The best cave campgrounds in Port Stephens

It’s hard to believe this patch of paradise is just 2.5 hours’ drive north of Sydney and about 30 minutes from Newcastle. Home to a bay twice the size of Sydney Harbour, the Port Stephens region encompasses towns such as Nelson Bay, Anna Bay, and Shoal Bay. Swim in crystal-clear water at one of the area’s 26 beaches, go sandboarding down the largest dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, or book a cruise to either swim with wild dolphins or go whale watching in winter.

99% (398)

Top-rated campgrounds near Port Stephens

It’s hard to believe this patch of paradise is just 2.5 hours’ drive north of Sydney and about 30 minutes from Newcastle. Home to a bay twice the size of Sydney Harbour, the Port Stephens region encompasses towns such as Nelson Bay, Anna Bay, and Shoal Bay. Swim in crystal-clear water at one of the area’s 26 beaches, go sandboarding down the largest dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, or book a cruise to either swim with wild dolphins or go whale watching in winter.

99% (398)

Top-rated campgrounds near Port Stephens

1. Wollombi Private Earthways camp

99%

(89)

15 sites · Tents, RVs · Paynes Crossing, NSW

Sally and Brian invite you to enjoy camping on their beautiful property, surrounded by Yengo National Park and Crown land. Earthways is 134 ha (330 acre) property near Wollombi. All separate for your individual group- you won't see anyone else. 25minutes from Wollombi or Broke. Come and enjoy the noises of the bush and the clear night skies with no close human neighbors. Great for couples, families or larger groups or just come alone to enjoy the bush. We (Brian and Sally) have been re-vegetating the land and living here sustainably being “Off Grid” for over 45years, surrounded by bush with 3km of Stockyard creek meandering through the valley. We would love to share this paradise with those wanting to get away from wifi and the hustle and bustle of city life. (for emergencies we have satellite phone) Children under 4yrs are free. Dogs welcome but kept on a lead during the evening. No leeches and No ticks in this area. NO close neighbors. Perfect spot to pitch your tent or set up your camper in the valley. Lots of sunshine and lots of shade. Easy dirt road access (5km) Some sites require/recommend 4WD -some 2WD is fine. Check each site separately. Come and take advantage of the Wollombi Valley's beautiful scenery and atmosphere. Sit and relax or get adventurous and explore the area. The historic village of Wollombi is only 25 minutes away, and has cafes, shop, museum and the Wollombi Tavern. The popular Broke and Pokolbin wine regions are a short 25-40 minute drive away in the opposite direction. Yengo National Park has some wonderful look out spots-great to drive to Finchley lookout to watch the sun set or check out Aboriginal art sites. No guarantee but...You may see wombats, kangaroos, echidnas, goanna's, kookaburras, bower birds, lyre birds, superb blue wren, gang gangs, black cockatoos and so many other native birds/creatures. Stunning rock features, caves, diverse ecosystems with abundant native fauna and flora. We are situated in a valley. Each of our camp sites are for your own private space.

2. Central Coast Valley Farm

97%

(117)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Cedar Brush Creek, NSW

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature at our stunning valley acreage, just one hour from Sydney. With a quiet brook that meanders through the property, wombats burrowing in the hillside, and wallabies grazing in the paddocks, you'll feel like you're in a whole new world. Our limited number of campsites means you can enjoy the beauty of nature without being crowded. Plus, your furry friends are welcome to join in on the adventure! Be self-contained with your own camping toilet/shower, water, and supplies, and enjoy fires in the provided firepits. Please note that there is no power, or amenities provided, but trust us, the escape from civilization will be worth it! As a working hobby farm, you may see the owners tending to the land during your stay. Don't be shy to say hi! Come and experience a unique and unforgettable camping experience in the heart of nature. Book your stay now!

