93% (762) • 15 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Shoal Bay
Hakuna Matata Resort, Booral
1. Hakuna Matata Resort, Booral
96%
(57)
34km from Shoal Bay · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Hakuna Matata Resort!
Hakuna Matata means “no worries”, and that is what you will feel. Kieran is your host, and he will add to the facilities and general ambience of the property to make sure that your stay is beyond your expectations. He endeavours to ensure you leave with a memorable experience and a desire to return.
Hakuna Matata Resort offers glamping, camping in your own tents or in supplied ready-made tents, and even sites where you can park your own van or camper trailer. But there is also the 'wow' factor that pictures can't even give you. BUT overall, the intent is that you have an adventure that only the Aussie bush can provide ... simple but done well!
The 144 acres of the Hakuna Matata resort are situated 2.5 hours north of Sydney and 1 hour NW of Newcastle. Relax, unwind, and get away from it all. Give your mind the refreshment boost it craves in serene, native surroundings.
Hakuna Matata Resort Facilities:
• Make your own mouth-watering pizzas, scrumptious salads, BBQ meals
• Sleep to the sounds of the bush; the birds, the wind in the trees, the animals
• Hammocks and reading areas
• Solar-powered lighting, outdoor cool showers, toilets at various places
• Wake up to the scenic bush panorama
• Test your fitness on the assault course or stroll through the rainforest tracks
• Unique venue for bush parties for large groups up to 100 persons
• Activities include pedalboat, rowboat, swimming, surf skis, bushwalks, darts, quoits, 20 station assault course, bonfires, reading, ball games, chess and checkerboard
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$327
/ night
Minimbah Fishing Lodge
2. Minimbah Fishing Lodge
100%
(27)
63km from Shoal Bay · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Unique riverside camping and caravan sites, just 12 minutes off the Pacific Highway at Nabiac (Mid North Coast NSW). Our private boat ramp and jetty provide access to the Coolongolook, Wang Wauk, and Wallingat Rivers, which lead into Wallis Lake and Forster — making our site perfect for boating and fishing enthusiasts. River and ocean charters for fishing or leisure can be booked in advance. Exclusive campground bookings are also available for large groups and events.
Also available are 8 peaceful, lodge-style rooms that sleep 4 (double bed and two single bunks) with ensuites. A communal kitchen, common room, BBQ, and fire pit make our lodge accommodation ideal for group bookings such as reunions, clubs, retreats, and weddings. Lodge rooms can only be booked by contacting Minimbah Fishing Lodge directly — contact details are on our website.
School holiday special: 7 nights for the price of 5 when booking lodge rooms.
Centrally located for exploring the Great Lakes, Barrington, and Manning tourist regions.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$1838
/ night
Wombat's Forrest
3. Wombat's Forrest
100%
(17)
70km from Shoal Bay · 1 site
Wombat's Forrest is a 30 acre off grid property of bluegum forest and rainforest running either side of Brunkerville creek.
Booking includes 2 cabins and an equipped campsite. You will have access to the entire property during your stay, complete privacy.
Staying here, you are completely hidden from any other man made structure, immersed in nature. The property is located less than 2 hours from Sydney, 20 mins from Cessnock and the Hunter wineries, adjacent to Sugarloaf Conservation area.
You'll love the morning and evening birdsong and be surrounded by the colour green by day. At night, be lulled by the music of the froggy symphonies, watch the moon rise over the forrest, and being mesmerised by the warmth and dancing light of a fire. Wallabies visit at dusk and dawn and a Koala has been heard calling at night.
A 1km drive from the main road leads to the open living space. There are two cabins, just within sight of each other, a campsite with an outdoor kitchen shed and a large oval lawn.
The Sky Cabin (blue) has a very comfortable queen size bed, a large deck, bbq, composting toilet, small equipped kitchen, solar lighting, hot and cold running water, an outdoor hot shower, and slow combustion fireplace inside.
