The best camping near Shoal Bay with surfing

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Pitch your tent in Shoal Bay and wake up minutes from the waves—there are over 100 camping spots here for surfers keen to catch a morning break. You’ll find sites a short walk from the beach, with plenty that welcome pets and allow campfires. Hot showers and easy access to hiking trails make it simple to rinse off the salt and explore inland after a session in the surf. Top picks like Abstobys Retreat (488 reviews), Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome (422 reviews), and La Cascina (221 reviews) are favourites for their easy beach access and wildlife-spotting. Nights average $45, but you’ll find basic spots from $25 if you’re packing light. Here, camping means swapping city noise for the sound of surf and birdlife—just remember to pack your board and a torch for those early starts.

95% (2.4K) 121 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Shoal Bay

One Mile Paradise

1. One Mile Paradise

98%
(59)
8.2km from Shoal Bay · 1 site · Tent, RV
Our property is located at One Mile Beach in Port Stephens, we are on 1 acre of land and are only offering 1 site so you will have plenty of privacy. Our property is child friendly with access to our large cubby house and trampoline available. We have two friendly, placid dogs on the property and we welcome other friendly pets to the property. We are close to plenty of wonderful attractions, activities including, Quad Biking, Koala Sanctuary, Camel Rides, Sting Ray Centre and 4WD on Birubi Beach (permit required). We are a 10 minute drive from Tomaree National Park which has plenty of beautiful walks including the summit of Mt Tomaree walk. One Mile Beach is a stunning beach which is perfect for families and surfing enthusiasts. It is bordered by a large park with BBQ and playground facilities. You can also access Bennett's Head lookout from here and enjoy the stunning views.. The area is surrounded by plenty of stunning beaches which offer amazing swimming and snorkeling opportunities. Port Stephens has a number of great cafes and restaurants you can enjoy. We look forward to welcoming you soon.
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Melaleuca at One Mile

2. Melaleuca at One Mile

94%
(120)
8.4km from Shoal Bay · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Relax and unwind at our Land For Wildlife property, Melaleuca @ One Mile a boutique hostel and car-free campground set on 6 acres of natural bushland in beautiful Port Stephens and only a 500m walk from the sparkling waters of magnificent One Mile Beach in Boat Harbour. It is located just past Anna Bay village which is 2.5km away, and the entrance to Worimi Conservation Lands the largest moving Sand Dune system in the Southern Hemisphere, where you can 4WD, swim, surf, or enjoy a camel or horse ride. We have off-street parking with the car park area alongside the only car-free campground in Port Stephens. There is a limited space for Kombi vans/Rooftop campers; no tents are allowed in this section. A large, open grassy area surrounded by tall melaleuca trees is perfect for pitching a swag or setting up a tent for camping. You are not limited to a small site; you can use as much space as you desire, and we ask that guests respect others and give each other some room. In addition to the camping area, there is a small off-street, shaded area for a small number of campervans. There are no powered sites, and sorry, but we do not take caravans. All guests have access to the facilities, including warm showers and toilets, a large Main building housing double kitchens with crockery and cutlery, toasters and kettles. There are indoor and outdoor covered seating areas, a free gas BBQ on the decked area, and free Wi-Fi. The Tomaree Peninsula has 26 beaches with numerous walking trails, including the recently upgraded Tomaree Coastal Walk and plenty of water activities including Dolphin and Whale watching cruises, diving, surfing, kayaking, fishing and snorkelling. Nelson Bay is 8 km from our site and the main tourist centre with plenty of restaurants and cafes, and there are more clubs and food options dotted around the peninsula. Over the Winter months, we have small fire drums for hire; you will need to bring your own firewood. All fires must be contained and raised off the ground.
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Iggys Haven @ Anna Bay