3. Bass Billabong - Cedar Creek Farm

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(66)

12 sites · Tents, RVs · Cedar Brush Creek, NSW

🐟 Welcome to Bass Billabong - Cedar Creek Farm 🐟 Tucked away along the banks of Cedar Brush Creek and right on the Great North Walk, Cedar Creek Farm is a hidden oasis of peace and beauty. Spread across 100 acres of rolling pastures and rainforest, it offers spacious, private campsites, perfect for unwinding, reconnecting, and escaping the everyday. The creek features a 20-foot swimming hole, just right for a refreshing dip on warm days. It’s also home to Australian bass, so you can enjoy a bit of catch-and-release fishing, or simply relax by the water’s edge and fire up the BBQ. Nearby you’ll find mountain and dirt bike trails, Treetops Adventure Park, Amazement Farm, and horse-riding experiences. It’s also a sanctuary for nature lovers, photographers, and artists alike. Keep an eye out, you might even spot a platypus Even though it feels a world away, we’re only 90 minutes from both Sydney and Newcastle, making it an easy and rewarding retreat. And the best part? Cedar Creek Farm is pet-friendly. 🐾 To keep the experience private, we welcome just one booking at a time, so during your stay, the whole place is yours to enjoy.

4. Camp Third Paddock

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Cessnock, NSW

The Third Paddock is a little sanctuary at the edge of reality. Our 5-acre bush block is located in the Hunter Valley, just 90 minutes from Sydney. This isn’t your average campground. It’s an ever-changing experiment in sustainability, architecture, art, and community, built with a deep love for nature’s wild side. 🌳 What You’ll Find Here - A handful of bushland sites - Communal fire pit and grill for hearty meals - A shady dam that is home to lots of frogs - Optional hike-in sites for those wanting more privacy - Proximity to Laguna and Wollombi, where you'll find cafes, pubs, art galleries, wineries, and other local businesses– all within a 20-minute drive of our property - On the edge of Yango National Park with unlimited hikes Note: You'll know you've arrived when you see a colourful shed up the driveway. We are currently building a small cabin on the block, and we ask that you stay away from the building site.

5. Willow's Retreat Nature Escape

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(72)

3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Fernances Crossing, NSW

At the South end of the Wollombi Valley, Willow's Retreat is a secluded little valley, full of private walking trails and great for nature lovers. The native eucalypt forest abounds with birds, wallabies, wombats and sometimes even koalas; a dream for the nature lover or photographer. As are the dark skies - see our photos for some examples of the night sky from our property. If you're looking for an escape from city life, this is the perfect antidote. Situated next to Willow's Leap Equestrian, you may even be able to bring your horse! Whilst we can accept last minute bookings, we're not always within signal. Bear with us; we'll message back when we can!

6. Behesht Retreat

95%

(21)

4 sites · Tents · Wrights Creek, NSW

14 acre bush block backing on to Yengo National Park. Wrights Creek is a small suburb between Wiseman’s Ferry and St. Albans in the Hawkesbury, 1.5-2hrs from Sydney. Enjoy a quiet escape in nature with plenty of bush walking opportunities and river access for swimming just a 5 min drive away. Markets are on once a month at St Albans and there is a quaint pub and cafe there open on weekends. Enjoy our infinity edge swimming pool and sit back around the outdoor campfire of an evening (unless total fire bans apply). There are composting toilets and cold showers available, however we are on tank water so keep them under 3 min please! Drinking water also available and BBQ facilities. Grassy area is gently sloped with pockets of flat areas and one large section flattened to fit 3-4 tents.

7. Kamameja Remote Bush Camp

99%

(78)

37 sites · Tents, RVs · Singleton, NSW

Kamameja is 705 acres of mountainous wilderness located in the Upper Hunter region of NSW, near Jerrys Plains in a remote location with approximately 22 km of gravel Commission access road that winds through some stunning mountain ranges. Please note you need to pass through private property and national park to reach our location - shut all gates that you come through, respect national park rules and drive to conditions. We recommend accessing our property by 4wd only as the road is narrow, not regularly maintained and not suitable for large vehicles or caravans. The extensive trail network is available to ride or walk and are included in the camping fees. For the gravity junkies MTB shuttles can be booked as an extra on checkout and the timing of these need to be organized with the owners.

