Best camping, glamping, and outdoor stays in the Northern Rivers

Camping spots abound from the coast to the hinterland in the lush, northeast corner of NSW.

96% (2624 reviews)
96% (2624 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Northern Rivers

Under $50

Star Hosts in Northern Rivers

12 top campgrounds in Northern Rivers

98%
(102)

Kookaburra Camping & Caravan Park

60 sites · RVs, Tents600 acres · Deepwater, NSW
600 acres of Australian bush with walking tracks revealing massive rocky outcrops, various animal and birdlife and incredible views. This is a bushwalker's paradise, a birdwatcher's heaven. Commanding views & wildlife galore. Campers stay within the campgrounds and from there explore the rest of the property.The campground has fire pits with wood supplied. A camp kitchen with wood BBQ. The amenities are 6 star (including disabled access).Large shared BBQ area, fire pit, free firewood, pet friendly, motorhomes and big rigs welcome - most sites are drive through. Everyone loves it at Kookaburra park!Pets are welcome. Please just make a booking and come along, everyone is welcome!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$10
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(151)

Timbarra Valley

22 sites · RVs, Tents25000 acres · Rocky River, NSW
The Timbarra or Rocky River is an area of great beauty southeast of Tenterfield with soaring mountains cradling the river flats and undulating hills below and is a renowned cattle breeding region.  The Petrie family have been in Tenterfield since 1860 and have owned properties in the valley for over 100 years.  Tim’s great-grandfather was known as Rocky Jack because of his extensive holdings.  Cattle are still walked up to the Timbarra Plateau property from the river properties ‘Man From Snowy River’ style.  The Plateau can be seen rising above the valley to the north from the confluence of Demon Creek and the Timbarra/Rocky River.  These flow along the Demon Fault which is clearly visible on a satellite map.  The 3 valley properties ‘Corner Camp’, ‘Boundary’ and ‘’Pavels’ combined with ‘Timbarra Plateau’ total over 25000 acres.  The whole valley was part of 2 earlier large selections averaging 100000 acres which gradually became broken up in the late 1800s/early 1990s. There is a proud timber history in the valley and the surrounding forested mountains with large sections of State Forest now transferred to Washpool National Park which abuts both the eastern and western boundaries of ‘Boundary’ (which takes its name from Boundary Creek). The National Park and Forestland State Forest can be accessed to the west via the Billirimba Fire Trail.  The eastern section of Washpool  stretches across to the Clarence River, the largest eastern river in NSW. Washpool is where the Cedar King went missing and was never located.   The Timbarra/Rocky River flows into the Clarence at Tabulam and then on to Grafton and out to sea at Yamba. The headwaters of the Rocky are all the way south to the Glen Innes Grafton road so the river can rise quickly if there is a downpour upstream.  Interestingly when the Chinese gold miners left the Timbarra Plateau they came down with rickshaws into the Timbarra Valley then scaled the mountains to the west, near Boundary Creek, looking for their next gold diggings towards Glen Innes. The Boundary campsites at Boundary Riverside, The Cockatoo, The China Wall, and the Caves are all suitable for caravans, RVs, Camping trailers, tents and swags as is Timbarra Plateau.  Corner Camp and Pavels are suitable for camping trailers, tents and swags.  Boundary campsites access are all unaffected if the river rises however we will not take bookings at Corner Camp or Pavels in the likelihood of the river rising as we are committed to safety and avoiding inconvenience for guests.  The Rocky is a very special place and we have campers who first came as children and are now bringing their grandchildren.  We expect our guests to treat the area respectfully, and only leave footprints and tyre tracks.  The valley provides wonderful scenery and settings for bushwalking, birdwatching, photography, painting, bicycle riding, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing, or just kicking back relaxing by the river, listening to the soothing sounds of the water, birds, and the turtles and platypus splashing, or being amazed at the mirror like images on the waters surface on a still day or the flickering light of a campfire at night and the stars above.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$18
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(61)

