The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Scotts Head, New South Wales

Scotts Head draws pet owners with over 1,070 pet-friendly camping options—expect everything from bushland clearings to riverbanks where your dog can roam. Bring your four-legged mate to sites where hiking, wildlife-watching, and swimming are the norm, not an afterthought. Most camps offer showers, campfires, and toilets, so you won’t be roughing it. You’ll find standout spots like The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (669 reviews), Bundilla River Camp (589 reviews), and Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone (482 reviews). Sites start at just $8 a night, with the average hovering around $36, so you can keep it simple or splash out. If you’re after a spot where both you and your dog can shake off city dust, you’re in the right patch of Australia.

97% (9.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Scotts Head draws pet owners with over 1,070 pet-friendly camping options—expect everything from bushland clearings to riverbanks where your dog can roam. Bring your four-legged mate to sites where hiking, wildlife-watching, and swimming are the norm, not an afterthought. Most camps offer showers, campfires, and toilets, so you won’t be roughing it. You’ll find standout spots like The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (669 reviews), Bundilla River Camp (589 reviews), and Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone (482 reviews). Sites start at just $8 a night, with the average hovering around $36, so you can keep it simple or splash out. If you’re after a spot where both you and your dog can shake off city dust, you’re in the right patch of Australia.

97% (9.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Shoreline Hobby Farm

75%

(4)

75km from Scotts Head · 5 sites · RVs · Riverside, NSW

Part of a 101-acre property on the North Shore of Port Macquarie, this 1-acre lot fronts the Hastings River. Two powered sites are available for either a caravan or motorhome (that are self contained) with each offering spectacular views and breathtaking sunsets across the water. The site provides one of the best fishing spots in the area if you’d like to cast a line, or you can simply relax on the private jetty—or at your van—and watch the activity along the river. A slipway is also available should you wish to launch your canoe. As we are located on the North Shore of Port Macquarie, and to access the property you must cross the river using the Settlement Point Ferry The Hibbard Ferry operates (6am - 10am / 2pm-7pm) Mon -Fri and all day on Saturdays and Sundays is only 300 m from the campsite, making it easy to pop into town, explore Port Macquarie’s attractions, or visit the region’s wineries. For longer stays, a discounted ferry pass can be purchased on your behalf. North Shore Beach is a 5-minute drive away, and the local gin distillery is just a 15–20 minute drive up Maria River Road. PLEASE NOTE the property only permits Caravans or Motorhomes as no facilities are available

2. Peace and Paradise

99%

(369)

9.7km from Scotts Head · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

3. Ruddergrange

97%

(63)

62km from Scotts Head · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Nana Glen, NSW

Welcome to Ruddergrange, a beautiful farm just outside the delightful country town of Coramba. We offer several camping sites on 10 sweeping acres with creek access and lovely country views. You are welcome to choose where to set up in this wide area. Coramba is just a 4km drive down the road, and here you'll find a general store, service station, and a classic country pub with the best chef and hospitality in Australia! There is also a river in Coramba with great swimming options and fishing for Bass. Nana Glen is just 8km away and Coffs Harbour is 20km away. This is an ideal spot for those passing through for a single night stopover, but equally as convenient and enjoyable for a place to bring the family and relax for several nights under the stars. Please note the train line is nearby. You will hear a couple of passenger and freight trains. There is plenty of space to experience peace and your own private nook. All campers must be self-contained, with their own camp toilet. We look forward to welcoming you!

from

AU$25

/ night

4. River-Side

30km from Scotts Head · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gladstone, NSW

Set alongside the beautiful Macleay River on the outskirts of Gladstone village, this property is within walking distance of a bakery, butcher, pharmacy, general store, service station (Foodworks), pubs, cafes, and many quaint shops. Guests need to be fully self-sufficient, with their own toilet, shower, and water. The site is an open, flat paddock with sealed road access. Check-in is required before dark unless other arrangements have been made.

5. Vallis Oakes

100%

(72)

42km from Scotts Head · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Girralong, NSW

Welcome to Vallis Oakes, your own slice of paradise nestled on over 300 acres, surrounded by the tranquil Oakes State Forest and the vibrant Gumbaynggirr National Parks. Check out our instagram - @vallis_oakes Swim in the crystal-clear waters and be on the lookout for local wildlife like frogs, turtles, eagles, king parrots, black cockatoos, kingfishers, goannas, and the beautiful Crimson Rosellas. Fireflies have also been spotted! Discover a variety of activities including hiking trails, lookouts, motorbike and 4WD trails. Vallis Oakes is the perfect base for exploring the national parks and then relaxing by the fire under the stars. SELF CONTAINED CAMPERS ONLY To keep our valley pristine, all campers must be fully self-contained. This means having your own toilet, water supply, and taking all waste with you when you leave. This is non-negotiable to maintain the site's natural beauty. PETS are welcome provided they are good with other dogs and livestock. FLOOD WARNING The property is located on river frontage, it may be subject to flooding during heavy rain. Please check with us 3 days before arrival to confirm current conditions. In case of flooding, a full refund will be issued, or an alternate campsite on higher ground may be available. While the photos showcase the stunning blue waters, please note that the water’s appearance may change after heavy rain. You are welcome to enjoy campfires, provided there are no local restrictions. Firewood is available for purchase onsite. Plenty of space is available for caravans, camper trailers, and tents. The sites are 4WD only due to water crossings and challenging road conditions after heavy rain. PRIMITIVE CAMPING We do not have on-site amenities. Please bring all necessary supplies, including a camp toilet. It is essential to maintain the cleanliness of the site, NO DIGGING HOLES and all waste must be removed upon departure. We have a collection point for cans + bottles. Please note that there is no phone reception. If you require internet access, WiFi is available by the main cottage. We look forward to your visit and hope you enjoy everything Vallis Oakes has to offer! If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact us. Have a wonderful stay!

