The best star host campgrounds near Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney Harbour needs no introduction, but few know it’s possible to camp practically beneath the Harbour Bridge or go glamping in the middle of a zoo with a harbour view. Go deeper in Sydney and you’ll find a wild heart, with camping areas and caravan parks just a short bus ride from the CBD. You can also jump on a train at Central Station and find yourself in the massive ridge of mountainous wilderness known as the Blue Mountains just two hours later, or head north or south to the beaches and national parks of the Central Coast and Illawarra. With so many great camping spots accessible by public transport, you don’t need a car to get away in Sydney—just a sense of adventure.

Australia’s first national park, The Royal, is just 32 kilometres south of Sydney and features riverside picnic areas, surf beaches, clifftop bushwalking trails, and rainforest cycle tracks, plus beachfront camping spots

On the northern edge of Sydney’s suburban sprawl, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is where the Hawkesbury River seeps into the sea in a maze of winding waterways. The park's Basin Campground has 400 campsites and facilities such as barbecues, flush toilets, and cold showers.

Glamp it up in the middle of Sydney Harbour on this World Heritage-listed island that was once a prison one of Australia's biggest shipyards. You’ll need a sleeping bag, but you can hire camping equipment on the island.

98% (3.8K) • 74 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sydney

The Freedom Farm River Paradise

1. The Freedom Farm River Paradise

95%

(72)

53km from Sydney · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

The Freedom Farm has been in our family for nearly 50 years and we know it has a much longer history as a place of gathering, healing, learning and celebration. The spirits are strong here. We have been working the last few years on Rewilding the land and it is the healthiest it has been in my lifetime. Encompassing salt marsh, casuarina forests, open grassland and gumtree groves there is an incredible diversity of species to be found on this relatively small property. Bordered by Mangrove Creek it is protected on all sides by sandstone mountains yet remains sunny and open. A lush and powerful place.

Toilets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

AU$97

/ night

Halifax Hill

2. Halifax Hill

97%

(60)

66km from Sydney · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

A secluded bush block about 3.5km from the historic village of St Albans. Accommodation includes a quirky 'mountain shack' up the hill, and a grassy paddock for camping nestled at the foot of the hill. 'Halifax Hill' provides an easily accessible bush escape from the hustle and bustle of Sydney, and a great camp from which to explore the local area. Enjoy the local swimming hole, nearby bushwalks, the historic pub ('The Settlers Arms'), explore the historic convict trail and more.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

AU$25

/ night

Nevertime

3. Nevertime

98%

(87)

74km from Sydney · 1 site · Tent

One of the most private properties on the Central Coast. Unsealed, steep firetrail -4wd or Awd access only. No mobile reception, so a chance for a digital detox! Close to the Great North Walk. Pick up and drop off available for hikers. Bush shower, hand washing facilities, filtered potable rainwater for drinking, composting toilet. Only one site available, maximum eight people and two vehicles at a time. Campfires allowed when appropriate. No pets. Sheltered deck with table and chairs. Rainforest, freshwater creek, small swimming holes.

Campfires

Toilets

Showers

from

AU$49

/ night

Dharawal Camp

4. Dharawal Camp

99%

(168)

47km from Sydney · 1 site · Tent, RV

Dharawal Camp offers all the benefits of glamping. Enjoy a peaceful night's rest in your tent/vehicle, then hop out of bed and enjoy the peaceful surrounds of the cabin with access to a kitchen area supplying rainwater. With the secluded bush surroundings and the quiet, it's hard to believe you're only an hour away from Sydney. You might even see a Koala There is strictly no accomodation in the Cabin. The camp features a camping toilet and bathing facilities, gas bbq, a kitchen washing area, NO FRIDGE, a recreation space and dining table when the weather is bad. All you need to do is roll out your swag. Campers are encouraged to take their rubbish with them. There is access to power for campervans/caravans. Warm your toes at the outdoor fireplace whilst you chat with friends. (Please bring own firewood). You will be a 10 minute drive from the beautiful Dharawal National Park which has wonderful swimming holes and bush walks. The site is 15 minutes drive from Campbelltown, which offers all amenities of a large metropolitan city.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

AU$146

/ night

Cockatoo Island

5. Cockatoo Island

100%

(13)

