River, stream, or creek and dog-friendly camping near Seal Rocks
Explore the ocean or the backwaters of the Australian Great Lakes on the NSW north coast.
98% (1623 reviews)
- Seal Rocks
98% (1623 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Seal Rocks
Star Hosts in Seal Rocks
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12 top river, stream, or creek and dog-friendly campgrounds near Seal Rocks
99%
(71)
Stoney Creek
35 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Boolambayte, NSW
Stoney Creek is on 70 acres, in the middle of the national park, and offers campers a beautiful mixture of rainforested areas and clear grassed paddocks, just 1 hour from Newcastle.
It's very peaceful here, with options for bushwalking and birdwatching. Creeks run through the property, providing some lovely areas to explore. Stoney Creek is also the closest property to the famous Grandis - the biggest tree in NSW!
There are portable toilet facilities available. Showers are made available by appointment only. Please ask.
Large swimming lagoon for the kids - please just ensure they are supervised around the dam at all times.
Dogs welcome.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$45
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
92%
(57)
Fernbrook
8 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Stroud Road, NSW
Nestled within the picturesque Karuah River catchment area, Fernbrook is a working poultry and cattle farm, set over eight peaceful acres, and just five km away from the historic Stroud township.
Spend evenings around the firepits (when fire restrictions are not in place), roasting marshmallows and stargazing under the night sky. Mornings are filled with the melodies of birds and wildlife, allowing you to truly reconnect with nature. Encounter local Red Necked Wallabies, Eastern Grey Roos, and the occasional Echidna.
A haven for birdwatchers, the area teems with bird life, including King Parrots, Eastern and Crimson Rosellas, Kookaburras, Yellow Tailed and Glossy Black Cockatoos, satin bowerbirds, and various honey eaters.
Mill Creek, which runs through the property, offers Bass fishing and summertime paddling and swimming opportunities. There is a short walking trail along the eastern bank of the creek to another small picnic area. Keep in mind this trail was created by and is shared with the local wildlife.
Adventure awaits just minutes from our property, as kilometers of public bush tracks cater to hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts.
Alternatively, explore the charm of Stroud, with its country pub, golf club, shops, cafes, and free public swimming pool. Local conveniences include our friendly country butcher and IGA supermarket. With roots dating back to the late 1820s, Stroud boasts a rich history as the headquarters of the Australian Agricultural Company. Join us each July for the renowned Stroud Brick throwing competition!
The camping area is caravan-friendly, but mindful access during wet weather is crucial to preserving the landscape.
Fernbrook welcomes your furry companions too but requires dogs to be supervised and leashed at all times for their safety and that of our livestock. Leaving dogs off-leash may lead to eviction without refund, and any harm to livestock or dogs must be avoided.
Basic amenities include a toilet (please bring your own environmentally friendly toilet paper) and shower. Campers may use our rainwater to fill their tanks, and hot water connections are available, with campers providing their own gas bottles. A small kitchenette equipped with a sink, cupboards, microwave, and power outlets for fry pans is available, with clear labeling of personal belongings.
We provide firepits for your enjoyment and offer firewood upon request for a fee. Alternatively, campers may bring their own firewood.
Please remember to take all waste with you upon departure.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Cooking equipment
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(512)
Spirit of the Forest
19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · Boolambayte, NSW
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.A portable 240v generator (1) is available for hire $10.00 a day, fuel included, advance booking.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
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Cooking equipment
from
AU$45
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(210)
The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah
27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents103 acres · Forster, NSW
The Riverside Farm Escape is a family owned cattle farm situated on the Wang Wauk River in Minimbah on the Mid North Coast of NSW.
Our property has very well maintained, grassy camping ground, RV stop and modern 2 bedroom vanhome/cabin that overlooks the picturesque Wang Wauk River that feeds the magnificent Wallis Lakes.
The Riverside property is 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.
The property also boasts a beautiful dam, full of flowering lillies, great for the kids to kayak and swim in. We have lots of natural bush and wildlife including wallabies, kangaroos, lizards and native birds.
