The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Matata, North Island

96% (7.6K) • 267 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Matata

1. Private River Camp

99%

(253)

77km from Matata · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Off grid camping, 1.4 km of private freshwater river frontage, sandy beach access. Camping area is approximately 10 acres. The property is 150 acres, plenty of room to kick a footy or play cricket. Fish, Kayak, Swim. - Campers to have their own amenities. - Good access for all types of vehicles including 2WD, caravans, motorhomes. - 4WD or AWD highly recommended in heavy rain. - Access is via 3 km of gravel road. - Dogs are permitted but strictly must not chase or upset cattle or horses - Campfires permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place - BYO firewood or cut your own from ample fallen timber - 13 klm from South Grafton Shopping Centre, Coles Ect. - Property Approx 1500 meters to Clarence River Junction - A small number of canoes and kayaks are available.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

from

AU$25

/ night

"Dodona"

2. "Dodona"

99%

(624)

12km from Matata · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Dodona - ancient Greek meaning "God's Gift". Here you can camp by a permanent flowing creek in our beautiful green valley. Sites are accessible by all types of vehicles such as RVs, caravans, motorhomes, big rigs, camper trailers or basic tent camping. Campfires are permitted when restrictions aren't in place, firewood is available at $15 per bag and bonus inclusion of a lovely swimming pool and BBQ area! Shower & toilet available. There is 350 km of dirt trails in the very large Orara State Forest behind our property which is great for mountain bike riding, or horse riding (no horse riding permitted on the property). Pet friendly. Stay with a local, friendly host.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

from

AU$13

/ night

Grassyenda

3. Grassyenda

97%

(77)

56km from Matata · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

At Grassyenda, you'll find flat grass camping a stones throw from great beaches, the river, and townships. It's a rural setting that makes a great basecamp from which to explore the abundance of activities available nearby. Macleay River is just a 3 minute drive from camp and Grassy Head Beach is a five minutes, so you are never far from fishing, surfing and swimming! Closer to home, you're also welcome to paddle the kayak in the property's dam. The Yarrabinni National Park is closeby, and a great option for hiking, bushwalking, scenic lookouts, and freshwater creeks. The nearest village, Stuarts Point, is just 3 minutes down the road, with larger towns and shopping 20 to 30 minutes' drive away. The property is just 14km off the M1, with good access and plenty of open space. We limit the number of bookings we take to ensure you can find a private, spacious site to yourselves. Kid friendly.

Potable water

from

AU$55

/ night

Heartwood

4. Heartwood

59km from Matata · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging

A very private and peaceful slice of the Nambucca Valley, featuring multiple elevated sites with spectacular views. You’ll be greeted at the base camp and directed to the sites that require a short hike. Your equipment will be delivered to you, or 4WD access can be discussed if needed. We never crowd the property — you’ll have entire areas to yourself for maximum privacy. Abundant wildlife makes this a birdwatcher’s paradise. Do as much or as little as you desire.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

from

AU$291

/ night

Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

5. Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

100%

(23)

56km from Matata · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

*Recently renovated! Hot showers, new composting toilets & shared undercover space at Yagaari - Suitable for private camping, group bookings, workshops and small gatherings* Note: We are a 4WD/AWD property 🛻 Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary borders the Western side of Yarriabini National Park on the traditional lands of the Ngambaa people. The creeks and dams here are all spring fed and provide a sanctuary for an abundance of wildlife and native bushland, as well as a few beautiful places for a refreshing swim! The property is private and quiet and has stunning sunrise and sunset views as well as multiple camping sites fit for various needs and group sizes. We have recently built a large shared communcal space for campers to enjoy and there are also clean, odourless composting toilets and hot showers available for use on site. There is lots of space to walk and explore with tracks leading up into the heart of the National Park. Nearby are many gorgeous rivers, beaches and other national parks to explore. We are convieniently located only 10 minutes from Macksville for shopping and cafes and only 15 minutes from Scotts Head, a great beach for families and surfers.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

from

AU$73

/ night

96% (7.6K) • 267 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Matata

Private River Camp

1. Private River Camp

99%

(253)