Stories from the community

I

Ian

6 days ago

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Shoreline Hobby Farm

What a lovely location this is on the Hastings River, a great spot to visit, and it's so close to the town of Port Macquarie and its beaches and attractions as well. Mark was great. He made our stay memorable, and we will certainly return in the future.

L

Leanne

1 week ago

6 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Ruddergrange

Beautiful green vista with the creek right there and a lovely family of ducks. Road close by, but still very peaceful at night. We were lucky to have the place to ourselves.

Neil

1 week ago

7 m Class A

With pets

1 night at Shoreline Hobby Farm

Camping near the river was secluded but close to town. The grounds were well kept and Mark was an excellent host. Will definitely come again.

M

Meca

1 week ago

8 m travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Shoreline Hobby Farm

What an amazing find!!! A beautiful location to get away from it all. The property was impeccably maintained and the host Mark was absolutely lovely. His recommendations were spot on! We really loved setting up camp for the night, enjoying the stars and cooking over our fire. Our dog was absolutely thrilled to be off leash too and run and sniff around. We will definitely bookmark this spot to come back again & again!

s

stuart

1 week ago

7 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Ruddergrange

A great place to stay, Robbo came down to say hi and check in, he was really friendly and helpful. Place was clean and tidy and really nice long green grass which was nice underfoot. Thanks for having us

S

Sherralee

1 week ago

6 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Vallis Oakes

Absolutely pristine & secluded. We had the place all to ourselves, with a crystal clear swimming hole, beautifully maintained grounds & surrounded by birds & wildlife. Our host Sammy was so welcoming & friendly, with excellent communication & check in directions. The guest wifi near the cottage, was especially appreciated. We can’t wait to return to this amazing oasis. 🌳

r

riley

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Ruddergrange

Lovely camping spot near the creek, very friendly and helpful hosts, would come again

P

Patrick

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Vallis Oakes

We had a fantastic stay at vallis oakes. Very relaxing with a beautiful stream flowing through. Lots of places to swim and explore. Our dogs had the time of their life being able to roam. Sammy was very friendly and accommodating.

p

paul nicholas

November 2025

5 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Vallis Oakes

another great spot in the Bowraville area, a good level campsite on a great little water hole, good and refreshing on a hot afternoon on arrival, very quite and peaceful with the whole campsite to our selves, plenty of room for the dog to run around although he spent most of his time in the water. the hosts are a very friendly young family and Sam was very helpful, and the kids turned up with fresh farm eggs, very much appreciated. we will definitely be back

I

Ian

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Ruddergrange

Awesome camping near the creek in the paddock...lovely open mowed area..we will return

L

Lacey

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ruddergrange

A well maintained peaceful paddock that we all enjoyed exploring for a weekend trip. We will be back & want to make this an annual trip at ruddergrange

Stephen

November 2025

4 m travel trailer

3 nights at Vallis Oakes

Vallis Oakes is raw and absolutely stunning. The swimming is next level, fresh, clean, untouched water that will not dissapoint..Our host Sammy went out of his way to make sure our stay was everything we hoped for..Absolutely recommend to anybody that needs to escape the normal and reset.

M

Matt

November 2025

6 m pop-up camper

2 nights at Vallis Oakes

🌲 Vallis Oaks is pure bliss. Crystal-clear water that looks unreal, peaceful surroundings, and stunning scenery—an unforgettable escape into nature. Sammy, his wife, and their lovely children couldn’t have been more kind and helpful. Truly a special place.

c

charlie

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Vallis Oakes

We absolutely loved our stay! The crystal-clear water hole was stunning, our dog had the best time swimming in it, and even our cat enjoyed tagging along for the adventure. The owners were so open and welcoming, making us feel right at home. We definitely recommend this spot to anyone looking for a peaceful and pet-friendly getaway!

Daniel

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Vallis Oakes

Great private site nestled in the Nambucca river source. Highly recommended

j

jane

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Vallis Oakes

Beautiful, peaceful spot with plenty of space. Loved it

D

Darcy

October 2025

4 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Vallis Oakes

Just the most magic and peaceful spot, like something out of a fairytale! Was lucky to have the whole place to ourselves and even in the middle of a thunderstorm it was an amazing experience! Even though he wasn't there Sammy was a legend over the phone making everything so clear and helpful! 100% will be coming back!!

Deanna

October 2025

4 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Vallis Oakes

Absolutely beautiful spot! Nestled in a rainforest, you truly feel like youre away from the world (in a good way). We will definitely be back when were in NSW again. Honestly one of my favourite spots.

R

Rebekka

October 2025

21 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Ruddergrange

A peaceful and well-balanced spot with just the right mix of shade and sunshine — perfect for solar charging. Ideal for our 17ft van, and would also suit a motorhome wanting to use this as a base to explore the amazing nearby National Park with a tow vehicle. Easy to find, plenty of space, and we loved how undisturbed and private our stay was.