The best waterside 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.

96% (5.2K) • 3 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Seal Rocks

1. 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.

2. SeaForest Sanctuary

87%

(60)

7.8km from Seal Rocks · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

NOT SUITABLE FOR VANS OVER 18ft. 65 acres of pristine forest excites the senses with its diversity of environments; meandering creek tributaries, a huge natural billabong, rich array of birdlife & wildlife. The property’s rainforest walk leads you through a subtropical tree forest by the banks of Duck creek, past the 'Dingo' large sculpture then to the ultimate viewing of the gigantic ancient trees that are 300 years old The property is close to 4 beaches - Blueys, Boomerang, Elizabeth ; Cellito/Sandbar ( 3 of those beaches are dog friendly and Sandbar even allows Horse riding as well as 4WD). The property borders the southern boundary of the Wallingat National Park - which offers days and days of adventures and has the best look-out over the whole coastal region called the Whoota Whoota lookout. Wallis Lake is literally across the road from the front gate and can be accessed by boat launch just up the Coomba road or at the Pacific Palms recreational club ( Recky) which is a short 5 minutes down the road. Smiths Lake is only 5 minutes drive away in the other direction and has catamaran and boat hire services close to the Frothy Coffee Cafe, SeaForest Sanctuary sites are 4WD and AWD due to the tracks- some 2WD as long as they have a high ground clearance; depending if we have dry weather. ( I have a small 2WD SUV and it gets around perfectly in the dry weather but I need the 4WD in the wet ). No amenities so campers need to BYO everything they need and leave no trace. Campers MUST bring their own camping toilet... This property is a wildlife/bush sanctuary and thus everyone is asked to please do their part to keeping it that way. The waterways and forests in this area are mind blowing. If you have the opportunity, hire a boat/ houseboat or kayak etc and explore the Myall, Smiths and Wallis Lakes.. Bushwalking trails are everywhere through the many National Parks that surround us here. The property is Dog friendly and owners must be respectful of others and keep animals quiet and contained at night. Goes without saying - please clean up doggie dung and take with your rubbish. Campfires are permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place, plenty of wood to gather your own. Please be mindful that there could be fire bans on certain days during the summer. Farm manager will keep you informed and if the worst scenario happens being a fire warning of catastrophic conditions, please follow the farm managers instructions to evacuate the premises and enjoy some shopping in Forster or go to the movies for the day until the warning has lifted.

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.

96% (5.2K) • 3 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Seal Rocks

1. 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.

2. SeaForest Sanctuary

87%

(60)

7.8km from Seal Rocks · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

NOT SUITABLE FOR VANS OVER 18ft. 65 acres of pristine forest excites the senses with its diversity of environments; meandering creek tributaries, a huge natural billabong, rich array of birdlife & wildlife. The property’s rainforest walk leads you through a subtropical tree forest by the banks of Duck creek, past the 'Dingo' large sculpture then to the ultimate viewing of the gigantic ancient trees that are 300 years old The property is close to 4 beaches - Blueys, Boomerang, Elizabeth ; Cellito/Sandbar ( 3 of those beaches are dog friendly and Sandbar even allows Horse riding as well as 4WD). The property borders the southern boundary of the Wallingat National Park - which offers days and days of adventures and has the best look-out over the whole coastal region called the Whoota Whoota lookout. Wallis Lake is literally across the road from the front gate and can be accessed by boat launch just up the Coomba road or at the Pacific Palms recreational club ( Recky) which is a short 5 minutes down the road. Smiths Lake is only 5 minutes drive away in the other direction and has catamaran and boat hire services close to the Frothy Coffee Cafe, SeaForest Sanctuary sites are 4WD and AWD due to the tracks- some 2WD as long as they have a high ground clearance; depending if we have dry weather. ( I have a small 2WD SUV and it gets around perfectly in the dry weather but I need the 4WD in the wet ). No amenities so campers need to BYO everything they need and leave no trace. Campers MUST bring their own camping toilet... This property is a wildlife/bush sanctuary and thus everyone is asked to please do their part to keeping it that way. The waterways and forests in this area are mind blowing. If you have the opportunity, hire a boat/ houseboat or kayak etc and explore the Myall, Smiths and Wallis Lakes.. Bushwalking trails are everywhere through the many National Parks that surround us here. The property is Dog friendly and owners must be respectful of others and keep animals quiet and contained at night. Goes without saying - please clean up doggie dung and take with your rubbish. Campfires are permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place, plenty of wood to gather your own. Please be mindful that there could be fire bans on certain days during the summer. Farm manager will keep you informed and if the worst scenario happens being a fire warning of catastrophic conditions, please follow the farm managers instructions to evacuate the premises and enjoy some shopping in Forster or go to the movies for the day until the warning has lifted.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

O

Owen

2 days ago

8 m pop-up camper

With kids

1 night at Spirit of the Forest

Awesome spot host is such a great guy we used as a stop over but will definitely be back to injoy the property and the surrounding area !!! 10 out 10 would recommend 👌

T

Toby

4 days ago

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Spirit of the Forest

We loved Trevor's property, it was so clean and tidy and the grounds are extremely well kept. We stayed for 2 nights to explore the Forster and Lakes areas. The stars were also amazing! Tonnes of space for the kids to run around and play. The sites are very spaced out also. Great spot. Trevor checked in on us each day to make sure everything was going ok. We're grateful you offer your property for campers! Thank you for having us.

