95% (1.3K) • 16 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Penshurst
Fern Valley Ranch
1. Fern Valley Ranch
99%
(1235)
70km from Penshurst · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
**WE ARE NOT TAKING CHECK-INS ON CHRISTMAS DAY, but you can stay over Christmas Day**
-----
Are you looking for a retreat to get away from the city, or a refreshing alternative to a caravan park along your journey?
We have CAMPSITES nestled in our Orchard or in the Pine Trees paddock, (with nearby amenities); or for more of a comfortable and unique stay, try our CHARMING, CONVERTED SCHOOL BUS!
Fern Valley Ranch has it all- waterfall viewing, bush walks, animal feeding.
Unwind; relax by the campfire with quiet cup of tea (or a beer). Leave the city behind and tune back in to the birdlife and whistle of the breeze among the tall trees.
CAMPSITES- Max 5 campers (see Campsite Listing for number and type of dwellings allowed per site.)
SCHOOL BUS- Max 4 guests (no pets)- can book separate bus campsites after booking Bus.
SCHOOL BUS CAMPING- Get friends to camp next to you in the Bus.
*** NO ENTERING ANY WATER ON THE PROPERTY, YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE IMMEDIATELY IF YOU DO NOT RESPECT OUR RULES ***
If you want to swim, there are beaches within half an hour from our farm.
-
We are just an hour between Sydney and Newcastle; and 15 minutes to Gosford.
THINGS TO DO IN THE CENTRAL COAST:
- Australian Reptile Park
- Great North Walk
- Fire Creek Botanical Winery
- Mount Penang Farmers Market
- Mangrove Creek Dam
- Many Cafes & chocolate shop
-BEACHES: The Entrance, Toowoon Bay, Shelley, Terrigal
- Gosford Regional Gallery
- Edogawo Commemorative Gardens
- Take a drive to the small village of Spencer
- Golf clubs
are all nearby.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$72
/ night
Mellows Ridge
2. Mellows Ridge
95%
(193)
74km from Penshurst · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled right up against the escarpment at an elevation of 450m, this high-end, off-grid 40 acre property effectively offers your own private slice of Macquarie Pass National Park - amazing views, giant cedar trees, fern forests, cascading waterfalls and palms surround.
It feels remote but it's only 90 min from Sydney, 30 min to Kiama and just 15 min to the shops. The property also offers the only hiking path up to the top of the escarpment for some truly amazing views.
As of September 2025, many of the trails on the property have been degraded by the rains and are now challenging for 2WD cars. If you're towing or it's wet we recommend AWD or 4WD vehicles.
Since this is coastal rainforest and it has been very wet, expect leeches anywhere it is damp. These are easily kept at bay with deet and or trousers tucked into socks.
We're not particularly price sensitive - until all those rate rises - but we are extremely value sensitive so we set out to make your stay extremely good value for your hard earned money. The land itself does most of the heavy lifting but also personal service and of course there's Lana to fall in love with.
Note, Mellows Rd is 2.6km long and rises 400m - in parts the road is a 15 degree grade. It's all paved but narrow so if you are towing a large heavy load, it's going to strain your car.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$79
/ night
Glenworth Valley Camping Ground
3. Glenworth Valley Camping Ground
83%
(27)
64km from Penshurst · 101 sites · Tents, RVs
Just 20 minutes from Gosford & Hornsby, this hidden natural oasis offers the most unique camping experience anywhere in Australia.
Set in spectacular natural bushland without marked sites, a 200-acre creekside campground, gives you the freedom to find your own patch and sprawl out - making it perfect for families and groups of all sizes.
Enjoy open-ground campfires, waterhole swimming, a petting farm with super cute baby animals and breathtaking Valley views. All alongside epic onsite adventure tours - including horse riding, quad biking, kayaking, abseiling, axe throwing, laser skirmish & camping, and more!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$39
/ night
Little Cat Oasis Garden Glamping
4. Little Cat Oasis Garden Glamping
100%
(1)
27km from Penshurst · 1 site · Lodging
A studio room (2 available, price is for one room. If two studio rooms are required, add an extra $60)
Location is in the backyard of the owner’s cottage residence which was established in 1938, “The Printery” once operated as a printing factory and housed printing presses and machinery up to the 60's. The local newspaper “The Manly Daily” was printed on the property from 1940-41. Separate private entrance.