Camp grounds are accessible via 2wd/4wd (Non-powered and powered sites)
Family friendly
Pets welcome (on leash)
Fire Pits provided for all sites
Firewood available for purchase from host
Local Attractions:
NABIAC VILLAGE (7MINS AWAY) - Supermarket, cafes, chemist, Hotel/pub, Post office, Dump point, potable water, Artisan Farmer - paddock to plate.
Tuncurry/Forster (25 MINS AWAY) - Beaches, restaurants, entertainment, shopping
Barrington Tops (25 Mins)
Blueys Beach (50 mins)
Port Macquarie (60mins)
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(25)
Tyalla Grounds
4 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Taree, NSW
Tyalla Grounds is located along the Bucketts Way in the beautiful historic town of Tinonee.
Our property has an abundance of wildlife and Peg Leg creek that meanders through, while not being large enough for water activities, it is nice to dip your toes in on a hot day or to go exploring along. You might be lucky enough to spot a koala or two.
We offer spacious, shady & private camp sites.
Tinonee general store is nearby and is well stocked for all your essential needs. Or a 15 minute scenic drive to the charming town of Wingham where you'll find pubs, a museum, Wingham Brush Nature reserve and lovely boutique shops. Taree is also only 15 minutes away.
Some of the best mountain bike trails NSW has to offer can be found right next door in Kiwarrak State Forest.
Cool off at Charity Creek a popular local swimming spot or visit some of the Mid Coasts most stunning beaches only a short drive away.
Lots of interesting markets close by including Black Head Bazaar, Nabiac Farmers, Old Bar Community markets just to name a few.
Fires permitted in the designated fire pits depending on fire danger rating. Firewood available.
We have no facilities on the property so campers must be fully self contained.
Public facilities are available near the tennis courts.
Dogs welcome but must be kept on a leash.
Check us out on instagram: tyalla_grounds_
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(230)
Casapalou Riverside Camp
4 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · NSW
We offer riverside camping in a scenic bush country setting where you can enjoy fishing, canoeing and swimming in the calm brackish water of the Wang Wauk river, all accessible from a pontoon or boat ramp.
We are located
10 minutes' drive from the Nabiac township where you will find
a collection of food, beverage and interesting antique and giftware.
Explore cleared and wooded areas via walking tracks and observe the varied bird and wildlife. Relax around the campfire in the evenings and enjoy some star gazing.
Campers must be self sufficient with their own toilet/shower facilities, any camping group that do not bring their own toilet/shower will be turned away or agree to a $40/night extra charge and allowed limited access to our own toilet block located 300 metres away from camping areas.
All campers must take all waste with them on departure and DO NOT use waste bins at highway turn off location.
Fire pits have been provided and must be utilised, simply move them to your final camp location, also burn only clean firewood ( No pallets with Nails, etc)
Firewood may be purchased on site.
The property is easily accessed and located just
5kms off the Pacific Hwy.
Pets on leash are welcome!
Campfires
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(37)
The Branch River Retreat
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents108 acres · The Branch, NSW
Our property is a private farm and we ask you contact us first to ensure we can provide the facilities suitable for you. The farm has limited facilities, but is the perfect setting for birdwatchers and native animal lovers. A rare offering is the diversity as estuary dolphins gently make their way past the riverside sites at least once a day. The Branch River Retreat offers 110 acres with a diversity of sites beside a wide river, a fish-filled dam and other scattered paddock sites among trees and dams. This will suit off-road independent caravaners and tent dwellers. The river is lined with mangroves and branches off the Karuah River and into the Port Stephens system.
The extraordinarily diverse birdlife includes the quintessentially Australian Wedge-tailed eagle and sea eagles, hawks, and Tawny Frogmouths. Be lulled asleep under starry nights and be woken by Magpies and Kookaburras, and be dazzled by the colourful parrots and smaller shyer birds. You may even be visited by curious Kangaroos, Wallabies, or Echidnas. For the lucky few, 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 rest of the property enjoys aspects of undulating landscapes with small mountains and valleys. The night sky puts on its own stellar show between setting suns and rising moons.
The boat ramp offers easy access for kayaks and canoes (no motor vessels please). 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. (For this reason we have kept the price lower.) 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.
There are 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.
