Mountainous camping near Port Macquarie with swimming
Beach camping, forest camping, and glamping are all within easy reach from this vibrant coastal city.
93% (1467 reviews)
- Port Macquarie
93% (1467 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Port Macquarie
Available this weekend
Under $50
12 top mountainous campgrounds near Port Macquarie with swimming
99%
(654)
Bundilla River Camp
15 sites · RVs, Tents260 acres · Ballengarra, NSW
Come camp along the beautiful Wilson River on a working cattle property. Shady, grassy campsites by a flowing river, just 25 minutes drive from Port Macquarie.
The camp area includes a camp shed, where campers can make use of the
picnic table, stainless steel food preparation bench and camp fire pit.
There are only 2 sites available with power. Please select power as an ad on extra when booking.
Port a loos are available for Hire.
If you have 3 or more children please call me for a discount.
Kids will love the farm tour and feeding of pigs, sheep and horses. It's an excellent area for mountain bike riding as well!
Kayaks available for free.
Don't have a caravan, we have partnered up with Wrighty's Caravan Hire & Repairs. linktr.ee/wrightyscaravans. They offer family caravans delivered, setup ready for you to enjoy.
Pets allowed but you must discuss with owners prior to booking.
Rules:
1. For the piece and quiet of other campers all check-ins must be before 4.30pm during the colder months. Check ins after 8pm may be turned away in busy times.
2. No Fireworks - this is very unsettling for our livestock
3. 9pm quiet time.
4. No drones in the camping area, for the privacy of other campers
5. Generators are allowed for short period of time but not permitted after 8pm.
6. Dogs on leads when walking around the farm
Rick and I thank you for your support in these matters.
Pets
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Campfires
Cooking equipment
from
AU$32
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(65)
Mid-North Coast Nature Retreat
10 sites · RVs, Tents128 acres · Kundabung, NSW
Heartwood Farm is a centrally located 120 acres on the Mid-North Coast - about half way between Sydney and Brisbane, only 1.5 kms off Pacific Highway, 25 mins to Port Macquarie, 15 Mins to Kempsey, 30 minutes to Crescent Head and 45 mins to South West Rocks. We are off grid and live close to nature and enjoy the abundance that provides. We have been building and developing for the last few years. We are still a work in progress.There are three Brumbies that have the run of the place. They are friendly, especially if you have a carrot. There are also a lot of kangaroos and wallabies, some quite friendly as they have been raised by our neighbour who does animal rescue. There are also a lot of different species of birds, including the much loved Black Cockatoos which are in abundance here. We have also seen turtles, frilled neck lizards, diamond pythons, red belly black snakes (rarely) and goannas.
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from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(27)
Jali Farmstay
22 sites · Lodging, TentsJohns River, NSW
14 acres right on Stewart's River is this cosy and private one bedroom donga with a queen bed, kitchen and bathroom (sleeps two), you can add a tent if you have a few kids that want to join in and camp.Watch the river, cast a line, swim in the pool and relax! Animals are not allowed at The Castle
Potable water
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from
AU$35
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
93%
(355)
Yarralen Retreat
44 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Yarrahapinni, NSW
Yarralen is a beautiful 40 acre property on the mid-north coast of NSW. Situated under Mt Yarrahapinni on the Eastern side of the Pacific Hwy. Halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. We are surrounded by National Parks and close to pristine beaches , grassy heads , scotts head and the Macleay River.
Please note there is a $10 pet fee for the campsites, and $15 pet fee for lodgings (the two Vans and Units).
We offer a magical bush retreat with all the modern felicities with a range of camping and accommodation options:
-The Eclectic Bush Haven is a family-friendly camping area where kids under 12 yrs camp for free, campers booking this option have access to camp kitchen, toilets and electricity.
-The Yarralen Retreat Camp Ground 2 is a more secluded camping area for off-road campers that are completely self-contained with their own toilet, kitchen facilities and power.
-The Butterfly Caravan and Retro Glam Vans are renovated caravans nestled in the rainforest.
-Yarralen Retreat Glamping are glamping tents offering the perfect romantic escape, or if you just like camping but don't want to set up a tent, this is the perfect choice.
- Our Entire Property Exclusive option means you can book out the whole place for your group to enjoy privately. Please thoroughly read the site description which explains exactly what this option does and does not include.
