The best dog-friendly campgrounds in North Coast

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in Australia's North Coast! With over 4100 options available, you'll find the perfect pet-friendly campsite to suit your preferences. Whether you're looking to explore the picturesque Port Macquarie at The Hatch Farm, immerse yourself in nature at Spirit of the Forest, or enjoy a luxurious camping experience at Footprints in Style, you'll have plenty of highly-rated options to choose from. With popular facilities such as toilets, potable water, and campfires, and exciting activities like wind sports, off-roading (OHV), and historic sites, your camping trip will be an unforgettable adventure. Plus, with an average price per night of $38 and options as low as $6, you'll be able to find a campsite that fits your budget. Book your North Coast camping getaway today!

97% (8.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds near North Coast

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in Australia's North Coast! With over 4100 options available, you'll find the perfect pet-friendly campsite to suit your preferences. Whether you're looking to explore the picturesque Port Macquarie at The Hatch Farm, immerse yourself in nature at Spirit of the Forest, or enjoy a luxurious camping experience at Footprints in Style, you'll have plenty of highly-rated options to choose from. With popular facilities such as toilets, potable water, and campfires, and exciting activities like wind sports, off-roading (OHV), and historic sites, your camping trip will be an unforgettable adventure. Plus, with an average price per night of $38 and options as low as $6, you'll be able to find a campsite that fits your budget. Book your North Coast camping getaway today!

97% (8.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds near North Coast

1. Common Grounds

99%

(145)

10 sites · Tents, RVs · Pillar Valley, NSW

Welcome to Common Grounds, where nature feels like home. (previously 'Oceans Reach') Our conservation property is a registered Land for Wildlife sanctuary, and we’ve created a space where native animals and humans alike can feel safe, welcome, and at home. Whether you’re stopping overnight just off the highway or planning a longer escape, Common Grounds is an easy and grounded place to rest, reconnect, and explore. We’re centrally located to some of the best the Clarence Valley has to offer with uncrowded surf beaches, national parks, rivers, and historic towns, all within a short drive. Or a perfect spot over spot between Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay, just off the motorway. Nearby to explore: 🦘 Glenugie State Forest: Right next door! Great for hiking, mountain biking, 4WD trails, wildlife spotting, and peaceful bush walks. 🌊 Brooms Head: A stunning coastal village with tidal pools, a quiet beach, and scenic headland walks 🏖️ Yuraygir National Park: Sprawling coastal park with epic hikes, secluded beaches, and vibrant wildlife 🌿 Wooli & Minnie Water: Pristine beaches, estuary kayaking, snorkelling, and quiet village charm 🏞️ Clarence River towns: Explore Ulmarra, Maclean, or Grafton for riverfront cafes, historic pubs, and local arts. 🐦 Birdwatcher’s paradise: The whole area is alive with native birds and seasonal visitors (black cockatoos, friendly king parrots, kookaburras, and more). Bring binoculars! Wander our own native bushland, rich with flora and fauna, or just sit back and watch the wildlife come to you. We live on-site and are slowly restoring this special land, including the old Grafton Racecourse Beer Pavilion. The composting toilets and clever camp showers were thoughtfully built using recycled materials and offered for campers to use. At night, light a fire, enjoy a cold drink, and take in the stars. We’re easy-going and happy to give you your space. Camp fires must be contained Sept-April. Large fire pits provided and firewood for sale on site. The sites are listed for vehicles under 9m, but if your setup is larger, feel free to contact me and we can usually work something out ☺️ We’d love to welcome you to Common Grounds - a place to land, to breathe, and to feel a little more connected.

