Lake Camping Near North Haven, New South Wales, AU: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Camping by the lake in North Haven means easy access to freshwater swimming, fishing from the bank, and lakeside sunsets that linger well into the evening. You’ll find over 340 options here just for lake lovers—everything from bushland clearings to sites where you can launch a kayak straight from your tent. Travellers rave about The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (669 reviews), Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone (482 reviews), and The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah (436 reviews) for their roomy sites and friendly hosts. Expect facilities like toilets, pet-friendly policies, and permission for campfires—handy if you’re keen on grilling your catch. Hiking trails weave through gum forests, and the average night costs $65, with some spots as low as $25. If you want your camp mornings to start with birdsong and water views, this is the place to pitch up.

94% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping by the lake in North Haven means easy access to freshwater swimming, fishing from the bank, and lakeside sunsets that linger well into the evening. You’ll find over 340 options here just for lake lovers—everything from bushland clearings to sites where you can launch a kayak straight from your tent. Travellers rave about The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (669 reviews), Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone (482 reviews), and The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah (436 reviews) for their roomy sites and friendly hosts. Expect facilities like toilets, pet-friendly policies, and permission for campfires—handy if you’re keen on grilling your catch. Hiking trails weave through gum forests, and the average night costs $65, with some spots as low as $25. If you want your camp mornings to start with birdsong and water views, this is the place to pitch up.

94% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone

94%

(925)

35km from North Haven · 175 sites · Tents, RVs · Telegraph Point, NSW

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure at Stoney Park! Picture this: waking up to a breathtaking sunrise over a pristine lake, with your unpowered campsite perfectly positioned on the waterfront. Stoney Park isn't just a place to stay—it's your base camp for an incredible getaway. Spread across 127 acres of stunning, manicured land, Stoney Park offers the ultimate escape. Set up your tent with spectacular views of the lake or next to the serene lagoons. The park is home to Australia's largest inflatable Aqua Park, a floating playground of epic proportions that promises a day full of splashes, slides, and non-stop fun. Located next to the picturesque Wilson River and just a 15-minute drive from Port Macquarie, this is the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and coastal excitement. Ready to make some unforgettable memories?

2. The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah

98%

(710)

73km from North Haven · 46 sites · Tents, RVs · Forster, NSW

The Riverside Farm Escape is a family owned cattle farm situated on the picturesque Wang Wauk River in Minimbah, Mid North Coast NSW. Our well maintained, grassy campground and RV stop provides spectacular views of the Wang Wauk River, which flows into the magnificent Wallis Lakes. The Riverside property spans 103 acres of rich farmland and has over 500 meters of river frontage, ideal for kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing, with water access to Forster / Tuncurry. A gravel boat ramp provides easy access to Wang Wauk River ideal for small boats/tinnies. The property also boasts a beautiful dam, full of blooming lilies, a favourite for the kids to kayak and swim. Surrounding natural bushland is teeming with wildlife, including wallabies, kangaroos, lizards, and vibrant native bird species. Access: Suitable for 2WD and 4WD vehicles Site Options: Powered and non-powered sites available. Non powered sites on the River front, Lily Dam and Paddock Views. Fire Pits: Provided at all sites for cozy evenings under the stars Firewood: Conveniently available for purchase Pet-Friendly: Bring your furry friends (on-leash at all times) Please clean up after them. Family-Friendly: A perfect escape for all ages Toilets/Shower: Available for a fee ($10 per site per night) *Cold water only Kayaks: Complimentary for guests to enjoy river adventures River Access: Direct water frontage for kayaking, paddle boarding, and small boat launching. Noise Policy - Quiet hours strictly 10pm - 7 am Daily. No loud music permitted. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Nabiac Village (7 mins): Supermarket, charming cafes, chemist, pub, post office, dump point, potable water, and the Artisan Farmer for paddock-to-plate delights. Tuncurry/Forster (25 mins): Stunning beaches, vibrant restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. Barrington Tops (25 mins): Explore breathtaking trails and scenic vistas. Blueys Beach (50 mins): Relax on pristine, sandy shores. Port Macquarie (60 mins): A vibrant coastal town with pristine beaches, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities.