Our 40-acre property features eclectic, arty, and striking sculptures and artworks. Stroll through the beautiful bush surroundings, visit the water lilies, and say hello to the roaming peacocks.
The campsites are located on a grassed area surrounded by a corridor of tall trees for your shade and comfort.
We're not far from the beach, with Grassy Heads being the closest beach. While you're exploring why not check out Scott’s Head and South West Rocks for the amazing vistas.
Refresh and recharge in the Magnesium pool and detox in our sauna (please book access under our Extras).
Warm your soul around the campfire in the evening. Firewood is available (please see our Extras).
Campers at the Eclectic Bush Haven will enjoy our fantastic camp kitchen, along with amenities including hot showers and flushing toilet. The kitchen is fully equipped with a Webber BBQ, gas cooktop, large fridge, lighting and power. (IMPORTANT: Campers who book the Yarralen Retreat Camp Ground 2 area DO NOT have access to these facilities, we expect campers in this area to be fully self-contained)
For your convenience entry to the property and main camping area is via our asphalt driveway, which suits all vehicles. (IMPORTANT: Campers who book the Yarralen Retreat Camp Ground 2 will need a 4WD to access this secluded part of the property).
Overnight or longer stays are also available for private parties, weddings, retreats, team building - anything possible. Please message us to have a chat.
Peaceful tall timbered bushland with abundant wildlife throughout the property. It's a great experience for kids, feeds the chooks, free-ranging peafowl, rainforest and billabong walks, and amazing gardens.
Campfires are permitted in the communal fire pit area or individual firepits are available to enjoy at your site.
Please use tank water sparingly (for cooking, cuppas) and BYO drinking water.
We offer a range of Extras to make your stay memorable and comfortable:
-Infra-red Detox Sauna
-Magnesium heated Pool
-Firewood for your campfire
We look forward to welcoming you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(145)
Oxley Riverside Campsites
6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Mount Seaview, NSW
Welcome to our beautiful property on the Hastings River. Oxley Riverside Campsites is a little piece of paradise located inland and west of Port Macquarie.
Our property features undulating hills with lush, green grass, fantastic views and access to a refreshing river to cool off in, on hot summer days.
Oxley Riverside Campsites offers four listings for your enjoyment. We have campsites right on the river for kayaking and swimming enthusiasts and for those who choose to relax and just take in the stunning surrounds.
We welcome your furry family members as long as they are on leashes.
Oxley Riverside Campsites provides large private spaces for each campsite with a communal covered picnic table and barbecue for the use of all campers.
Campfires are permitted outside of fire ban season, and there is a dedicated firepit on each site.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from
AU$50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(99)
Elands TereTulemast EXCLUSIVE SITES
37 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Elands, NSW
We are based in the mountains North West of Taree in NSW.
Some may decide to visit because of the Famous Ellenborough Falls being on our door step. While others are seeking space, nature, a river side camping spot, a mountain bike focused holiday with the fam, or a cheap group stay right on the river. And others just simply LOVE this area and come back each year, and bring their dog!
Guudji Yiigu Nyiirunang - Birpi for Welcome Everyone!
while ...
Teretulemast is an Estonian name, it means WELCOME.
THE HISTORY OF OUR PLACE as we know it:
The Biripi people were the original and will always be the landowners of this area. They spent their summers on the mountain, while their winters were beside the coast. We are told, this area was once a women's only area, where they would bath and give birth. We respect those past and present who took care of this land and lived amongst it. This is Biripi country. Sometime after this, some people took over the land, and then offered it to others. Then cut trees down to build with, and put cows on it for over 80 years.. then we were offered it! And here we are today....
US: We LOVE hosting people, as we literally LOVE sharing this place with others. It’s part of who we are, but also a huge part of our bigger picture, in getting people re connected with Nature, so much so, that they want to protect it. Plus it’s so damn pretty here, all year around!
You Camp/Hipcamp has been a driving force as to why we have had so many guests find us, and ultimately stay with us (along with some help from our insta #teretulemastelands blogs & workaway/helpx). But if you are wondering why people would visit, I'll do my best to summarise:
• 400 metre walk from our RIVER flat to the famous Ellenborough Falls (famous for being the longest consistent drop in the southern hemisphere - hows that for on the map?)
