The best waterside campgrounds in North Coast

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.

95% (8.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near North Coast

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.

95% (8.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near North Coast

1. The Sleepy Hollow Manor Estate

97%

(1676)

20 sites · Tents, RVs · Sleepy Hollow, NSW

Welcome to SLEEPY HOLLOW MANOR ESTATE, A family farm Acting under the state government agricultural tourism reform allowing primary producers and livestock farms such as us on RU2 property to have visitors. As part of this we have to follow some simple protocol! Unfortunately, we have had some issues with local council which now monitor our movements closely and we ask that you follow these simple rules extremely closely failure to do may cause us to reject your booking and may incur penalties to both of us as the landholders and also the camper. 1. STRICTLY No Caravans, RV's, Tents or Any Camping site is to be set up within 50 meters of the creek. 2. No more that 20 people camping on the property at one time. 3. Zero impact to the land and surrounds treat it like you would a national park. 4. All waste must be bagged and taken off site with you. PLEASE BE SURE TO READ ALL OF OUR BIO ITS LONG BUT YOU'LL GET ALL THE INFORMATION YOU NEED! CALL 0480 684 888 We are also available for Weddings, Birthdays and other day time gatherings. Speak to us about using us for a working space for corporate or business trips, Collaborations and more......... You may of already seen us on TV? - The Weekender - Creek to Coast - The Great Outdoors - ABC Landline Find us on Instagram: the_sleepy_hollow_manor_estate * Site map is here on pinned stories* Facebook: The Sleepy Hollow Manor Estate Find us on google maps. Please read our full property profiles for further information We are "The Sleepy Hollow Manor Estate" located in the heart of the breathtaking Sleepy Hollow Valley which is hidden snugly between the small seaside town of Pottsville and the Tweed Valley... Once you're here you feel all your worries and stress drift away as you unwind and relax in the Manor estate and its surrounds. A farm with a difference with a small-scale ECO low impact primitive camping style based under the NSW State agriculture tourism reform Enjoy the peace and tranquility as you hear the birds or just sit watching the water trickle through the creeks and waterholes. we have array of wildlife on our estate and its surrounds.

2. Spirit of the Forest

99%

(626)

23 sites · Tents, RVs · Bulahdelah, NSW

Spirit of the Forest is one of the oldest properties in the area. Many years ago it was an old dairy farm, but it has been through many transitions since then.... uniquely situated only a few kms. from the majestic "Grandis" tree it has an abundance of wildlife close by, wallabies come out to feed on the pasture at dusk and dawn, mighty eagles soar overhead and beautiful Arabian horses run free in the paddocks. Trevor and Maya moved here from Berry NSW 17 years ago. Trevor is an internationally acclaimed entertainer and horse whisperer and Maya is an artist, author and lecturer. Both found the property a haven from their busy schedule of performing overseas. A unique 70 acre Arabian horse property, surrounded by Myall Lakes National Park 4 kms from "The Grandis" the tallest tree in NSW and 10 kms from Bulahdelah Town also near to beautiful North Coast beaches. There are many beautiful areas to choose from to camp, as well as a cabin.

3. The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

98%

(1387)

15 sites · Tents, RVs · The Hatch, NSW

Welcome to Port Macquarie's 'The Hatch Farm'; a pet friendly, interactive animal and fishing farm stay! A 150-acre working farm with a stunning outlook over the saltwater Maria River (with a rustic boat ramp and waterway running into the Hastings River). There is plenty to do and see at this hipcamp which was awarded to be one of the best hipcamps in NSW for 2024, and Australia wide for 2025! Located on the Mid North Coast NSW, 4kms off the Pacific Highway, and a quick 13/15-minute drive to the holiday township of Port Macquarie. Port Macquarie is known for its beautiful beaches, coastal scenery and walks, koala hospital, local strawberry and tomato picking, and 4WDing at nearby beaches and through Cairncross State Forest. Bernard and Susan are custodians of the farm, primarily using the land for poultry (egg), pig, and goat farming. They are transitioning to an off-grid and eco-friendly lifestyle for their retirement. The Hatch Farm is home to many animals, most of whom are rescues - including border collies, cavalier king charles spaniels, chickens, ducks, pigs, sheep, goats, miniature horses, cows, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs. There is plenty to do and see around the farm from complete relaxation, interacting with the friendly animals (there is usually a variety of babies to cuddle!), to casting a line or launching your boat from the rustic boat ramp. Please note that all animal interactions are self-led (including our animal nursery), and children must be supervised by their parents/carers. During NSW School Holidays, host led animal interactions will be available at designated times. Friendly pets welcome. For bookings call or text Susan 0418 842055

