The best great views campgrounds near Seal Rocks, New South Wales

You may not find seals basking on rocks at Seal Rocks anymore, but this tiny, headland-perched fishing village has a fabulously retro, lost-in-time vibe. With views at every turn and a famous surf, Seal Rocks is an island surrounded by lakes and national parks offering some of the best hiking, fishing, paddling, camping, and caravan parks on the New South Wales north coast, not to mention some of the state’s best swimming. The bonus? Even though it feels a world away, Seal Rocks is just a 3-hour drive north of Sydney and the perfect getaway for your next camping trip.

98% (3K) • 69 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Seal Rocks

You may not find seals basking on rocks at Seal Rocks anymore, but this tiny, headland-perched fishing village has a fabulously retro, lost-in-time vibe. With views at every turn and a famous surf, Seal Rocks is an island surrounded by lakes and national parks offering some of the best hiking, fishing, paddling, camping, and caravan parks on the New South Wales north coast, not to mention some of the state’s best swimming. The bonus? Even though it feels a world away, Seal Rocks is just a 3-hour drive north of Sydney and the perfect getaway for your next camping trip.

98% (3K) • 69 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Seal Rocks

1. The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah

98%

(738)

34km from Seal Rocks · 52 sites · Tents, RVs

The Riverside Farm Escape is a family owned cattle farm situated on the picturesque Wang Wauk River in Minimbah, Mid North Coast NSW. Our well maintained, grassy campground and RV stop provides spectacular views of the Wang Wauk River, which flows into the magnificent Wallis Lakes. The Riverside property spans 103 acres of rich farmland and has over 500 meters of river frontage, ideal for kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing, with water access to Forster / Tuncurry. A gravel boat ramp provides easy access to Wang Wauk River ideal for small boats/tinnies. The property also boasts a beautiful dam, full of blooming lilies, a favourite for the kids to kayak and swim. Surrounding natural bushland is teeming with wildlife, including wallabies, kangaroos, lizards, and vibrant native bird species. Access: Suitable for 2WD and 4WD vehicles Site Options: Powered and non-powered sites available. Non powered sites on the River front, Lily Dam and Paddock Views. Fire Pits: Provided at all sites for cozy evenings under the stars Firewood: Conveniently available for purchase Pet-Friendly: Bring your furry friends (on-leash at all times) Please clean up after them. Family-Friendly: A perfect escape for all ages Toilets/Shower: Available for a fee ($10 per site per night) *Cold water only Kayaks: Complimentary for guests to enjoy river adventures River Access: Direct water frontage for kayaking, paddle boarding, and small boat launching. Noise Policy - Quiet hours strictly 10pm - 7 am Daily. No loud music permitted. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Nabiac Village (7 mins): Supermarket, charming cafes, chemist, pub, post office, dump point, potable water, and the Artisan Farmer for paddock-to-plate delights. Tuncurry/Forster (25 mins): Stunning beaches, vibrant restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. Barrington Tops (25 mins): Explore breathtaking trails and scenic vistas. Blueys Beach (50 mins): Relax on pristine, sandy shores. Port Macquarie (60 mins): A vibrant coastal town with pristine beaches, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities.

2. Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

98%

(666)

47km from Seal Rocks · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

We are a farm forestry property located in the middle of the north shore of Port Stephens. Two hours north of Hornsby. 1 hour north of Newcastle. 2 mins to Pindimar beach, 9 minutes to Coles and bottle shop, 11 minutes to surf beach Bennett Beach 12 minutes to Jimmy's Beach. Pets are welcome please pick up after them. Unfortunately, due to a recent incident. All dogs from now on must be on a leash at all times. The dangerous dog in question bit 4 people in less than 24 hours. Including my husband twice. You know your dog, But you cannot predict what another campers's dog is going to be like. Any dog on the NSW dangerous dogs list is absolutely not welcome here. Free use of fire pits and free firewoods. You will need to be split the logs yourself. axes and wheelbarrows are supplied. Hot showers and decent toilets, Good mobile phone signal. Two Communal Fridges .There is lots of space for campers. We have two sites with shade, four without. We suggest you bring a decent quality gazebo or equivalent. If you choose a non-shady site and then it's sunny, it is beyond our control. We are located on a dead end road, so very rare to have any traffic after 8pm. PLEASE NOTE: 1) We ONLY ALLOW ONE camper trailer or ONE caravan per site. No limit on number of tents. 2) IF You Have more than 3 vehicles/site please contact host before booking. 3) Depending on the weather on the day, we may have to limit the number of vehicles that can be parked adjacent to your campsite. 4) NO late night check in . If you are a group larger than two people, the check in time is between midday and sunset. Do not arrive after sunset. If in doubt call. 5) As the business name suggests (mountain) our property is on a hill. we are creating more level campsites. This year the weather has been terrible. From record rain to drought conditions in 3 months. Because of the earthworks there has been a bit of dust, which we have tried to control with grass seed and then no rain.... once each section of earthworks is done. Shade trees are being planted. But they are slow to grow. 6) Please check weather report a minimum of 7 days before you arrive and CANCEL your booking if you are not sure. 7) We cannot control the wind, the sun, rain, or lack of rain.