4km from Sydney · 135 sites · Tents, Lodging

UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sydney’s best kept secret. Waterfront camping and heritage accommodation in the heart of Sydney Harbour! Ferries to the Island run regularly from Circular Quay and other harbour locations (approx. every 30 mins). CAMPSITES We cater for all budgets, group sizes and occasions. Want a hassle-free stay with your kids? Reserve our basic camping package and check into a pre-erected tent. Desire a little luxury? Book a deluxe package and unwind in a premium tent furnished with creature comforts. Prefer an authentic, DIY experience? Select our low-cost 'BYO tent' option. All campers have access to flushing toilets, hot showers and a communal kitchen with sheltered facilities. The campground kitchen is equipped with 10 barbeques, instant boiling water, 2 fridges, microwaves, sink with hot and cold water, a vending machine and seating for 50 people. The campground also features a fire pit and campground cinema where movies screen at designated times every night. HERITAGE ACCOMMODATION Not a fan of camping? Our holiday houses and apartments combine authentic heritage character with modern amenities. Additionally, they offer epic harbour views, framed by lush gardens. WATERFRONT CAFES Cockatoo Island features 2 family-friendly cafes (Cockatoo Overboard and Marina Cafe and Bar), both of which are licensed to serve alcohol and operate 7 days a week. BBQ packs are also available for pre-purchase from Cockatoo Overboard. ACCESSING THE ISLAND The easiest way to get to Cockatoo Island is by public ferry. The F3 and F8 services operate to Cockatoo Island daily, departing from Circular Quay and Barangaroo as well as from wharves along Parramatta River. Note: There is no vehicle access to or on the island. CATERING There are two cafes on the island, great for breakfast, coffee and lunch. For dinner you can BYO and use the camp kitchen with BBQs, toaster, microwave, instant hot water, fridges, or order pre-order BBQ packs from one of the cafes. Allow at least 24hrs notice for BBQ pack orders.

Toilets

Showers

Potable water

from

AU$72

/ night

Sydney Harbour needs no introduction, but few know it’s possible to camp practically beneath the Harbour Bridge or go glamping in the middle of a zoo with a harbour view. Go deeper in Sydney and you’ll find a wild heart, with camping areas and caravan parks just a short bus ride from the CBD. You can also jump on a train at Central Station and find yourself in the massive ridge of mountainous wilderness known as the Blue Mountains just two hours later, or head north or south to the beaches and national parks of the Central Coast and Illawarra. With so many great camping spots accessible by public transport, you don’t need a car to get away in Sydney—just a sense of adventure.

Australia’s first national park, The Royal, is just 32 kilometres south of Sydney and features riverside picnic areas, surf beaches, clifftop bushwalking trails, and rainforest cycle tracks, plus beachfront camping spots

On the northern edge of Sydney’s suburban sprawl, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is where the Hawkesbury River seeps into the sea in a maze of winding waterways. The park's Basin Campground has 400 campsites and facilities such as barbecues, flush toilets, and cold showers.

Glamp it up in the middle of Sydney Harbour on this World Heritage-listed island that was once a prison one of Australia's biggest shipyards. You’ll need a sleeping bag, but you can hire camping equipment on the island.

98% (3.8K) • 74 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sydney

The Freedom Farm River Paradise

1. The Freedom Farm River Paradise

95%

(72)

53km from Sydney · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

The Freedom Farm has been in our family for nearly 50 years and we know it has a much longer history as a place of gathering, healing, learning and celebration. The spirits are strong here. We have been working the last few years on Rewilding the land and it is the healthiest it has been in my lifetime. Encompassing salt marsh, casuarina forests, open grassland and gumtree groves there is an incredible diversity of species to be found on this relatively small property. Bordered by Mangrove Creek it is protected on all sides by sandstone mountains yet remains sunny and open. A lush and powerful place.

Toilets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

AU$97

/ night

Halifax Hill

2. Halifax Hill

97%

(60)

66km from Sydney · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

A secluded bush block about 3.5km from the historic village of St Albans. Accommodation includes a quirky 'mountain shack' up the hill, and a grassy paddock for camping nestled at the foot of the hill. 'Halifax Hill' provides an easily accessible bush escape from the hustle and bustle of Sydney, and a great camp from which to explore the local area. Enjoy the local swimming hole, nearby bushwalks, the historic pub ('The Settlers Arms'), explore the historic convict trail and more.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

AU$25

/ night

Nevertime

3. Nevertime

98%

(87)

74km from Sydney · 1 site · Tent

One of the most private properties on the Central Coast. Unsealed, steep firetrail -4wd or Awd access only. No mobile reception, so a chance for a digital detox! Close to the Great North Walk. Pick up and drop off available for hikers. Bush shower, hand washing facilities, filtered potable rainwater for drinking, composting toilet. Only one site available, maximum eight people and two vehicles at a time. Campfires allowed when appropriate. No pets. Sheltered deck with table and chairs. Rainforest, freshwater creek, small swimming holes.