4. Bower Camp Co. Yuraygir NP

2 sites · Lodging · Yuraygir, NSW

Book a fully catered group camping experience and arrive with a Bower Camp Co. tents perfectly set up, test out your real bed mattress with luxe eco cotton sheets, and settle in for a nature immersive stay at Yuraygir National Park. Enjoy the pristine wilderness coastline of Yuraygir Explore the many national park tracks to cool creeks, awe-inspiring vistas and abundant wildlife. Tents can set up on at any of the many bush camps at Yuraygir subject to availability. The tents can be set up as singles, double/twin share or family size with a bedroom and living space. Have meals prepared by an onside chef from locally sourced mainly organic ingredients. Search Bower Camp Co. for more details. We do the work, you get wild.

5. SeaForest Sanctuary

87%

(60)

18 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlotte Bay, NSW

NOT SUITABLE FOR VANS OVER 18ft. 65 acres of pristine forest excites the senses with its diversity of environments; meandering creek tributaries, a huge natural billabong, rich array of birdlife & wildlife. The property’s rainforest walk leads you through a subtropical tree forest by the banks of Duck creek, past the 'Dingo' large sculpture then to the ultimate viewing of the gigantic ancient trees that are 300 years old The property is close to 4 beaches - Blueys, Boomerang, Elizabeth ; Cellito/Sandbar ( 3 of those beaches are dog friendly and Sandbar even allows Horse riding as well as 4WD). The property borders the southern boundary of the Wallingat National Park - which offers days and days of adventures and has the best look-out over the whole coastal region called the Whoota Whoota lookout. Wallis Lake is literally across the road from the front gate and can be accessed by boat launch just up the Coomba road or at the Pacific Palms recreational club ( Recky) which is a short 5 minutes down the road. Smiths Lake is only 5 minutes drive away in the other direction and has catamaran and boat hire services close to the Frothy Coffee Cafe, SeaForest Sanctuary sites are 4WD and AWD due to the tracks- some 2WD as long as they have a high ground clearance; depending if we have dry weather. ( I have a small 2WD SUV and it gets around perfectly in the dry weather but I need the 4WD in the wet ). No amenities so campers need to BYO everything they need and leave no trace. Campers MUST bring their own camping toilet... This property is a wildlife/bush sanctuary and thus everyone is asked to please do their part to keeping it that way. The waterways and forests in this area are mind blowing. If you have the opportunity, hire a boat/ houseboat or kayak etc and explore the Myall, Smiths and Wallis Lakes.. Bushwalking trails are everywhere through the many National Parks that surround us here. The property is Dog friendly and owners must be respectful of others and keep animals quiet and contained at night. Goes without saying - please clean up doggie dung and take with your rubbish. Campfires are permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place, plenty of wood to gather your own. Please be mindful that there could be fire bans on certain days during the summer. Farm manager will keep you informed and if the worst scenario happens being a fire warning of catastrophic conditions, please follow the farm managers instructions to evacuate the premises and enjoy some shopping in Forster or go to the movies for the day until the warning has lifted.