77km from Matata · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Off grid camping, 1.4 km of private freshwater river frontage, sandy beach access. Camping area is approximately 10 acres. The property is 150 acres, plenty of room to kick a footy or play cricket. Fish, Kayak, Swim. - Campers to have their own amenities. - Good access for all types of vehicles including 2WD, caravans, motorhomes. - 4WD or AWD highly recommended in heavy rain. - Access is via 3 km of gravel road. - Dogs are permitted but strictly must not chase or upset cattle or horses - Campfires permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place - BYO firewood or cut your own from ample fallen timber - 13 klm from South Grafton Shopping Centre, Coles Ect. - Property Approx 1500 meters to Clarence River Junction - A small number of canoes and kayaks are available.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

from

AU$25

/ night

"Dodona"

2. "Dodona"

99%

(624)

12km from Matata · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Dodona - ancient Greek meaning "God's Gift". Here you can camp by a permanent flowing creek in our beautiful green valley. Sites are accessible by all types of vehicles such as RVs, caravans, motorhomes, big rigs, camper trailers or basic tent camping. Campfires are permitted when restrictions aren't in place, firewood is available at $15 per bag and bonus inclusion of a lovely swimming pool and BBQ area! Shower & toilet available. There is 350 km of dirt trails in the very large Orara State Forest behind our property which is great for mountain bike riding, or horse riding (no horse riding permitted on the property). Pet friendly. Stay with a local, friendly host.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

from

AU$13

/ night

Grassyenda

3. Grassyenda

97%

(77)

56km from Matata · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

At Grassyenda, you'll find flat grass camping a stones throw from great beaches, the river, and townships. It's a rural setting that makes a great basecamp from which to explore the abundance of activities available nearby. Macleay River is just a 3 minute drive from camp and Grassy Head Beach is a five minutes, so you are never far from fishing, surfing and swimming! Closer to home, you're also welcome to paddle the kayak in the property's dam. The Yarrabinni National Park is closeby, and a great option for hiking, bushwalking, scenic lookouts, and freshwater creeks. The nearest village, Stuarts Point, is just 3 minutes down the road, with larger towns and shopping 20 to 30 minutes' drive away. The property is just 14km off the M1, with good access and plenty of open space. We limit the number of bookings we take to ensure you can find a private, spacious site to yourselves. Kid friendly.

Potable water

from

AU$55

/ night

Heartwood

4. Heartwood

59km from Matata · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging

A very private and peaceful slice of the Nambucca Valley, featuring multiple elevated sites with spectacular views. You’ll be greeted at the base camp and directed to the sites that require a short hike. Your equipment will be delivered to you, or 4WD access can be discussed if needed. We never crowd the property — you’ll have entire areas to yourself for maximum privacy. Abundant wildlife makes this a birdwatcher’s paradise. Do as much or as little as you desire.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

from

AU$291

/ night

Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

5. Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

100%

(23)

56km from Matata · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

*Recently renovated! Hot showers, new composting toilets & shared undercover space at Yagaari - Suitable for private camping, group bookings, workshops and small gatherings* Note: We are a 4WD/AWD property 🛻 Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary borders the Western side of Yarriabini National Park on the traditional lands of the Ngambaa people. The creeks and dams here are all spring fed and provide a sanctuary for an abundance of wildlife and native bushland, as well as a few beautiful places for a refreshing swim! The property is private and quiet and has stunning sunrise and sunset views as well as multiple camping sites fit for various needs and group sizes. We have recently built a large shared communcal space for campers to enjoy and there are also clean, odourless composting toilets and hot showers available for use on site. There is lots of space to walk and explore with tracks leading up into the heart of the National Park. Nearby are many gorgeous rivers, beaches and other national parks to explore. We are convieniently located only 10 minutes from Macksville for shopping and cafes and only 15 minutes from Scotts Head, a great beach for families and surfers.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

from

AU$73

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A

Amrita

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Grassyenda

Great spot! Plenty of kindling for a fire. We had a super secluded spot with lots of trees for shade and so nice and airy. Super close to beaches, 4wd tracks and trails. Our dog also loved it. Would definitely come back again and for longer. Water was a total bonus. Thanks!

L

Lucy

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

Amazing place with great toilets and showers! Lots of room, host was lovely. Perfect for an overnight stop just off the highway! Would stay again

G

Ge

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

Amazing site, well equipped! Beautiful view, highly recommended!

A

Alexandra

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

Thank you for such a magical stay! The location is so peaceful and beautifully cared for by Alex and Georgia. They were such welcoming hosts, gave us great recommendations for places to visit locally, and even left out plenty of firewood for us. Thank you for a very special and memorable Christmas!

