The best camping near Cotter Dam
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cotter Dam adventure.
Cotter Dam: A Sanctuary of Serenity and Natural Splendour.
Popular ways to camp
Community favorites near Cotter Dam
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
Top-rated campgrounds near Cotter Dam
98%
(1446)
Bahwidgee on Tumut River
139 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · Bombowlee, NSW
Located on the stunning Tumut River, where cool groves of black wattle line the riverbank, offering shade, privacy, and comfort. Here you have clear Snowy River water at your doorstep. It's so fresh we drink it!
Each camping site is by the river, prime position for fishing, canoeing, and swimming. Based on availability, you are welcome to choose your spot on arrival. All options are grassed and level.
You will have access to a pit toilet, otherwise, please BYO facilities. Small campfires are welcome in the fire pits provided, or BYO firepit (permitting there are no restrictions in place at the time). Firewood can be purchased at the time of booking.
We're pet-friendly, so you're welcome to bring your four-legged friends along! Please note, however, that we are a working farm and as such farm activities are going on, and we have resident animals, so please keep your pets under control at all times.
Also, please ensure kids are supervised at all times, particularly around the river. Lifejackets are recommended.
During your time here, visit the local farm gates in Tumut, Batlow, Tumbarumba, and Adelong for their delicious high-country produce. There are also some beautiful swimming spots and walks to discover in the region, as well as good facilities in town, including the local swimming pool and shopping centre. Enjoy a local brew and bite to eat at the Tumut brewery. Bahwidgee is just 3km from the Tumut town centre - so close you could ride in, or even walk.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(423)
Goolabri Estate
16 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · NSW
You are invited to camp on what was once a golf course, and always has been surrounded by natural bushland.
Situated only 20 minutes from Canberra, we offer you the opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in a peaceful country experience.
There are dams to camp near, and a beautiful nature reserve where you can take a peaceful walk. If you would like to have a wander and experience some untouched bushland, please ask and we can provide simple directions.
Bird watching and wildlife observation is unavoidable, and we recommend downloading the ACT Field Guide app. Enjoy your morning coffee surrounded by kangaroos and cockatoos.
Suitable for Tents, Campers, Vans and Caravans, with good access for 2WD and caravans.
Must have own amenities. There are no toilets on site and you need to take everything away with you.
Small campfires are permitted in designated areas, when restrictions aren't in place. You may use dead wood that you find on the golf course area as firewood. Please do not gather firewood from the nature reserve, for wildlife's sake.
Pets are not permitted.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(172)
Riverview on the Murrumbidgee
15 sites · RVs, Tents1000 acres · Berremangra, NSW
Follow us on Facebook and Insta! Ponds Mountain Pastures.
Located along a 2km stretch of the Murrumbidgee River with a mountain backdrop, Riverview is a working Angus cattle farm, it does not get more breathtaking than this!
Little over an hour from Canberra and three from Sydney, you can enjoy large campsites right on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Swimming, floating down rapids, fishing, bike riding, and hiking! So many activities to keep you entertained or just sit back and listen to the rapids from the front of your tent.
We are pet friendly, bring your four-legged family members with you - they'll love it just as much as you! We also have secure yards with water for horses, with plenty of walking and riding trails on the farm, you'll have an unforgettable time!
Please note, no mobile reception at sites. You will receive a notification 2 days before arrival with the gate code, please note this down as you will not be able to access the Hipcamp app on site (due to no mobile reception).
All campers must be self-contained with their own camp toilet, and we kindly ask you take all waste with you when you leave.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$35
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(200)
Coots Creek Campground
11 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Nanima, NSW
Following so many positive experiences with Hipcamp the owners decided to open up their beautiful 300acre cattle property to other Hipcampers, to share the beauty of the land and its flora and fauna in a pieceful environment, to develop friendships and operate the park during their retirement years.
Patrons have enjoyed the easy accessibility,
stunning sunset views and
the peace and quiet of feeling like they are a million miles away from civilization.
All sites in the Campground area
are sited to give maximum privacy and safety from any fire threat, with plenty of room to place
tents/vans for best viewing position.
Campground Sites x 7
Beautiful private
sites that feel like you are away from the rest of the world.
Watch kangaroos, wallaroos and wedge tail eagles. Drive through comfort for large Caravans/RV.