The Earth Cabin has an exceptionally comfortable queen size bed, deck, composting toilet, solar lighting, a slow combustion fireplace inside and running water outside a short distance away.
If you want to include Belle tents in your booking rather than bring your own you have the option to add those to your booking and we will set them up for you with lighting included, though you will need to BYO beds and bedding.
The campsite adjacent to the shed has running water, an outdoor shower and outdoor toilet.
The property has short (circular) walks through the bush, and access to Sugarloaf Conservation area (with further walks and access to the Great North Walk). But its the ideal place to just chill.
Access from Brunkerville, keys can be picked up from a lockbox at the property gate.
Find us on instagram at @wombatsforrest for more photos and updates.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$726
/ night
Mt Nellinda Campsite
4. Mt Nellinda Campsite
98%
(649)
75km from Shoal Bay · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The property rests on the shoulder on Mt Nellinda on nineteen hectares of land, there are one large Greenhouse where we grow potted flowers and some veggies, also several large dams which are used for irrigation and act as a Sanctury for our geese, best of all are the views. The perfect spot for relaxing next to a fire and listening to the Frogs and nightlife and waking to the sounds of kookaburras and bird life, Lots of Rock Wallabies in the evenings and early mornings.
Dog friendly, no leads required, portable toilets in the multiple Camp site 1 and an older style toilet in the camping area 2, fresh water available only next to the portable toilets camping area 1. also included is a camp kitchen with fridge, kettle microwave etc for your convenience. Check with host regarding campfires.
Please DO NOT invite friends and relatives to your campsite without first notifying Host. (little curtesy goes a long way)
Group bookings accepted with prior notice to save camping areas.
Range of six camping areas.
CAMP 1 allows up to 14 or more campsites to include caravans, motor homes, large or small. tents etc. with flat and slightly flat areas and close to the roadway dead end street.
CAMP 2 allows up to eight or more smaller caravans tents rooftops etc also with some flatter areas.
CAMP 3 is a private in the bush area and will cater for five or so rooftops tents, difficult for caravans or large vehicles.
CAMP 4 smaller possibly two tents or rooftops secluded in the bush.
CAMP 5 similar to camp 3 in the bush and completely private great for a get together with friends.
CAMP 6 is the very top of the mountain with a long wide strip of cleared area with bush on both sides and a window at the end to the valley below, very private, must be fully contained and would suit most vehicles, may lose traction if pulling a heavy caravan or trailer.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$265
/ night
Tiona Holiday Park
5. Tiona Holiday Park
89%
(36)
57km from Shoal Bay · 99 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Stay in sites and cabins nestled between the white sands of Seven Mile Beach, the cabbage tree palm-studded shores of Wallis Lake and the spectacular Booti Booti National Park.
Find your space at the pet-friendly Tiona Holiday Park, whether you are camping, caravanning or need a cabin for the night, and only 15 minutes from Forster. All of our sites and cabins are family friendly, pet friendly, and the perfect space from which to relax, explore, connect or play – plus you can have a campfire* (in season)!
Lush native rainforest style landscaping allows you to embrace the natural feel of the park, whilst enjoying a stay your style. Beachfront eco style cabins and tents and lakeside spacious camping and caravan sites for adventurers and families.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$77
/ night
Carawirry Forest Escape
6. Carawirry Forest Escape
75%
(4)
61km from Shoal Bay · 5 sites
Carawirry’s cabin accommodation combine luxury with rustic charm. Guests can choose between The Treehouse, Gum Leaf Cabin, and The Cottage, all featuring comfortable furnishings, outdoor baths, and cosy fireplaces for the cooler months, or Tathra House for larger groups who are looking for a plunge pool and plenty of space. Many visitors rave about the opportunity to disconnect, as there’s limited mobile reception—though Wi-Fi is available for those who need it.
