The best forest cabin rentals near Penshurst, New South Wales

Looking for a camping experience in a cabin surrounded by a forest near Penshurst, New South Wales? Hipcamp has over 310 options that fit this description. With top campsites like Wattle Valley Farm (339 reviews), 'Elouera Vale' Farm (207 reviews), and Cranky Rock Hunter Valley (248 reviews), you're sure to find a great spot to rest your head. Popular amenities like cooking equipment, showers, and pet-friendly accommodations are available, and you can enjoy activities such as paddling, visiting historic sites, and swimming. With an average price of $25 per night and options as low as $22, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

99% (529)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a camping experience in a cabin surrounded by a forest near Penshurst, New South Wales? Hipcamp has over 310 options that fit this description. With top campsites like Wattle Valley Farm (339 reviews), 'Elouera Vale' Farm (207 reviews), and Cranky Rock Hunter Valley (248 reviews), you're sure to find a great spot to rest your head. Popular amenities like cooking equipment, showers, and pet-friendly accommodations are available, and you can enjoy activities such as paddling, visiting historic sites, and swimming. With an average price of $25 per night and options as low as $22, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

99% (529)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Halifax Hill

96%

(53)

74km from Penshurst · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · St Albans, NSW

A secluded bush block about 3.5km from the historic village of St Albans. Accommodation includes a quirky 'mountain shack' up the hill, and a grassy paddock for camping nestled at the foot of the hill. 'Halifax Hill' provides an easily accessible bush escape from the hustle and bustle of Sydney, and a great camp from which to explore the local area. Enjoy the local swimming hole, nearby bushwalks, the historic pub ('The Settlers Arms'), explore the historic convict trail and more.

2. 'Elouera Vale' Farm

98%

(617)

75km from Penshurst · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mittagong, NSW

Elouera Vale is a working farm located just outside Mittagong NSW. We breed and train camels for sale, especially into the Southern Highlands. Camels are excellent for weed control and co-grazing with cattle. 'Elouera Vale' also breeds Belted Galloway cattle, Dorper and Wiltipol sheep and donkeys. Our property covers over 140 acres, 80 acres cleared and pasture improved and the rest consisting of forest. The Chain O Ponds creek runs through the property and makes for a lovely walk. You will probably get to see kangaroo, wallaby, wombats, echidnas, koalas and lots of bird life. The lush green hills abound with walking and cycling trails. You can head to the spectacular Nattai Gorge via the Box Vale Mine walking track, an easy 4.4km circular walk that follows an old railway line through a tunnel to breath-taking views. Enjoy a picnic in the magnificent Lake Alexandra Reserve or hike up extinct volcanic peak Mount Gibraltar. The closest shops are approximately a 15 minute drive to the Mittagong Town Centre where you will find all the shops, cafes and restaurants for your needs. It is well worth a visit to ‘The Shaggy Cow’ cafe, one of our favourite foodie spots (don’t forget to mention Elouera Vale). While you're here please try the Cool Climate wines. The region’s rich soil and high altitude are ideal for cool-climate wine growing. Visit cellar doors in the hills and valleys around Mittagong, including Centennial Vineyards. Enjoy a pleasant wine tasting experience at Centennial (don’t forget to mention us). The Camel Cottage offers a luxe off-the-grid escape for couples just one hour from Sydney but feels like "miles from anywhere". The Gums Cottage is a fully contained, off-grid modern getaway, surrounded by the magnificent white gum trees that are its namesake. The serene setting and stylish interior of The Gums provides all the essentials for a picturesque and peaceful country escape. The White Gum Forest Retreat offers campsites nestled in a white gum forest, not far from a beautiful trickling creek. There is access to toilets and a small dam near campsites for water supply for showers where required. For a truly memorable experience we recommend hiring our function space, White Gum Forest Functions, which is available for day visitors as well as guests staying overnight in our cabins and campsites. Why not book your next special family group gathering, milestone birthday or wedding here! The function space can cater for up to 50 guests, please contact us with your time and date requirements before booking. Feel spoilt in the midst of beautiful waratahs, grevilleas and ferns, watching camels grazing in the adjacent paddock. It's like being on a safari! There is 5G mobile telephone reception at the farm so you can reconnect with the world if need be. No pets please.