3. Spirit of the Forest

99%

(675)

23km from Seal Rocks · 26 sites · Tents, RVs

Spirit of the Forest is one of the oldest properties in the area. Many years ago it was an old dairy farm, but it has been through many transitions since then.... uniquely situated only a few kms. from the majestic "Grandis" tree it has an abundance of wildlife close by, wallabies come out to feed on the pasture at dusk and dawn, mighty eagles soar overhead and beautiful Arabian horses run free in the paddocks. Trevor and Maya moved here from Berry NSW 17 years ago. Trevor is an internationally acclaimed entertainer and horse whisperer and Maya is an artist, author and lecturer. Both found the property a haven from their busy schedule of performing overseas. A unique 70 acre Arabian horse property, surrounded by Myall Lakes National Park 4 kms from "The Grandis" the tallest tree in NSW and 10 kms from Bulahdelah Town also near to beautiful North Coast beaches. There are many beautiful areas to choose from to camp, as well as a cabin.

4. Doraville Farm Campsite

95%

(139)

71km from Seal Rocks · 13 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Doraville Farm - Established in 1887, an Organic working farm. We grow and produce organic citrus, beef, honey and pumpkins. Farm honey, marmalade and seasonal produce available upon enquiry. Offering toilets and showers. Accessible to RVs, caravans and camper trailers. Tents allowed. Pets allowed in camping area only and on lead. 5 and under free!

5. Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

99%

(88)

48km from Seal Rocks · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Amazing views, nestled in nature and only 1 minute off the highway. Located close to the Forster-Tuncurry exit. We are located 3 hours north of Sydney and 5 hours south of the QLD Border making it a convenient stop over for your travels, or a nice place to stop and explore the local areas being close to beaches and the Barrington Tops. The property has spectacular views that you won't find anywhere else. We are in a quiet rural area where the neighbours can't be seen. There are walking tracks for you to explore the natural environment. There are many kangaroos, wallabies and numerous amount of birds in the area. The property backs onto national park. There is a river that is only a few kms behind the property that you can put a small boat in to take you out to Saltwater Beach. Old bar beach is a 12 minute drive, Forster-Tuncurry is 15 minutes and the beaches of Pacific Palms a 45 minute drive. There are file piles near the bush sites that you can help yourself too. If in need of groceries or supplies Taree supermarkets and Stores are only 10 minutes away.

6. Willowbank

100%

(358)

56km from Seal Rocks · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

"Willowbank" is a stunning 252 acre property located in the picturesque Karuah River valley with 1km of river frontage. The property has been in our family for 4 generations, being bought by Ian's great grandfather in the 1920's. We cater for guests that are looking to get back to nature and enjoy the great outdoors without feeling overcrowded! We want our guests to be happy and have the best experience possible. Why not follow us on Facebook @Willowbank Hipcamp and see what is happening on the farm, videos of our sites and info on what is on in our community! Located only 8 minutes drive from the historical town of Stroud which was settled by the AA Company in the 1820's as a food growing area. There are still many beautiful buildings from that period to explore. A dairy farm for many years, we switched over to beef around 15 years ago. Currently we run around 120 head of Angus and mixed breed cattle. Within 3 hours drive of Sydney and around an hour from the Barrington National Parks, Newcastle, Maitland, Forster and Nelson Bay, it makes it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway! We are offering 6 beautiful, partly shaded, camping sites along the pristine Upper Karuah River. All sites are separated for privacy and are all right on the edge of the river. There are plenty of opportunities for bird watching, hiking, swimming, kayaking, fishing (in summer), star gazing or just relaxing. All sites are site only and no toilet or shower facilities are provided. You will need to bring your own camping toilet or self contained caravan/ camper (dump point is located in Stroud township) We hope to make your stay a pleasurable one with many happy memories made. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. ***sorry no parties allowed*** Your hosts, Jo and Ian.

