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. Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

100%

(299)

65km from Scotts Head · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Moonpar, NSW

Come and enjoy our private camping spots on the beautiful Nymboida River, New South Wales. Check in is before 5pm no check-ins after 5pm Campers have direct access to the river which is great for swimming and paddling. Please note that this is a free flowing river and there are rapids and waterfalls in parts, so care must be taken in parts. The campsites do require a 4WD to be accessed and are not suitable for larger caravans. Small of road vans and camper trailers are fine. Pets are welcome but we are a working cattle property, so if your dog is going to chase cattle it's probably not a great fit. There is a lot to do in the area, including bushwalking, chasing waterfalls, local markets, restaurants, wineries and galleries. 20 minutes from Dorrigo and 50 minutes from Bellingen. We charge $25 per adult per night Kids are free

2. Solitary Islands Farm

98%

(21)

76km from Scotts Head · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Mullaway, NSW

Solitary Islands Farm is a wonderful place for nature enthusiasts and campers to experience the beauty of the Mid-North Coast region. Here's a summary of the key information provided: Location: The retreat is conveniently located just a five-minute drive from the Mid-North Coast's stunning beaches and is surrounded by mountains. Property: Solitary Islands Farm Retreat spans 88 acres of natural beauty. The land features iconic historic trees, abundant birdlife, and a developing Permaculture farm. Campsites are spread across the property, offering campers seclusion within the natural surroundings. Nature Reserve: The property boasts its own untouched nature reserve with walking and bike paths for guests to explore. There is a large dam in the middle of the property, and Darkum Creek on the southern border, providing opportunities for fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking through the natural beauty of the land. Activities: The retreat offers a variety of nature-driven activities, including surfing, diving, golf, nature walks, mountain biking in Bells rainforest, and tree-top climbing 20 min drive. These activities allow guests to immerse themselves in the local attractions. Amenities: Currently, there are no amenities on site. Campers are expected to be fully self-sufficient during their stay, so be sure to come prepared with all the necessary camping gear and supplies. Sustainability: Solitary Islands Farm is committed to sustainability and aims to share its beautiful farm with others. They have plans to develop facilities that can accommodate both small and large groups in the future. Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed on the property, but campers are required to notify the owner. There are designated pet-friendly areas to ensure the safety of wildlife and the farm. When walking around the property, pets must be kept on a lead to protect the local wildlife. Overall, Solitary Islands Farm appears to be a serene and environmentally conscious camping destination where guests can connect with nature and enjoy a range of outdoor activities in a beautiful natural setting. PLEASE MINDFUL OF RESIDENTS LIVING ON THE ENTRANCE TO THE PROPERTY THEY HAVE FREE RANGING ANIMALS CROSSING THE ROADS. PLEASE DRIVE AS SLOW AS POSSIBLE! I don't live onsite but please call me for queries

3. The Harvest House

94%

(235)

16km from Scotts Head · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Eungai Creek, NSW

Set on 100 acres, half way between Sydney and Brisbane and just 5 minutes off the Pacific Highway, The Harvest House is an ideal place to stop over to break-up your journey. The property is a mixture of fields and bushland. Old logging tracks cut through the trees are perfect for exploring. There is an abundance of wildlife from kangaroos and wallabies to red and yellow tailed black cockatoos, and even the occasional echidna!There are several camping areas to choose from. We have room for RV's and big camping rigs to pull up too.Well behaved pets are welcome. We are ideally suited to self-contained campers as there are no facilities onsite.The famous Eungai Creek Buffalo farm and cafe is just 5 mins away and beautiful beaches, shops and restaurants are all within a 20 minute drive.

4. Port Macquarie Riverside

74km from Scotts Head · 6 sites · RVs · Riverside, NSW

Port Macquarie Riverside is a peaceful riverside campsite nestled in the natural beauty of Riverside, New South Wales, offering a true outdoor escape with water views and plenty of space to relax by the river. Campers can enjoy private river access where you can swim, paddle, fish, or simply unwind watching the water flow by. The surrounding landscape features native bushland and abundant birdlife, making this a great location for nature lovers and anyone seeking peace and quiet just a short drive from Port Macquarie and the Mid North Coast’s beaches. This is a self‑sufficient campsite with no power or facilities provided, so you’ll want to bring everything you need for your stay and leave no trace behind. Set up your tent, camper, or swag in a scenic spot, build a campfire (when permitted), and enjoy evenings under starry skies with the gentle sounds of the river as your soundtrack. The property’s location also makes it a perfect base for exploring the region’s outdoor attractions, from riverside walks and water activities to nearby national parks, coastal beaches, and local towns with cafes, markets, and shops. Bring your sense of adventure and your camping gear for a memorable off‑grid experience at Port Macquarie Riverside — a quiet, scenic place to reconnect with nature and relax by the water.

from

AU$61

/ night

5. Riverlea Green, Nambucca Valley

98%

(73)

12km from Scotts Head · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Wirrimbi, NSW

** T ** Our riverfront farm now has sites available for self-contained campers! • 300m Nambucca River frontage, with direct access - Perfect for fishing, swimming, boating and lazing by the river 😌 • Flat grassy campsites, for caravans, tents and RV’s (own toilet, electricity & water required). • Campfires permitted April - October • Group camping available • Well behaved pets welcome. Off leash is permitted, provided the pets stay with their owners. Location: • 10 min off the highway, a peaceful halfway stop between Sydney and Brisbane • Centrally located in the Nambucca Valley, perfect for exploring the Valley’s beaches, towns and hinterland • 3km to Riverview Island Wedding and Function Venue • Fresh produce available from the Fruit and Veg Stall next door

Stories from the community

M

Michael

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

It’s the best. Highly recommend. It will become your regular as it has become mine.

