The best romantic campgrounds near Sussex Inlet, New South Wales

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% (1.2K)

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% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

98%

(647)

68km from Sussex Inlet · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Northangera, NSW

This property is in Northangera with the Mongarlowe River running along the boundary. It's covered in trees and provides a pristine environment amongst the "Scribbly Gums". It has flat areas with plenty of free timber for the designated fire pits. I have tried to create a haven for wildlife including Kangaroos, wombats, echidnas and platypus. I cherish the cleanliness of the river and surrounds and wish to be able to share this special environment with others who care to preserve all it offers. You can explore the property along the tracks, paddle, swim or fish in the river, enjoy the fauna, wildlife and birdlife. Located not far from Braidwood, a town steeped in history, with good shopping, coffee shops and great food. Sloping to flat land amongst the Scribbly Gum trees offering a number of sites and walks through the property. It provides both sun and shade. Access is good for vans of any size along a track through the bushland. Lovely swimming spots in the Mongalowe River, beautiful clear water, and several lovely bushwalks around the property. There is only Telstra reception available in this area. We offer 7 different sites and the maximum stay is 7 nights.

2. 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.

3. Secrets of Terara

99%

(101)

30km from Sussex Inlet · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Terara, NSW

This enchanting tree-filled, 13-acre property is located in the beautiful South Coast region of NSW, close to the spectacular beaches of Jervis Bay and quaint villages of Berry and Kangaroo Valley. The property is hidden away among the gumtrees and surrounded by dairy country. It is a perfect, peaceful place to base yourself for a weekend or a week exploring the beaches and nature walks in the region, or the rock climbing areas of Nowra. Your accommodation is either a cosy room in our converted barn, where you'll be very comfortable with all you need for a great weekend away, or a spacious camping spot in your own tent or van.

4. Lyrebirds Nest

98%

(79)

63km from Sussex Inlet · 2 sites · Lodging · Penrose, NSW

Welcome to Lyrebirds Nest, a quiet bush escape. Lyrebirds Nest cottage is situated in the bush with forest views from the balcony and rooms. The cottage is setup for glamping with an wood stove, queen bed (BYO linen), sofa, electricity, filtered water (hot and cold), hot indoor shower and composting toilet. A bar fridge and microwave is also provided. The open fire is not to be used. The surrounding land on the property includes a lake with jetty, sauna, olive grove, orchard and chicken coup. There are great hikes on the property or you can follow the creek and continue into the State Forest. There is plenty of wildlife to see, a bird lovers paradise with plenty of Lyrebirds, king parrots, black cockatoos to name a few. You're welcome to stay in the cottage or camp by the lake. Located half way between Canberra and Sydney, and 15 minutes walk from Penrose station with easy access to all the Southern Highlands has to offer.

5. 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.

6. 'Elouera Vale' Farm

98%

(617)

79km from Sussex Inlet · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mittagong, NSW

Elouera Vale is a working farm located just outside Mittagong NSW. We breed and train camels for sale, especially into the Southern Highlands. Camels are excellent for weed control and co-grazing with cattle. 'Elouera Vale' also breeds Belted Galloway cattle, Dorper and Wiltipol sheep and donkeys. Our property covers over 140 acres, 80 acres cleared and pasture improved and the rest consisting of forest. The Chain O Ponds creek runs through the property and makes for a lovely walk. You will probably get to see kangaroo, wallaby, wombats, echidnas, koalas and lots of bird life. The lush green hills abound with walking and cycling trails. You can head to the spectacular Nattai Gorge via the Box Vale Mine walking track, an easy 4.4km circular walk that follows an old railway line through a tunnel to breath-taking views. Enjoy a picnic in the magnificent Lake Alexandra Reserve or hike up extinct volcanic peak Mount Gibraltar. The closest shops are approximately a 15 minute drive to the Mittagong Town Centre where you will find all the shops, cafes and restaurants for your needs. It is well worth a visit to ‘The Shaggy Cow’ cafe, one of our favourite foodie spots (don’t forget to mention Elouera Vale). While you're here please try the Cool Climate wines. The region’s rich soil and high altitude are ideal for cool-climate wine growing. Visit cellar doors in the hills and valleys around Mittagong, including Centennial Vineyards. Enjoy a pleasant wine tasting experience at Centennial (don’t forget to mention us). The Camel Cottage offers a luxe off-the-grid escape for couples just one hour from Sydney but feels like "miles from anywhere". The Gums Cottage is a fully contained, off-grid modern getaway, surrounded by the magnificent white gum trees that are its namesake. The serene setting and stylish interior of The Gums provides all the essentials for a picturesque and peaceful country escape. The White Gum Forest Retreat offers campsites nestled in a white gum forest, not far from a beautiful trickling creek. There is access to toilets and a small dam near campsites for water supply for showers where required. For a truly memorable experience we recommend hiring our function space, White Gum Forest Functions, which is available for day visitors as well as guests staying overnight in our cabins and campsites. Why not book your next special family group gathering, milestone birthday or wedding here! The function space can cater for up to 50 guests, please contact us with your time and date requirements before booking. Feel spoilt in the midst of beautiful waratahs, grevilleas and ferns, watching camels grazing in the adjacent paddock. It's like being on a safari! There is 5G mobile telephone reception at the farm so you can reconnect with the world if need be. No pets please.