S

Simon

6 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spirit of the Forest

What a spot! Great place. Excellent host. We enjoyed every minute and would be back in a flash. Thanks Trevor!

S

Sandra

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Spirit of the Forest

What a great spot to camp and relax. Both Trevor and Maya were lovely hosts , welcomed us on their property and shared some of their life with us! Amazing! Thanks again for the 'special treat' on New Year's day (won't spoil the surprise), much appreciated by us with a Dutch heritage! I recommend people to bring plenty of water, to ensure you don't run out....

S

Sharon

1 week ago

7 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Spirit of the Forest

From the moment we arrived it was beautiful wildlife lazing around and once greeted by Trevor knowing we were only there for 1night with a van he showed us to a great spot his horses in the distance , hubby was happy he could have a fire just off the highway … will definitely be back

E

Eleanor

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spirit of the Forest

We had a wonderful 1 night stay at Trevor’s. The instructions were clear, down a gravel road and we arrived at the beautiful camp ground. Trevor met us on arrival and showed us to our pitch. The place was as described, the toilets were as to be expected. There was plenty of space even in high season and we felt far away and private from other guests. Trevor kindly took the time to introduce us to his horses and lovely whippets and was a ver hospitable host and an interesting man. We enjoyed our night here very much and would stay here again, and would recommend this to anyone looking for a campground in the region!

P

Padraig

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

5 nights at Spirit of the Forest

Spacious, quiet, campfires, pets allowed, clean toilets, close to adjacent town (5 mins) with fuel, coffee and great bakery. Easy access to highway to get to local coastal towns. Hosts are excellent and always checked in to make sure everything was going OK.

E

Esteban y Melissa

1 week ago

5 m pop-up camper

With kids

4 nights at Spirit of the Forest

Trevor and Maya are fantastic and attentive hosts. Very accommodating to find us a good campsite for our large family. Clean facilities, beautiful campground, great for kids to run around. Highly recommended!

J

Jessica

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Spirit of the Forest

Trevor and Maya were very welcoming. There was plenty of space on the property so we got a nice little camp spot of our own. We could see horses in there paddock. Toilets were portaloo drop/chemical toilets but they had regular upkeep and were clean.

J

Jack

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Spirit of the Forest

Great place to camp easy to get to and owners were great

Jaspreet

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Spirit of the Forest

Absolutely zero complaints staying at this campsite. The property is very easy to get to with lots of open space to setup. The campsites are very well spaced out to not intrude on other campers and still have heaps of land to ourselves. Trevor is very friendly and the best host. Thanks again for being so welcoming and helpful (and thank you Maya for the Dutch doughnuts - definitely a highlight!). We'll be camping here again for sure!

Zeke

1 week ago

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Spirit of the Forest

Easy spot to stop. Spent three nights under the stars in the middle of the National Park! Great day trips around Myall lakes area.

A

Aidan

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Spirit of the Forest

Such a beautiful experience camping here. The drive out to the campsite was very surreal and coming out into the opening among the bush made this spot really special. Trevor is such a good host, please go and enjoy!!!

M

Montana

1 week ago

4 m Class B

5 nights at Spirit of the Forest

Wonderful, spacious campsite. Thoughtfully spaced out sites so you’re not too close to your neighbours. Wide open spaces to run around and have a play on the grass. Toilets were very well looked after and pleasant to use. Trevor and Maya were lovely hosts and very accommodating. We cannot recommend this site more, one of our favourites.

S

Shona

1 week ago

9 m travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Spirit of the Forest

Stunning location, immaculate property. 10/10 would recommend.

S

Shona

1 week ago

9 m Class A

With kids

1 night at Spirit of the Forest

Beautiful property, so well maintained and an excellent spot. Would have no hesitation recommending to other campers!

S

Sharon

1 week ago

Tent

2 nights at Spirit of the Forest

Beautiful beautiful spot in a national park, surrounded by all sorts of wildlife and the most friendly host! Huge space, so your campsites are all very spaced out.

M

Mia

1 week ago

5 m car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Spirit of the Forest

Trevor’s place was fantastic, so much space and you aren’t camping directly next to anyone. Trevor has firewood available for purchase at the property which is very convenient. Our golden retriever loved her leashed walks around the property, highly recommend!

J

Jose

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Spirit of the Forest

We have a great experience on this spot as becoming our next favourite place for camping , lots of space and easy to access with the fun of 4wd and short drives from shop and beach's around.

K

Kay

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Spirit of the Forest

Great campsite for our overnight stop on our way home. Wide open spaces with many sites to choose from. Firewood available to purchase and clean well maintained portaloo toilets available. Dog friendly (on leash) too.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best waterside 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.