. (IMPORTANT: Campers who book the Yarralen Retreat Camp Ground 2 area DO NOT have access to these facilities, we expect campers in this area to be fully self-contained)
For your convenience entry to the property and main camping area is via our asphalt driveway, which suits all vehicles. (IMPORTANT: Campers who book the Yarralen Retreat Camp Ground 2 will need a 4WD to access this secluded part of the property).
Overnight or longer stays are also available for private parties, weddings, retreats, team building - anything possible. Please message us to have a chat.
Peaceful tall timbered bushland with abundant wildlife throughout the property. It's a great experience for kids, feeds the chooks, free-ranging peafowl, rainforest and billabong walks, and amazing gardens.
Campfires are permitted in the communal fire pit area or individual firepits are available to enjoy at your site.
Please use tank water sparingly (for cooking, cuppas) and BYO drinking water.
We offer a range of Extras to make your stay memorable and comfortable:
-Infra-red Detox Sauna
-Magnesium heated Pool
-Firewood for your campfire
We look forward to welcoming you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(246)
Bellinger River Camping
13 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Bellingen, NSW
Level, grassed sites, with plenty of open space along 1 km banks of the Bellinger River.
Minutes
walking distance to town, with a great milk bar serving fish n chips only 700m down the road or swim across the river and have breakfast or lunch at the Old Butter Factory Cafe.
There is Free onsite kayaking on request, fishing and great entertainment in town.
All Children are FREE and you can
Swim and Fish straight from camp and keep an eye out for the platypus!
A new fence is now being placed to keep cows away from camping grounds. There is a pit toilet and there
are public toilets right next door, available 24/7.
Pets welcome.
Maximum 1 vehicle per booking, as there is plenty of room for group bookings on one site email me to arrange booking.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(314)
Peace and Paradise
14 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Yarrahapinni, NSW
Family avocado farm located on the south side of Yarrahapinni mountain. The property is quiet and private with an amazing view. There are avocado trees, an orange orchard and a variety of other fruiting trees on the far. We have a dam and a bore on the property with an aviary, several sheds and warehouses. Nearby there are gorgeous rivers and beaches and Yarriabini National Park to explore. Or just rest in the peace and quiet or enjoy our animals - chickens, ducks and friendly dog.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(12)
Bobo River Camp
6 sites · RVs, Tents210 acres · Ulong, NSW
Bobo River Camp is located on the banks of the Bobo River, surrounded by rainforest. The property is listed with NSW Government as private conservation area because of its flora and fauna.
The camping site is private and just a short walk to the river with cascades and swimming hole. It's made up of four camping bays and parking area. Two bays suitable for car base camping with space for tent or swag, one bay suitable for small caravan or camper trailer.
Great base camp to explore the Mountain area. On one of the sites there is a timber shelter where a fire can be made. Short walk to the weir and swimming area.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(494)
Footprints in Style
35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Eungai Rail, NSW
***Unfortunately we are unable to take bookings at this time***
Relax under the big shady fig tree, pitch your tent by the creek and swim in the massive spring-fed lake which covers five acres and never runs dry. This 300-acre bamboo property gives you total tranquillity in nature.
There are boats and boards to use, and an island kingdom for kids to play.
Kiss and release fishing (Perch) in the awesome lake, which is also great for swimming, and building bamboo rafts. Adventures awaits!
Basic, off-grid camp kitchen, big weatherproof wedding venue space to hire, posh dunnies (composting toilets), and a hot water shower shack with a magic view of the lake!
There is plenty of shade and we're dog-friendly. Well-behaved dogs are welcome off-lead.
Endless space, and plenty of privacy, campers can choose a spot when they get here.
A bundle of firewood is provided on arrival, and you're welcome to bring more with you if you need.
Price is per person per night, kids under 16 half price. Under 5 stay free so don't include them in booking numbers.
Join us for cocktail hour at the brand-new Tiki bar! BYO drinks! We also have a brand-new sauna that campers are welcome to enjoy!
All this, close to stunning beaches and cute cafes.
Leave only footprints 👣 make awesome memories.
NOTE: We currently only advertise availability three months in advance. If you are interested in dates outside this booking window, please still send us an enquiry and we may be able to assist you.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$28
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(133)
Redbank Way
14 sites · RVs, Tents1500 acres · Pembrooke, NSW
Redbank Way is a 1500 acre cattle property & we welcome campers to experience rugged tranquility of our spectacular property.
There are five major camping locations with many other camping locations that you may like to choose for yourself. You may choose to camp near the cattle yards close to the creek, near the horses or high up on the hill to catch the views of the property.