3. Iggys Haven @ Anna Bay

98%
(244)
10km from Shoal Bay · 40 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful 50 acres with natural wild life, Koalas, Kangaroos, Flying Squirrels, Kookaburras and much more. Located amongst 27 beaches (Samurai Nudist beach is one of them) around the Port Stephens peninsula with entry point to the largest sand dunes on the Eastern coast of Australia…stretching 41 kilometres. 4WD, camel rides or some great fishing at Birubi Beach NSW. Property is located off grid, but also 2 min from Anna Bay Tavern, 3 min drive to the nearest rock pools and some fine surf.
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Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

4. Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

98%
(744)
10km from Shoal Bay · 10 sites
We are a farm forestry property located in the middle of the north shore of Port Stephens. Two hours north of Hornsby. 1 hour north of Newcastle. 2 mins to Pindimar beach, 9 minutes to Coles and bottle shop, 11 minutes to surf beach Bennett Beach 12 minutes to Jimmy's Beach. Pets are welcome please pick up after them. Unfortunately, due to a recent incident. All dogs from now on must be on a leash at all times. The dangerous dog in question bit 4 people in less than 24 hours. Including my husband twice. You know your dog, But you cannot predict what another campers's dog is going to be like. Any dog on the NSW dangerous dogs list is absolutely not welcome here. Free use of fire pits and free firewoods. You will need to be split the logs yourself. axes and wheelbarrows are supplied. Hot showers and decent toilets, Good mobile phone signal. Two Communal Fridges .There is lots of space for campers. We have two sites with shade, four without. We suggest you bring a decent quality gazebo or equivalent. If you choose a non-shady site and then it's sunny, it is beyond our control. We are located on a dead end road, so very rare to have any traffic after 8pm. PLEASE NOTE: 1) We ONLY ALLOW ONE camper trailer or ONE caravan per site. No limit on number of tents. 2) IF You Have more than 3 vehicles/site please contact host before booking. 3) Depending on the weather on the day, we may have to limit the number of vehicles that can be parked adjacent to your campsite. 4) NO late night check in . If you are a group larger than two people, the check in time is between midday and sunset. Do not arrive after sunset. If in doubt call. 5) As the business name suggests (mountain) our property is on a hill. we are creating more level campsites. This year the weather has been terrible. From record rain to drought conditions in 3 months. Because of the earthworks there has been a bit of dust, which we have tried to control with grass seed and then no rain.... once each section of earthworks is done. Shade trees are being planted. But they are slow to grow. 6) Please check weather report a minimum of 7 days before you arrive and CANCEL your booking if you are not sure. 7) We cannot control the wind, the sun, rain, or lack of rain.
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Abstobys Retreat

5. Abstobys Retreat

97%
(848)
17km from Shoal Bay · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
I have a small private property with grass campsites by a tidal outlet to Port Stephens harbour. We do not offer secluded camp sites away from other people on large acreage. You can spend your days fishing, kayaking or enjoying Nelson Bay and surrounding areas and beaches which are only 15 minutes away. Guests have the use of a retreat shelter/fire place/BBQ area and wifi. Campers must try to be self contained bringing their own water, toilet and shower. Sorry, no caravans over 20ft. Suite solo travellers, couples wanting a quiet weekend and LGBT friendly. We do have available tank, rain water for drinking, a toilet and hot shower, microwave and free wifi available for those who cannot be totally self contained. Yes there are mozzies because you are near water, so bring repellent. Pets are welcome but must stay on a leash throughout your stay. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please BYO firewood. Fires are only permitted when there are no fire restrictions and in the designated fire pit and designated fire pit area for your own fire pit. Children 16 & under stay for free. Please notify host if you are bringing children. Please be careful and supervise young children near the water.
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Kez & Butch Bush Stay