3. The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

98%

(1387)

29km from North Haven · 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. Paddock Camp

57km from North Haven · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Dondingalong, NSW

60 acres of Aussie Bushland located 20 mins from famous Crescent Head. Pull up to the paddock and pick your spot. Beautiful view of surrounding bushland and large dam on property to watch the birdlife. Fires are allowed and firewood can be collected on the property. Paddock is on a slight slope but nothing to serious for any vehicle. All vehicles can access but in wet is recommended to be 4WD. Short drive to all attractions in the Macleay Valley. There are no amenities here, camper will need to be self contained and leave no trace. The property is 10 mins to Kempsey for all your shopping needs. 5-10 mins from nearby rivers and creeks perfect for fishing and swimming. Short drive for any activity in the beautiful Macleay Valley. Beautiful property to walk and look for nature.

5. Camp Elim

86%

(40)

75km from North Haven · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · Forster, NSW

With a legacy spanning over 65 years, Camp Elim is nestled in the serene Booti Booti National Park, situated between Green Point and Tiona. Camp Elim offers a unique ALCOHOL free, smoking free, and pet free environment for a peaceful retreat. This property truly is a slice of paradise where you can walk across the road to see the sun rise over the Pacific Ocean then see it set across the beautiful Wallis Lake from the edge of our property. Camp Elim offers a unique alcohol free, smoking free, and pet free environment for a peaceful retreat. The lake is perfect for swim with a long sand bank making it safe for all ages. If you enjoy fishing it is an amazing spot for whiting, flathead and bream in the lake and mulloway, tailor, salmon and bream off the beach. As a Christian campsite and caravan park, we warmly welcome holidaymakers. Camp Elim upholds a commitment to a wholesome environment, reflected in our policy of no ALCOHOL, no SMOKING, and no PETS. Discover the beauty and tranquillity of Camp Elim for an unforgettable retreat. All sites are powered and with water and we can accommodate caravans, campervans, rooftops and tents.

6. Lakeside Forster Holiday Park

70km from North Haven · 83 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Forster, 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.**Discover why Lakeside Forster Holiday Park is consistently recognised as one of the best holiday parks on the NSW North Coast. Lakeside Forster Holiday Park is idyllically located on the tranquil shores of Wallis Lake just minutes from Forster on the mid-north coast of NSW. There's so much to see and do on the Barrington Coast, from whale watching to rainforest treks. Popular for its uncrowded beaches, surfing, swimming, fishing, paddling, cruising, as well as stunning landscape and scenery, Forster is the vibrant heart of the region. Lakeside Forster Holiday Park offers a range of self-contained cabins, along with the region’s largest powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, many featuring private en-suites. During the low season, our sites are also pet-friendly, so your four-legged companions can join the adventure.

7. Tiona Holiday Park

88%

(29)

79km from North Haven · 99 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tiona, NSW

Stay in sites and cabins nestled between the white sands of Seven Mile Beach, the cabbage tree palm-studded shores of Wallis Lake and the spectacular Booti Booti National Park. Find your space at the pet-friendly Tiona Holiday Park, whether you are camping, caravanning or need a cabin for the night, and only 15 minutes from Forster. All of our sites and cabins are family friendly, pet friendly, and the perfect space from which to relax, explore, connect or play – plus you can have a campfire* (in season)! Lush native rainforest style landscaping allows you to embrace the natural feel of the park, whilst enjoying a stay your style. Beachfront eco style cabins and tents and lakeside spacious camping and caravan sites for adventurers and families.

8. Wild Hope Farm

98%

(53)

3.2km from North Haven · 6 sites · RVs · Grants Beach, NSW

Welcome to Wild Hope Farm! We are a developing off-grid farm, located at Grants Beach, minutes from the beautiful Bonny Hills and 25 minutes south of Port Macquarie. So close to the surrounding towns yet so secluded. We are nestled amongst lush bush with lots of resident kangaroos, wallabies and birdlife. We consider our parcel of land a very unique place and offer an ideal setting for a relaxing getaway. Our property is 177 acres with 17 acres of green open pasture for you to find your own patch, and plenty of sunshine for your solar needs. We also have exclusive access to Queens Lake with a lovely trail you can walk or drive, and a peaceful place to take a leisurely kayak ride, paddleboard or try your hand at fishing. Grants Beach access is across the road from our driveway where you can go swimming, surfing, fishing and even 4WD along the beach. We welcome you to find a spot that feels comfortable for you to set up your camp, but please note the following conditions: - All campers must be self-contained with their own power, water, and waste management. - Pets are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times. - Due to the bush fire danger period, campfires are not permitted from 1st October to 31st March. From 1st April, all fires must be contained in a firepit. We’re creating a thriving and sustainable lifestyle here at Wild Hope Farm and would love for you to share in the experience. As we grow and refine the property, you may notice a few areas under construction.