Harper Farms

2 sites · RVs, Tents700 acres · Cangai, NSW
Harper Farms is a fourth generation, family owned cattle property out of the small township of Cangai; just 50 minutes west of Grafton. Located along the Mann River, just one kilometre off the Gwydir Highway, campers will find easy access to our riverfront site. The property is bordered by the Dandahra Creek and the Mann River, and boasts a variety of native bird and wildlife; peacocks, platypus, ducks and the occasional pelican to name a few. The Mann River is open to fishing November - July; and is a local favourite as a kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding and swimming destination. Beef cattle and stock horses have been run continuously on the property since the early 1900s, and our friendly horses and cows will often pay a visit to the campsite. Along with our working dogs, we also run a small breeding kennel of Golden Retrievers and Border Collies. Dogs are always welcome on the farm, and we simply ask that camp visitors keep them under their control during their stay. A small shop with basic amenities (groceries, camp supplies, fishing bait, fuel) is located at Jackadgery; a 15 minutes drive east on the Gwydir Highway. To the west of Harper Farms lies the Gibraltar Range which hosts Washpool National Park with walking trails, waterfalls, rainforest and swimming areas. Away from the city lights, the Cangai area offers exceptional stargazing and is popular with keen astronomers and photographers. Our property currently hosts one large campsite; ideal for family and large group gatherings. Booking the site includes complete privacy for your group whether large or small. Our family and friends have gathered at Harper Farms for over a century to enjoy the beauty of the Cangai area, and we are excited for you to come “Camp Cangai” too!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(124)

Bald Rock Station

34 sites · RVs, Tents369 acres · Tenterfield, NSW
Welcome to 369 acres of incredible bush with 5 semi cleared acres. We are 100% off grid, our neighbours are few but the wildlife is plentiful. Choose to pitch a tent camp, bring your caravan or motorhome. We have good access for all types of vehicles, so your visit can be stress free. There is tank drinking water available if you wish or BYO water. You're also welcome to use the basic camp kitchen. There is a toilet available (pit toilet). We realise dogs are part of the family and they are welcome to camp with you, in harmony with the native wildlife. Campfires are permitted outside of fireban season. Don't forget your camera as there is much to explore including big boulders covered in moss, creeks, ferns and amazing places this ancient land has to offer.,
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(438)

Wunglebung

18 sites · RVs, Tents1600 acres · Rocky River, NSW
Wunglebung is a beautiful remote 1600 acre working cattle property on the upper Rocky River near Tenterfield NSW. The magnificent Rocky River and Bicentennial National Trail run through the property with National Park boundaries. There are tracks to follow and beautiful valley trails to drive and explore. There is plenty of wildlife and native flora to discover at Wunglebung. A true bush retreat, Wunglebung has areas designated for campers, vans, tents and motorhomes. 4WD access required for all sites but one.We offer bushwalking, swimming, kayaking, mountain biking and lots of big sky star gazing. No overcrowding. No fishing. Please note we have no mobile or internet service available. 
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$18
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(344)

On the Clarence Camping

56 sites · RVs, Tents1600 acres · Lower Duck Creek, NSW
- 1600 acre cattle property 30 mins from Tabulam, NSW. - $24 per adult per night, $4 per child per night (aged 4 - 14 years old) children under 4 years old FREE (just don't add child when booking) - Large open field campground with the Clarence River on one side and rocky rugged terrain on the other - Choose your own camp spot in our designated campground - River approximately 150 metre walk from campground * SWIM AT OWN RISK * The Clarence River can be treacherous (at times it cannot be entered at all!) Flooding, submerged/slippery rocks, little to no water - it all depends on the weather conditions, please keep this in mind when booking. - Track to campground accessible by 2wd, tracks around property only accessible by 4wd - Two new flushing toilet/shower blocks with wheelchair access and - Dump point - Fire pits scattered throughout the campground - firewood can be collected from around property or purchased but please no cutting down trees. - Perfect for fishing, bushwalking, bird watching, star gazing, canoeing (byo) exploring tracks around the property, bbq's etc - Sociable dogs allowed if kept on leash at all times as it is a working cattle property, we also have wild dogs in the area so pets need to be supervised at all times - No drinking water - Quiet generators are allowed from 8am - 6pm (if required overnight please enquire) Find us on facebook and instagram - @on_the_clarence_camping
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$24
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(84)