Top Experiences:
Forest Walks and Wildlife: Explore the Waterfall Track, just one of approx 10km of trails on the property, where you can discover hidden waterfalls and natural swimming holes. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, possums, and the resident kookaburras, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
Outdoor Baths: One of the standout features is the alfresco bath experience. Imagine soaking in warm water, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the forest—a guest favourite for relaxation.
Gourmet Local Produce: Guests can indulge in locally sourced grazing boxes and breakfast hampers. Enjoy farm-fresh eggs, Hunter Valley cheeses, and sourdough bread either in front of a crackling fire or while soaking in the forest views from your deck.
Whether you’re there for adventure or relaxation, Carawirry Forest Escape offers a unique blend of comfort and nature, making it an unforgettable destination for those looking to reconnect with the Australian wilderness.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
AU$531
/ night
93% (762) • 15 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Shoal Bay
Hakuna Matata Resort, Booral
1. Hakuna Matata Resort, Booral
96%
(57)
34km from Shoal Bay · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Hakuna Matata Resort!
Hakuna Matata means “no worries”, and that is what you will feel. Kieran is your host, and he will add to the facilities and general ambience of the property to make sure that your stay is beyond your expectations. He endeavours to ensure you leave with a memorable experience and a desire to return.
Hakuna Matata Resort offers glamping, camping in your own tents or in supplied ready-made tents, and even sites where you can park your own van or camper trailer. But there is also the 'wow' factor that pictures can't even give you. BUT overall, the intent is that you have an adventure that only the Aussie bush can provide ... simple but done well!
The 144 acres of the Hakuna Matata resort are situated 2.5 hours north of Sydney and 1 hour NW of Newcastle. Relax, unwind, and get away from it all. Give your mind the refreshment boost it craves in serene, native surroundings.
Hakuna Matata Resort Facilities:
• Make your own mouth-watering pizzas, scrumptious salads, BBQ meals
• Sleep to the sounds of the bush; the birds, the wind in the trees, the animals
• Hammocks and reading areas
• Solar-powered lighting, outdoor cool showers, toilets at various places
• Wake up to the scenic bush panorama
• Test your fitness on the assault course or stroll through the rainforest tracks
• Unique venue for bush parties for large groups up to 100 persons
• Activities include pedalboat, rowboat, swimming, surf skis, bushwalks, darts, quoits, 20 station assault course, bonfires, reading, ball games, chess and checkerboard
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$327
/ night
Minimbah Fishing Lodge
2. Minimbah Fishing Lodge
100%
(27)
63km from Shoal Bay · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Unique riverside camping and caravan sites, just 12 minutes off the Pacific Highway at Nabiac (Mid North Coast NSW). Our private boat ramp and jetty provide access to the Coolongolook, Wang Wauk, and Wallingat Rivers, which lead into Wallis Lake and Forster — making our site perfect for boating and fishing enthusiasts. River and ocean charters for fishing or leisure can be booked in advance. Exclusive campground bookings are also available for large groups and events.
Also available are 8 peaceful, lodge-style rooms that sleep 4 (double bed and two single bunks) with ensuites. A communal kitchen, common room, BBQ, and fire pit make our lodge accommodation ideal for group bookings such as reunions, clubs, retreats, and weddings. Lodge rooms can only be booked by contacting Minimbah Fishing Lodge directly — contact details are on our website.
School holiday special: 7 nights for the price of 5 when booking lodge rooms.
Centrally located for exploring the Great Lakes, Barrington, and Manning tourist regions.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$1838
/ night
Wombat's Forrest
3. Wombat's Forrest
100%
(17)
70km from Shoal Bay · 1 site
Wombat's Forrest is a 30 acre off grid property of bluegum forest and rainforest running either side of Brunkerville creek.
Booking includes 2 cabins and an equipped campsite. You will have access to the entire property during your stay, complete privacy.
Staying here, you are completely hidden from any other man made structure, immersed in nature. The property is located less than 2 hours from Sydney, 20 mins from Cessnock and the Hunter wineries, adjacent to Sugarloaf Conservation area.