The studio rental has a 4.8 star review on Airbnb. Quirky and unusual, Little Cat Oasis Garden Glamping studio offers something a little different to the usual local accomodation offerings. Stays are hosted in a one room garden studio which has a King size bed, 2 seater sofa, tv and tea/coffee making facilities. There is also private use of an adjacent outdoor tropical deck area.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
AU$170
/ night
Rosewood Farm's Riverside Glamping
5. Rosewood Farm's Riverside Glamping
100%
(15)
54km from Penshurst · 1 site · Lodging
Welcome to Rosewood Farm – Bushland Glamping by the Bargo River
Rosewood Farm is a charming hobby farm that offers a unique and memorable glamping experience for families or couples. Nestled on five peaceful acres, the property backs directly onto the gorgeous Bargo River State Conservation Area. Over
1 700 hectares of stunning Australian bushland, teeming with native flora and fauna. It's the perfect escape for nature lovers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
From your private campsite, enjoy direct access to your own walking track, just 20 metres from the river’s edge. Take in river views right from your tent, and explore nearby swimming holes, soft sandy banks, and sun-warmed sandstone rocks. Bushwalking trails meander along the river and through the surrounding bushland, leading to picnic spots and more secluded swimming areas. Highlights include the stunning See Thru Pools, a family-friendly favourite, and the iconic Mermaid Pools, a 25-minute walk downstream. This remarkable site features dramatic sandstone cliffs, panoramic views of the Tahmoor Canyon, and a cascading waterfall. (no swimming)
Back at Rosewood Farm, you’ll be greeted by our friendly alpacas and pygmy goats who love pats, hand-feeding, and attention. Your spacious bell tent will be fully prepared for your arrival, offering flexible sleeping arrangements for up to four guests. The campsite is thoughtfully equipped with quality bedding, a mini Weber BBQ, battery lighting, a dining seating, an open fire pit, and a shared shower and toilet (located in a separate area attached to the farmhouse)
Native wildlife adds to the magic of your visit. You may spot bush wallabies, kangaroos, echidnas, frogs, and a wide variety of lizards, especially during the calm of early mornings and late afternoons. The area is also home to an abundance of stunning birdlife, making it a birdwatcher’s delight.
Soak in uninterrupted views of the surrounding bushland and the stunning Bargo River. Enjoy peaceful seclusion, connect with nature, and unwind in comfort. Local shops and attractions are only five minutes away, giving you the best of both convenience and wilderness.
We look forward to welcoming you to Rosewood Farm—where glamping meets the beauty of the Australian bush.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
AU$188
/ night
Bendameer
6. Bendameer
100%
(21)
77km from Penshurst · 1 site · Tent, RV
Bendameer is a 100 acre hobby farm running beef cows on the South Coast.
The farm is located just 15min drive to pristine beaches or 10min drive to national parks, walking tracks and swimming holes.
We provide Elevated camp sites over looking Lake Illawarra and Warilla Beach or stay on the farm and enjoy bush walking to water fall and swimming holes plus heaps of other attractions close by.
Campfires
from
AU$60
/ night
95% (1.3K) • 16 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Penshurst
Fern Valley Ranch
1. Fern Valley Ranch
99%
(1235)
70km from Penshurst · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
**WE ARE NOT TAKING CHECK-INS ON CHRISTMAS DAY, but you can stay over Christmas Day**
-----
Are you looking for a retreat to get away from the city, or a refreshing alternative to a caravan park along your journey?
We have CAMPSITES nestled in our Orchard or in the Pine Trees paddock, (with nearby amenities); or for more of a comfortable and unique stay, try our CHARMING, CONVERTED SCHOOL BUS!
Fern Valley Ranch has it all- waterfall viewing, bush walks, animal feeding.
Unwind; relax by the campfire with quiet cup of tea (or a beer). Leave the city behind and tune back in to the birdlife and whistle of the breeze among the tall trees.
CAMPSITES- Max 5 campers (see Campsite Listing for number and type of dwellings allowed per site.)
SCHOOL BUS- Max 4 guests (no pets)- can book separate bus campsites after booking Bus.
SCHOOL BUS CAMPING- Get friends to camp next to you in the Bus.