3. Madisons Mountain Retreat

100%

(1)

68km from Penshurst · 1 site · Lodging · Kurrajong Heights, NSW

A peaceful farmstay located in Kurrajong Heights, set on 85 acres, just a short 75-minute drive from the Sydney CBD. We have 8 standalone cabins, each accommodating a maximum of 5 guests. Every cabin features a cozy slow combustion wood heater and a kitchenette equipped with a stovetop and microwave oven. Additionally, we offer an 18-meter solar-heated pool and a tennis court with rackets and balls provided. As a guest overnighting at Madisons, you are invited to join us at 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM for alpaca feeding.

4. Tomah Retreat

76km from Penshurst · 3 sites · Lodging · Mount Tomah, NSW

An adults-only bright, romantic studio beneath the main house with its own entry, a gorgeous Ergoflex queen-sized bed, a luxurious raindrop shower, and a glorious outlook over the green garden and Japanese Tori gate. Your own fireplace, bookshelf, sideboard kitchenette, toaster, hot plate, coffee machine, choice of teas - you'll never leave your beanbag. Also: Reiki Treatments, Meditation classes, visit the suspended bed in the treehouse or walk the labyrinth plus free infrared sauna. Tomah Retreat is a precious retreat on 5 lush acres in the Blue Mountains where the only thing that is farmed are vegetables with a great big dollop of love and compassion - here the animals roam free. The Tomah Retreat has been the base for the International House of Reiki and meditation classes since 2002 and continues to be so. When it's not busy with that, it is creating a healing space for individuals or couples who are looking to get away from a busy world. In other words - YOU. The Tomah Retreat is also a healing home for many animals who have come from rescue backgrounds. There are 2 more couples studios on the property, CHILL and BREATHE, which you can book to create an entire retreat for your family and/or friends. Bronwen has put together a number of unique experiences that you can enjoy when you stay at the Tomah Retreat. Bronwen will specifically cater these treatments or classes to your needs. Bookings are essential and can be made at "Tomah Retreat dot com". The gardens are shared with the guests of the other 2 studios on the property, Studio Breathe and Studio Chill. Ask Bronwen to tell you a little about the Living Labyrinth she built from 800 dwarf buxus plants - before you go and walk it. It's a great contemplative tool and will support your inner healing during your stay. Head up to the Treehouse and make yourself comfortable in the suspended ergoflex queen bed, let the breeze tussle your hair, and watch the world go by - sometimes all we need is somewhere quiet to sit and BE for a while, before heading back into the fray. The infrared sauna sits in its own building where you can look out over the garden while enjoying its wonderful health benefits. It's free to enjoy, just book your time with Bronwen when you arrive. The smallest things can be healing, like snuggling up in front of the firepit, patting a cat, reading one of our many self-help books or novels, drinking tea, just listening to the birds, or playing with a dog. We are obviously being extra careful at this time. We have taken precautions to increase cleaning and disinfection, particularly on frequently touched surfaces. We're also asking that you please practice safe hygiene and remain at home if you feel unwell.

5. Rustyque Escape in Colo Heights

72km from Penshurst · 1 site · Lodging · Colo Heights, NSW

What are you waiting for? Holiday at home. Nestled in the Hawkesbury village of Colo Heights this cosy renovated studio is available for a country escape. With fully fenced yard within 25 acres you’ll feel a million miles away. The bedroom has a comfy Queen bed and a built-in wardrobe. There’s a Combined bathroom/laundry and a lovely modern kitchen. The Living area is air-conditioned with a sofa bed, dining & views of the orchard. Enjoy the garden & outdoors by the fire pit! Self-check in available RUSTYQUE located on the property is a shed full of old wares and collectables where you can shop during your stay. There will be a welcome basket on arrival supporting small local businesses with a variety of goodies including candle, honey, guest soap, lavosh, and other items. Local wine is available with notice for an additional fee.

Stories from the community

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Isha

2 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We enjoyed a ur stay at this unique and quite spooky place in mountain shack. We were intrigued by the whole maximalist vibe of the house and loved everything about it. It was peaceful we had everything we needed and our host were communicative and great which made everything perfect

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Vanessa

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We loved the shack with the living rock wall. It was so peaceful out there. Helen and Steve sent us all the information we needed before we arrived so it was very easy to find.