8. The Upward Place/Boree Bush Bakery

100%

(1)

1 site · Tent · Laguna, NSW

Our campsites are few and far between — just the way we like it. Each one is private, peaceful, and shaded by native gums. Wake to the sound of kookaburras laughing in the morning light. Watch wallabies, roos, and wombats graze at dusk. Let the crackle of your campfire be the only sound come nightfall. Here, we live simply. Solar power, rainwater tanks, and good old-fashioned bush smarts keep things ticking. No frills, no fuss — just real country hospitality in its rawest, richest form. If you’re after Wi-Fi and modern comforts, this might not be for you. But if you want to sit by a fire, share a yarn, and wake up to birdsong while sharing a cuppa — we’ll have a spot waiting. At the end of Upward Road, hidden in the folds of Yengo National Park, lies The Upward Place — a quiet, off-grid patch of paradise carved into our ancient land. Surrounded by sandstone ridges and wide skies, this humble, hardworking bush block invites campers to slow down and settle into the rhythm of the wild. And under construction is The Boree Bush Bakery, a micro bakery tucked into the heart of the property. On bake days, you’ll smell it before you see it — fresh sourdough, flaky pastries, and proper meat pies made with love (and a bit of bush magic). It’s an honest feed in an honest place.

9. Wollombi Springs

99%

(75)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Laguna, NSW

Historic rural property close to Wollombi. Tranquil surrounds for Australian Bush camping. Range of camp sites on the large property, suitable for Caravans and other camping set ups that are 4x4. Set up where you like. Open private areas and extensive tracks for walks or cycling. Walk and birdwatch. Greenloo composting toilet. FirePit.

10. Yengo Bush Camp

100%

(10)

1 site · Tent · Laguna, NSW

Our site provides a perfect opportunity to step away from the rush of life, into a place where time slows, nature speaks, and the land welcomes you with open arms. Nestled in an open valley, within the ancient lands of the Darkinjung people- the traditional custodians of Yengo National Park, we offer the perfect space to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the land, yourself, and the rhythms of nature. As you walk through the valley, along ridges, and into the bushland, you follow paths walked for thousands of years. The land holds stories, wisdom, and energy that invite a deep sense of presence and respect. The valley teems with native wildlife. Wake to the calls of lyrebirds, watch wallabies grazing in the mist, and spot wombats burrowing at dusk. Birdwatchers will delight in the chance to see colourful parrots, majestic eagles, and other native species in their natural habitat. As night falls, the sky opens in all its brilliance, offering a breathtaking display of stars unspoiled by city lights. Sleep beneath the endless sky, wrapped in the sounds of the bush, and experience the deep peace that comes with being immersed in nature. Our place offers more than just an outdoor getaway, it invites you to slow down and embrace the landscape around you. Whether seeking solitude or shared experiences, there are countless ways to connect with this ancient land: • Bushwalking & Exploration – Wander along trails through the valley, ridges, and bush to experience Yengo’s diverse ecosystems. • Stillness & Reflection – Find a quiet spot to sit and simply be. Let the land guide you into a state of stillness, free from distractions and daily pressures. Listen to the wind, the birds, and the wisdom held in the land itself, or engage in meditation or journalling to deepen your connection with yourself and the environment. • Campfire Connection – As the sun sets, gather around the warmth of the fire. Share stories, listen to the crackling wood, and embrace the simplicity of conversation under the vast night sky. Please note the property is relatively remote, 30 minutes from Wollombi along an unsealed road.