You'll love the morning and evening birdsong and be surrounded by the colour green by day. At night, be lulled by the music of the froggy symphonies, watch the moon rise over the forrest, and being mesmerised by the warmth and dancing light of a fire. Wallabies visit at dusk and dawn and a Koala has been heard calling at night.
A 1km drive from the main road leads to the open living space. There are two cabins, just within sight of each other, a campsite with an outdoor kitchen shed and a large oval lawn.
The Sky Cabin (blue) has a very comfortable queen size bed, a large deck, bbq, composting toilet, small equipped kitchen, solar lighting, hot and cold running water, an outdoor hot shower, and slow combustion fireplace inside.
The Earth Cabin has an exceptionally comfortable queen size bed, deck, composting toilet, solar lighting, a slow combustion fireplace inside and running water outside a short distance away.
If you want to include Belle tents in your booking rather than bring your own you have the option to add those to your booking and we will set them up for you with lighting included, though you will need to BYO beds and bedding.
The campsite adjacent to the shed has running water, an outdoor shower and outdoor toilet.
The property has short (circular) walks through the bush, and access to Sugarloaf Conservation area (with further walks and access to the Great North Walk). But its the ideal place to just chill.
Access from Brunkerville, keys can be picked up from a lockbox at the property gate.
Find us on instagram at @wombatsforrest for more photos and updates.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$726
/ night
Mt Nellinda Campsite
4. Mt Nellinda Campsite
98%
(649)
75km from Shoal Bay · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The property rests on the shoulder on Mt Nellinda on nineteen hectares of land, there are one large Greenhouse where we grow potted flowers and some veggies, also several large dams which are used for irrigation and act as a Sanctury for our geese, best of all are the views. The perfect spot for relaxing next to a fire and listening to the Frogs and nightlife and waking to the sounds of kookaburras and bird life, Lots of Rock Wallabies in the evenings and early mornings.
Dog friendly, no leads required, portable toilets in the multiple Camp site 1 and an older style toilet in the camping area 2, fresh water available only next to the portable toilets camping area 1. also included is a camp kitchen with fridge, kettle microwave etc for your convenience. Check with host regarding campfires.
Please DO NOT invite friends and relatives to your campsite without first notifying Host. (little curtesy goes a long way)
Group bookings accepted with prior notice to save camping areas.
Range of six camping areas.
CAMP 1 allows up to 14 or more campsites to include caravans, motor homes, large or small. tents etc. with flat and slightly flat areas and close to the roadway dead end street.
CAMP 2 allows up to eight or more smaller caravans tents rooftops etc also with some flatter areas.
CAMP 3 is a private in the bush area and will cater for five or so rooftops tents, difficult for caravans or large vehicles.
CAMP 4 smaller possibly two tents or rooftops secluded in the bush.
CAMP 5 similar to camp 3 in the bush and completely private great for a get together with friends.
CAMP 6 is the very top of the mountain with a long wide strip of cleared area with bush on both sides and a window at the end to the valley below, very private, must be fully contained and would suit most vehicles, may lose traction if pulling a heavy caravan or trailer.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$265
/ night
Tiona Holiday Park
5. Tiona Holiday Park
89%
(36)
57km from Shoal Bay · 99 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Stay in sites and cabins nestled between the white sands of Seven Mile Beach, the cabbage tree palm-studded shores of Wallis Lake and the spectacular Booti Booti National Park.
Find your space at the pet-friendly Tiona Holiday Park, whether you are camping, caravanning or need a cabin for the night, and only 15 minutes from Forster. All of our sites and cabins are family friendly, pet friendly, and the perfect space from which to relax, explore, connect or play – plus you can have a campfire* (in season)!