• All sites have access to the river with a short walk, or a tiny walk. Most are sitting on the famous Ellenborough River.
• The Penthouse spot of sites is our River Flat. With it's hot shower, 2 composting toilets (still fully off grid), outdoor bbq/kitchen, gas & combustion stove & bar in shed (with solar lighting & fridge). PLUS A MTB PUMP TRACK! ALL PART of what you get when you book it!
• The Ellenborough river is gorgeous & fresh, so paddling, floating, swimming, drinking and generally lounging around in it, is welcomed! And the locals often hang out together at the falls (where there are even deeper water holes) and the local made famous The Rapids (8 min drive away). *we will show you once you get here! bYO drinks and floaties!
• ALL sites can accommodate reasonably large groups, SERENITY and RIVER FLAT can cater to around 100 OR more if you wanted them to. 2 composting toilets on these sites. (so toilets will be the main limiting factor for a super large group).
• We book out each site ‘exclusively’, so only you, your mates and family will be sleeping next to each other. Which is why we have a min rate, versus a per person rate. And why most sites include from 8 people up to 15 people within their min rate. Pretty awesome deal when you divide by that!
• Many sites are 4x4 caravan friendly (need good approach and departure angles), and yes, you don’t need to reverse them in, you drive them through making them easy to stop, enjoy your space and get out again!
• Local sites are a plenty, whether that is go for a walk to see the falls, OR it’s a rainy day and you take a 45 min trek deeper into the Gondwana belt, where the big trees live, the turquoise water begins, and the Koalas, and Greater Gliders still live (so long as we can keep those pesky loggers away).
• Most of our sites have had their roads upgraded, but some like Between the Trees can be a little more ‘4x4’ only. So always ask us if unsure.
• YES we allow you to bring your furry friends! 😊. (aka dog friendly stay)
• YES we are perfect for the newbie Mountain Biker or those who like a speedy downhill (blue rated), as we also have a Flow Trail AND a pump track available (great for groms and codjers). NOTE: the pump track is only for those who book the River flat at this stage. Unless you're good at making friends with those staying there, bring a beer maybe.. and you can ask them if you can ride it?
• Fire pits on most sites
• FARM mornings are FREE – just ask us when you arrive! 😊. (cows, sometimes we are milking, goats, baby animals, chickens, a mini mule (Olaf), pigs & we have 4 can be noisy dogs upon arrival). Love some kids to help or just to pat a baby goat!
• Need fire wood, or eggs, we sell so just ask. 😊.
• Don’t have camping gear, well lucky you! We hire it already setup, so all you have to do is turn up and move in! Ask us for more information if this interests you. We want everyone to experience nature, and for most sites, you will go to sleep with the noise of the river passing you... most serene way to fall asleep EVA.
If you want to know more, go and click on the different sites, and enjoy the many photos! 😊. Looking forward to hearing from you, or check us out on #teretulemastelands
Jenny & Lucas White
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from
AU$45
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(158)
Little Plain Hall Grounds
7 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Elands, NSW
Little Plain Hall grounds - a small rural hall and grounds celebrating their 100th year in 2023 and adjacent to the Ellenborough River with a number of campsites available. This open grassed area of 6 acres is 5 kms further on from the Ellenborough Falls turnoff. (PLEASE NOTE: We are not near Ellenborough village but in Elands- this is a somewhat common error when people look us up.)
We are a community-run non-profit facility available to campers. All funds raised are used to improve the grounds and hall.
Directions to find us:
From the South
-off the Pacific highway at
Taree through Wingham,
Follow the Brown tourist signs to Ellenborough Falls. We are approx. 5 kms from the falls turnoff.
From the north-
Off the Pacific Highway:
Again the brown tourist signs will get you to Ellenborough Falls
Port Macquarie end through Comboyne-either way requires access over narrow, dirt roads.
From the Falls turnoff: continue straight ahead on Glenwarrin Road (don't turn into the falls). you will cross over 2 bridges. After the 2nd bridge, the grounds are on your right at the top of the small hill.
Larger rigs are not advised.
One toilet available and limited tank water - please BYO water and be water wise with the tank water at the hall. Well behaved pets are welcome. We do try to keep a limit on the number of animals on site at any one time so a quick notice to Kate if you plan to bring your furry friends, please.
Hall available for hire - please send an enquiry.
