- Camping with hot tubs
The best camping near Scarborough with hot tubs
97% (343) • 17 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Scarborough
Mellows Ridge
1. Mellows Ridge
95%
(207)
40km from Scarborough · 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
Wombat Hollow
2. Wombat Hollow
99%
(169)
75km from Scarborough · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
100 acres of secluded paradise with a kilometer of free flowing pebbled creek. Bound on two sides by the craggy escarpments of the Budgong and Morton National Parks there is ample grassland to give a feeling of space yet an abundance of trees to wander through as you engage with the tame wildlife and magnificent birdlife.
Bring your mountain bike, fishing rod, swimmers, hiking boots, tennis racket, basketball (a hoop on the tennis court) or climbing gear and leave the kids in the play area while you sit by the creek and listen to the water tumbling through the rocks.
If you are as intrigued by rare animals as we are, then this is the place for you. 63 Bird species, 24 mammals, 16 reptiles, and 12 amphibians have been sighted in the area (Clarke 2012) and this includes many rare and endangered species including the platypus, brush-tailed rock wallaby, Giant burrowing frog, Gang-gang cockatoo, Glossy black-cockatoo, Koala, Little Lorikeet and the Yellow-bellied glider.
We only have three campsites at present, so you will be guaranteed peace, space and privacy. with a minimum of 400m between all sites. Please note, that your group must be self-contained, with their own camp toilet, however fresh drinking water is available.
Access is into a valley on a well maintained unsealed road but there are some minor causeways making it unsuitable for busses or long low slung vans. An ordinary sedan will do for Billabong and Dad's camp sites but you will need some power for towing and a 4x4 to tow out in any rain. Riverbend site is only suitable for 4x4's and off-road camp trailers.
You are a 40 minute drive from the sea (try the Shoalhaven 100 beach challenge https://www.shoalhaven.com/100-beach-challenge/ ) and just 15km from the historical town of Kangaroo Valley with its myriad of water activities, golf, wine estates, and quaint shopping. ttps://visitkangaroovalley.com.au/see-and-do/
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
from
AU$118
/ night
K2 River Island Nature Retreat
3. K2 River Island Nature Retreat
94%
(63)
79km from Scarborough · 75 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
K2 River Island Nature Retreat is nestled in the heart of the stunning Southern Highlands, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel your worries melt away as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of K2 and its surroundings.
This unique farm stay provides a rustic, primitive camping experience where you can reconnect with nature. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you listen to the songs of native birds or relax by the creek, watching the gentle flow of water through the tranquil waterholes. Our grounds are home to an array of wildlife, including turtles, platypus, and more, ensuring a truly memorable and immersive retreat.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$120
/ night
97% (343) • 17 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Scarborough
Mellows Ridge
1. Mellows Ridge
95%
(207)
40km from Scarborough · 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
Wombat Hollow
2. Wombat Hollow
99%
(169)
75km from Scarborough · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
100 acres of secluded paradise with a kilometer of free flowing pebbled creek. Bound on two sides by the craggy escarpments of the Budgong and Morton National Parks there is ample grassland to give a feeling of space yet an abundance of trees to wander through as you engage with the tame wildlife and magnificent birdlife.
Bring your mountain bike, fishing rod, swimmers, hiking boots, tennis racket, basketball (a hoop on the tennis court) or climbing gear and leave the kids in the play area while you sit by the creek and listen to the water tumbling through the rocks.
If you are as intrigued by rare animals as we are, then this is the place for you. 63 Bird species, 24 mammals, 16 reptiles, and 12 amphibians have been sighted in the area (Clarke 2012) and this includes many rare and endangered species including the platypus, brush-tailed rock wallaby, Giant burrowing frog, Gang-gang cockatoo, Glossy black-cockatoo, Koala, Little Lorikeet and the Yellow-bellied glider.
We only have three campsites at present, so you will be guaranteed peace, space and privacy. with a minimum of 400m between all sites. Please note, that your group must be self-contained, with their own camp toilet, however fresh drinking water is available.
Access is into a valley on a well maintained unsealed road but there are some minor causeways making it unsuitable for busses or long low slung vans. An ordinary sedan will do for Billabong and Dad's camp sites but you will need some power for towing and a 4x4 to tow out in any rain. Riverbend site is only suitable for 4x4's and off-road camp trailers.
You are a 40 minute drive from the sea (try the Shoalhaven 100 beach challenge https://www.shoalhaven.com/100-beach-challenge/ ) and just 15km from the historical town of Kangaroo Valley with its myriad of water activities, golf, wine estates, and quaint shopping. ttps://visitkangaroovalley.com.au/see-and-do/
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
from
AU$118
/ night
K2 River Island Nature Retreat
3. K2 River Island Nature Retreat
94%
(63)
79km from Scarborough · 75 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
K2 River Island Nature Retreat is nestled in the heart of the stunning Southern Highlands, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel your worries melt away as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of K2 and its surroundings.