Lush native rainforest style landscaping allows you to embrace the natural feel of the park, whilst enjoying a stay your style. Beachfront eco style cabins and tents and lakeside spacious camping and caravan sites for adventurers and families.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$77
/ night
Carawirry Forest Escape
6. Carawirry Forest Escape
75%
(4)
61km from Shoal Bay · 5 sites
Carawirry’s cabin accommodation combine luxury with rustic charm. Guests can choose between The Treehouse, Gum Leaf Cabin, and The Cottage, all featuring comfortable furnishings, outdoor baths, and cosy fireplaces for the cooler months, or Tathra House for larger groups who are looking for a plunge pool and plenty of space. Many visitors rave about the opportunity to disconnect, as there’s limited mobile reception—though Wi-Fi is available for those who need it.
Top Experiences:
Forest Walks and Wildlife: Explore the Waterfall Track, just one of approx 10km of trails on the property, where you can discover hidden waterfalls and natural swimming holes. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, possums, and the resident kookaburras, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
Outdoor Baths: One of the standout features is the alfresco bath experience. Imagine soaking in warm water, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the forest—a guest favourite for relaxation.
Gourmet Local Produce: Guests can indulge in locally sourced grazing boxes and breakfast hampers. Enjoy farm-fresh eggs, Hunter Valley cheeses, and sourdough bread either in front of a crackling fire or while soaking in the forest views from your deck.
Whether you’re there for adventure or relaxation, Carawirry Forest Escape offers a unique blend of comfort and nature, making it an unforgettable destination for those looking to reconnect with the Australian wilderness.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
AU$531
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Leonardo
January 2026
Group trip
A wonderful place surrounded by nature, very cozy and perfect for disconnecting from daily life. The cabins are comfortable, very well equipped, and have everything needed for a peaceful and enjoyable stay. Being able to enjoy the fire pit makes the experience even more special and relaxing.
It is definitely an ideal place to unwind or for a weekend getaway. I highly recommend it and would absolutely love to come back.
See more
S
Samuel
January 2026
1 night at Hakuna Matata Resort, Booral
We had a relaxing 2 nights in the cabin. Cabin was clean and comfy bed.
There is also an outdoor kitchen area with BBQ, pizza oven ,fridge etc.
A couch to lie down also.
Firepit and outdoor shower (cold).
The towns of Stroud and Dungog are a short drive away. Which we visited.
The hosts are great, Keiran took us up to cabin and gave all info.
Highly recommended.
See more
C
Cheye
January 2026
With kids
Absolutely incredible location. Everything about the tree house was made with comfort and pure relaxation. The kangaroos that visit you are so sweet and was the possum. Lizards and birds, just beautiful. Heather, you have made that Treehouse a home for any to come, right down to the cutlery and beautiful bedding. Thankyou for designing a stunning tranquil home we have foreever remember this holiday, will be sure to be back again and again!
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Ryu
December 2025
Group trip
The Property was amazing and my friends and I had an amazing time. The place had so many things already there so we could come relatively light with just couple things extra. We enjoyed time around the campfire and exploring the vicinity. Lucy had left one of the belle tents up for us which was great because we needed an extra space. The lights around the property lit up nicely at night and having hot showers and hot water to wash was so good to have. 100% recommend to go and we will be there again.
See moreS
Steve
December 2025
Group trip
Fantastic place with friendly and helpful owners - everything's been thought of. The 2 cabins are well equiped, clean and very comfortable. There's several different places set up in the shade with seating, fireplaces and sinks/taps. Lots of good camping sites.
Highly recommended - we'll be back!
See more
Lisa
November 2025
With pets
Wombat Forest was the perfect get away for our 2 families. Camping for the kids & glamping for the adults.
The place is beautifully set up, with lots of space for families to come together around the large fire pit or disappear into a secluded corner to chill.
Perfect stay. Thank you Lucy.
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K
Kris
October 2025
With kids
A beautiful quiet retreat in nature.
Fireflies, campfire and a lovely spot to stop and unwind.