6. Solitary Islands Farm

98%

(21)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Mullaway, NSW

Solitary Islands Farm is a wonderful place for nature enthusiasts and campers to experience the beauty of the Mid-North Coast region. Here's a summary of the key information provided: Location: The retreat is conveniently located just a five-minute drive from the Mid-North Coast's stunning beaches and is surrounded by mountains. Property: Solitary Islands Farm Retreat spans 88 acres of natural beauty. The land features iconic historic trees, abundant birdlife, and a developing Permaculture farm. Campsites are spread across the property, offering campers seclusion within the natural surroundings. Nature Reserve: The property boasts its own untouched nature reserve with walking and bike paths for guests to explore. There is a large dam in the middle of the property, and Darkum Creek on the southern border, providing opportunities for fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking through the natural beauty of the land. Activities: The retreat offers a variety of nature-driven activities, including surfing, diving, golf, nature walks, mountain biking in Bells rainforest, and tree-top climbing 20 min drive. These activities allow guests to immerse themselves in the local attractions. Amenities: Currently, there are no amenities on site. Campers are expected to be fully self-sufficient during their stay, so be sure to come prepared with all the necessary camping gear and supplies. Sustainability: Solitary Islands Farm is committed to sustainability and aims to share its beautiful farm with others. They have plans to develop facilities that can accommodate both small and large groups in the future. Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed on the property, but campers are required to notify the owner. There are designated pet-friendly areas to ensure the safety of wildlife and the farm. When walking around the property, pets must be kept on a lead to protect the local wildlife. Overall, Solitary Islands Farm appears to be a serene and environmentally conscious camping destination where guests can connect with nature and enjoy a range of outdoor activities in a beautiful natural setting. PLEASE MINDFUL OF RESIDENTS LIVING ON THE ENTRANCE TO THE PROPERTY THEY HAVE FREE RANGING ANIMALS CROSSING THE ROADS. PLEASE DRIVE AS SLOW AS POSSIBLE! I don't live onsite but please call me for queries

7. Waterfalls & More

94%

(223)

11 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

8. Evans Head Camping

98%

(68)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Doonbah, NSW

Our powered site gives you a bathroom with hot water shower, septic toilet and sink. Part of a shed with a tv, radio, fridge and tables, a bbq, fire pit and plenty of space to spread out. Firewood is available on site only for $25.00 per night and includes 30 kg of seasoned split firewood and 10 kg of kindling/fire starters per night. Firewood must be ordered through Hipcamp with no refunds available. TO BE CONSCIOUS OF BIOSECURITY COMPLIANCE, NO FIREWOOD IS TO BE BROUGHT INTO OR TAKEN FROM OUR PROPERTY. Evans Head Camping is a peaceful, tranquil, private property within 4km of the beautiful beaches, river and township of Evans Head, on the Far North Coast of NSW. Surfing, fishing, bushwalking, swimming are popular activities in Evans Head. There are ample shops, IGA, SPA, Post Office, Newsagents, Butcher, Muzza's Milk Bar, just to name a few. Dining options - Evans Head RSL, Evans Head Bowlo, Illawong Hotel, plus thai, Japxican, fish and chip take away. 4WD Beach Access is located at Airforce Beach, about 4km's away. Woodburn-Evans Head Golf Club is a 5min drive. Activities include kayaking, bird watching, bushwalking, photography and just relaxing while listening to the birdlife. Koalas and kangaroos are regular visitors. The property is only available for camping weekends (varied nights) public holidays, and Easter and Christmas holidays. Enjoy the benefits of beautiful Evans Head, without sharing your campsite with the tourist crowds! Evans Head Camping also provides a safe and secure location for your holiday set up while you're explore the beautiful Northern Rivers and beyond. Take a day trip to some of the most interesting places on the NSW Far North Coast, knowing that your van/tent is in a safe secure setting. We are only a 45min drive from world famous Byron Bay in the north or Yamba in the south, just over an hour to the Queensland Border, with many coastal, country and hinterland towns and National Parks, inviting many adventures.

Camper favorites in and near North Coast

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Bower Camp Co. Yuraygir NP

2 sites · Lodging · Yuraygir, NSW

Book a fully catered group camping experience and arrive with a Bower Camp Co. tents perfectly set up, test out your real bed mattress with luxe eco cotton sheets, and settle in for a nature immersive stay at Yuraygir National Park. Enjoy the pristine wilderness coastline of Yuraygir Explore the many national park tracks to cool creeks, awe-inspiring vistas and abundant wildlife. Tents can set up on at any of the many bush camps at Yuraygir subject to availability. The tents can be set up as singles, double/twin share or family size with a bedroom and living space. Have meals prepared by an onside chef from locally sourced mainly organic ingredients. Search Bower Camp Co. for more details. We do the work, you get wild.