- Campers are encouraged to BYO Toilet, greywatertank
and fresh water – potable water available for refill of tanks.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
92%
(166)
Elm Grove Sanctuary Community
11 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Goobarragandra, NSW
Elm Grove Sanctuary provides the perfect environment for a digital detox. Visitors are welcome for family holidays, wedding receptions, and retreats, with cabins and camping options
Set in the picturesque Goobarragandra Valley, 28 kms east of Tumut, we are surrounded by Kosciusko National Park with spectacular mountain scenery.
There's plenty to do while visiting: fishing, bushwalking, swimming, stargazing, picnics, campfires or just sitting under an Elm tree with a book.
We have Campsites by the river with a simple camp kitchen and basic toilets available. These sites have easy 2WD access and space to turn a caravan around.
We also have a cabin that you can book that has a fully set up kitchen, wood fire and plenty of accommodation with a view.
We have dogs, and are a Dog friendly campsite. (We also have chickens, so if you bring a dog, please make sure that it is going to be friends with our chickens, or kept on a leash.)
There is no mobile reception, so you will not be disturbed by the outside world when you visit paradise.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$22
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(56)
Maddara.Organic.Farm.and.Art
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Yass River, NSW
Once a much larger property, we purchased our 120-acre (50-hectare) in 1984 as a means to live sustainably and raise a family.
Living in our shed whilst we prepared the garden, put in watering infrastructure and built our house which we finally moved in when our daughter was 6 months old in 1990.
Over the ensuing years we have continued to increase biodiversity on the property and set it up so we can live sustainably, harvesting our own water, electricity and food.
If your lucky you could get a hamper of our product when there is sufficient in season.
With the increased biodiversity you will find that in the mornings and evenings kangaroos and wallabies will visit with the occasional echidna, rabbit and hare; and to forget the large array of bird life - that may wake you early in the morning with the songs.
This campsite is set on lovely grassy open areas interspersed with gum trees. The sunrise looks spectacular near the dam, when the trees give off a lovely glow.
The main paddock has a Geodome, a shared space for relaxing in. With all that space you can park and set up camp anywhere in the paddock.
There is access to drinking water, toilets, and a hot shower.
Around the dome is a firepit, drinking water and a camp kitchen. The firepit features an Argentinian BBQ and a plate for cooking. The kitchen has plates, cups, cutlery, and other bits and pieces for you to use.
If you want exclusive use of the paddocks - refer to Group Bush Retreat.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$35
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(253)
Michelago Farm Camping
8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Michelago, NSW
Large open paddock with easy access from Monaro Highway, great for camping with amazing views of the mountains.
The access road is good quality dirt road. Ok for caravans.
Dog friendly (must be well behaved around our animals and not chase them). We have Alpacas in our camping paddocks so your dog must be kept under control at all times.
We have a composting toilet available for campers to use.
Mobile phone reception in the area is around 3-4 bars 4G on Optus and 3-4 bars 3G on Telstra.
Please bring your own wood for camp fires or you can purchase a barrow of bush wood from us in the extras. We prefer you not to collect your own wood (other than starter sticks/branches) as we are trying to maintain logs, branches, ground cover on the ground for native birds, lizards, etc.
Private outdoor yoga sessions are available if booked in advance or you can book into the local classes on Thursday nights.
All camp fees are being used to rehabilitate our property with plants that are native to our area and restore the land.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(3)
Miranda Springs Farm Stay
5 sites · RVs280 acres · Springrange, NSW
Private and very easy to access caravan sites available just 20 minutes from Canberra City Centre and 10 mins to fuel, Aldi, takeaway etc.
Plenty of room to turn around and sites are nice and level. Guests can enjoy our peaceful and scenic paddock away from it all. Plenty of wildlife to see, Birds, Kangaroos, Reptiles and Wallabies, the occasional Wombat and lovely easy walks. Try some yabbying in the nearby dam too if you like.
We are just 7km from the Barton Highway and provide a very secure property that allows you to go off exploring with confidence.
DOGS are permitted on LEAD only.
Self contained vehicles. (toilet) required.
Fires permitted when no fire ban, fire pits provided. Wood provided at cost on request.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(88)
PEACEFUL RURAL PROPERTY SUTTON, NSW
2 sites · RVs, Tents220 acres · Sutton, NSW
Located on a sealed road, on 220 acres of land, approximately 5-6 minutes to Sutton or Gundaroo, 10 minutes to Gunghalin and 20 minutes into Canberra. The site is very quiet and private. Sutton village (5 kms away) has a toilet block and shower amenities available.
A beautiful quiet location to stay. Close to a lot of amenities, such as Bakery, Wineries, Gundaroo, Mulligan's Flat Reserve and Gunghalin shops.
