Discover the best river, stream, or creek and dog-friendly campgrounds near Seal Rocks, New South Wales

Australia
—
New South Wales
—
Seal Rocks

98% (1777 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Seal Rocks

Star Hosts in Seal Rocks

12 top river, stream, or creek and dog-friendly campgrounds near Seal Rocks

99%

(256)

The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah

26 sites · RVs, Tents103 acres · Minimbah, 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 and RV stop 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)

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(32)

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 at The Paperbarks 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. We do have an extra campground, Long Flat, suited to caravans and motor homes. This is available subject to weather and farming activities. Please contact us if you are needing room for a larger group. 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 sites 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 VEHICLES ONLY with tents or camper trailers. 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. Adjoining Site 1 (The Paperbarks) 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! Adjoining 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. Remember to bring wood with you! There are opportunities for bush walking, bird watching and mountain bike riding over the back of the property. It is a bit of a hike to get to the access but well worth it 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 as well as on neighbouring properties. 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 due to past issues. Please also be aware that we are in a tick prone area so make sure your pet has adequate tick protection. 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.

* Before taxes and fees

93%

(81)

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.

* Before taxes and fees

97%

(35)

Tyalla Grounds

4 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Tinonee, 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_

* Before taxes and fees

97%

(163)

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.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(3)

Tranquil Riverdance Nabiac

3 sites · RVs98 acres · Nabiac, NSW

This beautiful property has 300m of river frontage on the Wallamba River. We are just over an hour from Newcastle and Port Macquarie. Grab a kayak and enjoy being right on the river. Great fishing!! You will catch Bream, Flathead and Mud Crabs! You may also see the dolphins go past. We are 30 mins from Forster and Taree. The Nabiac Hotel is 10kms down the road and the village of Nabiac has all the essentials. We love our animals and along with our horses, we breed Therapy dogs. Your dogs are most welcome! Our property is at the end of a 2km gravel driveway. We have dams on the property and lots of open space. You can camp right on the river's edge in privacy. The kids are welcome to help feed the animals.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(78)

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.

* Before taxes and fees

91%

(107)

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.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(47)

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. Just a 2-3 hour trip north of Sydney take the Bucketts Way to stay on sealed roads. A tributary river to Nelson Bay there is a rare offering in 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 range 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 hybrid caravaners and tent dwellers. The river is lined with mangroves and branches off the Karuah River and the Port Stephens system. The extraordinary array of birdlife includes the quintessentially Australian Wedge-tailed eagle and sea eagles, hawks, and Tawny Frogmouths, water waders and even a regular visit from a Jabiroo and pelicans. 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.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(122)

Altamira Along Bakers Creek

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents250 acres · Bundook, NSW

Altamira Along Bakers Creek is a country escape on a working farm in the heart of the beautiful Mid North Coast. Our property is located just 30 minutes from Gloucester, 50 minutes from the Pacific Highway, 2 hours from Newcastle and 4 hours from Sydney. There are plenty of activities including bush walking, 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 is an animal petting farm for the kids to enjoy and a bar for the adults to have an afternoon drink. Enjoy access to a communal pool, tennis court, commercial kitchen, shower and toilet. There is a BBQ entertaining area, 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 a farm stay on our working farm, Altamira.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(443)

Platypus Pools

5 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Monkerai, NSW

Premium and exclusive natural camping at its best. Our farm is located on the beautiful Karuah River in the picturesque Monkerai valley. The river is a fresh mountain river running from the foothills of Barrington Tops. We only offer 5 sites which are all well spaced out across our 300 acre property giving you absolute privacy and a sense of serenity. We were very pleased to have been recognised by Hipcamp as being one of the top 20 Hipcamp locations in NSW for 2022. Most of the year the river is lovely and clear and ideal for swimming canoeing floating on airbeds fishing photography or just enjoying. There is also some really nice bike riding and walking opportunities around the valley although you will be on gravel roads and we are only 25 min drive from the popular Dungog mountain bike park. You are likely to see a variety of birdlife other wildlife including black and white cockatoos ducks some lizards, occasionally wallabies, echidnas and if you are lucky a Platypus or two. We are fortunate to see platypus in the river frequently which is a sign of just how pristine the water running down from the mountains really is. You will have your campsite completely to yourself with no other camper near you . Privacy, tranquillity, relaxation and just enjoying nature is waiting for you. Be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution. With late Autumn rains the river is running beautifully and is great for a swim, fish or canoe. Swimming, canoeing and running the rapids on surf mats is always popular at our property and as long as the river is it normal levels and a lot of fun. However, we always highly recommend people wear some form of footwear in the river such as rafting sandals or old joggers or similar as the rocks are very hard on your feat and there’s a particular nasty little fish called a “Bullrout” that whilst rare can infect a nasty sting if you tread on one. No need to be overly concerned but be mindful. Our property is ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, it’s up to you. There are no toilets so only suitable if you have your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All toilet waste, leaving our property is very important and an absolutely essential requirement for all visitors. Gloucester Dungog and historic Stroud village are nearby as well as Barrington Tops World Heritage wilderness area and national park. This is an operating farm and therefore farming activities such as cattle droving, fencing, grass cutting or hay making may occasionally be occurring somewhere near your site but we would always let you know. We are sure you will enjoy our farm far more than a crowded traditional caravan park or campground. All campers need to be able to manage and remove their own toilet waste from our property without exception. We do have some limited bags of firewood for sale at $20 a bag. These are heavy bags of very dry local Hardwood. You can also collect firewood along the river banks yourself or bring your own firewood for a campfire (subject to any fire restrictions) if that is easier and more convenient for you. 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.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(4)

Hamiltons Hideaway

6 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Harrington, NSW

At Hamiltons Hideaway we have 6 generous sites set on the banks of Pelican Creek. Fishing, mud crabs and wildlife at your site. With access to the Manning River with either a canoe, kayak, SUP or tinny. Or just fish off the bank for a flathead, bream or mullet. Spacious area for a game of cricket or just for the kids to run around. Relax by the creek of an afternoon watching the sunset. We are located 5mins from the Pacific Highway, 5mins to Harrington and 10mins to Crowdy Head. Close to town for shops and courtesy buses run to the property from the local pubs and club. Close to national parks and a short drive to beaches, waterfalls and mountain views.

* Before taxes and fees

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.