4WD vehicles & high clearance caravans are recommended and able to camp throughout the property and are recommended. 2WD wheel drive vehicles are able to camp at locations earlier in the property.
Toilet & hot shower available. Dogs are permitted but please discuss with us first. as they may need to be on a lead. Please ensure you do not follow Google Maps as you will get lost.
NOTE: When we are at the farm there little to no mobile reception. Your booking is confirmed and you are very welcome, please don't panic if I do not respond to a question, it can take me a few days. Often we aren't at the farm so sorry there is not always a "warm welcome" for you on arrival. :) Refer to my directions and phone number accessible via "My Trips."
Over long weekends such as Easter we offer a "glamping tent" experience for an additional cost of $300 you can hire a gamping tent(s) (setup up for up to 6 people), including stretchers, lanterns etc. Please speak to myself/Kristin separately if you would like to take advantage of this offer.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
87%
(34)
Rainbow Farm, Upper Orara
4 sites · Lodging, Tents1 acre · Upper Orara, NSW
Rainbow Farm is in its early beginnings on a journey towards being a productive small farm with a mix of permaculture, biodynamic and regenerative farming with land for wildlife. Enjoy the peace and privacy of your riverside campsite tucked away at the bottom of our back paddock with views of and access to the Orara river.
Choose from a private campsite or Glamping Bell Tent accomodation, all located for privacy and comfort. Sleep peacefully to the sounds of the Orara River.
There is an amazing outdoor plumbed bathtub that runs on filtered rainwater or river water, so you can relax and gaze at the stars at night! We have also recently installed an outdoor shower. Both of these are plumbed with hot and cold water and are a nice way to warm up after a dip in the refreshing spring fed Orara River.
Enjoy the tranquillity of country life only fifteen minutes drive from Coffs Harbour.
The sites here provides you with the opportunity to get back to nature, rest and relax away from hustle and bustle.
Please note:
* That we have outdoor amenities here- camp kitchen, washing up sink, outdoor bath, shower and composting toilets.
*That there is a short walk from the designated parking spot to the campsite, it's not far at all.
*'Vehicles are not able to be driven up or down the grassy slope to the campground. If you are sleeping in your car/van/rooftop tent, then your site will be on the driveway inside the Rainbow Farm Gate (see picture of Van on driveway) , with use of all campground amenities. If you are tent camping, then you can park your vehicle in our designated car parking area and set up in the campground.
Things to do here include:
*Relax and enjoy the peaceful surrounds
*Swim in the Orara River
*Observe the beginnings of our Permaculture farm.
*Enjoy bathing in the plumbed outdoor bathtub
*Fish for bass during bass season
*Eplore the Orara River with the kayaks and/or canoe available for your use
*Sit by the fire at night and toast marshmallows.
*Sleep to the sounds of nature
Things to do nearby:
*Explore nearby Bindarri National Park, Urumbilum Falls, Bangalore Falls and other local water holes and hikes.
*Walk up Muttonbird Island and enjoy the views. Watch for whales during their migration season.
*Visit the Big Banana
No pets please.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$36
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(189)
Waterfalls & More
11 sites · RVs, Tents104 acres · Sherwood, NSW
HIDING IN THE MIDDLE OF EVERYWHERE!
Pure. Unadulterated. WILD.
104 very private acres, securely sandwiched between a National Park Nature Reserve and State Forest.
On a dead end road. No agriculture or farms upstream, only one other like-minded property owner.
Secluded, but hiding smack bang in the middle of everywhere!
From vertiginous sandstone cliffs on which epipetrics cling tight,
right through to palm-filled rainforests, and with two quite different creek systems (including a monster waterfall),
you'll be spoiled for things to do and
places to explore - without even leaving the property!
HISTORY
This land is Gumbaynggirr land. Please be particularly mindful of our First Nation's long presence on this land.
In the 1800's, white men came
seeking Red Cedar, closely followed by settlers having a go at dairying; though logging
has remained this area's mainstay. This special property, despite last being selectively logged about 50 years ago, hosts many huge old-growth trees
remaining steadfast for your discovery and wonder. And many more are continuing to
grow out too.
About 35 years ago
about nine of this property's eastern-most 104 acres became part of a far larger nashi pear orchard which filled much of the flats of
this top end of the valley that you see today.
Ultimately they failed to set good commercial fruit, and the rootstocks took over.
You can see remnant rows of these trees just south of the property, from along the road. (Beware though -
they have spikes that could
puncture Caterpillar tracks!)
