Spot whales from a lighthouse or dive to shipwrecks while camping in NSW near Tathra.
Set on the shores of Boulder Bay in the south coast, Tathra promises campers prime coastal views, sandy beaches, and excellent fishing. This seaside town may be on the smaller side, but the abundance of natural activities and national parks make it a haven for camping. Tathra beachside accommodations vary from rustic campsites for motorhomes to glamping in cosy cabins and safari tents. After a good night’s sleep, zip across the bridge to Mimosa Rocks National Park to scuba dive to shipwrecks and birdwatch along the shoreline before jetting off to Bournda National Park. Spend the day here trekking along the coastline while watching for more local bird species. Beowa National Park highlights even more wildlife, with incredible whale watching from a historical lighthouse.
Just across Bega River sits Mimosa Rocks National Park, only a 10-minute drive from Tathra. Find holiday parks for tents, camper trailers, and caravans in the area with on-site amenities like picnic tables, BBQ facilities, and toilets. Avid divers can wake up and scuba dive to the Paddle Steamer Mimosa, a shipwreck that lays just off the coast, while beginners can swim, snorkel, and fish in Moon Bay or Nelson Lagoon. Take in the picturesque views from a variety of different headlands, and watch for waterfowl along the shoreline year-round.
Found 15 minutes south of Tathra, Bournda National Park abounds with outdoor activities. Kayak the Bournda Lagoon or the waters of Wallagoot Lake before sauntering down Sandy Creek loop track, then keep an eye on the trees for native bird species while walking. Bournda campgrounds welcome swags, tents, camper trailers, and campervans with a range of facilities and amenity blocks with flush toilets, showers, and BBQ areas.
The stunning rocky coastline of Beowa National Park sits an hour and a half from Tathra. Take on Boyds Tower walking track, a favourite for beginners, or conquer the multi-day Light to Light walk for experts. History buffs can check out Green Cape Lighthouse, where wildlife watchers can also scan the seas for migrating whales. Campgrounds in the park offer basic amenities, but there are more luxurious accommodations available too. Take a break from the tent and get pampered in a bunkhouse or heated cottage vacation rental with bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and fresh linens.
Every season in Tathra offers something special, which makes it a first-rate choice for year-round camping trips. Feathered friends flock to Mimosa Rocks National Park throughout the year, and if whale watching is top priority, plan to visit in spring between September and November. The hot and humid summers that last from December until March are an ideal time for beach lounging and exploring the waterways in Bournda National Park. Campgrounds will be at peak capacity in summer, so plan ahead and reserve a pitch when possible.