SeaForest Sanctuary

87%

(60)

18 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlotte Bay, NSW

NOT SUITABLE FOR VANS OVER 18ft. 65 acres of pristine forest excites the senses with its diversity of environments; meandering creek tributaries, a huge natural billabong, rich array of birdlife & wildlife. The property’s rainforest walk leads you through a subtropical tree forest by the banks of Duck creek, past the 'Dingo' large sculpture then to the ultimate viewing of the gigantic ancient trees that are 300 years old The property is close to 4 beaches - Blueys, Boomerang, Elizabeth ; Cellito/Sandbar ( 3 of those beaches are dog friendly and Sandbar even allows Horse riding as well as 4WD). The property borders the southern boundary of the Wallingat National Park - which offers days and days of adventures and has the best look-out over the whole coastal region called the Whoota Whoota lookout. Wallis Lake is literally across the road from the front gate and can be accessed by boat launch just up the Coomba road or at the Pacific Palms recreational club ( Recky) which is a short 5 minutes down the road. Smiths Lake is only 5 minutes drive away in the other direction and has catamaran and boat hire services close to the Frothy Coffee Cafe, SeaForest Sanctuary sites are 4WD and AWD due to the tracks- some 2WD as long as they have a high ground clearance; depending if we have dry weather. ( I have a small 2WD SUV and it gets around perfectly in the dry weather but I need the 4WD in the wet ). No amenities so campers need to BYO everything they need and leave no trace. Campers MUST bring their own camping toilet... This property is a wildlife/bush sanctuary and thus everyone is asked to please do their part to keeping it that way. The waterways and forests in this area are mind blowing. If you have the opportunity, hire a boat/ houseboat or kayak etc and explore the Myall, Smiths and Wallis Lakes.. Bushwalking trails are everywhere through the many National Parks that surround us here. The property is Dog friendly and owners must be respectful of others and keep animals quiet and contained at night. Goes without saying - please clean up doggie dung and take with your rubbish. Campfires are permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place, plenty of wood to gather your own. Please be mindful that there could be fire bans on certain days during the summer. Farm manager will keep you informed and if the worst scenario happens being a fire warning of catastrophic conditions, please follow the farm managers instructions to evacuate the premises and enjoy some shopping in Forster or go to the movies for the day until the warning has lifted.

Solitary Islands Farm

98%

(21)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Mullaway, NSW

Solitary Islands Farm is a wonderful place for nature enthusiasts and campers to experience the beauty of the Mid-North Coast region. Here's a summary of the key information provided: Location: The retreat is conveniently located just a five-minute drive from the Mid-North Coast's stunning beaches and is surrounded by mountains. Property: Solitary Islands Farm Retreat spans 88 acres of natural beauty. The land features iconic historic trees, abundant birdlife, and a developing Permaculture farm. Campsites are spread across the property, offering campers seclusion within the natural surroundings. Nature Reserve: The property boasts its own untouched nature reserve with walking and bike paths for guests to explore. There is a large dam in the middle of the property, and Darkum Creek on the southern border, providing opportunities for fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking through the natural beauty of the land. Activities: The retreat offers a variety of nature-driven activities, including surfing, diving, golf, nature walks, mountain biking in Bells rainforest, and tree-top climbing 20 min drive. These activities allow guests to immerse themselves in the local attractions. Amenities: Currently, there are no amenities on site. Campers are expected to be fully self-sufficient during their stay, so be sure to come prepared with all the necessary camping gear and supplies. Sustainability: Solitary Islands Farm is committed to sustainability and aims to share its beautiful farm with others. They have plans to develop facilities that can accommodate both small and large groups in the future. Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed on the property, but campers are required to notify the owner. There are designated pet-friendly areas to ensure the safety of wildlife and the farm. When walking around the property, pets must be kept on a lead to protect the local wildlife. Overall, Solitary Islands Farm appears to be a serene and environmentally conscious camping destination where guests can connect with nature and enjoy a range of outdoor activities in a beautiful natural setting. PLEASE MINDFUL OF RESIDENTS LIVING ON THE ENTRANCE TO THE PROPERTY THEY HAVE FREE RANGING ANIMALS CROSSING THE ROADS. PLEASE DRIVE AS SLOW AS POSSIBLE! I don't live onsite but please call me for queries