Instagram page #little_plain_hall_camping. Feel free to add your photos through tagging us.
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from
AU$10
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(36)
Ellenborough Getaways
2 sites · Lodging500 acres · Wauchope, NSW
Set amongst the rolling green hills, we offer a cute cabin and a mountain top shack located on a working farm. Go for a mountain bike, a scenic walk or check out the Ellenborough River for a swim. We are located near Comboyne National Park if you're looking for adventures further afield.The cabin is kitted out with a basic kitchen, toilet/shower amenities and water. Enjoy the beautiful night sky as you chill out around the campfire. There are two double beds. Please bring your own bed linen and towels. There is no fridge - you will need to bring your own esky.The shack sits on an amazing mountain 600m above sea-level in the hinterland west of Port Macquarie, is accessible by 4WD only. You must have a proper 4WD and have knowledge of how to navigate steep, isolated tracks. It has basic amenities and is best suited for those with their own swag and camping supplies. Roll out the swag and keep warm from the elements. Drinking water available. You will need to bring all other supplies including your own toilet and shower. Dogs welcome.We are located near Comboyne National Park. This place is perfect for hiking enthusiasts and avid photographers - the views are absolutely stunning.The hinterland west of the Central Coast offer an abundance of beautiful scenery, rolling green hills and plenty of wildlife. Perfect for wildlife watchers and photographers.
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from
AU$200
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(493)
Footprints in Style
35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Eungai Rail, NSW
Relax under the big shady fig tree, pitch your tent by the creek and swim in the massive spring-fed lake which covers five acres and never runs dry. This 300-acre bamboo property gives you total tranquillity in nature.
There are boats and boards to use, and an island kingdom for kids to play.
Kiss and release fishing (Perch) in the awesome lake, which is also great for swimming, and building bamboo rafts. Adventures awaits!
Basic, off-grid camp kitchen, big weatherproof wedding venue space to hire, posh dunnies (composting toilets), and a hot water shower shack with a magic view of the lake!
There is plenty of shade and we're dog-friendly. Well-behaved dogs are welcome off-lead.
Endless space, and plenty of privacy, campers can choose a spot when they get here.A bundle of firewood is provided on arrival, and you're welcome to bring more with you if you need.
Price is per person per night, kids under 16 half price. Under 5 stay free so don't include them in booking numbers.
Join us for cocktail hour at the brand-new Tiki bar! BYO drinks! We also have a brand-new sauna that campers are welcome to enjoy!
All this, close to stunning beaches and cute cafes.
Leave only footprints 👣 make awesome memories.
NOTE: We currently only advertise availability three months in advance. If you are interested in dates outside this booking window, please still send us an enquiry and we may be able to assist you.
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from
AU$28
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(310)
Peace and Paradise
14 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Yarrahapinni, NSW
Family avocado farm located on the south side of Yarrahapinni mountain. The property is quiet and private with an amazing view. There are avocado trees, an orange orchard and a variety of other fruiting trees on the far. We have a dam and a bore on the property with an aviary, several sheds and warehouses. Nearby there are gorgeous rivers and beaches and Yarriabini National Park to explore. Or just rest in the peace and quiet or enjoy our animals - chickens, ducks and friendly dog.
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from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(72)
Davrae Park Freecamping sites (no toilet/shower)
9 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Oxley Island, NSW
Small private farm with rural outlook, bamboo plantation, fruit trees and small bush to explore. 7 minutes from Beaches, 3 minutes from new boat ramp, and 15 minutes from a major town.
Dog friendly (we have free range chickens so they may have to stay on a lead). No amenities so guests must be fully self-contained.
A Jetty and river swimming spot is located just 2km away (quiet walk or bike ride). The Bohnock boat ramp (new) is just 3 km away.
Contained campfires permitted depending on the season, generally not permitted in the summer months. Please ask in advance.
We have limited spots so it feels like you have the place to yourself.
Quiet location close to the front gate. No bathroom (toilet or shower) facilities. Access to water tap adjacent the site.
Nearest dump point is in Taree, 15 min away, no onsite blackwater disposal allowed.