Westbury Downs

7 sites · RVs, Tents2000 acres · Jackadgery, NSW
Cattle and horses roam the river flat as we are a beef breading cattle farm. Our property is situated across the road from the Mann River Caravan Park. This allows access to shop facilities for top us like ice, gas, take away food, an afternoon ice cream or canoe hire or planning a canoe trip on the river.  We have a number of different sites available, some with river views and river access and others around the property. Check out each of our listings to find out more. There are some great day trips to explore the area from your camp, other river crossings like Cangai, Hanging Rock, Coombadjha, Lliydale, Copmanhurst and many more. You can also head up the Gibraltar Range and check out Waspool National Parks, for some rainforest walks and bird watching or Boundary Falls. Toilet access can be made available on request otherwise please BYO toilet facilities. Sorry, no pets.
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(149)

Bullock Mountain Homestead

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1200 acres · Yarrowford, NSW
1200 acres of mainly rugged bushland with 2 kms of Reddestone Creek and 6 kms of the Beardy River at the boundary. We offer fossicking for sapphires, fishing, bird watching, and bushwalking Options include either camping on the river or creek, or guesthouse accommodation. Firewood is free plenty to pick up. Dog friendly. Horse friendly (if you bring your own yard). We have one powered site and the rest are unpowered. A power point is available near the shed. There is a daily charge for sapphire fossicking. Daily sieve hire is available. Book all of this before you come. Usually there are small sapphires to find but of course nothing is guaranteed!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$15
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(155)

Eagle Ridge Bush Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, Tents330 acres · Tabulam, NSW
A property with amazing river access and a history of decent fishing and gold panning. The steep terrain adjacent the river lends itself to some fantastic hiking and mountain bike riding to the peaks that display amazing views to the north and east. With a small number of sites on the property you're sure to feel like the only ones in the world. Currently access 4WD recommended however 2WD only campers can be delivered to the site by our onsite assistant. Some AWD and rear whel drive vehicles are fine. Contact hots to discuss access
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$20
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(12)

"Mindoo"

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1100 acres · Tenterfield, NSW
Located 19 km due east of the famous historical village of Tenterfield the working, cattle breeding, property "Mindoo" has recently opened its gates to campers. Framed by the rugged border range National Parks "Mindoo" is 1100 acres of rolling green hills dissected by the pure, cascading, waters of the Cataract River which provide a number of private riverside campsites. Campers are encouraged to meander along the continually changing River and explore its many secluded swimming holes and enjoy the abundant wildlife that cohabitates with the Angus/Wagyu cow herd. Direct access to the neighbouring National Parks and State Forests offers an array of day trips to hikers, mountain bikers, or horse riders where they can discover the natural treasures of Basket Swamp and Boonoo Boonoo Falls, Woolool Woolooni, among others. For those who require a little more comfort, and lets face it we all do at times, the Mindoo Cabin is available. Featuring three bedrooms, open plan living/dining/kitchen,and a shady deck overlooking the River the cabin sleeps eight and still allows visitors to partake in all the adventures that "Mindoo" offers with the benefit of a comfortable rest when the day is done. For those interested in exploring the park trails via horseback we can also provide secure lodgings for your horses, with quality hay available for purchase. Be as adventurous or as restfull as you please as both options are freely available. Mountain Biking, Hilking, Horse riding, or just riding your hammock and relaxing we are sure you will enjoy your time at "Mindoo" There is approximately 4km gravel road to get to the property. Mobile reception is patchy (telstra) you may need to get to the top of a hill for reception. Very little or no reception for other networks. Our aim is for your visit to be private so are spacing our sites . From Easter will no longer have undesignated river sites, all river sites will be designated and spaced a part. If you have a large group - Koala & Rockpool can be booked together, the Park One & Two booked together, or The Bend. Send us a message if you have any questions.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(232)

Emu Creek Retreat

101 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2800 acres · Tabulam, NSW
Welcome to Emu creek Retreat One of the best destinations for hiking, camping, bushwalking, swimming, Kayaking, fishing, mountain bike riding (bicycles only), bird watching, 4wdriving and even fossicking, since the old gold mining town "Lunatics" was not far away from us. If travelling in a 2wd please contact us before booking, some of the campgrounds have to be reached by crossing the creeks, Girard camp is one of them where the office and the showers are, at times this crossing is under water and is only accessible by 4wd. Other campgrounds are available near the entry gate that don't require a creek crossing for access and toilets are available on some of them. One side of the property is bound by Emu Creek and the other by Gerard Creek, both creeks have enough water with some permanent deep water holes for all year activities. Sightseeing inside the property we have Girard Falls, a 50m deep waterfall, nature at it's best. The only entry into the property is by Emu Creek Rd a gravel road. Emu Creek Retreat is located in the far north-east of New South Wales. We are approximately 200 km from Brisbane, Toowoomba and Gold Coast, 150km from Byron Bay. Tabulam is the nearest town 12km away. Fuel and groceries are available at Tabulam along with a post office, pub and police station. Casino is 68km away and Tenterfield 78km. Once a working cattle property, in the 90's was converted into a camping and 4WD park. Since 2017 has been a family own and operated property, pet friendly, we are using the existing large camping grounds to convert it into a camping paradise. Two properties combined with close to 2800 acres, fronting Paddy’s Flat Rd for 2km and extends 7km to the back fence bordering a 22000 acre cattle property. The front section is undulating with plantation forest (spotted gum) and bushland, towards the back it has mountains, steep terrain and millions of trees with spectacular views and great hiking tracks.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$27.50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(15)