This unique farm stay provides a rustic, primitive camping experience where you can reconnect with nature. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you listen to the songs of native birds or relax by the creek, watching the gentle flow of water through the tranquil waterholes. Our grounds are home to an array of wildlife, including turtles, platypus, and more, ensuring a truly memorable and immersive retreat.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$120
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Taylor
2 weeks ago
Tent
We absolutely loved our stay and will definitely be back! The property is beautiful and Ian really has thought of everything. The spa was for sure a highlight!
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K
Kiran jyo
2 weeks ago
With kids
Lovely place to spend time. We enjoyed out stay very much. wonderful place with view of misty mountains and river
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James
3 weeks ago
C
Caroline
February 2026
Tent
Amazing views from the secluded camping spots in the hills. The first couple of spots accessible by my little 2WD city car, but would need a 4WD or be willing to walk for others. Ian was very helpful and his dog Lana is very friendly. Fire pit and chemical toilet at each spot. Optional extras such as a beautiful open shower (or hot spa) with a view or a coffee or gourmet chicken sandwich brought to you in the morning. Quite pricey but very special - I’d stay again!
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c
claire
January 2026
Tent
With pets
Our family had the most wonderful four days at Vallance’s property - secluded, beautiful and calm! Swimming in the river was a highlight. Thank you for your hospitality! We would love to return.
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A
Andrew
January 2026
Weekend Trip to K2 River Island Nature Retreat
Such a hidden oasis.
Excellent facilities and what an incredible river!
I will definately be back to this gem.
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I
Imogen
January 2026
Tent
Ian, the host was incredibly helpful, and his dog Lana was adorable, she slept outside our tent the whole night and didn’t bother us while we slept, the view was incredible with much lush greenery, it was super clean and we encountered no leeches, only a few little jumping spiders! The driveway was difficult, but other sites are more accessible, however our tiny car was able to make it despite the rough terrain. Definitely recommend taking a look if you like waking up to stunning views and a remote, private location.
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R
Ron
January 2026
5 m travel trailer
With pets
Wonderful camping spot and Ian could not do enough for us. Drinking a fresh cup of tea first thing in the morning listening to all the bird song at Mellows Ridge is awesome. Expect to be back soon.
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C
Christian
January 2026
Tent
With pets
Ian is a great host. He does everything possible to make sure you have the best experience. The property is beautiful.. I'll definitely be back
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K
Khushleen
January 2026
Tent
Group trip
It was our first time camping and we honestly had the best experience. The host was incredibly nice, friendly, and very informative, while still giving us complete privacy throughout our stay. The highlight of our trip was Lana (the host’s dog) — she was the sweetest, so friendly, ans stayed with us most of the time which made the experience even more special. We were short on time so couldn’t do the trail on this visit, but we’ll definitely be coming back. Highly recommend this place to anyone planning a camping trip!
See moreJ
Jimmy
January 2026
7 m pop-up camper
With kids
Wonderful spot. We were there in the early jan heatwave and managed fine with the creek and shade at Riverbend. Vallance had laid fly baits all over the place which kept them manageable.
So close to Nowra but felt properly remote with all the peace that brings. Communication with Vallance was cheerful and prompt and we’ll be back again for sure.
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Amanda
January 2026
4 m Class B
Dog friendly camping close to Wollongong and Sydney. Very friendly owners and resident dog/tour guide Lana.
The property has walking tracks, lookouts and waterfalls.
Bush camping with supplied porta-potty and the option to pay for a shower or spa.
Highly recommend the pizza - very good quality.
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J
Jamie
January 2026
Tent
We loved the privacy and quiet of our camp spot. The site was clean & tidy, with toilets, water and fire pit. We were greeted at the gate by our lovely host, and escorted to our site.
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a
andy
January 2026
5 m car
With pets
This spot is pure heaven, awesome location and great host. One of if not the best Hipcamp I’ve ever visited.
See moreA
Anthony
January 2026
Tent
Couldn’t have asked for a better host. Tidy site, warm shower and a hot spa.. what more could you ask for! Oh and can’t forgot the company of Lana! 🐶 We will definitely be back and would recommend Ian to anyone looking for an excellent camping experience
See moreJ
Jeff
January 2026
Tent
Mellow Ridge is amazing, it’s the best kept secret in the Illawarra, and Ian is an amazing host, he has done an unbelievable job, it the best Hipcamp we have ever stayed in.
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J
Julia
December 2025
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. :)
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M
Mike
December 2025
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.
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M
Marta
December 2025
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!
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Ulrika
December 2025
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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