The best campgrounds near Sussex Inlet, New South Wales with climbing

On the coast, roughly halfway between Canberra and Sydney, Sussex Inlet provides campers with easy access to big urban cities as well as the scenic outdoors. Discover a wealth of accommodations in town, like pet-friendly cabins, holiday parks with powered sites, and rustic campgrounds. Then adventure across the inlet to Booderee National Park for all of nature’s splendours. Or jet over to Jervis Bay National Park to watch whales from the shoreline and scuba dive into the depths of the ocean. Budderoo National Park is another must-see attraction where campers can explore rainforest trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls. Since every season in Sussex Inlet offers something different, campers can take advantage of this area year-round.

97% (283)

Top-rated campgrounds

On the coast, roughly halfway between Canberra and Sydney, Sussex Inlet provides campers with easy access to big urban cities as well as the scenic outdoors. Discover a wealth of accommodations in town, like pet-friendly cabins, holiday parks with powered sites, and rustic campgrounds. Then adventure across the inlet to Booderee National Park for all of nature’s splendours. Or jet over to Jervis Bay National Park to watch whales from the shoreline and scuba dive into the depths of the ocean. Budderoo National Park is another must-see attraction where campers can explore rainforest trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls. Since every season in Sussex Inlet offers something different, campers can take advantage of this area year-round.

97% (283)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Kookaburra

95%

(153)

12km from Sussex Inlet · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Sussex Inlet, NSW

Kookaburra is a 20-acre farm located between Ulladulla and Nowra on the NSW South Coast, just under a three-hour drive from Sydney and Canberra. It offers a peaceful and authentic bush experience, ideal for a weekend getaway or an overnight stop, especially for those travelling through the Jervis Bay area. Please note: We are a peaceful, family-friendly site and do not accept group bookings under any circumstances. Each site allows one family/vehicle and one trailer/caravan per booking only. No additional vehicles, caravans, or trailers are permitted. If you're unsure whether your setup complies, please contact Christine before booking. You can camp in an open paddock or relax under the shade of tree canopies. A short bushwalk will take you to a quiet creek, and the area is home to local wildlife, including kookaburras, wallabies, and secretive wombats. The farm also has a variety of animals, including cows, chickens, Elmo the horse and Warren the Sheep, who may greet you when you arrive. At Kookaburra, we ensure that guests have plenty of space and privacy, although you may occasionally see other visitors in the area. We operate on a self-sufficient basis, so please take all your rubbish with you and respect the natural environment and the next visitors. Fires are allowed (subject to fire danger conditions), and you're welcome to gather your firewood. 🔥 Firewood for sale at the gate – $20! 🪵🚪. 🥚 Fresh free-range eggs – $6 a dozen 🐔, Text us and we'll drop some down to your site 🚗 Pets are welcome but must be supervised around the farm animals and wildlife. Please note that phone reception is limited, so come prepared. While a 2WD vehicle is usually acceptable, adverse weather conditions may require a 4WD. Be mindful of wombat holes, tree stumps, and snakes when exploring the property. Whether you're stopping by for a short stay or looking for a quiet retreat, Kookaburra offers a unique and relaxing bush escape. We look forward to welcoming you.

2. Wombat Hollow

99%

(139)

41km from Sussex Inlet · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Budgong, NSW

100 acres of secluded paradise with a kilometer of free flowing pebbled creek. Bound on two sides by the craggy escarpments of the Budgong and Morton National Parks there is ample grassland to give a feeling of space yet an abundance of trees to wander through as you engage with the tame wildlife and magnificent birdlife. Bring your mountain bike, fishing rod, swimmers, hiking boots, tennis racket, basketball (a hoop on the tennis court) or climbing gear and leave the kids in the play area while you sit by the creek and listen to the water tumbling through the rocks. If you are as intrigued by rare animals as we are, then this is the place for you. 63 Bird species, 24 mammals, 16 reptiles, and 12 amphibians have been sighted in the area (Clarke 2012) and this includes many rare and endangered species including the platypus, brush-tailed rock wallaby, Giant burrowing frog, Gang-gang cockatoo, Glossy black-cockatoo, Koala, Little Lorikeet and the Yellow-bellied glider. We only have three campsites at present, so you will be guaranteed peace, space and privacy. with a minimum of 400m between all sites. Please note, that your group must be self-contained, with their own camp toilet, however fresh drinking water is available. Access is into a valley on a well maintained unsealed road but there are some minor causeways making it unsuitable for busses or long low slung vans. An ordinary sedan will do for Billabong and Dad's camp sites but you will need some power for towing and a 4x4 to tow out in any rain. Riverbend site is only suitable for 4x4's and off-road camp trailers. You are a 40 minute drive from the sea (try the Shoalhaven 100 beach challenge https://www.shoalhaven.com/100-beach-challenge/ ) and just 15km from the historical town of Kangaroo Valley with its myriad of water activities, golf, wine estates, and quaint shopping. ttps://visitkangaroovalley.com.au/see-and-do/