Waterfalls & More

94%

(223)

11 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Evans Head Camping

98%

(68)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Doonbah, NSW

Our powered site gives you a bathroom with hot water shower, septic toilet and sink. Part of a shed with a tv, radio, fridge and tables, a bbq, fire pit and plenty of space to spread out. Firewood is available on site only for $25.00 per night and includes 30 kg of seasoned split firewood and 10 kg of kindling/fire starters per night. Firewood must be ordered through Hipcamp with no refunds available. TO BE CONSCIOUS OF BIOSECURITY COMPLIANCE, NO FIREWOOD IS TO BE BROUGHT INTO OR TAKEN FROM OUR PROPERTY. Evans Head Camping is a peaceful, tranquil, private property within 4km of the beautiful beaches, river and township of Evans Head, on the Far North Coast of NSW. Surfing, fishing, bushwalking, swimming are popular activities in Evans Head. There are ample shops, IGA, SPA, Post Office, Newsagents, Butcher, Muzza's Milk Bar, just to name a few. Dining options - Evans Head RSL, Evans Head Bowlo, Illawong Hotel, plus thai, Japxican, fish and chip take away. 4WD Beach Access is located at Airforce Beach, about 4km's away. Woodburn-Evans Head Golf Club is a 5min drive. Activities include kayaking, bird watching, bushwalking, photography and just relaxing while listening to the birdlife. Koalas and kangaroos are regular visitors. The property is only available for camping weekends (varied nights) public holidays, and Easter and Christmas holidays. Enjoy the benefits of beautiful Evans Head, without sharing your campsite with the tourist crowds! Evans Head Camping also provides a safe and secure location for your holiday set up while you're explore the beautiful Northern Rivers and beyond. Take a day trip to some of the most interesting places on the NSW Far North Coast, knowing that your van/tent is in a safe secure setting. We are only a 45min drive from world famous Byron Bay in the north or Yamba in the south, just over an hour to the Queensland Border, with many coastal, country and hinterland towns and National Parks, inviting many adventures.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Stephen

6 days ago

3 m Class B

1 night at Spirit of the Forest

Beautiful campsite, highly recommend, super clean and tidy, thanks Trevor and Maya

Lauren

2 weeks ago

13 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to The Sleepy Hollow Manor Estate

We loved our stay at Sleepy Hollow Manor! The property is incredibly peaceful, and waking up to cows grazing right outside the van was such a cool experience. The location is perfect too, so close to Pottsville Beach and an easy drive to Byron. We had an unexpected issue with our van and had to leave it on the property while waiting for a tow truck. Tom was amazingly accommodating the whole time, with great communication and a genuinely helpful attitude. Couldn’t recommend this spot more. We’ll definitely be back! 🌿🚐🐄

S

Sean

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

This is a beautiful place to stay on the river - Bernard and Susan are very welcoming and friendly - the sites are huge and the facilities are great - we have rebooked for our return journey

O

Oliver

2 weeks ago

6 m Class A

With kids

1 night at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

A fabulous farm stay. Susan was accommodating of our late arrival due to bushfire traffic. What a place to watch the sunrise over the river. If you have the opportunity to visit, don’t miss it.

D

Dana

2 weeks ago

5 m Class B

With kids

1 night at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Wir haben uns sehr wohl auf der Farm von Susan und Bernard gefühlt. Sie waren sehr freundlich. Haben sogar mit unserem kleinen Sohn die Tiere gefüttert und haben uns alle Fragen sofort beantwortet. Wir wurden es weiterempfehlen und immer wiederkommen

N

Nicole

3 weeks ago

9 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Our young family loved staying at The Hatch! Beautiful farm/river views. We had a play on the foreshore, caught a fish, rode our bikes, visited the farm animals, roasted marshmallows on the fire. What more could you want! Thank you so much!