7. Altamira Along Bakers Creek

99%

(155)

68km from Seal Rocks · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Altamira Along Bakers Creek is a country escape in the heart of the beautiful Mid North Coast. Our property is located just 30 minutes from Gloucester, 50 minutes from the Pacific Highway from Nabiac, 2.5hours from Newcastle and 4/5hours from Sydney. There are plenty of activities including tennis, swimming in the pool, relaxing in the spa, strolling to the creek or sitting by the bar. We have unpowered campsites along and within walking distance of the creek. Caravans, tents and roof top tents all welcome on 250 acres of private rural property set in the majestic Wako Mountain Ranges. There are free range animals for the kids for the kids to interact with a licensed bar for the adults to have an afternoon drink. Enjoy access to a communal pool, tennis court, shower and toilet block facilities There are BBQ’s available for cooking, outdoor communal fireplace and sitting area for your comfort. Please note our drinking water is fed from the creek, you are welcome to purify it or bring your own drinking water. We have free range animals on our farm and ask that you keep your pets on leash when not at your campsite. Come enjoy your stay at Altamira.

8. Bonneydoon

96%

(261)

69km from Seal Rocks · 21 sites · Tents, RVs

With over 600 acres of private natural forest, valleys, and mountain top look outs, there's more room to explore than you could possibly cover in one visit. Bordering world heritage listed Barrington Tops national park, the views seem to go on forever, and natural beauty that truly takes your breath away. Previously owned by Yoga australia for 20yrs, upon entering this hilltop getaway, it's easy to understand why this beautiful location has been a highly sought after retreat to relax and unwind. Close to so many wonderful locations and activities in the local Dungog area, there's many options to enjoy. Or just sit back and enjoy the serenity. At Bonneydoon you can visit Sunset Rock, walk the great timber staircase of General Sherman trail, The Big Fig that's hundred's of years old, walk the majestic flatbed rock creeks, etched out over a millennia, adorned with unique flora and fauna, or relax atop the camping grounds and see the mountain tops that seem to stretch on forever.

9. Wootton Arabian Stud Farmstay

99%

(317)

22km from Seal Rocks · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

A beautiful hilly 90 acre working farm in the hinterland above The Great Lakes (Myall, Smith , Wallis Lakes), 30 mins from Seal Rocks, just 10km off the M1 about 20 minutes from Bulahdelah. The property offers privacy and magnificent views of rolling green hills and ancient trees and a huge dam with pontoon for swimming. Great stars on a clear night. Sit, relax, and enjoy the magnificent views or utilise the surrounding forests, beaches, lakes, farmers markets, and local winery. You'll be camping with a herd of horses who do visit camping sites. There's also the Pet pig "Barney Rubble" and ponies / ducks/ chickens/ talking parrot to entertain little people. Firewood can be purchased when you arrive for CASH for $20 per load and must be collected from the house upon arrival. Eggs also are available - $8 CASH on arrival. Lemons are free. We limit bookings for your privacy. It is a hilly property so you need adequate power and 4WD to access the higher sites, particularly if towing. 4WD are most suitable for this property. Message before booking about access, particularly after rain, if you don't have a 4WD/off-road van. Dogs are welcome and are fine to be off-lead provided they don't chase horses and are friendly. They must be on a lead near the house around the free-range chooks etc. Campers should be fully contained. Bring all, take all, no footprint camping. We look forward to hosting you.