3. Stary Ponds

92%

(31)

77km from Sussex Inlet · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gundary, NSW

A peaceful space with lots of trees and waterways as well as an abundance of wildlife such as deer, kangaroo, black cockatoos, butterflies and so many gorgeous birds. The landscape is varied, with lots of options to explore. From hiking the mountainous steep terrains, to meandering through the many ponds and waterways, or discovering the cleared trails ready for a beautiful bush walk or ride through nature. The peace at night and the stars are unlike anything I've seen, absolutely breathtaking, and only 15 minutes from all the modern amenities you may need. We offer several camping sites, a cabin and a large teepee.

4. Buenpaso - good step

100%

(12)

80km from Sussex Inlet · 3 sites · RVs · Boxers Creek, NSW

Private, quiet and secluded; Perry Lane is a no-through road used by only two other neighbours. "Buenpaso" is 118 acres of woodland and meadow. Stroll around and see Kangaroos, Wombats, Deer and a variety of native parrots. 29 klms away (25 mins) from the Bungonia National Park, 20 mins to Goulburn.

5. Bendameer

100%

(21)

64km from Sussex Inlet · 1 site · Tent, RV · Tongarra, NSW

Bendameer is a 100 acre hobby farm running beef cows on the South Coast. The farm is located just 15min drive to pristine beaches or 10min drive to national parks, walking tracks and swimming holes. We provide Elevated camp sites over looking Lake Illawarra and Warilla Beach or stay on the farm and enjoy bush walking to water fall and swimming holes plus heaps of other attractions close by.

Stories from the community

k

kurtis

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kookaburra

Beautiful property and very easy stay.

F

Fiona

3 weeks ago

8 m pop-up camper

2 nights at Wombat Hollow

We loved our weekend at Wombat Hollow. We were spoilt having the whole place to ourselves which was ideal as we were looking for quiet downtime. After checking out the whole place we realised that even if all the other camps were full, each camp is in its own secluded spot with lots of space around it and between camps so other campers would not have been a bother at all and we still would have had acres and acres to ourselves. The whole place is well maintained and signposted. Lots of helpful instructions when booking so we knew exactly what to bring and if our vehicle amd camper would be suitable. Vallance is a superb host. The camp sites are perfectly simple. Great fire pit. Sturdy benches, level ground, shade and gorgeous lanscape and wildlife all around. Stunning night skies.

A

Angus

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Kookaburra

Awesome campground at RIOT make sure when arriving keep going down the track till you see the kookaburra sign then you are there.

J

JUSTIN

3 weeks ago

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wombat Hollow

Picture perfect camp spot tucked away from all the hustle and bustle. Great body of water to swim in. Good mix of shade and sun in the camp are. Nice touch having a picnic bench and fire area with log seating. Vallance was a very hospitable host. He’s happy to have a chat but also respects your space. Unexpectedly picked up my son and I for a little tractor ride which really made it all worth it to stay on private land. We saw wombats, wallabies and a little platypus in the water. Will return again sometime soon.

S

Sam

3 weeks ago

10 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wombat Hollow

What a terrific camping location at Wombat’s Hollow. We were welcomed by Vallance to his lovely property. We stayed at Dads Camp and had a great private area with the river at our doorstep, wombats (as promised) and loads of bird life and the many sounds of the Aussie bush. This Hipcamp will definitely make the “let’s go back again” list.

A

Amanda

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wombat Hollow

One of our favorite camp spots to date! Private sites, right in with nature and plenty of wombats on the property. The tub at our site was an added bonus. Val was a super welcoming and generous host. Recommend the eggs from his daughter’s chickens. Would definitely go back

K

Kate

3 weeks ago

4 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Kookaburra

It was nice camp. Same field as the cows & by morning they were at our camp justing eating the grass. Cute baby cow.

V

Valdemar

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Kookaburra

Nice peaceful spot, easy to access, and cozy with animals

c

camila sthefani de camargo

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kookaburra

I loved staying at Good Luck Spot. The cows, calves and horse welcomed us, and the peacefulness of the star-filled sky and the sound of kookaburras laughing made me look forward to coming back

A

Anthony

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wombat Hollow

We had the most amazing family stay at Billabong Camp Ground (even the teenagers enjoyed it!) From the moment we arrived, Vallance, the owner and resident character had us laughing. He’s an absolute gem: welcoming, obliging, full of stories, and just a good bloke to be around. The property itself is beautiful and incredibly tranquil. We swam in the creek, built a little dam, relaxed by the fire, explored the land, and soaked up the peace and quiet. It’s so secluded we felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. The wildlife was a highlight too, loads of birds, lizards, and we’re pretty sure we spotted a platypus! As for the wombats… well, we reckon Vallance just dug a few random holes to convince us they were everywhere (just kidding – we’re sure they’re out there!)???? All up, Billabong Camp Ground is a wonderful spot to unwind, reconnect, and enjoy nature with the sound of running water and a crackling fire in the background. We can’t recommend it enough. We’ll definitely be back!