9. Homeville Camping and Farm Stay

100%

(12)

54km from North Haven · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · Elands, NSW

Working grazing farm, with Cattle, Horses, Donkeys, Sheep and chooks and Ducks, emphasising self suficiency, and natural land managment. Exclusive sites with peace and privacy and a communal ground for large groups or events. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Bulga Plataeu a couple mins drive from the ledgendary Ellenbourough Falls in NSW. Beautiful creeks and swimming spots, loads of local lookouts and natural attractions, 4x4 adventures, quiet and idilic surroundings. Bring your toys and come and enjoy life in the wilds, milk the cow in the morning and get fresh milk for your camp, feed the chickens and collect the eggs, feed or pat the horses and donks, farm tours can also be arranged, or join us on our other varying farm jobs. Many local fridges stock produce grown here, and there are great markets at wingham first saturday of every month and Elands also has a market day every second sunday of the month.

Camper favorites near North Haven

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Paddock Camp

57km from North Haven · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Dondingalong, NSW

60 acres of Aussie Bushland located 20 mins from famous Crescent Head. Pull up to the paddock and pick your spot. Beautiful view of surrounding bushland and large dam on property to watch the birdlife. Fires are allowed and firewood can be collected on the property. Paddock is on a slight slope but nothing to serious for any vehicle. All vehicles can access but in wet is recommended to be 4WD. Short drive to all attractions in the Macleay Valley. There are no amenities here, camper will need to be self contained and leave no trace. The property is 10 mins to Kempsey for all your shopping needs. 5-10 mins from nearby rivers and creeks perfect for fishing and swimming. Short drive for any activity in the beautiful Macleay Valley. Beautiful property to walk and look for nature.

Camp Elim

86%

(40)

75km from North Haven · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · Forster, NSW

With a legacy spanning over 65 years, Camp Elim is nestled in the serene Booti Booti National Park, situated between Green Point and Tiona. Camp Elim offers a unique ALCOHOL free, smoking free, and pet free environment for a peaceful retreat. This property truly is a slice of paradise where you can walk across the road to see the sun rise over the Pacific Ocean then see it set across the beautiful Wallis Lake from the edge of our property. Camp Elim offers a unique alcohol free, smoking free, and pet free environment for a peaceful retreat. The lake is perfect for swim with a long sand bank making it safe for all ages. If you enjoy fishing it is an amazing spot for whiting, flathead and bream in the lake and mulloway, tailor, salmon and bream off the beach. As a Christian campsite and caravan park, we warmly welcome holidaymakers. Camp Elim upholds a commitment to a wholesome environment, reflected in our policy of no ALCOHOL, no SMOKING, and no PETS. Discover the beauty and tranquillity of Camp Elim for an unforgettable retreat. All sites are powered and with water and we can accommodate caravans, campervans, rooftops and tents.

Lakeside Forster Holiday Park

70km from North Haven · 83 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Forster, 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.**Discover why Lakeside Forster Holiday Park is consistently recognised as one of the best holiday parks on the NSW North Coast. Lakeside Forster Holiday Park is idyllically located on the tranquil shores of Wallis Lake just minutes from Forster on the mid-north coast of NSW. There's so much to see and do on the Barrington Coast, from whale watching to rainforest treks. Popular for its uncrowded beaches, surfing, swimming, fishing, paddling, cruising, as well as stunning landscape and scenery, Forster is the vibrant heart of the region. Lakeside Forster Holiday Park offers a range of self-contained cabins, along with the region’s largest powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, many featuring private en-suites. During the low season, our sites are also pet-friendly, so your four-legged companions can join the adventure.

Tiona Holiday Park

88%

(29)

79km from North Haven · 99 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tiona, NSW

Stay in sites and cabins nestled between the white sands of Seven Mile Beach, the cabbage tree palm-studded shores of Wallis Lake and the spectacular Booti Booti National Park. Find your space at the pet-friendly Tiona Holiday Park, whether you are camping, caravanning or need a cabin for the night, and only 15 minutes from Forster. All of our sites and cabins are family friendly, pet friendly, and the perfect space from which to relax, explore, connect or play – plus you can have a campfire* (in season)! Lush native rainforest style landscaping allows you to embrace the natural feel of the park, whilst enjoying a stay your style. Beachfront eco style cabins and tents and lakeside spacious camping and caravan sites for adventurers and families.

