Camping near Sydney
You’ll be surprised how many camping getaways you can find near Sydney, Australia’s largest city.
91% (4927 reviews)
- Sydney
91% (4927 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Sydney
Star Hosts in Sydney
Under $50
12 top campgrounds near Sydney
99%
(77)
Canoelands Valley Camping
4 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Canoelands, NSW
Canoelands Valley Camping is an easy-to-access camping area with magnificent views through the National Park Valley. With only two allocated camping/van zones enjoy the privacy and access to walk around the 40 acres.
Located 1.15 hrs from Sydney CBD this is an ideal place for a quick weekend getaway for keen hikers, mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts.
Surrounded by the Marramarra National Park you have a short drive to access the Canoelands Ridge Trail (17kms), Duckponds Ridge Trail, Marrarra Ridge to Smugglers Point Ridge Trail.
Enjoy a tour at the Canoelands Orchard, a short drive to dine at Wiseman Ferry, and only 11 minutes from the local Woolworths.
Your camping/van area is supplied with red/yellow bins, and camping toilet is provided. Dogs allowed but please let me know first. They will need to be unleash all the time and well behaved. Please pick up after them and also they must be vaccinated.
A campfire during permitted times is allowed but only in the fire pits. There is loads of dried kindling and small logs around the property otherwise byo.
Beautiful spot to relax, with loads of wildlife and bird watching.
Please use bins supplied and leave no trace.
* There are 4 allocated camp sites. Two are easy(2WD & Vans/trailers) access and have the direct view through the valley. Two require high wheel clearance vehicles (just small hill to drive up with some rocks), these are more private sites(cannot see the other campers) still with lovely views.
**Now offering access on weekdays but ONLY Site 1 & 2 (weekend access to Sites 1-4)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$39
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
63%
(4)
Ingenia Holiday Sydney Hills
41 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Sydney, NSW
Located 30 kilometres north-west of Sydney in the suburb of Dural, Ingenia Holidays Sydney Hills provides an escape from the city or the perfect place to pull over for a few nights during a long road trip.
Choose to pitch your tent, put down the caravan legs, park your motorhome or check-in to one of the cottages or cabins which accommodate anywhere from two to five guests.
While the holiday park offers landscape grounds to relax, there’s plenty of adventure waiting to be explored – whether it be stepping it out along the trails of the Blue Mountains to throwing down the picnic blanket along the banks of the Hawksbury River.
For those wanting to stay close to home, you’ll find a tennis court and swimming pool to keep everyone in the family entertained.
Hire a brazier to test your campfire cooking during your stay or fire up the BBQ and prepare your meals in the camp kitchen.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$39
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(739)
Jila Camp Grounds
27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Yarramundi, NSW
Come and enjoy these river side sites with over 50 acres available to camp,
bush walk and mountain bike. With over 600m of river frontage you'll be sure to find a secluded spot to swim, camp and fish.
Located in the Grose Vally there are some challenging walking trails adjacent to the camp grounds. Just a 10 minute drive to Richmond, a town located beside the Hawkesbury-Nepean River, it is an interesting combination of modern outer suburbia with a significant number of important historic buildings dating from the 1810s and 1820s.
Bring some loose change for a donation to Beyond Blue for kayak hire or to purchase some home grown avocados when in season.
Extra vehicles can be paid for as an extra, this money is donated to Beyond Blue.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$85
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(175)
Hawkesbury River Rural Campground
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Wisemans Ferry, NSW
We do this because we believe humans in nature bring out the best of human nature.
The 350 acres comprises of native bushland, riverside mangroves and cleared pastures. It is completely surrounded by the Marramarra National Park. The property dates back to early English settlement and is entwined into the Hawkesbury’s rich history.
There are a number of activities that can be experienced on the farm including kayaking, bushwalking, fishing, crabbing (in warmer months) and boating to name a few.
These campsites suit self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower and drive 4WD or AWD vehicles. It's not advisable to use a 2WD vehicle to come along our road due to it's condition, we are currently waiting for Hornsby Council to repair and maintain the approach road to the property. knowing I've highlighted my concerns about the road allows me peace of mind that guests have been informed. We have a toilet and warm shower available if needed up at the farm cottage. Campground 1 is a large site and can be adapted to whatever the campers needs are, it has fantastic views of the surrounding cliffs and is only five minutes walk from the jetty and amenities. Campground 2 is a small site but sits right next to the jetty and has water access. It's also only a minutes walk to the bathroom, with toilet and shower. Campground 3 and 4 has a communale jetty and a boat/jet-ski slip, it also has a bush toilet and indoor camp kitchen. Campground 5 is a three minute walk to the jetty but stands alone. Campground 6 is a secluded site in amongst Ironbark trees and Campground 7 is a large site in an open paddock. Extras can be added depending on the occupancy of the other sites. The towing of traditional caravans along our approach road is not advised if you're not experienced in doing so. Rubbish and recycling facilities are also catered for too.
We supply fishing gear and crab pots for a small cost, but you have to bring your own bait for both. We also offer a $10 cow feeding experience which the kids love, in fact everyone does. Firewood can be gathered in amongst the trees surrounding the camp sites, but we can supply wood if needed, please see Extras.