Camper favorites in and near Port Stephens

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Camp Third Paddock

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Cessnock, NSW

The Third Paddock is a little sanctuary at the edge of reality. Our 5-acre bush block is located in the Hunter Valley, just 90 minutes from Sydney. This isn’t your average campground. It’s an ever-changing experiment in sustainability, architecture, art, and community, built with a deep love for nature’s wild side. 🌳 What You’ll Find Here - A handful of bushland sites - Communal fire pit and grill for hearty meals - A shady dam that is home to lots of frogs - Optional hike-in sites for those wanting more privacy - Proximity to Laguna and Wollombi, where you'll find cafes, pubs, art galleries, wineries, and other local businesses– all within a 20-minute drive of our property - On the edge of Yango National Park with unlimited hikes Note: You'll know you've arrived when you see a colourful shed up the driveway. We are currently building a small cabin on the block, and we ask that you stay away from the building site.

Willow's Retreat Nature Escape

100%

(72)

3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Fernances Crossing, NSW

At the South end of the Wollombi Valley, Willow's Retreat is a secluded little valley, full of private walking trails and great for nature lovers. The native eucalypt forest abounds with birds, wallabies, wombats and sometimes even koalas; a dream for the nature lover or photographer. As are the dark skies - see our photos for some examples of the night sky from our property. If you're looking for an escape from city life, this is the perfect antidote. Situated next to Willow's Leap Equestrian, you may even be able to bring your horse! Whilst we can accept last minute bookings, we're not always within signal. Bear with us; we'll message back when we can!

Behesht Retreat

95%

(21)

4 sites · Tents · Wrights Creek, NSW

14 acre bush block backing on to Yengo National Park. Wrights Creek is a small suburb between Wiseman’s Ferry and St. Albans in the Hawkesbury, 1.5-2hrs from Sydney. Enjoy a quiet escape in nature with plenty of bush walking opportunities and river access for swimming just a 5 min drive away. Markets are on once a month at St Albans and there is a quaint pub and cafe there open on weekends. Enjoy our infinity edge swimming pool and sit back around the outdoor campfire of an evening (unless total fire bans apply). There are composting toilets and cold showers available, however we are on tank water so keep them under 3 min please! Drinking water also available and BBQ facilities. Grassy area is gently sloped with pockets of flat areas and one large section flattened to fit 3-4 tents.

Kamameja Remote Bush Camp

99%

(78)

37 sites · Tents, RVs · Singleton, NSW

Kamameja is 705 acres of mountainous wilderness located in the Upper Hunter region of NSW, near Jerrys Plains in a remote location with approximately 22 km of gravel Commission access road that winds through some stunning mountain ranges. Please note you need to pass through private property and national park to reach our location - shut all gates that you come through, respect national park rules and drive to conditions. We recommend accessing our property by 4wd only as the road is narrow, not regularly maintained and not suitable for large vehicles or caravans. The extensive trail network is available to ride or walk and are included in the camping fees. For the gravity junkies MTB shuttles can be booked as an extra on checkout and the timing of these need to be organized with the owners.

The Upward Place/Boree Bush Bakery

100%

(1)

1 site · Tent · Laguna, NSW

Our campsites are few and far between — just the way we like it. Each one is private, peaceful, and shaded by native gums. Wake to the sound of kookaburras laughing in the morning light. Watch wallabies, roos, and wombats graze at dusk. Let the crackle of your campfire be the only sound come nightfall. Here, we live simply. Solar power, rainwater tanks, and good old-fashioned bush smarts keep things ticking. No frills, no fuss — just real country hospitality in its rawest, richest form. If you’re after Wi-Fi and modern comforts, this might not be for you. But if you want to sit by a fire, share a yarn, and wake up to birdsong while sharing a cuppa — we’ll have a spot waiting. At the end of Upward Road, hidden in the folds of Yengo National Park, lies The Upward Place — a quiet, off-grid patch of paradise carved into our ancient land. Surrounded by sandstone ridges and wide skies, this humble, hardworking bush block invites campers to slow down and settle into the rhythm of the wild. And under construction is The Boree Bush Bakery, a micro bakery tucked into the heart of the property. On bake days, you’ll smell it before you see it — fresh sourdough, flaky pastries, and proper meat pies made with love (and a bit of bush magic). It’s an honest feed in an honest place.