A

Asia

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wombat Hollow

I recently stayed at the Wombat Hollows, Riverbend campsite and it was a great experience! The directions were clear, Vallance was very kind & always ready to help during our stay. The location is beautiful, right on a peaceful river. The campsite is clean and well-spaced, offering plenty of privacy. They are also dog friendly, which is great. If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway close to nature, Wombat Hollows is a top choice. Just make sure to bring bug spray and reserve early during peak season!

Laura

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wombat Hollow

What a fantastic stay we had! Vallance was extremely helpful in the lead up to our trip with instructions and upon arrival greeted us with a tractor ride for the kids (adult too 😅)which they loved! The site was large and well kept, the fire tub was divine. There was plenty for the kids to do from bike rides, swims, adventures , the cubby house, swing and the new addition of the sandpit! We wish we had stayed longer, but we will be back!! Thank you again Vallance.

W

William

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Kookaburra

Beautiful campsite. Lots of native animals, feels very quiet and secluded.

L

Laura

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Kookaburra

Beautiful serene spot next to quiet creek. Would recommend if you’re looking for somewhere that feels remote but accessible!

Janette

October 2025

7 m Class A

With pets

3 nights at Wombat Hollow

A great camp site and property. Private site on a running creek, with shade to keep cooler as the weather hots up, but sun if you need it for your panels. Lovely property and the drive in is part of the pleasure - well maintained unsealed road down an escarpment to the property in a wide valley. Close to the increasing number of things to do around Nowra, Berry etc. Large picnic table and bench to watch the creek were appreciated.

S

Sarah

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wombat Hollow

Another lovely weekend at Wombat Hollow. Feeling rejuvenated from a dose of fresh air, river swims and wildlife spotting. This is one of our favourite spots for a weekend camp striking distance from Sydney.

S

Sheree Tamara

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Kookaburra

We love Kookaburra for camping! Our second time there at the Riot! site, this time with one of our kids. Great spot to camp, safe, private enough and very easy to access.

m

morgen

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Kookaburra

Beautiful place, friendly cows, was very quiet, perfect for stopover.

E

Eugene

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Stary Ponds

We had a great time at the site. Very peaceful, lots of wood. Mya and her family dropped by with a vegetable basket which was really nice! We'll be back

E

Evelyn

October 2025

11 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wombat Hollow

It was so peaceful! ☺️ the ground was pretty level so it was super easy to set up camp. The was another family camping there but were so far away we couldn’t see or hear them. So privacy was great. There was so much wildlife around, it was great to see. And as always Vallance’s communication was exceptional.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Sussex Inlet with climbing guide

Where to go

Booderee National Park

Situated on Aboriginal land, Booderee National Park sits directly across the inlet. Hike to a beach-side campground that offers access to fresh water, toilets, and cold showers. Or get cosy in the caravan and enjoy a drive-in pitch with nearby hot showers and sheltered BBQ areas. After a good night’s rest, visit Cape St. George Lighthouse and wander along the numerous sandy beaches. With several activities to choose from, campers have their pick when it comes to whale watching, surfing, fishing, scuba diving, or snorkelling.

Jervis Bay National Park

Just under an hour from Sussex Inlet, Jervis Bay National Park offers world-class whale watching and sumptuous white-sand beaches. While there’s no camping inside the park, there is a variety of accommodations in the nearby village of Huskisson, from cabin rentals to holiday parks for tents and caravans. After setting up, check out Bull Hole Lookout, paddle Coonemia Creek, or saunter down the Hyams Beach Trail or Hare Point walking track.

Budderoo National Park

Head roughly two hours north to Budderoo National Park and get settled into a campground equipped with basic amenities like toilets and picnic tables, as well as easy access to Kangaroo River. Adventure over to Nellies Glen Picnic Area or conquer the Minnamurra Falls walk and Carrington Falls walking track—all of which reward hikers with outstanding waterfalls at the end of the journey. For more stunning views, head to Jamberoo Lookout—and don’t forget the camera!

When to go

The balmy summers of Sussex Inlet are perfect for visits to the beachy paradise of Jervis Bay National Park or aquatic adventures at Booderee National Park. As temperatures start to drop when autumn and winter roll around, wildlife watching opportunities quickly rise. Whales migrate just off the coast from May to November while rare birds head home for mating season in Budderoo National Park. The spring season brings gifts, too—swathes of colourful wildflowers come to life throughout the park’s grassy areas, making picture-perfect backgrounds and stunning hiking scenery.