Julie

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

3 nights at "Dodona"

Very relaxing and not to far away from Coffs Harbour. Highly recommend

I

Ian

2 weeks ago

11 m travel trailer

With kids

5 nights at Private River Camp

Craig’s Private River Camp was the perfect destination for a relaxed camping Christmas with the extended family. There is plenty of space with not another soul in sight. Numerous potential sites to choose from each with a beautiful outlook. The river was a short walk from our selected camping area and we made use of the beach area with shade from a beautiful tree next to the waters edge. We also made use of the Kayaks available on site to do a bit of river exploring. We are definitely planning to return.

H

Heath

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

We camped at Yagaari with our 2 dogs and were incredibly impressed with the property! We were greeted by Alex on arrival who gave us the run down and provided recommendations on where to visit in the area. Georgia was incredibly responsive online and checked on us during our stay. What really stood out to us was how well maintained the sites and amenities were. All sites were flat, well signposted and freshly mown. The toilets and showers were a luxury and so clean! We enjoyed our walk up to the lookout which offered amazing views of the property and distant ranges. We cooled off in the swimming hole and our pups enjoyed wading in the creek. If you’re looking for a base to explore the wider region - this place is centrally located to multiple tourist destinations; Scott’s Head, Trial Bay Gaol, Hat Head Nat. Park, Nambucca Heads, South West Rocks, Smoky Cape Lighthouse just to name a few. All located within a half hour drive of Yagaari. We were able to visit all of these locations in one day while also having time to sample local seafood, cherries and stop for a swim. Will be recommending this place to family and friends!

M

Marco

3 weeks ago

7 m Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to "Dodona"

Staying with Richard was a wonderful experience for us and the children. Richard is a wonderfully warm person who makes you feel right at home. A beautiful property, surrounded by nature. A barbecue with wood is available, as are bathroom facilities, electricity, and water. There's even a swimming pool for the kids. We recommend staying with Richard to everyone.

J

Jake

3 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at "Dodona"

Great spot. Great owner. Easy access with power water and a swimming pool

A

Andrei

December 2025

8 m Class A

With kids

1 night at "Dodona"

Richard's farm is a massive piece of land and we were allowed to pick any spot. Richard is a gracious host who proved all the necessities for the travelers - fresh water and power. There is plenty of wood on site and Richard can lend you an axe if you feel up to it. Bring some carrots and apples to feed the neighbours horses - kids will love it. The site itself is reasonably leveled and we had no issues in parking our motorhome. Overall our stay was fun and enjoyable.

G

Gary

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private River Camp

Great piece of land well presented to those that take the opportunity to stay in this region and appreciate what the area has to offer.

R

Rhii

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

My friends and I stayed for the weekend and absolutely loved it! The whole place was spotless and beautifully maintained — you can really tell how much care goes into keeping it that way. The swimming hole and facilities are a short walk from the campsites, and if you head up the hill, you’ll get stunning sunset views. Alex was incredibly welcoming, helpful and made sure we had everything we needed (even supplied us with loads of firewood!). Can’t wait to come back!

J

Jayne

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private River Camp

Great deep sandy bottom river to swim in. Spacious and shaded camp spots. Great camp spot.

D

Diana

October 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at Private River Camp

Private , quiet , river was clear for swimming , grounds well kept and very tidy! We absolutely loved it. 3 days of not one other human around . Coming back ! Host is very responsive to messaging and helpful.

Stephen

October 2025

4 m Class B

2 nights at Private River Camp

I enjoyed this location for the second time. Myself and my dogs found it relaxing. Will be returning soon. Thanks

R

Rene

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private River Camp

We thoroughly enjoyed our camping at Craig‘s place and having the river right there was an absolute godsend Such a peaceful way to spend the afternoon looking at the gorgeous Orara. We will definitely book again

G

Glenda

October 2025

12 m travel trailer

2 nights at Private River Camp

Beautiful well kept grounds. So quiet and peaceful.

Glenn

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Private River Camp

Private with huge amount of open green space surrounded by bushland with the beautiful Orara River right there. Its only 15 km or so out of Grafton but feels so secluded and peaceful. It's a great location to base yourself for canoing and kayaking trips on the river. Craig is a wonderful host who communicates quickly. Can't wait to go back!

Michaela

October 2025

4 m pop-up camper

Group trip

4 nights at Private River Camp

Breathtaking! As you drive in, you can see how well the property is maintained. You have many spots to choose from to set up. It's a short walk or drive down to the river from the main camping areas. We loved our stay with the family (couple of set ups) and kids. It's one of those spots you wouldnt tell too many people about. We will be back!