If touring around the area is your aspiration, the property lies central to Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest, the Great Lakes district, Stroud Valley, Dungog, Gloucester/Barrington Tops, Nelson Bay, and Newcastle. Local groceries can be sourced from Karuah and Stroud.
Activities include:
- Bird/nature watching
- Paddling/canoeing
- Fishing
- Bike riding
(No motor vessels please)
- Surface type: grass or paddock leveled areas and others with slight slopes and accessed with the essential 4WD (of course subject to weather).
- Generally fair to good Mobile phone access.
- It will be necessary to BYO or Preorder firewood for applicable sites out of fire season, (where facilities are provided).
- No electrical connections unless by arrangement (for longer term Hipcampers)
- We treat our own sewerage.
- No generators please.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from
AU$50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
92%
(91)
Manning River Waterfront Camping
4 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Cundletown, NSW
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 5 night 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(17)
Willowbank
5 sites · RVs, Tents252 acres · Stroud Road, NSW
"Willowbank" is a stunning 252 acre property located in the picturesque Stroud Road 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. Enjoy the great outdoors without feeling overcrowded! We want our guests to be happy and have the best experience possible.
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 four beautiful partly shaded, camping sites along the pristine Upper Karuah River. With two adjoining sites that can be booked seperately or if you would like the whole place to yourselves, book both! If the other sIte is already booked and you would like a little more space we have a few other areas we can show you. Alternatively, there are also two other sites further down the river, these are 4wd accessible only.
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 (which can be emptied at the dump point located in Stroud township 10 minutes drive away).
Access to The Paperbarks and Wallaby Green is provided by the unsealed council road right to the sites. The sites themselves are subject to wet weather so 4wd vehicles are preferred though 2wd vehicles may be parked just off the road if it gets a bit wet. Please note, we do have a house up the hill from these sites. It faces away from the area though. The Rapids and Riverview sites are accessed via a laneway through the property. These sites are for 4wd drive vehicles with tents or camper trailers only.
As sites are located along the riverbank, at times they are subject to flooding. This may mean that camping there may not be suitable at all times and you may need to move to higher ground in this event. The whole property is also cut off from road access during times of flood.
Site 1 (Wallaby Green) the larger of the sites is suited to camper trailers, caravans, camper vans or tents. It has some flat areas and also some slightly sloping with river access. Bring your cricket bat and enjoy a game!
Site 2 (The Paperbarks) is slightly smaller and is also suited to camper trailers, caravans, camper vans or tents. It also has a flat area with some slight slope and river access. Put up your hammock between the trees and just relax.
Site 3 (The Rapids) and Site 4 (Riverview) are both private, flat sites with 4wd access only. Bring your tent, swag or camper trailer and enjoy the river rapids.
The river bank is a little steep in places and access is via a track so please be mindful when walking. River shoes are also encouraged as the rocks in the river can be slippery.
Perfect for a relaxing stay in summer with swimming, canoeing or floating on your raft down the river. Bring your fishing gear for some relaxing bass or mullet fishing (catch and release is encouraged).
The pristine river is also home to platypus which can be seen early in the morning or late afternoon from the campsites. Please do not try and interact with these beautiful animals, photography is encouraged though!
There are numerous birds, water dragons and wallabies that also inhabit the area around the campsites.
Sit around the camp fire (restrictions permitting) and watch the stars with family and friends. Firepits are provided for use, subject to fire restriction periods. (Firewood may be purchased for $20 a bag)
There are opportunities for bush walking, bird watching and mountain bike riding on the property. With beautiful views from the top of the mountain as well.
Our farm is a working beef cattle property. Please be mindful that cattle and horses have free range of the property, which includes the road, so take care when driving. There will also be at times motorbikes, chainsaws and vehicles operating around the farm. We will endeavour to keep the noise away from campers where possible. There will also be the odd cow/horse poo and mooing at night in case anyone has an issue.
Small to medium dogs are allowed but must be on a leash at all times. This is due to there being working dogs and cattle in the area. Sorry, NO LARGE DOGS allowed.
We do have mobile phone reception with Telstra and Optus on the property.
