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The best forest cabins near Shoal Bay

·
90% (677)

Top-rated campgrounds

Mt Nellinda Campsite

1. Mt Nellinda Campsite

98%
(617)
75km from Shoal Bay · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cooranbong, NSW
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

2. Tiona Holiday Park

88%
(29)
57km from Shoal Bay · 99 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tiona, NSW
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
Hakuna Matata Resort, Booral

3. Hakuna Matata Resort, Booral

96%
(53)
34km from Shoal Bay · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Booral, NSW
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
Carawirry Forest Escape

4. Carawirry Forest Escape

67%
(3)
61km from Shoal Bay · 5 sites · Lodging · Main Creek, NSW
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
Wombat's Forrest

5. Wombat's Forrest

100%
(15)
70km from Shoal Bay · 1 site · Lodging · Brunkerville, NSW
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
90% (677)

Top-rated campgrounds

Mt Nellinda Campsite

1. Mt Nellinda Campsite

98%
(617)
75km from Shoal Bay · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cooranbong, NSW
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

2. Tiona Holiday Park

88%
(29)
57km from Shoal Bay · 99 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tiona, NSW
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
Hakuna Matata Resort, Booral

3. Hakuna Matata Resort, Booral

96%
(53)
34km from Shoal Bay · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Booral, NSW
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
Carawirry Forest Escape

4. Carawirry Forest Escape

67%
(3)
61km from Shoal Bay · 5 sites · Lodging · Main Creek, NSW
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
Wombat's Forrest

5. Wombat's Forrest

100%
(15)
70km from Shoal Bay · 1 site · Lodging · Brunkerville, NSW
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

Stories from the community

Wombat's Forrest
S
Steve
1 week ago
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest
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!
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Wombat's Forrest
Avatar
Lisa
November 2025
With pets
Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest
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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Hakuna Matata Resort, Booral
K
Kris
October 2025
With kids
1 night at Hakuna Matata Resort, Booral
A beautiful quiet retreat in nature. Fireflies, campfire and a lovely spot to stop and unwind.
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Wombat's Forrest
L
Lisa
October 2025
With kids
4 nights at Wombat's Forrest
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.
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Wombat's Forrest
V
Victoria
September 2025
With pets
Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest
The cabin was peaceful, beautifully maintained, and the perfect cozy retreat surrounded by nature. Lucy is a great host 🙂
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Wombat's Forrest
H
Harry
September 2025
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest
Had a great time! The property was amazing and very private
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Carawirry Forest Escape
J
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!
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Wombat's Forrest
J
Jack
May 2025
With pets
Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest
Beautiful location, plenty of room across the property. Great place to relax and appreciate the simplicities of life. Thanks Lucy! 🙂
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Wombat's Forrest
C
Charise
April 2025
Group trip
3 nights at Wombat's Forrest
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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Wombat's Forrest
Avatar
Jane
April 2025
With kids
Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest
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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Carawirry Forest Escape
A
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!
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Wombat's Forrest
D
Daniel
March 2025
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest
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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Mt Nellinda Campsite
M
Martin
March 2025
With pets
Weekend Trip to Mt Nellinda Campsite
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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Wombat's Forrest
Avatar
Sara
January 2025
With pets
Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest
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.
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Mt Nellinda Campsite
J
Janet
January 2025
With pets
2 nights at Mt Nellinda Campsite
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!
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Wombat's Forrest
J
James
December 2024
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Wombat's Forrest
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,
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Mt Nellinda Campsite
N
Nalin
December 2024
With pets
Weekend Trip to Mt Nellinda Campsite
Lovely little house. Great host. Would recommend!!
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Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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