Wollombi Springs

99%

(75)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Laguna, NSW

Historic rural property close to Wollombi. Tranquil surrounds for Australian Bush camping. Range of camp sites on the large property, suitable for Caravans and other camping set ups that are 4x4. Set up where you like. Open private areas and extensive tracks for walks or cycling. Walk and birdwatch. Greenloo composting toilet. FirePit.

Yengo Bush Camp

100%

(10)

1 site · Tent · Laguna, NSW

Our site provides a perfect opportunity to step away from the rush of life, into a place where time slows, nature speaks, and the land welcomes you with open arms. Nestled in an open valley, within the ancient lands of the Darkinjung people- the traditional custodians of Yengo National Park, we offer the perfect space to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the land, yourself, and the rhythms of nature. As you walk through the valley, along ridges, and into the bushland, you follow paths walked for thousands of years. The land holds stories, wisdom, and energy that invite a deep sense of presence and respect. The valley teems with native wildlife. Wake to the calls of lyrebirds, watch wallabies grazing in the mist, and spot wombats burrowing at dusk. Birdwatchers will delight in the chance to see colourful parrots, majestic eagles, and other native species in their natural habitat. As night falls, the sky opens in all its brilliance, offering a breathtaking display of stars unspoiled by city lights. Sleep beneath the endless sky, wrapped in the sounds of the bush, and experience the deep peace that comes with being immersed in nature. Our place offers more than just an outdoor getaway, it invites you to slow down and embrace the landscape around you. Whether seeking solitude or shared experiences, there are countless ways to connect with this ancient land: • Bushwalking & Exploration – Wander along trails through the valley, ridges, and bush to experience Yengo’s diverse ecosystems. • Stillness & Reflection – Find a quiet spot to sit and simply be. Let the land guide you into a state of stillness, free from distractions and daily pressures. Listen to the wind, the birds, and the wisdom held in the land itself, or engage in meditation or journalling to deepen your connection with yourself and the environment. • Campfire Connection – As the sun sets, gather around the warmth of the fire. Share stories, listen to the crackling wood, and embrace the simplicity of conversation under the vast night sky. Please note the property is relatively remote, 30 minutes from Wollombi along an unsealed road.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

John

3 weeks ago

4 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bass Billabong - Cedar Creek Farm

This was my second visit & it was just as special as the first. Suzy is a wonderful host, great communication & went out of her way to accommodate us again. The land is just gorgeous- the swimming hole is amazing & best of all we get it all to ourselves! Thanks again Suzy & we’ll see you again soon.

Danrong

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Willow's Retreat Nature Escape

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this campsite; it was peaceful and clean, and we had some wild and farm animals with us. We appreciate the very friendly host's introduction.

J

Jason

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wollombi Springs

Robert is a friendly and attentive host. Very quiet and basic property which suited our needs. Kids loved it. We have a 4x2 SUV and the only "exciting" part of was negotiating the road up to the site. Very doable but "softer" cars (non-4x4s) need to drive carefully. Otherwise, we'll be back.

A

Adam

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Willow's Retreat Nature Escape

Had a great time here camping for my son's 11th birthday. Phil and Lyndel were wonderful hosts. Phil took the time out of his day to show my son a few birds around the property. Made my son's day. Very much appreciated . Highly recommend this accommodation.

D

Darsh

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wollombi Springs

Amazing facilities, perfect setting and a great host. The experience was absolutely perfect.

Brian

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kamameja Remote Bush Camp

I stayed one night on a solo trip and had an awesome time. The directions from the host were clear and easy to follow, making the drive in simple. The gravity trails were great fun with a good mix of challenge and a tough pedal back up to the top. The campsite itself is huge, with plenty of space and privacy - perfect for a quiet getaway. Highly recommend!

