The best family-friendly glamping near South West Rocks, New South Wales

Strung out along the shores of Horseshoe Bay at the mouth of the Macleay River, South West Rocks is all about long lazy days in the sun, splashing about in the water, surfing, fishing, and hiking cliff-top walking trails. A perennial favourite with families, it’s very much a get-back-to-nature type of place, with several holiday parks offering camping and glamping experiences, including a beachfront caravan park in the middle of town. The campsites at nearby Arakoon National Park also overlook the sea. Explore the sandstone ruins of Trial Bay Gaol, watch the sunrise from Smoky Cape Lighthouse, or dive with rare grey nurse sharks at Fish Rock Cave, one of the longest ocean cave dives in Australia. If you tire of the sun and sand, there’s plenty of rainforest nearby to explore as well.

97% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Strung out along the shores of Horseshoe Bay at the mouth of the Macleay River, South West Rocks is all about long lazy days in the sun, splashing about in the water, surfing, fishing, and hiking cliff-top walking trails. A perennial favourite with families, it’s very much a get-back-to-nature type of place, with several holiday parks offering camping and glamping experiences, including a beachfront caravan park in the middle of town. The campsites at nearby Arakoon National Park also overlook the sea. Explore the sandstone ruins of Trial Bay Gaol, watch the sunrise from Smoky Cape Lighthouse, or dive with rare grey nurse sharks at Fish Rock Cave, one of the longest ocean cave dives in Australia. If you tire of the sun and sand, there’s plenty of rainforest nearby to explore as well.

97% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Oasis of Hope

97%

(535)

70km from South West Rocks · 68 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Upper Orara, NSW

Nested in the Coffs Harbour hinterland is this stunning 250 acre property, offering both powered and unpowered site options and great facilties over 2 campsites. Wayper Creek flows though the property, and there are manicured lawns, a large toilet and shower block with hot showers, a caravan dump point, a large BBQ shelter, firepit, and lots of lovely spots to enjoy the plethora of wildlife. During holiday season we have a second campsite opened, which has lovely amenities, too. We regularly have abseilers come down our creek, as a set of 7 waterfalls is only a 60-minute hike through the creek away. It is a stunning place for relaxation. With limited phone reception. Pets are welcome too.

2. Yarralen Retreat

93%

(442)

12km from South West Rocks · 47 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Yarrahapinni, NSW

Yarralen is a peaceful 40-acre bush retreat on the Mid-North Coast of NSW, sitting under Mt Yarrahapinni and surrounded by National Parks. We’re halfway between Sydney and Brisbane and close to pristine beaches including Grassy Head, Scotts Head and the Macleay River. Pet fees apply: $10 for campsites, $15 for lodgings (vans and units). We offer a magical bush escape with modern facilities and a range of accommodation: Campgrounds * Eclectic Bush Haven Campground: Family-friendly camping (kids under 12 camp free) with access to the fully equipped camp kitchen, toilets, showers and electricity * Yarralen Retreat Campground: Secluded area for fully self-contained off-road campers. A 4WD is needed for access (IMPORTANT: Campers who book Yarralen Retreat Camp Ground 2 DO NOT have access to the camp kitchen and amenities). Lodging * Butterfly and Blue Van: Our Butterfly and Blue Van are renovated caravans offering cosy, comfortable stays surrounded by nature. * Roos Rest: Cosy fully equipped 2 Bedroom home tucked inside Yarralen Retreat, surrounded by peaceful bushland * Unit 1 and Unit 2: Offer simple, comfortable accomodation surrounded by peaceful bushland. *Eco Bush Cabins: Our Ruby Red, Cream Leo and Blue Ivy Cabins offer cosy, nature filled stays with rustic charm and peaceful surrounds. Entire Property Hire Your Private Bush Retreat: Hire the entire 40-acre Yarralen Retreat for your group and enjoy complete privacy, peaceful bush surrounds, and full access to all cabins, vans, campsites and to all facilities - including the magnesium pool, yoga deck, sauna, camp kitchen and rustic bush bath house - perfect for retreats, gatherings, and special events. Explore eclectic artworks, forest pathways, water lilies and roaming peacocks. Campsites sit on grassed areas surrounded by tall shade trees. Enjoy the Magnesium pool, infra-red sauna, and cosy campfires at night (BYO Firewood). Entry to Eclectic Bush Haven main camping area is via an asphalt driveway suitable for all vehicles. A 4WD is required for Yarralen Retreat Campground 2. Please use tank water sparingly and bring your own drinking water. We look forward to welcoming you!