*** NO ENTERING ANY WATER ON THE PROPERTY, YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE IMMEDIATELY IF YOU DO NOT RESPECT OUR RULES ***
If you want to swim, there are beaches within half an hour from our farm.
-
We are just an hour between Sydney and Newcastle; and 15 minutes to Gosford.
THINGS TO DO IN THE CENTRAL COAST:
- Australian Reptile Park
- Great North Walk
- Fire Creek Botanical Winery
- Mount Penang Farmers Market
- Mangrove Creek Dam
- Many Cafes & chocolate shop
-BEACHES: The Entrance, Toowoon Bay, Shelley, Terrigal
- Gosford Regional Gallery
- Edogawo Commemorative Gardens
- Take a drive to the small village of Spencer
- Golf clubs
are all nearby.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$72
/ night
Mellows Ridge
2. Mellows Ridge
95%
(193)
74km from Penshurst · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled right up against the escarpment at an elevation of 450m, this high-end, off-grid 40 acre property effectively offers your own private slice of Macquarie Pass National Park - amazing views, giant cedar trees, fern forests, cascading waterfalls and palms surround.
It feels remote but it's only 90 min from Sydney, 30 min to Kiama and just 15 min to the shops. The property also offers the only hiking path up to the top of the escarpment for some truly amazing views.
As of September 2025, many of the trails on the property have been degraded by the rains and are now challenging for 2WD cars. If you're towing or it's wet we recommend AWD or 4WD vehicles.
Since this is coastal rainforest and it has been very wet, expect leeches anywhere it is damp. These are easily kept at bay with deet and or trousers tucked into socks.
We're not particularly price sensitive - until all those rate rises - but we are extremely value sensitive so we set out to make your stay extremely good value for your hard earned money. The land itself does most of the heavy lifting but also personal service and of course there's Lana to fall in love with.
Note, Mellows Rd is 2.6km long and rises 400m - in parts the road is a 15 degree grade. It's all paved but narrow so if you are towing a large heavy load, it's going to strain your car.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$79
/ night
Glenworth Valley Camping Ground
3. Glenworth Valley Camping Ground
83%
(27)
64km from Penshurst · 101 sites · Tents, RVs
Just 20 minutes from Gosford & Hornsby, this hidden natural oasis offers the most unique camping experience anywhere in Australia.
Set in spectacular natural bushland without marked sites, a 200-acre creekside campground, gives you the freedom to find your own patch and sprawl out - making it perfect for families and groups of all sizes.
Enjoy open-ground campfires, waterhole swimming, a petting farm with super cute baby animals and breathtaking Valley views. All alongside epic onsite adventure tours - including horse riding, quad biking, kayaking, abseiling, axe throwing, laser skirmish & camping, and more!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$39
/ night
Little Cat Oasis Garden Glamping
4. Little Cat Oasis Garden Glamping
100%
(1)
27km from Penshurst · 1 site · Lodging
A studio room (2 available, price is for one room. If two studio rooms are required, add an extra $60)
Location is in the backyard of the owner’s cottage residence which was established in 1938, “The Printery” once operated as a printing factory and housed printing presses and machinery up to the 60's. The local newspaper “The Manly Daily” was printed on the property from 1940-41. Separate private entrance.
The studio rental has a 4.8 star review on Airbnb. Quirky and unusual, Little Cat Oasis Garden Glamping studio offers something a little different to the usual local accomodation offerings. Stays are hosted in a one room garden studio which has a King size bed, 2 seater sofa, tv and tea/coffee making facilities. There is also private use of an adjacent outdoor tropical deck area.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
AU$170
/ night
Rosewood Farm's Riverside Glamping
5. Rosewood Farm's Riverside Glamping
100%
(15)
54km from Penshurst · 1 site · Lodging
Welcome to Rosewood Farm – Bushland Glamping by the Bargo River
Rosewood Farm is a charming hobby farm that offers a unique and memorable glamping experience for families or couples. Nestled on five peaceful acres, the property backs directly onto the gorgeous Bargo River State Conservation Area. Over
1 700 hectares of stunning Australian bushland, teeming with native flora and fauna. It's the perfect escape for nature lovers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
From your private campsite, enjoy direct access to your own walking track, just 20 metres from the river’s edge. Take in river views right from your tent, and explore nearby swimming holes, soft sandy banks, and sun-warmed sandstone rocks. Bushwalking trails meander along the river and through the surrounding bushland, leading to picnic spots and more secluded swimming areas. Highlights include the stunning See Thru Pools, a family-friendly favourite, and the iconic Mermaid Pools, a 25-minute walk downstream. This remarkable site features dramatic sandstone cliffs, panoramic views of the Tahmoor Canyon, and a cascading waterfall. (no swimming)
Back at Rosewood Farm, you’ll be greeted by our friendly alpacas and pygmy goats who love pats, hand-feeding, and attention. Your spacious bell tent will be fully prepared for your arrival, offering flexible sleeping arrangements for up to four guests. The campsite is thoughtfully equipped with quality bedding, a mini Weber BBQ, battery lighting, a dining seating, an open fire pit, and a shared shower and toilet (located in a separate area attached to the farmhouse)
Native wildlife adds to the magic of your visit. You may spot bush wallabies, kangaroos, echidnas, frogs, and a wide variety of lizards, especially during the calm of early mornings and late afternoons. The area is also home to an abundance of stunning birdlife, making it a birdwatcher’s delight.