See moreL
Lisa
October 2025
With kids
I wish we didn’t need to leave a review- as then we could have this remaining a secret. But that would be mean because it is super lovely and we are thankful for Lucy and family- for their amazing property. Quiet, private, thoughtful, beautiful. Birds galore, lovely detail and simplicity.
Really really loved our stay.
See moreV
Victoria
September 2025
With pets
The cabin was peaceful, beautifully maintained, and the perfect cozy retreat surrounded by nature. Lucy is a great host 🙂
See moreH
Harry
September 2025
Group trip
Had a great time! The property was amazing and very private
See moreJ
Jessica
July 2025
1 night at Carawirry Forest Escape
Loved it! The treehouse was so cosy and peaceful, it was beautiful to be surrounded by bushland and wildlife. The cabin was well equipped with what need and the bed was super comfy!
Make sure to take a long soak in the outdoor bath, this was my favourite part of the stay and so relaxing!
See moreJ
Jack
May 2025
With pets
Beautiful location, plenty of room across the property. Great place to relax and appreciate the simplicities of life. Thanks Lucy! 🙂
See moreC
Charise
April 2025
Group trip
We absolutely loved our stay here. The location makes you feel like you are in a tropical rainforest and is completely private. The amenities for the sky cabin was lovely with a well equipped kitchen and hot shower. The place was ideal for groups and families with large areas to bond around a fireplace and location is a short drive away to activities in the Lake Macquarie and Hunter Valley. Thanks for our stay and we would definitely stay again.
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Jane
April 2025
With kids
Wombat's is beautiful.
Lucy has thought of everything. We took the option to have 3 bell tents. They are lovely and the lights around the tents were gorgeous. The cabins are wonderful the bed we slept in was more comfortable than out bed at home.
The option of the cut firewood and the fact that the fire pit were all ready to go. Amazing Easter weekend. We had a great time. You feel like you are in the middle of nowhere. Many lovely meals around the fire. We will be back. Thank you Lucy.
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Adelaide
March 2025
3 nights at Carawirry Forest Escape
The cottage was a stunning place to spend the weekend even though it rained so we didn’t get to explore as much of the bush as we would have liked. Loved the maps which greeted us with so many surprising options to explore. We walked lyrebird and yowie tracks which were challenging but very rewarding. No lyrebird sightings this time round but definitely worth the climb up the side of the mountain. Had a lovely time chilling with the walleroos in the outdoor tub after that one!
See moreD
Daniel
March 2025
Group trip
We had an amazing stay at Lucy’s land! Lucy is a fantastic host—she replies promptly and is very welcoming. The setup was perfect for experiencing both the great outdoors and the comfort of a cozy cabin at night. Having the land to ourselves for the week made it feel like our own little retreat, with plenty of space to relax and explore. The property itself is beautiful, offering a great mix of nature and convenience. Whether you're looking to camp under the stars or unwind in a comfortable home, this spot has the best of both worlds. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a peaceful getaway!
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M
Martin
March 2025
With pets
We spent one night in the Lil House. Everything was well prepared and equipped. Even wood in the firepit for the evening. We were surprised that we even had eggs, butter, bread, some vegetables, fruits, coffee, milk and many other things to prepare our own breakfast. Our dog was happy to run around unleashed and we had a great time.
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Sara
January 2025
With pets
Loved camping here with a group of friends, it was perfect for those with kids and wanted a cabin as well as for those of us with tent set ups.
The camp kitchen was well stocked and a perfect spot it relax. There are multiple fire pits, camping spots and loads of room for kids and dogs to play.
Would highly recommend.
See moreJ
Janet
January 2025
With pets
Beautiful, cosy and comfy cabin with everything you need with a touch of luxury! Great views from the deck and a great piece of land. We didn't want to leave. Highly recommended!
See moreJ
James
December 2024
Group trip
Lucy’s communication was exemplary. She was very forthright about flexibility or cancellation given the weather and cicadas - but these were enough to put us off at all, and the property was a magic experience. We could feel how special this place is, and felt privelaged to be able to experience it,
See more