3. Footprints in Style

97%

(601)

15km from South West Rocks · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Eungai Rail, NSW

Please note: Lucy is off hiking and fishing 🎣 in NZ recharging her energy for a fabulous summer 🌺 of fun at footprints 👣 in style She will respond to any messages on her return Dec 6 Hugs and positivity lucy 🎩💃🏻❤️👣 Relax under the big shady fig tree, pitch your tent by the creek and swim in the massive spring-fed lake which covers five acres and never runs dry. This 300-acre bamboo property gives you total tranquillity in nature. There are boats and boards to use, and an island kingdom for kids to play. Kiss and release fishing (Perch) in the awesome lake, which is also great for swimming, and building bamboo rafts. Adventures awaits! Basic, off-grid camp kitchen, big weatherproof wedding venue space to hire, posh dunnies (composting toilets), and a hot water shower shack with a magic view of the lake! There is plenty of shade and we're dog-friendly. Well-behaved dogs are welcome off-lead. Endless space, and plenty of privacy, campers can choose a spot when they get here. A bundle of firewood is provided on arrival, and you're welcome to bring more with you if you need. Price is per person per night, kids under 16 half price. Under 5 stay free so don't include them in booking numbers. Join us for cocktail hour at the brand-new Tiki bar! BYO drinks! We also have a brand-new sauna that campers are welcome to enjoy! All this, close to stunning beaches and cute cafes. Leave only footprints 👣 make awesome memories. NOTE: We currently only advertise availability three months in advance. If you are interested in dates outside this booking window, please still send us an enquiry and we may be able to assist you.

4. Little Pine Creek Farm Valery

97%

(124)

53km from South West Rocks · 51 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Valery, NSW

Close to the Promised Lands and Crystal-Clear Swimming Holes A tranquil campsite nestled in the stunning countryside of Valery, Bellingen Shire. Surrounded by rainforest and breathtaking mountain views, our property is the perfect base for relaxation or adventure. 📍 Prime Location Situated between the popular riverside market town of Bellingen and the seaside resort of Urunga . Easy day trips to Dorrigo National Park for rainforest walks and waterfalls. 🏕️ Diverse Campsites — Choose Your Spot Shady forest retreats under towering trees Sun-soaked sites by the dam Creekside serenity with abundant birdlife Hilltop viewpoints with mountain panoramas 🚙 4WD required to access all areas. 🐨 Wildlife and Nature Borders Bongil Bongil National Park thriving Koala Habitat. Home to koalas, wallabies, monitor lizards, echidnas, and a wide range of native birds including kookaburras, kingfishers, honeyeaters, king parrots, galahs, and yellow-tailed black cockatoos Private bushwalking trails through rainforest and koala habitats Outdoor Adventures 🌊 Swim and Explore Crystal-clear pools at Never Never Creek Waterfalls and rainforest walks in Dorrigo 🐦 Birdwatching Paradise Spot vibrant native species across the property 🚵 Active Fun Fishing in nearby rivers Kayaking from Bellingen Mountain biking in Pine Creek Forest Family Fun 👧 For Kids , Swim in lagoons at Mylstom Jetty-jumping fun Nearby Butterfly House, Bonville and Big Banana, Coffs Harbour 👦 For Teens and Adventurers Mountain biking at Cows With Guns Kayaking the Bellinger River 🌌 For Everyone Stargazing under clear night skies Campfire evenings with friends and family Camper Essentials 🚙 4WD access recommended (2WD OK in dry conditions) 🐨 Respect wildlife and protect koala habitats 🌏 Leave no trace — help keep our land pristine ✨ Reconnect with nature at Little Pine Creek Farm — where adventure meets tranquility.