Soak in uninterrupted views of the surrounding bushland and the stunning Bargo River. Enjoy peaceful seclusion, connect with nature, and unwind in comfort. Local shops and attractions are only five minutes away, giving you the best of both convenience and wilderness.
We look forward to welcoming you to Rosewood Farm—where glamping meets the beauty of the Australian bush.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
AU$188
/ night
Bendameer
6. Bendameer
100%
(21)
77km from Penshurst · 1 site · Tent, RV
Bendameer is a 100 acre hobby farm running beef cows on the South Coast.
The farm is located just 15min drive to pristine beaches or 10min drive to national parks, walking tracks and swimming holes.
We provide Elevated camp sites over looking Lake Illawarra and Warilla Beach or stay on the farm and enjoy bush walking to water fall and swimming holes plus heaps of other attractions close by.
Campfires
from
AU$60
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Julia
2 weeks ago
5 m car
With pets
Wow what a stunning property,
So much love and care has been put into this place.
A peaceful forest retreat, not far from the beautiful Sapphire coast.
Very private campsites, with stunning views.
Amazing Hosts!
We were very Lucky to share Pizza on our first night! (I highly recommend doing this.)
On our second night we had a spa and watched the sunset.
Another bonus is the outdoor shower with breathtaking views!
Ours dogs had the most amazing time and quickly made friends with Luna.
We hope to visit again.
Julia, Hil, Milo and Maple. :)
See more
M
Mike
2 weeks ago
Tent
‘Stump no more’ was a good space for 3 tents with a nice view. Definitely 4 wheel or AWD recommended. An assortment of bird calls at dawn. I would like to return again next year to explore more.
See more
C
Cécile
2 weeks ago
5 m Class B
With kids
Steve was really welcoming
The location is amazing with nice diner
Each place gets its own pit fire
Toilets and shower are clean
See more
J
Jan
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Our stay at Fern Valley Ranch Farm was absolutely outstanding. From the moment we arrived, we felt genuinely welcomed from Leanne and well cared for.
Steve, Dianne, Ben, and Leanne were incredibly helpful, friendly, and attentive throughout our stay. Their warmth and genuine care for the campers truly set this place apart. They were always happy to assist, share their knowledge, and ensure everyone felt comfortable and included.
The farm itself has a wonderful blend of nature, comfort, and authentic farm life, making it a perfect getaway for campers of all ages. The welcoming atmosphere created by the team made our experience not just enjoyable, but truly memorable.
We cannot recommend Fern Valley Ranch Farm highly enough and would absolutely love to return. A heartfelt thank you to the entire team for such a fantastic experience.
From Jan, Ben and Jasper
See moreJ
Jan
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Our stay at Fern Valley Ranch Farm was absolutely outstanding. From the moment we arrived, we felt genuinely welcomed and well cared for.
Steve, Dianne, Ben, and Leanne were incredibly helpful, friendly, and attentive throughout our stay. Their warmth and genuine care for the campers truly set this place apart. They were always happy to assist, share their knowledge, and ensure everyone felt comfortable and included.
The farm itself is a wonderful blend of nature, comfort, and authentic farm life, making it a perfect getaway for campers of all ages. The welcoming atmosphere created by the team made our experience not just enjoyable, but truly memorable.