10. The Top Place

99%

(47)

78km from Seal Rocks · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Perfectly perched on top of a rise looking out across the valley, our property is close to the beach, on a river, and a short drive away from glorious waterfalls and swimming holes, yet only 2 minutes drive from the Pacific Highway. It has stunning views across rolling green hills. There are plenty of birds and quiet places to ponder nature's bounty and beauty. Wake up in paradise, and watch the sun set over the hinterland. Close to the townships for shopping, dining and visiting local attractions of Kew, Harrington, North Haven and Laurieton for those keen to explore. Fancy a paddle? Stewarts River, on which we border, rises on the northern slopes of Big Nellie (which we look out too) within the Coorabakh NP flowing east by south & then east being joined by the Camden Haven River before reaching its mouth at Watson Taylor Lake. It descends 132m over its 62kms course. Crowdy Bay National Park, Coorabakh, Middle Brother National Park for those 4WD adventures.

11. MaMiKa Beef

96%

(45)

68km from Seal Rocks · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

An exclusive, natural camping experience situated on the beautiful Gloucester River under the picturesque Bucketts Mountains. We are just 5 minutes from Gloucester CBD. The Bucketts are within the country belonging to the Biripi and Worimi peoples, with Gloucester being known as Mookibakh. In the native language, the Bucketts mountains (the Buccan Buccan) means the “father of stones looking down on sacred land.” As an active beef farm we may have cattle in the paddock you camp in but the site will be secured by temporary electric fencing to ensure your safety. Hence, we ONLY allow dogs to stay whilst on a lead or tethered run at all times. Dogs sighted off a leash will result in you leaving immediately with no refund. Most of the year the river is lovely and clear and ideal for swimming, fishing, photography or just enjoying. Wedgetail Eagles, Black Cockatoos, Black Shouldered Kites, Kookaburras and Butcher Birds life in the area. As do kangaroos, possums and echidnas. Our night skies are very clear, no pollution here! All of our campsites are perfect for having a campfire (fire season dependent). Our sites are ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, it’s up to you. You must have your own toilet facilities and take away all waste. This is very important and an absolutely essential requirement for all visitors. As is the case with general rubbish. You should bring sufficient water with you as we do not provide drinking or potable water. You will have very good mobile and internet coverage across the property. When you make a reservation at the property we will always endeavour to put you in your preferred location as best we can. However if we are impacted by adverse weather or need to run cattle on certain parts of the farm then we may need to make a change to the actual site you are in and trust you understand. We look forward to you visiting our farm!

12. Blackwood Hill

98%

(20)

70km from Seal Rocks · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to Blackwood Hill Camp, a serene haven along the scenic Fosterton Loop road. Embrace the tranquility of nature nestled in the stunning landscapes of the Williams River and the iconic Barrington Tops National Park. Amenities: Our campsite offers a rustic retreat, encouraging guests to reconnect with the simplicity of outdoor living. While we don't provide potable water, firepits and a compost toilet are available to enhance your camping experience. Activities: Try some gravel biking around the Fosterton Loop, explore nearby Dungog Common, home to a top-notch pump track and mountain biking trails, or embark on a picturesque hike through Barrington Tops. Wander past cascading waterfalls and native wildlife as you take in the breathtaking scenery. Experience: At Blackwood Hill Camp, immerse yourself in the magic of nature. Relax by the campfire under the stars and let the stress of daily life fade away. Whether solo or with loved ones, create unforgettable memories in the heart of the area's natural beauty. Don't miss the chance to explore the charming country town of Dungog (just 10 mins away), where you can visit The Tinshed Brewery for a taste of local craft beer, catch a show at the much-loved James Theatre, or experience the warm hospitality and live music at the Royal Hotel. Book your stay at Blackwood Hill Camp for a healthy dose of both tranquility and adventure amidst the rolling hills of Dungog.

13. Myall View Hideaway

98%

(27)

28km from Seal Rocks · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Located on 4 private acres on the edge of Bulahdelah with lovely views of farmland below. You can sit back on your deck and watch the houseboats head up and down the beautiful Myall River. The cabin includes a double bed, foldout sofa, full cooking facilities and air conditioning. With a rustic outdoor shower and portaloo. There is also a fire pit to keep you warm during winter. Only 700metres to local shops, you still have all conveniences at your fingertips whilst keeping your privacy. The MyallLakes and Mungo Brush are only 15km down the road with Seal Rocks just 30 minutes away.