Campfires

Toilets

Showers

from

AU$49

/ night

Dharawal Camp

4. Dharawal Camp

99%

(168)

47km from Sydney · 1 site · Tent, RV

Dharawal Camp offers all the benefits of glamping. Enjoy a peaceful night's rest in your tent/vehicle, then hop out of bed and enjoy the peaceful surrounds of the cabin with access to a kitchen area supplying rainwater. With the secluded bush surroundings and the quiet, it's hard to believe you're only an hour away from Sydney. You might even see a Koala There is strictly no accomodation in the Cabin. The camp features a camping toilet and bathing facilities, gas bbq, a kitchen washing area, NO FRIDGE, a recreation space and dining table when the weather is bad. All you need to do is roll out your swag. Campers are encouraged to take their rubbish with them. There is access to power for campervans/caravans. Warm your toes at the outdoor fireplace whilst you chat with friends. (Please bring own firewood). You will be a 10 minute drive from the beautiful Dharawal National Park which has wonderful swimming holes and bush walks. The site is 15 minutes drive from Campbelltown, which offers all amenities of a large metropolitan city.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

AU$146

/ night

Cockatoo Island

5. Cockatoo Island

100%

(13)

4km from Sydney · 135 sites · Tents, Lodging

UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sydney’s best kept secret. Waterfront camping and heritage accommodation in the heart of Sydney Harbour! Ferries to the Island run regularly from Circular Quay and other harbour locations (approx. every 30 mins). CAMPSITES We cater for all budgets, group sizes and occasions. Want a hassle-free stay with your kids? Reserve our basic camping package and check into a pre-erected tent. Desire a little luxury? Book a deluxe package and unwind in a premium tent furnished with creature comforts. Prefer an authentic, DIY experience? Select our low-cost 'BYO tent' option. All campers have access to flushing toilets, hot showers and a communal kitchen with sheltered facilities. The campground kitchen is equipped with 10 barbeques, instant boiling water, 2 fridges, microwaves, sink with hot and cold water, a vending machine and seating for 50 people. The campground also features a fire pit and campground cinema where movies screen at designated times every night. HERITAGE ACCOMMODATION Not a fan of camping? Our holiday houses and apartments combine authentic heritage character with modern amenities. Additionally, they offer epic harbour views, framed by lush gardens. WATERFRONT CAFES Cockatoo Island features 2 family-friendly cafes (Cockatoo Overboard and Marina Cafe and Bar), both of which are licensed to serve alcohol and operate 7 days a week. BBQ packs are also available for pre-purchase from Cockatoo Overboard. ACCESSING THE ISLAND The easiest way to get to Cockatoo Island is by public ferry. The F3 and F8 services operate to Cockatoo Island daily, departing from Circular Quay and Barangaroo as well as from wharves along Parramatta River. Note: There is no vehicle access to or on the island. CATERING There are two cafes on the island, great for breakfast, coffee and lunch. For dinner you can BYO and use the camp kitchen with BBQs, toaster, microwave, instant hot water, fridges, or order pre-order BBQ packs from one of the cafes. Allow at least 24hrs notice for BBQ pack orders.

Toilets

Showers

Potable water

from

AU$72

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jordan

3 days ago

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

Lovely shack creatively situated on a rocky outcrop beside the McDonald river. It has all the charm of a yesteryear hideaway. It’s an experience not a polished hotel, think secret mountain recluse, take your book, your art stuff and a bottle of wine. we loved the bush views and sounds, the location and the quirk! Swimming in the river near by, zipping into town for a coffee or beer and enjoying the cute town of St Albans. Loved it so much we can’t wait to come back!

S

Sarah

1 week ago

With pets

2 nights at Halifax Hill

Loved the cabin, very unique stay, tucked into the rocks it is very very cool!

Clémence

2 weeks ago

With pets

5 nights at Halifax Hill

Lovely stay in nature, away from everything, the owners were really nice and understanding, such a beautiful place would definitely go back :)

Robin

2 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Nevertime

I absolutely loved staying here. It was ultra private and such a great facility with the toilet, shower and outdoor living room. I would definitely come back again. The property has character with little signs and sculptures everywhere. A wonderful rainforest on the property that has some interesting and noisy wild life!

B

Brian

3 weeks ago

4 m Class B

1 night at Dharawal Camp

This was a great property for those who want a remote camping feel! The facility was as described, and it was nice to have access to a toilet/shower. David came to introduce himself and told us about the property and the not infrequent koala sightings! While we didn’t see any during our stay, we did have a great time.

M

Max

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Freedom Farm River Paradise

Great little farm, secluded and nature filled. Was a great stay

J

Jessica

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Nevertime

We had a fantastic time staying here! Great atmosphere and scenery was amazing! The little creek was great to walk through and cool off, while doing some exploring through the forest. Will definitely be back.