L

Lisa

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

Beautifully maintained camping area we had a huge grassy and flat spot by the river with a fire pit. Appreciated the çlean composting toilet. The swimming hole was deep and had a flat granite rock in the middle of the river that the kids spent hours jumping off. Stuart was an easy going host who offered us early arrival and late pack up. We had a wonderful weekend!

M

Michael

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

My favourite camping spot. It’s perfection. Right on the river and perfectly private.

craig

November 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

Our 3rd time to this property, 2nd time on site one, as usual Stuart has it well maintained and looking lovely. Excellent flat grassed campgrounds with heaps of room. This site is located on a bend in the river with easy access to deep pools and waterfalls. After our second trip is the pic of the three in our opinion. Host advisers 4WD only and he is right. The track in and out after a spot of rain in very slippery. We suggest taking some basic recovery gear such as recovery tracks.

K

Krista

November 2025

6 m pop-up camper

6 nights at Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

We had an amazing time on Stuart’s property , so much to explore in the area & so many hidden gems .It was so relaxing at the property & was very well maintained with beautiful grassy sites .The river was stunning & lovely for a dip

W

Wade

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Solitary Islands Farm

Great quiet spot with a close drive to the surf. Lots of space per site and great we could have a fire.

K

Karen

October 2025

6 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

Fantastic spot! Very peaceful and private. So good to be able to have my dog off a leash, have a swim in the river and just chill. Stuart was very responsive with his communication. Nice grassy campsite with a fire at night. Lots of birdlife and local trees were in flower. Very pretty. Would definitely recommend.

Fred

October 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

Our second trip was as amazing as the first. This is by far the most private and spacious site we’ve ever been to. I could sit under the gum tree for hours, listening to the sounds of nature and taking in the peaceful view of the waterhole surrounded by boulders and weeping willows. Stuart is very friendly and accommodating. Thank you again!

E

Elizabeth

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

It was absolutely beautiful. Flies were relentless but otherwise beautiful, private place to unwind.

T

Tracey

October 2025

3 m pop-up camper

3 nights at Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

We camped at site 1. Very large grassy area. Easy river access with beautiful swimming holes. Lots of birdlife. Very private and peaceful. Stuart was a great host. 100% recommend!

J

Jacob

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

My partner, 2 kids and pup loved our stay at site 3! Peaceful getaway. Swimming hole is great just not much of a shallow spot for the kids to play. Stuart has firewood and there is a few for pits ready to go. All in all great stay !

L

Lindsay

October 2025

8 m pop-up camper

1 night at Riverlea Green, Nambucca Valley

A beautiful piece of tree lined riverbank on the Nambucca river near Macksville. Plenty of space for campers and we enjoyed our fire pit. The farm dog, teddy is very friendly and kept watch over us as well as what was happening on the river. Definitely recommended, cheers Lindsay

N

Nina

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

What an amazing spot!! We had a blissful few days hanging out by the fire, floating down the rapids and kicking back by the river. Thank you Stuart!

D

David

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

1 night at Riverlea Green, Nambucca Valley

Spoilt to have it all to ourselves!! Lovely spot on the river for swimming and just chilling out.

J

Jed

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

I recently camped at this secluded retreat and had an incredible experience. Upon arrival, we were greeted with breathtaking views and a beautifully kept environment. The campsite was serene and private, and we loved having a private waterfall and swimming hole to enjoy. The camping experience was made even more delightful with the provision of delivered firewood, allowing us to warm up by the campfire. Overall, it was a perfect nature getaway that I’d highly recommend.

B

Billy

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Riverlea Green, Nambucca Valley

Loved camping at this place, most of room for activities, beautiful site and scenery, water was nice to swim In and teddy the dog was friendly, highly recommend this place to camp, great for groups too!

Nathan

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Riverlea Green, Nambucca Valley

Beautiful spot right on the rivers edge with great access. We were in a group of 20 (8A,12C) with 4 vans and there is ample room to spread out and enjoy the space. The river is lovely, calm water for a swim with plenty of entertainment - fishing canoeing etc to keep everyone entertained.

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

Five stars! Best camping spot. Highly recommend. Very well maintained site right on the river.

D

Don

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

1 night at The Harvest House

Lovely quiet spot nobody else was there when I was on site. It was so lovely to have solidarity, and listen to nature. I would recommend it to anybody nice place to enjoy.