Z

Zaman

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Willow's Retreat Nature Escape

Phil and Lyndel were so hospitable and clearly explained everything.It was a Great experience staying over . Not far from Sydney, Many Thanks to Phil and Lyndel

Cameron

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wollombi Springs

The camp site is wonderfully quiet and set against a beautiful backdrop, with the only noise heard being the local wildlife. Amenities were clean and presented well. Robert is a wonderful host and made the whole experience great. Would highly recommend.

Julia

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Upward Place/Boree Bush Bakery

We had a wonderful time staying here. We had the whole valley to ourselves and it was so peaceful. We will definitely be back for the Glamping tents.

J

Jac

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wollombi Springs

Had a nice, peaceful time at Wollombi Springs, would love to come back again. Just a short drive from Wollombi town centre (if your navigation doesn't take you the wrong way!); would recommend a vehicle with some clearance for the rocky trail to the campsites. Also to note, there's little to no reception which can make contacting the host difficult once you're out there (especially when you've gone the wrong way and end up an hour late - sorry again!). Very peaceful, secluded valley with lots of different spots to camp - well-kept grassy areas under the stars or sheltered by the trees with plenty of room between campers. 'Choose your own adventure' camping gear available about the place, too - cooking gear and campfire making equipment. Composting loo was very tidy, with fresh flowers and little solar lights to help you find it in the night. Host very welcoming and obliging and made sure I had everything I needed. Thank you again Robert!

L

Liz

October 2025

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Central Coast Valley Farm

Just come home from a great 2 nights at Andy’s. Super easy drive from Sydney & felt like we were miles away. Had the place to ourselves and loved the view. Came home with loads of fresh fruit from the many road side stalls in the area.

P

Paul

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Willow's Retreat Nature Escape

I had a fantastic weekend camping with friends. It was a perfect getaway to unwind and forget about the phone. Everything was as described and we were warmly greeted by Phil and Lyndel soon after arriving having already been directed to the campsite. Will be looking to repeat the weekend again soon

J

Jozzi

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Behesht Retreat

We tent camped at Behesht Retreat and absolutely loved it. The peaceful, off-grid setting made it the perfect place to unwind and disconnect. We had the whole site to ourselves, which made it feel even more private and relaxing. The pool was perfect for cooling off on a hot day, and we enjoyed walking up the road to watch the cows. A beautiful and refreshing escape, highly recommend.

elliott

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Central Coast Valley Farm

Peaceful and well maintained. As mentioned in the description there is little shade available. Nesting ducks on the creek and ducking's swimming around. Private road on the way is a little rough, but nothing a standard AWD or 4WD can't handle and it's only 500m or so.

A

Adam

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wollombi Springs

Terrific quiet spot in the Wollombi bush - the open grassy area was terrific for our family of four, with a nice clean toilet, tonnes of space, and lots of peace and quiet. Robert was a terrific host as well! Would advise caution for low slung 2wds as the road in is a little rough, but OK if you take it slow!

Raju

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Wollombi Private Earthways camp

Brian and Sally are great host, very helpful. We enjoyed a lot and thank you for your genuine contribution for the nature to help mother earth. Great place, nice and quiet place. Highly recommended camping spot.

G

Gary

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Willow's Retreat Nature Escape

If you love native wildlife and the fact there's no phone reception, yet not too far from civilisation, this might just be the perfect spot for you.

R

Roshan

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Wollombi Private Earthways camp

Very private calm place.. lots of birds to watch.. if you lucky you will see few red bellies as well… Host were very friendly…

K

Kip

October 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wollombi Private Earthways camp

We feel incredibly lucky to have discovered Sally and Brian’s beautiful property. The peaceful seclusion and natural beauty of the surrounding bushland were exactly what we were looking for. The “Goanna Site” was spacious and perfect for our two families to relax and enjoy a weekend of exploring. Brian and Sally were wonderful hosts, giving us a fantastic tour of the land, including the remarkable Aboriginal art. We're truly grateful to them for sharing their home with us. We will be visiting again!

A

Adam

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Wollombi Springs

Fantastic quiet spot. Rob is a great host. Lots of quiet space. Rob thank you for the hospitality!