6. Kez & Butch Bush Stay

97%
(36)
19km from Shoal Bay · 1 site
Caravans and RV's that are fully self contained eg: has a toilet are welcome. Sorry no tents. If you could please let us know your ETA that would be very much appreciated. We are only 10-15 mins to Nelson Bay centre. Beaches are just down the road also which includes Birubi Beach which goes all the way to Stockton and many more near by. Right next door is Murrays Brewery and Sunset in the Vines, very handy to be able to walk next door (a really short walk) and have dinner and a drink. Shark and Ray Centre is 10 mins drive also and then there is the Butterfly House and Shark and Ray Rescue Centre just behind us on Marsh Road. Whilst we offer a space on our front area next to the dam, it is only a small area but plenty of room for a large van or RV with room to put out your awning provided you park where we suggest. We supply a fire pit and wood if you would like, please let us know on arrival or before you arrive so we can have it ready, (this in not an extra it is included in the price). We can offer electricity for an extra cost of $10 per night if needed. The main house is at the top of the circular drive way, you will be camping (Approx 50 m from the house). Pictures show this. We endeavour to appreciate your privacy as much as possible.
Windy Banks

7. Windy Banks

93%
(65)
24km from Shoal Bay · 1 site · Tent, RV
WINDY BANKS Hidden away on the river, beyond the bush, you will find a very private secluded 7 acres which will give you the privacy and the interaction with nature you seek. Stunning sunsets over the river and the rustling of gum trees in the breeze will make you feel like you are the only one on earth. Birds will sing you a song as you cook up a meal over the fire. If your lucky you might even see the local dolphins have a play.
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Picnic table
Our Kindred Acres

8. Our Kindred Acres

100%
(129)
29km from Shoal Bay · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Our Kindred Acres, our 92-acre peaceful natural escape for kindred folk. As you enter the gates, there’s a feeling many guests talk about… like the land gently wraps her arms around you. This is a place to slow down, breathe out, and leave the outside world behind. 🌾 The Property Explore: 10 acres of cleared, lush open space 80+ acres of natural bushland, rainforest, and wilderness Walking and riding tracks (weather dependent) Whether you’re here for a night or a few days, it’s an ideal stop to rest your weary head in a safe, quiet, and secure environment. ✨ Stay Your Way We welcome: RVs, caravans, camper trailers, and tents We also offer on-site accommodation for those wanting a little extra comfort — including Allan's Place and GypsyBlu Studio, available to book right here through Hipcamp. 🍳 The Camp Kitchen At the heart of OKA is our much-loved “you beaut” camp kitchen, often described as the best guests have seen. A shared space to cook, connect, or simply sit and take it all in. Please leave it clean and tidy for the next kindred soul. 🌏 Location Perfectly positioned just 7km from Bulahdelah (sealed road to the gate), between Newcastle and Port Macquarie. Within easy reach: Myall Lakes Seal Rocks Forster & Port Stephens Gloucester region Beaches, lakes, mountains and bushland — all within a short drive. 🌿 The Experience This is not a caravan park. This is space, simplicity, and nature at her best. Birdsong mornings Evenings by the fire Wildlife, fresh air, and wide-open skies Or simply… doing nothing at all but breathe. ⚠️ Good to Know Self-sufficient camping preferred (water, power, toilet/shower facilities) Shared bathroom and power available on request Leave No Trace - Please take all rubbish with you Dogs by request only - Must be friendly and well-behaved Restrained on arrival (free-range chooks) - Please clean up after them Nearby NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service areas have pet restrictions — please check ahead 🔥 Fires & Property Guidelines Fires by arrangement only. Bring your own fire pit or use ours Firewood available: 20kg for $20. Our 10pm noise curfew is for the enjoyment of all guests. No EV charging available. Guests are to acknowledge Conditions of Entry prior to entering property which will be messaged.
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Electrical hookup
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StoneyCreek Sanctuary MERRIJIG Farm