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from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(2)
Nature Domes Experience
7 sites · TentsToms Creek, NSW
Welcome to Paradise! Combining luxury accommodation with the ultimate country getaway, Tom’s Creek Nature Dome Resort provides simple, serene comfort that leaves little impact on the environment. Nestled at the foot of the Comboyne plateau, in the Ellenborough Valley, along the banks of Tom’s Creek. Our eco-friendly dome accommodation is situated in a private valley consisting of 110 acres of lush rainforest, waterholes, streams and waterfalls, all surrounded by untouched native Australian eucalyptus bush.Discover outback Australia the way it was meant to be experienced, completely off the grid. Experience star watching far from the glare of city lights, watch a sunrise or get up-close and personal with local NSW wildlife - wallabies, echidnas, goannas, platypus, koalas and possums, not to mention our beautiful native birds, including bower birds, king parrots, kingfishers, honeyeaters and majestic wedge-tail eagles.Whether you’re looking for for a romantic getaway, the perfect honeymoon, an anniversary gift, this is definitely worth a visit.4WD OR SUV ONLY.
Pets
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from
AU$200
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Dog-friendly getaways
Star Hosts in Port Macquarie
Mountainous camping near Port Macquarie with swimming guide
Overview
The gateway to Australia’s subtropical north, Port Macquarie enjoys an idyllic location on the mid-north coast of New South Wales. The city’s Koala and Wildlife Park draws visitors from around the globe, while beaches and coastal rainforests fan out from the city and nearby national parks, nature reserves, and national forests offer some of the most picturesque camping experiences in the country. Whether you’re looking for a secluded hideaway, dramatic coastline views, bushwalking, or flora and fauna spotting, you’ll find it all around Port Macquarie.
Where to go
South Along the Coast
About a 40-minute drive south of Port Macquarie, Crowdy Bay National Park is a coastal getaway famed for its rugged cliffs, white-sand beaches, and wildlife-filled forests. It’s also the perfect vantage point from where to watch migrating whales in winter. Diamond Head, in the park’s northern section, is one of the biggest and most popular camping areas with plenty of space and facilities, while Crowdy Gap Campground is a short walk from the beach and Kylie’s Beach Campground is set behind sand dunes.
North Along the Coast
Just under an hour north of the city, Goolawah National Park and Goolawah Regional Park offer camping in peaceful surroundings just a short stroll from the beach. Opportunities for outdoor adventures abound, from surfing and fishing to birdwatching. Accommodation options include Racecourse Campground in the national park, which offers showers and toilets, or the basic but pet-friendly Delicate Campground, in the regional park. Another 40 minutes north takes you to Hat Head National Park, known for landmarks like Smoky Cape Lighthouse and the Trial Bay Gaol, as well as plentiful canoeing and kayaking opportunities. Hungry Gate and Smoky Cape campgrounds both have toilets and barbecues.
Inland
About 45 minutes southwest of Port Macquarie, Kerewong State Forest offers lush surroundings, walking trails through native forest, and cool creeks ideal for swimming. In the forest, Swans Crossing is a popular camping area with toilet facilities and picnic tables on former farmland. Mount Boss State Forest is a secluded getaway about 90 minutes northwest of Port Macquarie by road. Area campgrounds offer peace and quiet as well as waterholes ideal for cooling off.
When to go
Port Macquarie’s warm subtropical climate is one of Australia’s most comfortable and makes camping and enjoying the area a pleasure year-round. Campsites are typically less crowded during the winter months (June through August), which is also the time for whale-watching. Spring (September through November), on the other hand, is a draw for birdwatchers and promises coastal heathlands blooming with brightly colored wildflowers. Temperatures and rainfall are highest in summer (December through February).
Know before you go
- Port Macquarie has several camping gear stores where you can gather supplies before heading out. Top picks include Anaconda and BCF (Boating Camping Fishing).
- Smoking is prohibited in all NSW national parks.
- Pets are not permitted in New South Wales national parks or reserves, but they are allowed in some regional parks and all state forests.
- Some area campgrounds, such as Crowdy Gap, require advance bookings.
Nearby attractions
- Well worth the visit for those camping near the Peel Valley, Chaffey Dam is an engineering marvel surrounded by pristine parkland.
- An exciting adventure for anyone camping near Port Macquarie, Caves Beach is home to much more than just stunning ocean views.
- Clean sands and rolling green hills are dotted with remnants of the once bustling coal mining operation at Catherine Hill Bay.
Safety at Hipcamp
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.