2. Shark Creek intheBush Camp

88%

(16)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Shark Creek, NSW

Only 10 minutes off the Pacific Highway USE GOOGLE MAPS Clarence Valley west of Yamba and Brooms Head, and offers an escape surrounded by gumtrees, wildlife, and fresh country air. No traffic just nature noises and no light pollution for starry nights Located just 10km along Shark Creek Road. Just turn left at Deergun sign and meet in the meeting area area and I will direct you to an area best suited for your setup Only 15 minutes from Maclean and around 30 minutes from the coast, Yamba and Brooms Head, it’s the perfect base to explore the Clarence River, nearby beaches, and the natural beauty of the region. 5 minutes to Shark creek which you drive by Each campsite is private, peaceful, and set among the trees, . Firewood is free for a bush Tv and drinking tank water can be supplied, There are small fresh water dams to cool off in if you want. So it is a basic bush camp that is improving basic facilities everyday NO FLUSHING Toilets- or water for showers there are several simple Beebox composting toilets emptied everyday available Potable rain water, free firewood for bush tv Whether you’re in a 2WD, caravan, campervan, or tent, all setups are welcome , and endless opportunities for bushwalking, bike riding, birdwatching, or simply relaxing under the stars. Nature lovers will find themselves at home the area teems with native wildlife and stunning flora. The morning bird chorus is a great way to welcome a new day. If you’re lucky you may see a rare and threatened Coastal Emu?, This IS A BUSH CAMP? Yes insects and nature is here!! Cicadas, Emu and bugs? The bush tv smoke repels but bring bug spray and loose clothing Pets on leashes are welcome to join you camping. All about nature here. Relax around the bush tv a couple drinks a smoke, a water Everything in moderation Show Respect get Respect here Appreciate nature and chill not a party zone Relax for a night or more Understand due to floods and fires my sites were closed for a several years though I joined in 2018 All money raised goes towards land conservation, like planting rainforest fruiting trees for food for the rare and Threatened Coastal Emu Bush Tucker and more

3. Pipe Dream Bush Camp - Dog Friendly

96%

(180)

111 sites · Tents, RVs · Kempsey, NSW

If you want to avoid the crowds our property is only 10 minutes drive to great local surf and fishing beaches at Crescent Head. There is an abundance of bird life, the odd kangaroos and wallabies, and other wildlife. There is a melaleuca forest that children are welcome to play in and build a cubby house, and 2 pretty little dams to catch yabbies, and for dogs to enjoy a swim. The property where camping is provided is approx 20 acres with a limit of 10 groups so you can find your own little piece of paradise. There is plenty of fire wood for you to collect on the property on your way in. Please help yourself to any fallen timber for firewood but please do not cut any standing trees down. When checking out, ensure you properly extinguish fires and return any unused firewood to the bush. Dogs are welcome to be here off leash as long as they are well socialised and reasonably obedient. There is large areas for them to run freely and dams to swim in. It is accessible via a 2WD dirt road, even with a little wet weather. If rainfall is extreme we recommend 4wd's. The property is completely off grid so we have a 'leave it as you found it' approach. This means you will need a camp toilet, and to take all of your rubbish with you. We are a rural property so do not have rubbish collection services. (Fees apply for any left behind rubbish). Happy camping!

4. BIG4 Big River Holiday Park

46 sites · RVs, Lodging · Seelands, NSW

**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.** With direct access to the mighty Clarence River, water sport enthusiasts and adventure seekers will be in their element at BIG4 Big River Holiday Park. At the heart of the Northern Rivers region in NSW lies Grafton, a historic town with streets lined with glorious Victorian and Edwardian architecture. BIG4 Big River Holiday Park is located just a short 15 minute drive from Grafton. Situated on the banks of the Clarence River, which is the largest river on the eastern seaboard, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to things to see and do, or places to visit.

5. Noonameena

94%

(124)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Salt Ash, NSW

Noonameena is a beautiful retreat that feels secluded from the world, yet is just a stones throw from shops, beach, good food and parklands. We offer a number of grassy, level sites, some with shade, others with sun, all with bushland to the rear. There is also a pond/dam area, and lots of wildlife. We have a fire pit for communal use (subject to fire bans and weather conditions). The kangaroos will come and visit you early in the morning, and in the evening. You will also see lots of different parrots and birds. We even have goannas and echidnas about and the black cockatoos will come in for a visit. You will need to bring your own camp toilet, as we don't have facilities here. Pets are welcome but please keep them on a lead at all times as we have lots of wildlife around! Please note, when we have heavy rain, the ground can get boggy. We are very mindful to keep tabs on the weather for our guests, and will be in good communication with you in the lead up to your stay should we suspect there to be any issues. Whilst camping by the beautiful dam is lovely in fine weather, when it's raining, it’s best to camp towards the front of the property on higher ground. We'll advise the best solution in these circumstances. LET US KNOW about your preferred booking even if it appears booked out, as we can probably make it work or have ALTERNATIVE solutions for you! Some things to keep in mind: * please convey your setup to the host at time of booking - to ensure most suitable site * watch out for communications from the host and respond promptly * arrival and set up SHOULD be before dark, out of respect for the wildlife, other campers, neighbouring properties and the host * communicate ETA to host * read the property RULES and specific details on each INDIVIDUAL site link to ensure understanding and a respectful stay (this is a LINK at the end) * dogs need to be on a lead AT ALL TIMES * dog poo MUST be removed and cleaned up * PLEASE DRIVE SLOWLY at all times - respecting wildlife, pets, other campers and host property * NO INDIVIDUAL FIRES - this is a bushfire area and requires fire permits * Respect your allocated site and instructions, use your own camping toilet (not the grounds or bush - due to ground water) and clean up after yourself on the site

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A summer storm at Noonameena with the sun breaking through.