Stories from the community

B

Ben

1 week ago

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Secrets of Terara

Paula's spot was an ideal spot as a base to explore the nearby Kangaroo Valley and surrounds. Close enough to town for any last minute supplies, but completely secluded in a quiet clearing amongst gum trees - with birdsong all around. The facilities were great and Paula was a wonderful host.

R

Ryan

2 weeks ago

6 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

Great location. Very close and pretty easy access to the creek. Private. plenty of space. Nice woodland. Looking forward to coming again.

k

kurtis

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kookaburra

Beautiful property and very easy stay.

J

Jenny

3 weeks ago

8 m pop-up camper

3 nights at Secrets of Terara

This was such a peaceful site to camp at. Even though it isn't far from a road it was very quiet. So many birds!! Paula is very warm and welcoming and we enjoyed chatting with her. We enjoyed having a flushing toilet (site 1 is the closest to the bathroom). This was definitely a great choice for us and we would happily come back to camp there again!

L

Lindy

3 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

3 nights at Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

Loved the seclusion, birdlife, walking down to the shack with a bottle of wine to watch the platypus feeding. Stargazing was amazing. Nice that Phil greeted us on arrival. Can be tight in places for large vans and make sure you have your fly repellent. Great experience.

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.

C

Charlotte

3 weeks ago

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Secrets of Terara

Beautiful chilled out spot. Feels very private and I think it would even if the four spots were taken. Had a lovely time sitting in the sun and cooking dinner. Paula is lovely and friendly. Totally worth the money for a nice camp spot in the shade of the trees. Woolies is only a 8 min drive for supplies. Wedding music on the Saturday night down the road really isn't that loud.

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.

C

Cerys

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Secrets of Terara

Me and my sister absolutely loved staying here, Paula was an absolute delight and I would recommend this camp to everyone!

J

Jakub

November 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to 'Elouera Vale' Farm

Great place, a lot of space. Seen some kangaroos and a wombat.

N

Nicola

November 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to 'Elouera Vale' Farm

We loved camping here! A beautiful, quiet spot to sit and listen to nature. We saw camels, wombats, and kangaroos. Wayne was a lovely, cheerful host, as friendly as they come. We will definitely be back :)

Nathan

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to 'Elouera Vale' Farm

Great space - nice and private. Toilets extremely clean and a beautiful spot for an overnighter!

J

Jules

November 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Secrets of Terara

Amazing experience ! Paula's place is beautifully surrounded by trees and calm. She provides great spots with fire place. The toilets are super well maintained. Super easy to find. Best experience! Will book again Cheers!

V

Valdemar

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Kookaburra

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

J

Joshua

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Secrets of Terara

Lovely sites, facilities and location. Not too far from any major need but a perfect spot with fresh air, sunset and sunrise views and some peace and quiet! Hosts are great at responding and keeping in touch. 10/10 will come again

I

Izel

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

Beautiful campground, well spaced between spots and nice to switch off for a weekend. The river is beautiful - Would recommend!

S

Sarah

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

Beautiful area amongst the gums! River was also beaut for a dip. The dog loved it!

D

Dervela

November 2025

7 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to 'Elouera Vale' Farm

Loved camping at white gum forest. It had all we needed, the toilets were portoloo’s but clean and smelt lovely.! Our boys had a blast seeing all the animals and of course when it rained loved having puddles to jump in. Wayne was a fab host who met my husbands energy and had great banter with him.!

M

Maggie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to 'Elouera Vale' Farm

Amazing place to set up for a tent camp! The property is beautiful and abundant in wildlife. We saw kangaroos, kookaburras, of course camels, and heard plenty of different bird songs. Plenty of flat open space to set up and spread out a bit while not being too close to your neighbour campers. Toilet facilities were definitely a highlight amenities, super clean and comfortable to use, definitely a pleasant bonus! Wayne was also a great friendly host and made us feel very welcome. Not too far from Sydney or from the closest town and an easy quick getaway from busy city life. Will definitely be back! Thanks Wayne!

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

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best romantic camping near Sussex Inlet 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.