14. The Branch River Retreat

99%

(105)

51km from Seal Rocks · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

We are unfortunately unable to take new bookings for the foreseeable future and likely until late 2026. Please check back with us later next year. Our property is private so we ask you to contact us first to ensure we can provide the facilities most suited to you. It suits off-road independent hybrid caravaners and tent dwellers. The river is home to mangroves (so mosquitoes feed the leaping fish), all manner of sea creatures and dolphins are frequent in drier periods. Birdlife includes an array of land and waterbirds, such as Eagles, Magpies, Kookaburras, colourful parrots and smaller shyer birds. The wildlife includes kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, reptiles. You may espy a Koala along the foreshore. For this reason, while we accept dogs, they must be on a leash (if not just for their own safety). The boat ramp has good access for kayaks/canoes. Or just sit on a camper chair and dangle your feet in the water while watching the mud crabs go about their social business. Riverside sites are not powered and do not have water or sewerage. They are situated within 10m to 25m of each other and if this is too close, we recommend booking two sites. Generally, we prefer campers to be 100% self-contained, with their own toilet. A toilet is however accessible, but some 300m to 400m distance from the dams and rivers. There is cold potable running water here for topping up. Sealed roads to the front gate to access the property from north and south. All-weather gravel road access is available, although paddock sites can only be accessed by vehicle during dry periods. Weather willing, we can provide more secluded sites by some lovely dams, (please check conditions if you have concerns). Activities include: - Bird/nature watching - Paddling/canoeing - Fishing - Bike riding (small motor vessels only by arrangement) - Surface type: grass or paddock leveled areas and others with slight slopes and accessed with 4WD (of course subject to weather). - Generally fair to good Mobile phone access. - BYO or Preorder firewood for applicable sites out of fire season. - No electrical connections unless by arrangement (for longer term Hipcampers) - We treat our own sewerage. - No generators please.

15. Manning River Waterfront Camping

92%

(181)

57km from Seal Rocks · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

60 Acre property with 500 meters of Manning River frontage, where you can set up on a flat, grassy site! Enjoy the best of both worlds - horses and cattle as well as riverside camping. Maximum 10 nights stay. Great spot for fishing, walks, relaxing kayaking, boating and dolphin spotting. Communal undercover picnic area available for use. Room for kids to play and swings for their enjoyment. Dogs permitted on leash at all times. fier wood for sale at main house 45 ferry lane

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

K

Katie

3 days ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Willowbank

We had a wonderful time. Peace , quiet and a river to float and relax in was exactly what we needed after the chaos of xmas. The dog has a blast too! Old Ceder was very private and exclusive even though there were plenty of other campers nearby.

M

Marsali

4 days ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

Amazing views, clean property and great sites to choose from. Recommend to get there early to secure a site with a view.

E

Eve

4 days ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Willowbank

Beautiful and scenic spot, perfect for a get-away with a stunning river. Joanne the host was so lovely and super helpful! Absolutely loved the stay and can’t recommend it enough. Definitely will be back!

Angela

4 days ago

6 m travel trailer

3 nights at Willowbank

Loved our stay at “She Oaks” campsite. Great spot, sat in the cooling waters of the river. Warmly welcomed by our hosts. Looking forward to returning.

J

Jack

5 days ago

5 m car

1 night at Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

Beautiful scenery, so much space and great choice of sport. Would highly recommend

B

Bethany

5 days ago

6 m pop-up camper

Group trip

1 night at Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

Such fantastic views!!! So much space so not any noise from other campers! Perfect for group camping would recommend!

Maya is watching sunset 🌅 in the camp site, every night the sunset is different

S

Sinead

5 days ago

Tent

1 night at Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

Mei meet us on arrival she was so warm and friendly showed us around the site, fame mountain has everything you need for a wonderful camping trip. Great facilities and a lounge area with comfy sofas and a bit off gym equipment. Quick 10min drive to beach and coles.

S

Stacey

6 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Willowbank

We loved camping at Willow tree!!! What a fabulous spot for children & families. The camps are lovely and spacious, generously spread out between camps that there is lots of privacy. The river is perfect for young children to swim in. The kids loved watching cows, listening to the birds and try to spot the platypus. Our lovely host Jo was warm, welcoming and hospitable to us from the second we arrived. We will definitely be coming back to Willow Tree again soon!!

R

Ryan

6 days ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

Mei was an awesome host - so easy to deal with, friendly and helpful. We absolutely loved this site The facilities exceeded expectations and the view was spectacular. Easy to use as a stopover or to spend a few days and explore the surrounds!