5. Ingenia Holidays South West Rocks

100%

(17)

0.8km from South West Rocks · 157 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · South West Rocks, NSW

The South West Rocks coastline might be a mecca for surfers but there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the costal life on the New South Wales Mid-North Coast. Nestled on the banks of Back Creek, a scenic tidal waterway, Ingenia Holidays South West Rocks is the perfect basecamp for both water sports lovers and anglers, with the Macleay River Boat Ramp just two kilometers from the holiday park grounds. Enjoy a sleep-under-the-stars experience and pitch the tent or put down the trailer legs in one of the 150 caravan and camping powered and unpowered sites, which include waterfront and ensuite sites. If you prefer the creature comforts of home, you can choose a cabin or villa – from a studio cabin to a three-bedroom deluxe villa. For water-based activities during your stay, book a surfing lesson, hire a stand-up paddle board, don a snorkel mask or book a fishing charter from the reception of Ingenia Holidays South West Rocks. Active holiday makers will want to pack walking shoes to explore the nearby walking trails of Hat Head National Park, navigating through Little Bay, Smoky Cape and Captain Cook’s Lookout. Learn about the local region with a tour of Trial Bay Goal or stroll the local town center, which is only a short one kilometer walk from the holiday park.

6. Hyland Hideaways

96%

(25)

31km from South West Rocks · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Valla Beach, NSW

Escape to our serene 25-acre retreat nestled beside the tranquil Deep Creek River, just a short 2km stroll from the stunning Valla Beach. Settle in on our sprawling grassy grounds, perfect for caravans, tents, or swags, with a cozy Gazebo offering hot showers and power. Relax around the glass-topped dining table or snuggle up by the crackling fireplace. Launch your aquatic adventures from our private boat ramp or explore the nearby state forest. Anglers will love the serene fishing spots along the river, while nature lovers can explore the tranquil forest trails, relax by the water’s edge, and enjoy the company of our friendly dogs amidst the peaceful surroundings. Unwind, recharge, and make memories in this nature-filled haven!

Stories from the community

E

Elli

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Footprints in Style

Lucy’s place was incredible. The facilities were so clean and well thought out. the hot shower was amazing after swimming in the lake, and having the sauna was such a luxury touch. The whole property feels peaceful and private, and we had everything we needed for a really relaxing weekend. Lucy was so friendly and helpful, and made the whole stay feel easy and welcoming. Would 100% come back.

J

Jessica

July 2025

With pets

3 nights at Ingenia Holidays South West Rocks

Nice location, nice to be able to take my dog with us. 10 min walk to cafes and dog beach.

E

Ezra

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Hyland Hideaways

Unreal location! Best hosts by far, made us feel very welcome and super helpful!

Ang

April 2025

With kids

3 nights at Little Pine Creek Farm Valery

We had a great time staying on Janet's property. This is our second time and it's lovely to see all the hard work put into the property. My son loves the horses and chickens. Thanks for having us! We will be back.

L

Louise

January 2025

With kids

1 night at Little Pine Creek Farm Valery

Good central location for a sleepover between Sydney and Sunshine Coast. Basic, but perfect for one night. Would stay again.

S

Sam

January 2025

2 nights at Footprints in Style

My partner and i absolutely loved our stay here. Beautiful property and great facilities. Lucy was unbelievably welcoming was happy to help with anything. Will definitely be back

C

Charlotte

January 2025

Weekend Trip to Footprints in Style

We loved our stay in the Love Tent at Footprints in style! The tent was very cosy and comfortable with everything you need. The surroundings are beautiful and peaceful, I wish we were there longer! The site is quite spaced out so very quiet despite there being a number of campers there. The communal kitchen is very handy and I loved the ‘outdoor’ showers! Unfortunately I didn’t have time to use the sauna but I definitely will next time. It was so great that we were able to take our dog with us 😊 Lucy is such a great host and looks after the site very well. We can’t wait to come back.

J

Jordano

January 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Footprints in Style

The place was unreal! So beautiful and clean!! and the host was lovely! Definitely would stay again!!