Wild Hope Farm

98%

(53)

3.2km from North Haven · 6 sites · RVs · Grants Beach, NSW

Welcome to Wild Hope Farm! We are a developing off-grid farm, located at Grants Beach, minutes from the beautiful Bonny Hills and 25 minutes south of Port Macquarie. So close to the surrounding towns yet so secluded. We are nestled amongst lush bush with lots of resident kangaroos, wallabies and birdlife. We consider our parcel of land a very unique place and offer an ideal setting for a relaxing getaway. Our property is 177 acres with 17 acres of green open pasture for you to find your own patch, and plenty of sunshine for your solar needs. We also have exclusive access to Queens Lake with a lovely trail you can walk or drive, and a peaceful place to take a leisurely kayak ride, paddleboard or try your hand at fishing. Grants Beach access is across the road from our driveway where you can go swimming, surfing, fishing and even 4WD along the beach. We welcome you to find a spot that feels comfortable for you to set up your camp, but please note the following conditions: - All campers must be self-contained with their own power, water, and waste management. - Pets are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times. - Due to the bush fire danger period, campfires are not permitted from 1st October to 31st March. From 1st April, all fires must be contained in a firepit. We’re creating a thriving and sustainable lifestyle here at Wild Hope Farm and would love for you to share in the experience. As we grow and refine the property, you may notice a few areas under construction.

Homeville Camping and Farm Stay

100%

(12)

54km from North Haven · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · Elands, NSW

Working grazing farm, with Cattle, Horses, Donkeys, Sheep and chooks and Ducks, emphasising self suficiency, and natural land managment. Exclusive sites with peace and privacy and a communal ground for large groups or events. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Bulga Plataeu a couple mins drive from the ledgendary Ellenbourough Falls in NSW. Beautiful creeks and swimming spots, loads of local lookouts and natural attractions, 4x4 adventures, quiet and idilic surroundings. Bring your toys and come and enjoy life in the wilds, milk the cow in the morning and get fresh milk for your camp, feed the chickens and collect the eggs, feed or pat the horses and donks, farm tours can also be arranged, or join us on our other varying farm jobs. Many local fridges stock produce grown here, and there are great markets at wingham first saturday of every month and Elands also has a market day every second sunday of the month.

Stories from the community

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

2 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

2 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.

V

Venessa

2 weeks ago

6 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah

We had two nights at the Paddock View site, by the dam full of lillies. Good spot for a swim. Such a beautiful spot to camp, loved the birds and wallabies. Loved the proximity to the beaches. Thank you for setting up a great space.

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

3 weeks ago

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

R

Richard

November 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at Camp Elim

Plenty of facilities, well out of the way of almost everything with a beautiful green cathedral just down the road and the sunset was the most spectacular I’ve seen.

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.

Lewis

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tiona Holiday Park

Brilliant campsite. Beautiful spot next to the lake and close to the ocean

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!

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😀.

a

allen

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Camp Elim

Very cool site to relax with beautiful views of the lake. Clean amenities and friendly staff. 5 minutes drive to the shopping mall. I’ll stay there again if I travel to the area.

N

Nadine

November 2025

7 m travel trailer

1 night at Wild Hope Farm

Lovely spot. Very quiet. Perfect for those wanting a low-key getaway. No services - no water or power - but the plus is that you don't have to share a busy campground. Easy walk to the river. Too far to walk to the beach, but a short drive back to town/main road.

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.

G

Grace

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Elim

lovely camp spot right between the lake and the beach. definitely don’t forget your bug spray !!

J

John

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Great hosts and great location. Very welcoming and plenty of space around. View of the river was really nice too

B

Bridget

November 2025

5 m travel trailer

3 nights at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Great flat campsites, very welcoming & accomodating hosts. Lots to see in the local area. Had a lovely, relaxing weekend.

R

Roby

October 2025

7 m Class A

Weekend Trip to Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone

Huge area to chose to a campsite, all amenities on site, great option if you don’t won’t to hook up to power.

Bridget

October 2025

10 m travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone

This was a beautiful camping spot. We stayed in the uncovered grass sites which overlooked the dam which had plenty of room. The kids had so much fun in the aquapark.