Gods Gift

2 sites · RVs, Tents44 acres · Bolivia, NSW
Gods Gift is situated on the Granite belt 1200m above sea level and 30 minutes from Tenterfield. The mountain range is Mount Spirabo and the property is surrounded by the Capoompeta National Park. There are two creek systems located on the property and a small natural waterfall. The property itself has an organic orchard with many established fruit trees and surrounded by lush gardens. Being so close to the national park there are many places to visit by bush walk or 4wd access. Take in the stunning views down the valley from the top of the mountain while camping. The mountains are granite and there are much natural rock formations on the property to behold. It is simply a magic place to visit.
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

Value Prop
Value Prop

Best camping, glamping, and outdoor stays in the Northern Rivers guide

Overview

Encompassing the catchments and fertile valleys of the Clarence, Richmond, and Tweed rivers in northeastern NSW, the Northern Rivers region is a subtropical oasis where beaches are backed by rolling farmlands and national parks. It’s warm enough to camp comfortably year-round across the area, though conditions tend to be drier in winter. Regional highlights include surfing—particularly in Byron Bay—hiking in World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, and exploring the region’s small hinterland towns. But there’s plenty more to do, from horse-riding to hot-air ballooning and boutique shopping to river cruising. 

Where to go

The Tweed

Stretching for about 40 kilometres from Tweed Heads in the north down to Wooyung in the south, and west to the Border Ranges, The Tweed is a verdant coastal farming area dotted with seaside and hinterland campsites. Bask on empty beaches, admire the heritage architecture in tiny towns, tour the region’s farm gates, or take a cruise along the scenic Tweed River.

Brunswick Heads

This once-sleepy fishing town has become nearly as popular as its neighbour to the south, Byron Bay, in recent years. Brunswick Heads hugs the idyllic Brunswick River, popular for swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Sheltered by the southern break wall, Torakina Beach is particularly popular among families. Choose between a number of campgrounds and holiday parks by the riverside, many with cabins and sites for caravans and tents.

Byron Bay to Lennox Head

The legendary surf and wellness hub at Australia’s most easterly point is well equipped for campers, with holiday parks within walking distance of the town centre, campgrounds toward Suffolk Park, 10 minutes south of town, and more at Broken Head. Twenty minutes south of Byron Bay, the quieter coastal town of Lennox Head has holiday parks just steps from the beach and the popular Lake Ainsworth recreation area.

Byron Bay Hinterland

The lush hinterland region west of Byron Bay is dotted with historic villages and pockets of lush subtropical rainforest ripe for hiking and waterfall chasing. The main place to camp is the Rummery Park Campground in Nightcap National Park, with easy access to hiking trails and the spectacular Minyon Falls Lookout. Private campgrounds also dot the area between Byron and Mullumbimby, 30 minutes to the northwest.

Yamba and Iluka

Heading south from Lennox Head, you can camp at Ballina and Evans Head, but the most popular camping spot south of Byron is the Yamba region, on the southern fringe of the Northern Rivers. More than a dozen holiday parks sit between the coastal fishing town of Yamba, on the southern bank of the Clarence River, and Woody Head, in Bundjalung National Park to the north. Between the two lies Iluka, which sits on the northern side of the river mouth. Typical of the NSW North Coast, good surf spots can be found here.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Hipcamp is the most comprehensive resource for beautiful private campsites.

Discover and reserve tent camping, caravan parks, cabins, and glamping — everywhere from national parks to blueberry farms.

Download the Hipcamp App

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.