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Nikolai

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We absolutely loved the shack! It was full of life, art and amazing sculptures and it was so lovely during the summer. Lots of animals and insects around the place, so definitely felt like the whole place was alive and happy! We had an amazing time.

Karolin

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We absolutely loved our stay at The Mountain Shack & having the whole place to ourselves in the middle of nature. It’s such a unique property — full of charm, quirks, and thoughtful touches. We spent the evening playing board games and drinking wine by candlelight, which made it feel like we’d stepped back in time (a little spooky, but in the best possible way!). There’s plenty of space to explore, we ducked into the nearby town to the Settlers Arms pub during the day, where there was live music playing in the courtyard, it was lovely. The hosts were incredibly communicative and helpful throughout our stay. If you’re after a rustic, one-of-a-kind getaway, this is it.

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Jamie

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We stayed here with our three children. While it wasn’t the most ideal setup for a young family, the quirky, back-to-basics charm really shone through for our 5- and 8-year-olds. No phones, no iPads – just fire, play, and conversations. With St Albans only a few kilometres away, we were able to enjoy a day of adventure there, as well as Wisemans Ferry, where the girls loved paddling on the sandbanks by the park. The shack itself has loads of charm and would be especially perfect for a couple or a small group of adults wanting to cook, share a bottle of wine, relax, and soak up the nature all around. We still thoroughly enjoyed our stay with the girls – and they did too, which is the main thing. The host was super communicative and responsive, and we were well looked after. Shack charm – a winner.

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Lillian

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We had a gorgeous stay at the Mountain Shack at Halifax Hill. A delightful shack with rustic beauty and an earthy, artsy feel. It had everything we needed and more- indoor and outdoor fires, board games galore, electric blankets on the bed, cooking facilities- all in a beautiful and peaceful location. Steve & Helen were responsive and prompt communicators and the whole trip was smooth and easy from start to finish. Our toddler and our dog had a ball, too. Highly recommend to anyone wanting a relaxing hideaway, perfect for couples, families or friends! Thanks Steve & Helen- we will be back!

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Brendan

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

Such a fantastic experience. The mountain shack is an incredible property in a stunning piece of landscape. Helen and Steve were such a accommodating host's with great communication. I highly, highly recommend the mountain shack on Halifax Hill to anyone looking for a private retreat with rustic charm.

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Larni

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

This was the most incredible place we have ever stayed. Thanks so much for having us 💜

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ellen

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

I absolutely loved my stay at Halifax hill!! It’s such a beautiful home, bursting with art and so very cosy. It’s incredibly serene and filled with sunshine throughout the day. A great collection of records and games, the lounge room was a perfect place to relax and unwind! The kitchen was very spacious and had all you needed to make a delicious meal. Located a 5 min drive from the settlers inn and pickled wombat it’s a very sweet retreat for couples, families or groups <3

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Jason

June 2025

With pets

5 nights at Halifax Hill

I wanted to leave a one star review just because I want this place to myself but that would be unfair. Such a eclectic quirky little mountain shack with all the conveniences of home right in the middle of the bush. Comfortable and cosy even in the middle of the winter with the fireplace.

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Bridget

April 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

This shack oozes soul and creativity. We loved our stay. The separate bedroom is beautiful, the main living area more rustic. We loved the large kitchen and excellent gas stove and all the comfy couches, (that 4 of us slept on), and we all sat around play board games and chatting into the evening. We enjoyed a family meal at the table in the garden surrounded by the beautiful bush. A river swim on inflatables at the swimming hole 200m down the road, and taking the dog to play on the long stretches of the river sand bed a half a kilometre to the north, immersed us further in the stunning nature of the area. The early convict settler history of the area - the old cemetery, St Albans pub and the Convict Trail - also provided us with plenty to do beyond the shack. It was a joy and honour to stay in the creative home of Halifax and enjoy this beautiful part of Australia. Thank you, Helen and Steve.