We cannot recommend Fern Valley Ranch Farm highly enough and would absolutely love to return. A heartfelt thank you to the entire team for such a fantastic experience.
See moreR
Rina
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Wonderful family friendly property that has had so much love and care poured into it. We loved the waterfall and bushwalk, exploring the orchards, having our own firepit, feeding the cows, meeting baby chicks and the tractor tour with Steve and Di on our last day.
The campsites are large with plenty of room between groups so you're not on top of your neighbours. The hot showers and toilets are well maintained and you can wash your dishes with a view of the horses. The caretakers are so kind and responsive too.
We can't think of a single thing to improve our stay. This was our second time staying and we will definitely be back again.
See more
C
Carmen
2 weeks ago
8 m travel trailer
With kids
We absolutely loved our stay at The Pines campsite. There was so much space, and it was so peaceful. The fire pits were great, and we enjoyed having a campfire to toast marshmallows on. The walk to the waterfall and the rock was easy and so very beautiful. An absolutely stunning part of NSW with easy access back to the highway and into the central coast beaches and amenities.
We had a van with our own facilities, but the portaloos were cleaned every second day. The whole place was spotless. Our kids loved the space to run around and play with other kids who were camping. We will absolutely be back again. Thanks so much!
See more
N
Neil
2 weeks ago
4 nights at Rosewood Farm's Riverside Glamping
Amazing tent and location. Right on the river.
Plenty of spots to walk to and have a dip on the warmer days.
See more
S
Sheree
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Amazing place h the and for having us. We will be back again soon
See more
M
Marta
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
We stayed at the Dwayne Walk-in site, nestled right into the forest. It was a beautiful site, secluded and private.
We really appreciated Ian’s hospitality and the amenities offered. Hope to return again someday! Thanks!
See moreF
Fi
2 weeks ago
8 m Class A
With kids
Beautiful location and friendly and helpful hosts.
See more
U
Ulrika
2 weeks ago
Tent
This was our second time! We had a lovely time! We were at Dugout Terrace and had access to the outdoor toilet, and potable water. Ian was very hospitable and promptly brought us more water when we ran out. We went walking around the property and noticed some leeches and a black snake. There weren't any around the campsite, but just something to be mindful of if you're going on the bushwalk paths. It's a gorgeous property and we loved our time there!
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M
Michael
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
With two kids in tow, this spot was perfect, it had everything on site for a great bush retreat. We loved the hot showers and tips from the host plus the walks on property were great for a 5y/o without the need to go too far. We also lived that it was a little over 1hr from Sydney.
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L
Letitia
2 weeks ago
Tent
It was beautiful being in the trees and nature. It was tucked away and felt so peaceful and surprisingly quiet. My partner and I really enjoyed are stay! Sitting by the fire was the highlight, especially for the chillier weather
See moreG
Geoff
2 weeks ago
7 m Class B
A great spot to camp Plenty of space ,great walk down to the waterfall and friendly helpful caretaker
See more
V
Viviane
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Had a great time camping over Christmas. Very relaxing, toilets are clean and a beautiful trail to explore around the Waterfall and rock formations. My dogs had a great time. I will be back for sure.
See moreJ
John
3 weeks ago
6 m Class B
Nice spot withheaps of site space, nice drive to the beach, and close to sydney
See more
J
Juliana
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Ian was a fantastic host and made the campsite super comfortable. Lots of little trails to wonder through and a variety of birds to watch. Super nice escarpment and very peaceful. Ian was super knowledgeable and helpful and has put in a lot of work to make it a great place to camp! Thank you for having Nero and I - we hope to come back next time we are heading down south.
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J
Jackson
3 weeks ago
7 m travel trailer
With kids
Beautiful spot and very unique. Ian was a fantastic host and the property is amazing. Just know that access to the property is very (very) steep and tight in sections. All sealed but very tough on the vehicle if you have a heavy van. I knew this was the case ahead of time but greatly underestimated the climb. Would be great for a lightweight 4x4 ute canopy setup.
See moreK
Kate
3 weeks ago
Tent
Amazing piece of land, lots of space and little trails and waterfall to explore. Though there were other campers our spot felt quite private. The orchards were beautiful. Showers and bathrooms were so nice to have as we camp in a tent.
See more