Historic Stroud township has a supermarket, butcher, chemist, cafes, a club and pub along with swimming pool, playground and skate park. Dungog is located 25 minutes drive away and also has many historic buildings and cafes etc.
Gloucester is 40 minutes drive and offers similar as well as access to the World renowned wilderness of the Barrington Tops National Park.
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.
Campfires
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(56)
Ridge Line Camping
30 sites · RVs, Tents106 acres · Possum Brush, NSW
Welcome to Ridge line camping where you will have 106 Acres of land to explore. Being elevated over 600 feet above the surrounding land the property boasts the best views of the area, we can see as far as the great lakes to the south including Forster -Tuncurry, then Hallidays point, Crowdy head and Laureton to the north. Located just off the Pacific highway, 3 hours drive north of Sydney and just under an hours drive South of Port Macquarie, access is very straight forward and we can accommodate some of the largest set ups. Stay for a night on your way through or spend a few nights exploring the property and the local area. Wake up with some spectacular sunrises and a kangaroo or two and go to sleep with the best sunsets around. We are only 15mins drive from Forster/Tuncurry, 10 mins to Hallidays Point, 15 mins to Taree.Some of the local attractions include:Walking the "Big Hill" its hard work but totally worth the views when you make it to the top. Enjoy the sunrise with a cup of coffee, the sunsets with a glass of wine or pack a picnic lunch.Talawahl National park which features some of the best hiking, 4WD and Dirt bike trails in Australia.Kiwarric State Forest which features brand new downhill biking trails and ramps.Big Buzz Fun Park, 8 min drive.Clarendon horse Riding, located on the same road.The pristine fishing/ boating/ jet skiing and swimming waters that our entire coastline is renowned for.Amaroo dolphin and whale watching cruises.Diving with Grey Nurse sharks with Forster Dive Centre.Various local markets and funfairs in peak periods.On new years eve, see the fireworks from multiple different locations up the coast from the comfort of your campsite.Walamba river is our local boat ramp located only 5 mins away and is excellent for water skiing and direct access to the great lakes and Ocean.Boats, jetskis and Motorbikes are all welcome.Pets are also welcome.Our sites are for self-contained campers only. You must have your own toilet, power and drinking water. Please take your rubbish with you.Split dry firewood is available from $10 per bag however there is plenty lying around if you would prefer to gather your own.A 4WD is recommend but is not essential as there are multiple locations and access points available, We can also provide you with a tour of the summit of the property with our ATV with advanced notification.We will be updating the photos shortly. Please feel free to contact us for special arrangements or requests.
Campfires
from
AU$39
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(150)
Bonneydoon
21 sites · RVs, Tents640 acres · Main Creek, NSW
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, 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.
Toilets
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from
AU$65
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(77)
Dungog Horseshoe Camp
4 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Fosterton, NSW
We are located in the Dungog Shire, in the Hunter Region of NSW. This area is renowned for its forests, mountains and picturesque river villages.
Horseshoe camp is a perfect location for couples or families to get away for a short or extended stay. The Barrington Tops National Park, State Forests, Chichester Dam, river systems as well as the historic and scenic character of the area provide for a stunning experience. There's plenty of sightseeing and exploring awaiting visitors to this area.
The seclusion and privacy of Horseshoe camp allows for total relaxation in a beautiful rural setting providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of work and city life.
We are a quiet camp and cater for like minded guests who enjoy nature and their own space.
Horseshoe was originally a small dairy farm with a history going back to the 1800's.
The land comprises fertile river flats surrounded by the Williams River.
The higher land comprises mainly forested areas with some sites offering good views over the countryside.
There are several campsites to choose from including some
situated on the banks of the Williams River. Your choice and subject to weather conditions.
Allowing only three sites to be occupied ensures privacy for our guests,
Horseshoe camp is only 10 minutes drive, (7km) from Dungog township.
Please note, our river sites may not always be available-subject to flooding or boggy access track.
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Available this weekend
Dog-friendly getaways
River, stream, or creek and dog-friendly camping near Seal Rocks guide
Overview
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.
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.
Nearby attractions
A remote stretch of golden sand with a unique surf break, Treachery Beach is a lesser-known locale with plenty of hidden surprises.
Top cities near Seal Rocks
Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.