Kara

1 week ago

15 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

What a lovely spot to camp. Unfortunately was only for one night but will definitely stop in again

S

Sherilyn

1 week ago

7 m Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

We love the Herring Estate. It was our first time experiencing the off grid stay with RV / MotorHome. Such a lovely view on site 1, we went into the lower site on late arvo coz the wind was quite strong. The kids love nature and they gathered some firewoods that were already in the area and we lit a fire using the contained fire pit we found in the area. They had a wonderful time for the first night of our camping. Thanks for sharing your beautiful estate.

K

Kris

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Willowbank

Just a lovely peaceful spot to camp, swim, fish and relax with the kids and dog. Great, welcoming hosts

K

Karen

1 week ago

5 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Willowbank

Great grassy spot on the river , lots of bird life ! Close to Stroud for a stroll through the town ! Joanne was lovely and very helpful! Hope to be back again one day ! Thanks for sharing !

Z

Zoe

1 week ago

6 nights at Myall View Hideaway

We loved camping here with the use of the cabin - a top spot with perfect facilities. The outdoor shower was a huge hit! Great central location to explore the surrounding location from Tea Gardens, Bluies Beach and throughout the national park. Thanks for having us! We’ll be back.

J

Jasmine

1 week ago

Tent

3 nights at Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

Very nice views, really good facilities, fires in the evening were nice and free firewood

Mary

1 week ago

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

4 nights at Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

Stayed 4 nights in area 3 at the back of the property for more privacy and shade, even f it meant missing out on the great view from the hill. Best thing about this property is its location, being close to all the awesome beaches Barrington coast has to offer. Heaps of firewood was a bonus. Highly recommended.

K

Keith

1 week ago

7 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Bonneydoon

Had a great stay. Plenty of walks and some stunning scenery. The view from the lookout was one of the best. Campsites 11 and 12 were well maintained with plenty of room for kids and dogs to run around. Clean drop toilets and hot solar shower. We were very impressed. Hope to come back again soon.

M

Melissa

1 week ago

4 m pop-up camper

With kids

5 nights at Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

Lovely spot, great view and beautifully kept. Unfortunately the flat spots were taken by caravans so not enough level ground for our camping trailer. Will definitely stay again when we upgrade!

D

Dave

1 week ago

6 m travel trailer

7 nights at Willowbank

Always a great time at Willowbank. Peaceful, private and beautiful.

T

Tyron

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

This place was awesome. Great views, nice fire pits at every camp and nicely kept area! Highly recommend

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views camping near Seal Rocks guide

Where to go

Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse

Take a short walk (about 10 minutes long) from the centre of Seal Rocks up to Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse for sweeping coastline views of nothing but natural beauty in both directions—and maybe a few dingos. Sunset is a can’t-miss.

The Great Lakes

The vast expanse of shallow waterways that flank Seal Rocks is the largest coastal lake system in NSW. Most of it is protected by Myall Lakes National Park, which also features extensive sand dunes, stretches of rainforest, and the popular Yagon Campground. Just north of Seal Rocks, Smiths Lake and Wallis Lake are also worth exploring.

Forster

With a resident pod of some 300 bottlenose dolphins, Forster is one of the few places on the east coast of Australia where local cruise operators are licensed to host experiences swimming with wild dolphins. Camping and glamping opportunities abound—look out for popular amenities like campfire pits, wifi, camp kitchens with bbq grills, and beach access.

When to go

The NSW mid-north coast has camping-friendly weather almost year-round, with lots of sunny days and relatively mild winters despite the occasional summer storm. Seal Rocks is a popular spot, so book ahead in summer, during school holidays, and for Easter. From May through November, campers have a good chance at spotting whales from the headland at Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse. Waters are the warmest for swimming between December and April.

Know before you go

A small Seal Rocks general store sells basics like bread, milk, and meat pies, but you’ll need to stock up on most other items before you arrive, from either Raymond Terrace to the south or Forster in the north.
Want to catch your own dinner? You’ll need a recreational fishing license, available online or at most fishing bait-and-tackle shops.
With a permit purchased online or at a local visitor centre, you can drive your 4WD on Lighthouse and Boat beaches. Be careful of soft sand and tide times.
Seal Rocks has some of the best diving in New South Wales, as it’s one of few places where you can dive with grey nurse sharks. Find a dive operator to go with in Forster.