9. StoneyCreek Sanctuary MERRIJIG Farm

98%
(20)
38km from Shoal Bay · 8 sites
Welcome to Stoney Creek Sanctuary ~ MERRIJIG Farm We are located at Boolambayte on the Mid North Coast of NSW Australia. We are co-creating a place for people to restore and connect to their health and wellbeing through connection to Mother Earth & Father Sky, connection to nature and the true nature within. We grow our own farm fresh chemical free food/herbs & medicine. Food is medicine. Syntropic Farming ~ Agroforestry ~ Permaculture ~ Ancient Intuitive Gardening inspired. Eco Consciousness is key. We have a leave no trace policy. What you bring here please take away with you. We have a community barn with lounge, workshop/dining space, gallery and library for visitors to enjoy. We have BBQ area, kitchen sink and outdoor cold water shower (sometimes hot) & living grey water system. Please use only eco friendly wash products or use ours. We have compost toilets or bring your own camp toilet if you choose. We're cradled in a valley and surrounded by national park with wildlife all around, including snakes, lizards, kangaroos, wallabies, an incredible array of bugs and birdlife. We are 10 mins Bulahdelah our nearest town, pristine Seal Rocks our nearest beach and we are very near to the Grandis, tallest tree in NSW. This is Worimi/Gathang Country ~ We acknowledge and pay respect to the traditional custodians of the land upon which we now live, we pay respect to elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all of the Original Caretakers around the world and the wisdom and knowledge they hold & share. Please be responsible for the energy you bring to this place. We're cradled in a valley and surrounded by national park with wildlife all around. We have parking for cars adjacent to camping area and walk in camping only, for safety and ecological reasons we keep cars off camping field. Mandala Garden Food Forest Farm tours and Permaculture & Art workshops are available throughout the year and upon request/booking during stay. Fires are ok, unless there is a ban on, bring your own fire bin and wood. All funds raised from visitors go back into the support of land management thus continuing to support our work here on the ground. Please see map below for easiest way to get here.
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Gumnuts Campsite

10. Gumnuts Campsite

98%
(20)
43km from Shoal Bay · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
A peaceful stay amongst the gum trees, greeting the morning with birdsong and falling asleep under the stars in the relaxing countryside of Bungwahl. Enjoy the convenience of camping a few minutes from the beautiful Myall Lake, 10 minutes to the stunning beaches and lighthouse at Seal Rocks, Smiths Lake, wallis Lake, Pacific Palms beaches and 30 minutes to Forster/Tuncurry. The level camping sites offer plenty of space to comfortably spread out, with lots of space for turning caravans, accommodating in wet weather. An easy, enjoyable camping area for self-contained campers (byo camp toilet, power and water). There is a local farm fresh self-serve shop conveniently located next door, 150m away, selling gourmet cheeses, milk, and meats or Bungwahl shop a few minutes away. Enjoy your stay at Gumnuts Campsite and rest, restore, and rejuvenate!
Camp Topi Power 5G Dogs

11. Camp Topi Power 5G Dogs

98%
(24)
46km from Shoal Bay · 1 site · Tent, RV
Quiet and peaceful property. 18 mins to Seal Rocks. On road from Sydney. Full Telstra and Optus reception. 240v power plug in. 12 AMP and 15 AMP. No toilet. Backing onto the Wallingat National Park. It's a great basecamp to explore this fantastic region, including Myall Lakes National Park, beauty white sandy beaches - some 4WD beaches - and popular Seal Rocks (18 minutes drive away). From your campsite, you'll enjoy 360-degree views of greenery and forested areas, and have access to the properties main dam and the billabong for walking and exploring. You will need to be self contained at the moment. Pick up supplies in Forster, Raymond Terrace etc. The site has good access, no problem for 2WDs to large caravans. Preferably you are self contained as we are on limited septic. The site is powered. Please note, if you wish to run air-con or heating, please discuss this with us first as there may be an additional charge for that. We only accept one booking at a time, so you are guaranteed the place to yourselves. And your well-behaved dogs are welcome too, so long as they don't chase the wildlife. Currently no water or toilet so you will need to be self contained.
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Electrical hookup
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La Cascina