Sutton has a world class bakery, we recommend chicken and leek or pepper steak pies. Gundaroo has an old world pub with local wines and food. The old police station at Gundaroo has been converted to a gourmet pizza restaurant, there is also an excellent restaurant named Grazing. There is also Eagle Hawke pub, which is very popular. There are numerous wineries nearby including Gundog at Gundaroo and all of the many Murrumbateman wineries.
Water refill and waste disposal is available at Queanbeyan showground.
The Mulligans Flat Reserve, about 10 minutes away, is a real first in Australia, given that a very large area has been set aside near Canberra to foster wildlife. A walk through the reserve is well worth while. Check it out.
None of the above should be missed if you visit our area.
Situated on a farm, our property has flat terrain in most areas.
We have a land for wildlife reserve on site to explore native plants and wildlife.
Sites are suitable for Tents, Campers, Vans and Caravans.Must have own amenities.• Check in: After 12 PM• Check out: Before 11 AM• Cancellation policy: Flexible • On arrival: Meet and greet • Minimum nights: 1 night• Accepts bookings: 1 month out Surface type: grass or field Surface levelness: flat Generators allowed
Show less
Approximately 30 minutes into Canberra.
Owners live on site.
Pets
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(45)
Shepherds Rest
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Mount Fairy, NSW
Beautiful open views across rolling hills and paddocks.
Sit by the dam and enjoy the views.
Meet the goats, llama and chickens.
Walk the farm paddocks with the goats. Mountain bike on country roads.
Various sites to choose from.
Only 45 mins from Canberra.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(90)
Brooklyn Springs Farm Escape
14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents932 acres · Brungle Creek, NSW
932 acres of stunning views in a beautiful valley nestled in the hills between Tumut and Gundagai. It's a working property running sheep, cattle, and the odd alpaca and goats.
We are located at Brungle Creek, between Tumut and Gundagai. We have many private, secluded, beautiful spots for you to choose from. The views are spectacular and the atmosphere is the ultimate for relaxing. It's best for self sufficient campers as there are no toilets or amenities. In advance, you can arrange a farm tour through host.
There are no toilets for campers so you will need to be self-contained with your own camping toilet and shower. Drinking and cooking water available. Our cabin is fully contained with all that you need for a comfortable stay.
Dogs permitted but must be well controlled and NOT chase livestock.
Campfires permitted in designated areas when restrictions aren't in place. Firewood available, discuss with host where to get it from.
Lovely spot to relax and unwind and really connect. The night sky is incredible, lay back and gaze for hours.
You will only have neighbours if you bring them with you, all camps are private! Bliss!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(108)
Little River Mountains
9 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Tumut, NSW
We are located a short drive from Tumut in the Snowy Mountains region.
Pitch your tent or RV overlooking the gorgeous mountains. We are half a kilometre from the main road behind locked gates, and just 10 minutes from town for all your supply needs.
There are plenty of scenic walks and fishing spots nearby, at camp you can enjoy complete privacy.
There is a shower and toilet available which is separate from the main residence. There is also bar fridge, large chest freezer, jug, toaster, and microwave available, We are on tank water and can offer drinking water. We ask that you are conservative with your water use, and we encourage you to bring your own.
Enjoy waking up to the tranquil sounds of wildlife of all sorts, (not having to hear any traffic being 500meters off the main road). plus the views of the kangaroos in the mornings is pleasant too!
The campsite is accessible by 2WD and we can accommodate all types of camping vehicles. You will need to level your vehicle depending on which site you choose.
Your pet is welcome to join you.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$38
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
The best camping near Cotter Dam guide
Overview
About
Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Cotter Dam, where the rush of water and whisper of wind through native vegetation beckon adventurers and nature lovers alike. Here, the Cotter River's journey culminates in a stunning display of pristine waterways, offering scenic drives, bushwalking, mountain biking, and bird watching. While camping is not available within the reserve, the surrounding areas provide ample opportunities for overnight stays amid the wilderness.
When to go
The best time to visit Cotter Dam is during the milder months of spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer can be quite warm, making it less ideal for strenuous activities. Winter, while cooler, offers a unique beauty, though some tracks may be less accessible.
Know before you go
- Check the weather forecast and plan your visit when conditions are favourable for outdoor activities.
- Be aware that 1080 poison is used in the area for fox control, so keep pets on a leash and on designated paths.
- Respect the prohibition of swimming in the catchment to protect water quality.
- Remember that boating and fishing are restricted to certain areas; always follow local regulations.
- Take care to leave no trace, ensuring trash is properly disposed of and the natural environment is preserved.
Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.