C

CHERYL

3 weeks ago

8 m Class A

With kids

2 nights at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Thanks Susan and Bernard.. what a wonderful idyllic place this is! The children LOVED playing with Sally (their beautiful & clever border collie) all day long, and the adults LOVED the space, right next to the river. It was a wonderful and unique experience, especially for us city dwellers. Make sure you get the campfire package! Susan also brought the kids into her ‘petting zoo’ and they got to cuddle rabbits, baby chicks, guinea pigs… So fun.

S

Simon

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Sleepy Hollow Manor Estate

We had a very relaxing overnight camp. There was plenty of choice locations and space to pitch our tent and enjoy a fire. There are port-a-loos dotted around the property so it's never far to a toilet!

James

3 weeks ago

9 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Great hosts- super accommodating and flexible - our van broke down and we weren’t able to get a replacement straight away so meant having to stay an extra night. They were great and relaxed about it all. Great fun kayaking as well - would definitely recommend to anyone going on a road trip!

L

Laina

3 weeks ago

5 m car

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Beautiful property, friendly hosts and the cutest animals!!! Would highly recommend this camp.

m

maddy

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

We loved our stay!! Bernard and Susan were helpful and welcomjng :) Freedom to roam the water on the kayaks, great set ups for camping with fire pits and shelter from sun/wind. Nice clean facilities :)highly recommend

A

Alliyah

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Evans Head Camping

Absolutely gorgeous stay. Will be back for sure, Cameron goes above and beyond with the hospitality and amenities. Favourite part of our trip up the coast.

Our first Hipcampers were so well set up!

E

Ethan

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Evans Head Camping

great location, great hosts, great time. would recommend.

A

Amy

November 2025

7 m Class B

With kids

1 night at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Really enjoyed our stay. Very quiet and pleanty of space to spread out. My son loved all the animals, kyaking and the trampoline. Great spot for fishing too. Susan made us feel so at home and made sure we had everything we needed during our stay. Wish we could have extended our stay, but we needed to head home.

H

Hans

November 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Sleepy Hollow Manor Estate

Great getaway... beautiful property with easy access. Lots of choice for campsites with very friendly cattle grazing through the property.

Scott

November 2025

8 m travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Another amazing stay! Large sites, welcomeing hosts, pkenty of firewood and fresh eggs. The hosts dogs Jack and Sally are amazing. Great access to the river! This was our second stay and we'll be back again!

S

Shaun

November 2025

5 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to The Sleepy Hollow Manor Estate

Tom was a super helpful and thoughtful guy. He guided us to a wonderful camp spot on his beautiful land. Highly recommend.

M

Marjon

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

I loved my very short overnight stay at Hatch Farm because there were animals everywhere to pat, feed and just have around. I really liked to see all the different birds, feeding the goats, looking at the little lambs and watching the geese waddle. But best of all was patting the friendly Border Collies who came to say hello as the walked around the farm. On arrival, I was greeted by Bernie who explained the facilities and guided me to my perfect little site very close to the amenities. The drop toilet had charm and there was hot water available from an outside tap. There were other campers but everyone kept noise under control so I had a peaceful rest. I had to leave before 6am to continue my long drive home but would love to come back to stay for a longer experience, including a paddle on the river, with all equipment readily available at the farm. After one last pat of one of the dogs that had come to see me off, I left this little slice of paradise with a smile😀.

J

Jamie

November 2025

8 m travel trailer

4 nights at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

From the friendly greeting, to the wonderfull views of the river, The Hatch is a must stay. We couldn’t recommend it more. We have been wanting to camp here for a while, but it was always booked out, we can see now why. There is so much do and so close Port Macquarie, but you wouldn’t know it as the peaceful surroundings made it feel like you could be anywhere.

A

Angelique

November 2025

4 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to The Sleepy Hollow Manor Estate

I really enjoyed staying at this Hipcamp It was my first ever time doing a solo camping adventure All the instructions on how to get there were very clear and after I set up in a great location Tom came around and checked up on. Everybody made sure everything was fine and although the weather wasn’t great I had a wonderfully peaceful night and was woken up in the morning of the resident Cows. I wished I had a booked an extra night, but I definitely will be back

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best waterside camping in North Coast guide

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.