12. La Cascina

98%
(543)
58km from Shoal Bay · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
*****No toilet or shower available at this listing. You must bring your own. PLEASE BE AWARE ENTRY TO THE PROPERTY IS STEEP. Entry is not ideal for large caravans or campervans. ***** We do not allow fires at the campsite between the 1st of October and the 1st of March. We apologise for any inconvenience to this rule. La Cascina is a small property on a hill surrounded by trees and bushland. There are two main camping areas which would suite tent and small to medium van/car camping. There is access to neighbouring bushland with nice short walks available in the area. Only 20 minutes by car to Newcastle CBD, 10 minutes by car to Redhead Beach and 5 minutes by car to Lake Macquarie. La Cascina is a great spot to stop overnight on a road trip or to get away for the weekend to relax. We have no toilets so please bring your own. The access to the property is a steep sealed driveway. Site 1 is an open site with plenty of shade. The area is flat. More suited to larger camping setups. This site is less private. There is vision of the neighbouring property and an overflow campsite 50 meters away. Site 2 is a more uneven surface area which is better for smaller vans and tents. Redhead Beach is the closest dog beach 10 minutes by car. Croudace Bay is a dog park on the lake which is 5 minutes by car. This is a family owned acreage that brings the best parts of environmental living with the benefits of being close to the coast and a city. A very long time ago it was the site of a quarry. The nature has returned and we are left with a beautiful forested acreage.
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Purple Pear Farm Camping & RV's

13. Purple Pear Farm Camping & RV's

94%
(83)
63km from Shoal Bay · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Purple Pear Farm is a working Permaculture Farm and Education center. We have a wide range of animals from pigs to cows and a pony and all types and numbers of poultry. If you are interested in the Permaculture or the animals you can join us for "chores" in extras. We aim to provide a restful site close to other activities on the farm and in the Maitland area such as festivals and farm field days at Tocal. Guidance for a pleasant stay at Purple Pear Farm. • Speed limit is 5 km per hour. There are animals and children that may be in the driveway. • Respect private spaces on the farm (residences) and with other campers. • No noise after 9pm. • No drugs. • We are a working farm – for your safety and ours, please stay within the camping areas including the car park and shower block. • Supervised tours of the farm only – you can book for a tour or children’s morning or evening chores via Hipcamp or come and see us. • If there are aspects of the facilities you do not like please give us the opportunity to correct prior to your leaving/reviewing. • We welcome any feedback that helps make the stay worthwhile and improvements for the future.
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Crockers Creek Hideaway Farm

14. Crockers Creek Hideaway Farm

98%
(81)
66km from Shoal Bay · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
300 acres of native forest and hobby farm to explore bushwalking , bird watching , mountain bike riding , horse riding trails ,access to Wang wauk river. Forster and beaches only a short drive away . If your a nature enthusiast come stay a night or two. Camp under the stars enjoy the camp fire among native trees relax and breathe it all in.
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Mistinthegumtrees BUDGET 2 GLAMPING

15. Mistinthegumtrees BUDGET 2 GLAMPING

98%
(358)
76km from Shoal Bay · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Some of our campsites/ Van sites DO NOT come with facilities. PLEASE READ THE SITE description carefully. We have 1 powered site that is power ONLY on (OUR DAM ) site. No toilets, showers, kitchen or pool access . You need to be fully self contained. In this area All other ECO AREAS have Hot Shower and flush toilets and some with a fire pit . Some Campsites are in our lovely small manicured bush garden setting. It's a level, grass/lawn shaded area. There are 4x 15 amp powered sites. Suitable for small quiet groups/ families. NOT suitable for loud partying. Hot shower and toilets The state forest is a short 10min drive away for bush walking, mountain biking and 4 wheel driving. Beach is 40 min drive away. We are located close to the Central Coast and Newcastle. (In Cooranbong ) Some of our camp sites have access to three flush toilets and only one shared shower, rubbish facilities and drinking water. (Campfires) we have 5 fire pits on some of our sites , fires are permitted during the winter months. We also have 2 x 4 star cabins which sleep 15 between them, they are listed separately on Hipcamp. However the guests from both the camp sites and the cabins have shared access to the pool and facilities. Which includes a large under cover patio area. FRIENDLY PETS welcome. On certain camp sites our small kitchen with microwave dishwasher and cook top and fridge may be used . Please just clean up any mess you make. For the next guest All cleaning products under sink. WE HAVE 2 DOGS that are people friendly., who love to meet new fury friends , they do have the run of our property . As our property has a lot of maintenance lawns /gardens ; we may use mowers blowers etc , we will possibly maintain between 10 am to 2 pm If needed. WE HAVE A LOT OF WALLABIES RUNNING AROUND PLEASE DRIVE TO 5 KILOMETRES
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The Heart of Port Stephens