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Andrea

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

What a top spot! We absolutely loved 'The Shack'! It is private, rustic, quirky. It has history and so much character, I mean where else will you see a sandstone rock wall as the internal wall? It is as if you are going into someones private holiday house. You could cook for 50 people in the huge kitchen which is stocked with all the basics (oil, salt, pepper, coffee tea etc) There are pots and pans galore, food processors, mixers and all sorts of stuff. Also provided: board games, candles, tea lights, incense, books, records - there is so much stuff. There are gaps in the walls so the occasional lizard pops in for a visit, but this all adds to the charm! With only a 5 minute drive to the historical St Albans Pub, you have your bases covered. We will be back, so Yes I would absolutely recommend!

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Arkhip

April 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Madisons Mountain Retreat

Location is excellent, just off the bells line of road so is easy to find and well sign posted. The lady running the show is friendly, professional and very good with kids around the animals which was a plus. The alpacas and goat feeding really is great fun for the whole family in the morning.

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Rob

March 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

Such a cosy place, was nice to be by ourselves in the bush. We had a great weekend even with the rain. It was nice to sit out under the awning with a fire, listening to the birds. We hope to come back some day.

Ophelia

February 2025

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

What a magical place! A rustic cottage built with cliff face wall with greenery and directly in the beauty of of the Aussie Bush! The kiln works, sandstone carvings and artwork that surround the cottage make this place very special. We brought many provisions but did not need anything besides bedding which they also provide for a fee, as the cottage was stocked with everything we needed. The fireplace was so cosy and there also a fireplace outside. The bathroom was awesome and love the references of Mr Halifax around the place. The kitchen had a wonderful gas stove top and there is event a fridge and microwave, along with a PlayStation 2 in the living area (GTA San Andreas great video game!) chromecast with the TV and wifi. We saw a family of wallabies in the field at the bottom of the mountain. The river and swimming hole, both close by in walking distance and a short drive to the Settlers Arms Inn next to the river. There were white peacocks and colourful male peacocks just walking around near the Settlers Arms and the river freely! The Wisemans Ferry Crossing was a fun added bonus. It's like the Garden or Eden there! 🦚 We will be back for sure! Thank you for our wonderful stay Helen and Steve ❤️

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Tanya

January 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

Staying at The shack really gave us the opportunity to unwind and relax and reconnect as family. they have every convenience available and the bed was very comfortable. we would love to come back in winter, build a fire in the fireplace and do it again. Thanks Helen & Steve!

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Lauren

January 2025

With pets

3 nights at Halifax Hill

We had an amazing time on Helen and Steve’s property! The place was beautifully set up and comfortable with everything you could need for a few days away but wasn’t so luxurious you felt removed from the bush. The natural wall in the main house was absolutely stunning and the almost 360 views of nature were gorgeous. Our dogs absolutely loved it as well and the accessibility to the swimming spot by the river was a gem. Lots of Roos, birds and even a wombat out and about. Campers down in the lower field were absolutely lovely as well but you wouldn’t even know they were there once you go up the drive. The driveway up was a bit rough for my old Corolla but it’s definitely doable! 100% recommend and will probably be back again!

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Paul

December 2024

With kids

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

Our stay at the mountain shack in St Albans was truly one-of-a-kind. From the moment we arrived, it felt like we’d stepped into a secluded paradise—quiet, cozy, and equipped with everything we needed for a comfortable stay. We saw kangaroos and wombats roaming close by added an extra layer of magic to the experience. Nights were equally mesmerizing—imagine clear mountain skies full of stars and the soothing sounds of nature all around. If you’re looking for a rustic getaway that still has all the essentials, this mountain shack in St Albans is well worth your time. It’s a perfect escape from the city and a fantastic place to slow down, connect with nature, and recharge. We can’t wait to visit again!

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Floris

December 2024

4 nights at Halifax Hill

Nestled in the bush, this space is a true gem for anyone looking to escape the ordinary. It’s the perfect blend of charm and artistry. The surroundings are lush and serene, offering a beautiful connection to nature not far from Sydney and close to St Albans and Wisemans Ferry. Inside, the space has everything you could possibly want—well-appointed amenities, cozy corners for relaxation, and a creative vibe that sparks imagination.

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Geoffrey

November 2024

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We loved the mountain shack. The idea of it built into the mountain was intriguing and it did not disappoint. It was lovely. The house itself had everything we could need. And was very comfortable and the area was extremely peaceful and serene.loved all the artwork especially the little surprise sculptures scattered throughout. Thanks Helen and Steve we had a great and memorable birthday celebration. We will be back.