Mitch

1 day ago

5 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Noonameena

Great place to stay and Sibby was very friendly on arrival. Thanks for our stay!

A

Angélica

2 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Noonameena

Love it. Peaceful and Sibby was super helpful ❤️ she accepted us last minute, nice welcome pack. ✨

S

Sofia

2 days ago

7 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Noonameena

Nos gustó mucho acampar! Y la atención de Sibby muy acogedora.

N

Nicole

3 days ago

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Shark Creek Bush Camp

Nestled in the heart of the Australian bush, this campsite provided our family with the perfect escape. It offers a unique balance: mornings at the beach and cafes in Yamba (just a short 30-minute drive away) and peaceful evenings by the fire under the stars. Mick made us feel right at home with his warm hospitality and expert local advice. If you're looking for a truly authentic camping experience with easy coastal access, this is it. Can't wait to return!

M

Melissa

3 days ago

3 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Shark Creek Bush Camp

Thanks Mick for being so helpful in finding a spot for our van and getting rocks for a fireplace - a peaceful stay amongst the bush

O

Orla

4 days ago

5 m Class B

1 night at Shark Creek Bush Camp

Simple bush campsite. Can collect firewood for a campfire and there is a composting toilet. Friendly owner

M

Michael

5 days ago

5 m car

With pets

1 night at Shark Creek Bush Camp

Mick has a beautiful camp site in the bush. Facilities are basic but the location is very tranquil and laid back and Mick will make you feel very welcome.

T

Tyson

5 days ago

5 m car

1 night at Noonameena

Great spot , nice and quiet , sibby was great to deal with , would definitely come back :)

K

Kale

5 days ago

Tent

4 nights at Noonameena

We loved our stay, nice shady spot and lots of room… everything is well kept, Sibby was great at communicating everything clearly and timely. Thanks so much for having us!

A

Abbey

1 week ago

4 m Class B

1 night at Shark Creek Bush Camp

The experience of camping in the bush was made into a true Aussie backpackers experience thanks to Mick, a true legend who made us feel at home whilst rallying the troops round the fire for a night of socialising and learning a bit about the bush wildlife. We'll definitely be going back to enjoy shark creek and the hospitality

J

Jonathan

1 week ago

7 m Class B

1 night at Shark Creek Bush Camp

Really nice and quiet spot to spend a few nights. Thank you Mick for this great experience!

C

Cameron

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Shark Creek Bush Camp

We really enjoyed our stay at shark creek bush camp. Mick met us on our arrival and was really welcoming! The place itself was lovely and quiet and very nice to relax and take nature in. Would definitely recommend!!

C

Calvin

1 week ago

5 m car

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Shark Creek Bush Camp

Very Cool Campingarea. With a very cool Manager 👍🏽

J

Jackson

1 week ago

6 m travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Noonameena

Great spot, lovely grassy site close to town but still private. Not many amenities but that wasn't an issue for us. Sibby was very helpful and made sure we got in and settled ok. Would stay again!

J

Jo

2 weeks ago

7 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Pipe Dream Bush Camp - Dog Friendly

Peaceful spot. Our son was entertained with the eco through the trees. Great overnighter.

Jack

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Pipe Dream Bush Camp - Dog Friendly

Such a good spot! Only stayed a night as we passed through and wish we could’ve stayed longer. Will be back for sure

M

Molly

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Shark Creek Bush Camp

This campsite is so close to Yamba and the perfect place to stop on a road trip. It is right by the creek so bring some bug spray! Mick is lovely and swung by to check everything was all good. Reminds me of the bush camping from when I was young. The most amazing view of the stars.

Sally

December 2025

Weekend Trip to Shark Creek Bush Camp

Great spot that is off the beaten track. Peaceful spot in the middle of the bush. Nice and flat site, great fire pit, beautiful part of the world. Maclean was a great surprise!

D

D E

December 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Common Grounds

A lovely spot with lots of nice camping options, and all the things you need for a comfortable night’s stay. The site is being developed with love and care, I think it will continue to blossom and be a lovely place to stay. Thank you Mer and Ben x

L

Leah

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pipe Dream Bush Camp - Dog Friendly

We loved tent camping here. The directions were clear and the location is so close to crescent head. Dogs and toddler had so much fun running around. Beautiful skies at night time. Will definitely recommend to friends and family and be back.