16. The Heart of Port Stephens

76%
(101)
22km from Shoal Bay · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
"Our campsite in located in Bobs Farm -Port Stephens is a beautiful coastal town in New South Wales, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to surf, fish, swim, or just relax on the beach, Port Stephens has something for everyone. Don't miss out on visiting One Mile Beach, Tomaree Head, or the Stockton Sand Dunes during your stay. And if you're interested in marine life, be sure to check out Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters and the Port Stephens Shell Museum. Book your stay now and start exploring this amazing destination!"
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STAR GAZING BUBBLE HOTEL

17. STAR GAZING BUBBLE HOTEL

83%
(134)
69km from Shoal Bay · 2 sites
WELCOME to The Hunter Valley's very first and only star/moon gazing experience Bubble Hotel IN AUSTRALIA! Situated in Mount Vincent, NSW. Our Georgian home mansion sits on 5 acres of beautiful, clean, tidy, open land large enough to extend our hospitality and host 'romantics' seeking a getaway experience with a difference. A magical experience in safe, captivating and alluring surroundings. A 'hotel' room under the stars! You will enjoy the ceiling see-through wonder of a million stars within the safe, cozy and awe-inspiring polycarbonate (hail proof) glass. Perhaps drinks and snacks sitting on the timber deck by the pit fire and Fairly lights offered in our EXTRA 'Experiences'. (see EXTRAS for more info and costs). Enjoy walks around our property or head out on adventures. Go for a swim or a kayak at Lake Macquarie or explore the Watagans National Park. Perhaps Hot Air Ballooning, Helicopter Rides? We're at the doorstep to the Hunter Valley and lots of wineries/cheese tasting options. Your pet is welcome to join you; we just ask that you apply all pet hygiene appropriately. DISCLAIMER: Not everything in pics shown is included in basic price. Please know and understand your initial booking inclusions is the Standard Deluxe. Which includes everything you would expect in any standard hotel accommodation. Our 'extras' (The Experiences) are NOT included. e.g. PitFire, Fairylights, balloons, etc. These are 'ad-ons' you may or may not wish to purchase. We will text or email you further information re arrangements and costs. DISCLAIMER: Please know and understand, our prices are reflective of the fact that we are THE ONLY Star Gazing Bubble Hotel of it's kind IN AUSTRALIA. The next remotely the same is a plastic, blow up version in the Blue Mountains. We are continuously booked out as it is. If you're looking for standard accommodation, please feel free to look at the countless around. Our BubbleHotel is a unique and magical experience for special occasions, e.g. romantic, celebrations, proposal, anniversaries, birthdays, etc., or just once in a lifetime experience. https://www.instagram.com/thehuntervalleybubblehotel/?igsh=Z3E2cjNvYmQ0ZnZ3#
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Michaels Place

18. Michaels Place

100%
(6)
76km from Shoal Bay · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
location, location !! - Michaels Place is 18 acres but mostly bushland, about 5 acres grassed area. It's kind of hidden but central to everything in Lake Munmorah on the central coast . Frazer national park is minutes away. The lake is in walking distance as is bowling club , shopping centre. its off the pacific hwy for you to go whatever direction you wish to explore . its just me & my daughter, dogs , chickens & birdlife everywhere. help yourself to free range eggs ... cant beat it...
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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