Alexis

January 2025

With pets

1 night at Footprints in Style

Wow when I drove in it was like campers heaven! A big heart mowed into a hill above a dam. Lots of people with friendly dogs, my dog loved it. I stayed in the Love Tent - it was so comfy and cute. Lucy was lovely, vibrant, generous energy. I felt like I was in bali, Mexico or Costa Rica… a fabulous halfway stop between Sydney and Brisbane.

K

Karen

January 2025

With pets

1 night at Footprints in Style

From the warm welcome to the very comfortable stay I would highly recommend Footprints to friends and family.

T

Thida

December 2024

With kids

1 night at Little Pine Creek Farm Valery

Nice and lovely surroundings, beautiful spot. Janet is very nice and her instruction for direction was wonderful.

A

Annika

December 2024

Weekend Trip to Footprints in Style

What a comfortable and lovely stay! After arriving, we found the Love Tent perfectly set up for a comfortable nights stay, nothing to set up, just arrive and relax! The property has so many great areas to explore, including amazing warm showers that overlook a beautiful creek! This was truly a special experience! Not to mention that the bed was so soft and comfortable that we had the best nights sleep. Highly recommend!

T

Troy

December 2024

With pets

Weekend Trip to Footprints in Style

My partner and I have stayed two years in a row for our regular NSW to QLD trip and both times loved it! Both the Love tent and Cabin are great options that we have used. Lots of space for campers, great swimming dam worth a dip or just a place to sit and have a drink when the sunsets. This year we traveled with our pup and he was very welcome and loved exploring the property. Lucy the host is so welcoming and kind. Already planning our next trip back.

H

Hannah

December 2024

With pets

2 nights at Yarralen Retreat

We had the most wonderful time at Yarelen retreat. Julie went out of her way to make sure we were comfortable and the facilities were excellent. Great family stop over on the way from Brisbane to Sydney. Thanks Julie

J

Joanna

December 2024

2 nights at Footprints in Style

What a fabulous place to stay!! Lucy is incredibly welcoming and has created a safe space filled with character. Loos and showers are great and the views from every angle are special. The damn is a lot of fun for swimming and hanging out. Close to the highway and just 20 mins to beautiful beaches. Couldn’t recommend more!

G

Gemma

December 2024

With kids

1 night at Little Pine Creek Farm Valery

What a great spot! A perfect place to stop over on our trip up the coast. The caravan has been well maintained, kids loved the bunks, we loved the little kitchenette. All clean and comfy. Thanks Janet!

K

Kevin

December 2024

1 night at Footprints in Style

Great host and location! Would 100% recommend to people wanting a more casual and easy glampinf experience.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping near South West Rocks guide

Where to go

South Along the Coast

The village of Hat Head, half an hour’s drive south, is an even sleepier version of South West Rocks, with beaches just as nice and a beachside caravan park. The three-kilometre walking trail around the hat-shaped headland in the national park is one of the best cliff-top walks in the region. The next town south of Hat Head, Crescent Head, is home to one of Australia’s most famous right-hand surfing breaks and is a favourite with longboard riders.

Through the Rainforest

Explore the lush rainforest and wetlands north of South West Rocks in Yarriabini National Park and Yarrahapinni Wetlands on the 17-kilometre Way Way Creek Road scenic loop drive. The view from Yarriabini Lookout is a knockout.

Kempsey

Follow the Macleay River southwest to Kempsey, with its heritage houses, Wigay Aboriginal Cultural Park bushtucker farm, and riverside holiday parks. Kempsey is the birthplace of the iconic Aussie hat, the Akubra.

When to go

The weather is good for camping all year on the NSW North Coast, with lots of sunny days. The water is warmest for swimming between December and April. You’ll need to book ahead in summer and during Easter holidays, but outside of school holidays, you’ll have most of the place to yourself on mid-week visits. From May through to November you’ve got a good chance at spotting whales from the headlands.

Know before you go

Stock up on seasonal fresh fruit and vegetables from the many stalls that line the South West Rocks Road that links the township to the Pacific Highway.
Planning on catching your dinner? You’ll need a recreational fishing license, available online and at most fishing bait and tackle shops.
Beachside Markets are held in the reserve opposite Horseshoe Bay in the middle of South West Rocks on the second Saturday of each month.
Want to dive Fish Rock? There are two dive shops in town where you can join a tour or hire gear.