MORE RECENTLY extensive lantana control efforts have been undertaken as we now move into revegetating with native species and implementing a permaculture plan.
Today the property is registered with Land For Wildlife and hosts a very wide mix of native vegetation communities.
ACTIVITIES
Bird watch. Climb. Abseil. Photograph wildflowers. Paint. Swim. In the next valley there's even gold to be found.
Explore trails by mountain bike.
Whale watch. Surf. Learn SCUBA. Go beach-combing. Catch a mudcrab. Go whitewater river rafting.
Ask your host about where to find all the local
waterfalls, the best walking, how to find gold, the gnarliest off-road tracks, Anything is possible here in this magnificent part of the world, except perhaps snow and ice.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$29
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(4)
Vallis Oakes
2 sites · RVs, Tents320 acres · Girralong, NSW
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. We’re delighted to share this special place with you!
**What to Expect:**
- **Natural Wonders:** Dive into the crystal-clear waters and be on the lookout for local wildlife like frogs, turtles, wedge-tailed eagles, and the beautiful Crimson Rosella.
- **Adventure Awaits:** Discover a variety of activities including hiking trails, lookouts, bushwalks, 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 Vallis Oakes 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 requirement is non-negotiable to maintain the site's natural beauty.
- **Flood Warning:** As the property is located on river frontage, it may be subject to flooding during heavy rain. Please check in with us 3 days before arrival to confirm current conditions. In case of flooding, a full refund will be issued, or an alternate campsite on higher ground may be available.
- **Water Appearance:** While the photos showcase the stunning blue waters, please note that the water’s appearance may change after heavy rain.
- **Campfires:** You are welcome to enjoy campfires in the designated fire ring, provided there are no local restrictions.
**Additional Notes:**
- **Access:** Plenty of space is available for caravans, camper trailers, and tents. We recommend using a 4WD or high-clearance 2WD vehicle due to possible water crossings and challenging road conditions after heavy rain.
- **Amenities:** 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 on-site toileting is allowed, and all waste must be removed upon departure.
- **Phone Reception:** Please note that there is no phone reception at Vallis Oakes. However, if you require internet access, WiFi is available by the main cottage but must be arranged prior to arrival.
- **Safety:** The waterhole is not fenced. Please supervise children closely at all times for their safety.
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!
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$45
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Star Hosts in North Coast
Available this weekend
Mountainous camping in North Coast guide
Overview
The North Coast of New South Wales has it all. Golden sands, surf beaches, and billowing dunes stretch along the coast from Newcastle to Tweed Heads. Inland, UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest and award-winning vineyards blanket the mountainous hinterlands, where you can hike and camp in some of the state’s most popular national parks. Campers have plenty of choices, whether you’re road-tripping along the Legendary Pacific Coast from Sydney to Brisbane or venturing into the rainforest. Park your motorhome at a national park campground, seek out a secluded bush campsite, or check into a 5-star holiday park or caravan park along the coast.
Where to go
Hunter Valley
Just north of Sydney and Newcastle, the Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s most renowned wine regions. Sip semillon and shiraz at cellar door tastings, visit family-run boutique wineries, then pitch your tent or park your RV amid the vineyards or along the Hunter River. Just to the north, the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Barrington Tops National Park afford endless options for bushwalking, fishing, and camping.
South North Coast
Beautiful beaches and wild bushlands await along the southern stretch of the North Coast between Newcastle and Port Macquarie. Go sandboarding at the Stockton Bight Sand Dunes, take a dolphin-watching cruise from Port Stephens, or enjoy kayaking, fishing, and camping at Myall Lakes National Park. Further north, Port Macquarie is the gateway to numerous lakes, lagoons, and wildlife reserves.
Central North Coast
Holidaymakers flock to Coffs Harbour for its water sports, wildlife-spotting, and whale-watching cruises, but the coastal town is also the gateway to some of NSW’s most popular national parks. Dorrigo National Park has spectacular waterfalls and scenic trails through UNESCO-listed rainforest, while there’s great camping at nearby Guy Fawkes River National Park and Nymboi-Binderay National Park.
Northern Rivers
Byron Bay is the quintessential NSW beach town, known for its epic surf and bohemian vibes, but Ballina, Brunswick Heads, and Tweed Heads are equally good choices for coastal campers. Don’t miss the Rainforest Way scenic drive, the beaches and lagoons of Bundjalung National Park, and the Cape Byron Headland Reserve, Australia’s easternmost point.
Top cities in and near North Coast
Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.