Julian

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Freedom Farm River Paradise

Great and simple place to say. Wouldn’t bring children younger than 5 due to the mozzies and mud! But other than that, great camp!

T

Tim

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Nevertime

Beautiful place! So peaceful and relaxing. We sat and soaked in the bush, listening to the birds for hours. Lush and cool despite the 35 deg day. Brendan was a great host, providing firewood as promised and giving us a tour of his amazing garden of edible flowers, herbs and veges, but otherwise allowing us our privacy.

A

Alice

December 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Dharawal Camp

David’s spot is perfect and he is a great host, we had everything we needed. The pizza oveb, bbq and local jingga pool were real highlights.

H

Hayley

December 2025

Tent

4 nights at Nevertime

Such a spectacular campsite in the most secluded and peaceful region. Cell data doesn’t work so you feel completely off grid and there are a bunch of little trails and walks you can do. The campsite is very well equipped with a toilet, undercover area, book nook, chairs, a table, a lovely fireplace, and more! Brendan is a very kind host who gives you whatever information you need to enjoy your stay, we highly recommend the orange picking. All in all, a great trip and an even better spot.

E

Elle

December 2025

1 night at Halifax Hill

Helen and Steve were super accomodating and the shack was an incredible place to stay at! Facilities, view and location were all 5 five stars, would definitely recommend staying!

A

Adam

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Dharawal Camp

David was a great host and very chill. We had a great weekend chilling out on the site and also exploring the local waterfall pools. Highly recommend for a chill get away not too far from Sydney.

I

IsabelleStoessel

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Halifax Hill

Helen and Steve’s spot of the world is a little paradise. We saw lots of wildlife and enjoyed a very peaceful stay. The township of St Albans is charming and welcoming, I highly recommend a trip to the pub.

B

Bradley

November 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Freedom Farm River Paradise

The 2 campsites are very private and spacious and you your group gets exclusive use of your site whether there is just 2 of you or 20 - a fantastic feature. We used the Marabalang campsite etched between the river edged with a narrow mangrove strip and some scrub. The Gum Trees campsite is far more open, but for just 2 of us, our campsite felt wonderfully secluded. Access to paddle craft wwas great and I enjoyed a couple of hours paddle up the river in a canoe provided. The birdsong of a morning was fantastic to wake to and we saw a couple of lyre birds each day on the driveway in. The host were lovely and easy going.

L

Le

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Dharawal Camp

David’s place is amazing for a quiet night away in bushland. So much room and great amenities. Very clean and right next to camp set up. David is very friendly and lovely to talk too. We will be back for sure!

E

Emma

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Freedom Farm River Paradise

It was perfect for our camping trip with young children. Gumtree grove was so peaceful, we loved the short walk to the river. The trampoline was a pleasant surprise and we were very grateful to have canoes to play on. Totally magical spot. Would love to go back.

I

Isha

November 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Halifax Hill

We enjoyed a ur stay at this unique and quite spooky place in mountain shack. We were intrigued by the whole maximalist vibe of the house and loved everything about it. It was peaceful we had everything we needed and our host were communicative and great which made everything perfect

K

Karsten

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Nevertime

This was a perfect site for us. Just a place one group, and there was the added benefit of a nice covered area with a table and chairs next to the fireplace. Generous fire wood was supplied as well. Totally quiet with just the sounds of nature. Extra bonus. It is off the grid. We will be back.

G

Gordon

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Nevertime

My wife and I had such a beautiful, quiet, relaxing time in this amazing place to be. Listening to and watching the beautiful birdlife, the local wildlife and enjoying the creek and the serenity. Brendan is a great guy, polite and down to Earth. The campsite is neat and comfortable. Take your time to relax and cross the creek, walk the trail and be amazed by nature.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best star host camping near Sydney guide

When to go

Sydney’s weather is fairly temperate year-round, although winter nights can be cool and summer can be humid and rainy, particularly in February and March. The surrounding area is busy with locals away on holiday in January, when the Sydney Festival is in full swing. The Blue Mountains are delightfully cool, and it sometimes even snows during winter.

Know before you go

You’ll need an Opal card to use public transport in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast, Hunter Valley, and Illawarra. Buy one at a train station, convenience store, or newsagent and top them up online or at one of the machines at a train station or ferry wharf.
Ferries are a great way to get around Sydney, and fun as well. Almost all ferries leave from Circular Quay. For ferry information, visit transportnsw.info
All campsites in NSW national parks must be booked ahead online.
Don’t be tempted to park your campervan overnight at Bondi Beach—or any of the city beaches. You can be fined AUD $1,000 if caught.