The cottage is also for rent which is clean and cosy with two queen sized bedrooms that open out onto the wrap around verandah which over looks the Hawkesbury River. It has a self-contained kitchen with a gas oven and separate island style gas cooktop. The small fridge is also gas but there is a 12v fridge that runs off solar too, the kitchen is equipped with cooking utensils, tea and coffee, oil, salt and pepper and dishwashing liquid etc. There is a nice living and dining area in the cottage with a wood burning fire for heat if needed, firewood is supplied free of charge when renting the cottage. Also there is a large undercover outdoor living area with a barbeque. The cottage is powered by solar so things like hair dryers, microwaves and any high powered electrical equipment can not be used. The battery packs recharge during sun light hours so any mobiles or alike should be charged up during the day. There is a back up generator in case there's a problem so you will always have power one way or another. The cottage comes with it's own private jetty which gives you another means of transport, bring your own boat or arrive by water taxi. There is access to a drinking water supply which comes from a natural spring high up in the sandstone cliffs which can also be shown to you if you don't mind a hike. Arriving by boat or taxi is an option also, as there are a number of water taxi services from Brooklyn who will ferry you to the farm at a cost.
Enjoy the evenings telling tall tales around the campfire. You may experience a number of animals throughout your stay including native birds, cows, goannas, wallabies and bush turkeys. There are a number of walks in the surrounding area that we can provide information on if you're wanting to explore. On our adjoining property (40 acres) there is an amazingly beautiful waterfall with a little refreshing dip pool at the base. This is obviously only appreciated when there has been some good rain in the area. There are also cafes and pubs in the nearby towns that can be enjoyed plus a fantastic Thai restaurant located just across the river at Spencer. If you are truly looking for a rural camping experience then look no further than the Hawkesbury River Rural Campground, we will do everything possible to make your stay enjoyable.
On the southern shore of the Hawkesbury upstream from Mangrove Creek in Haycock Reach. Peter Hibbs (1762-1847) was a seaman who was a member of Governor Phillip’s party which explored the Hawkesbury. In 1823 he was granted 60 acres here. He is buried in the Wisemans Ferry Cemetery at Laughtondale. Reed gives “Cooranggoorah” as meaning “grass tree”. The Aborigines used the gum from these to attach spear heads and for a variety of other purposes. These grasstrees are abundant in much of the Hawkesbury sandstone region.
Access by road:
Hawkesbury River Rural Campground is approximately a 1 hour and 50-minute drive from Sydney CBD, a 2-hour drive from Gosford or a 3-hour drive from Newcastle CBD. The road is sealed for the most part except for the last 3 km’s which is unsealed and can be rough at times. Arrival before dark is advised.
Access by water:
Hawkesbury River Rural Campground is approximately a 35-minute boat ride from Brooklyn Marina and Hawkesbury River Train Station. You may take your own boat or catch a Water Taxi which we can help organise.
Hawkesbury RIver Rural Campground acknowledges the Dharug and Darkinjung people as the Traditional Custodians of the Hawkesbury and pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$100
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(783)
Fern Valley Ranch
20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Somersby, NSW
**FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE AVAILABILITY, PLEASE CHECK AND BOOK THROUGH THE CALENDAR (If you write to us, we may not get to your message in time)**
-
** We are not taking bookings Mon to Thu. Please check back here for updates if we start again 😊
-
Are you looking for a retreat to get away from the city, or a refreshing alternative to a caravan park along your journey?
We have CAMPSITES nestled in our Orchard or in the Pine Trees paddock, (with nearby amenities); or for more of a comfortable and unique stay, try our CHARMING, CONVERTED SCHOOL BUS!
Fern Valley Ranch has it all- waterfall viewing, bush walks, animal feeding.
Unwind; relax by the campfire with quiet cup of tea (or a beer). Leave the city behind and tune back in to the birdlife and whistle of the breeze among the tall trees.
CAMP SITES- Max 5 campers (see Campsite Listing for number and type of dwellings allowed per site.)
SCHOOL BUS- Max 4 guests (no pets)- can book separate bus campsites after booking Bus.
SCHOOL BUS CAMPING- Get friends to camp next to you in the Bus.
*** NO ENTERING ANY WATER ON THE PROPERTY, YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE IMMEDIATELY IF YOU DO NOT RESPECT OUR RULES ***
If you want to swim, there are beaches within half an hour from our farm.
-
We are just an hour between Sydney and Newcastle; and 15 minutes to Gosford.
THINGS TO DO IN THE CENTRAL COAST:
- Australian Reptile Park
- Great North Walk
- Fire Creek Botanical Winery
- Mount Penang Farmers Market
- Mangrove Creek Dam
- Many Cafes & chocolate shop
-BEACHES: The Entrance, Toowoon Bay, Shelley, Terrigal
- Gosford Regional Gallery
- Edogawo Commemorative Gardens
- Take a drive to the small village of Spencer
- Golf clubs
are all nearby.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$55
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(536)
NSW Ski Gardens
6 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Wisemans Ferry, NSW
NSW Ski Gardens is situated on the banks of the Hawkesbury River at Wisemans Ferry.
Every October - April is our peak time and its busy! Please be aware there is river noise during our busy times on weekends so may not suit those looking for tranquillity on weekends. During the week it's fine but weekends are busy and a bit noisy.
We are 1.2 km from the township along the River Road. There are powered and unpowered sites for caravans and campers set in a rustic location.
Amenities include hot showers, laundry, on-site kiosk and boat ramp (fee applicable).
BBQ and covered picnic area.
Dogs are welcome on leash.
Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$21
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(919)
Rivers Run Colo River
18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents26 acres · Central Colo, NSW
26 acres nestled along the Colo River! Just 1.5 hours from the Sydney CBD, this is the perfect place for a weekend getaway.
Come and enjoy a Glamper or camp site nestled on the banks of the beautiful Colo River with an abundance of birdlife to sit back and listen too.
Rivers Run is great for people that would like some quiet time, as our sites are private and placed between natural bushland.
Enjoy the sights of horses grazing in the paddocks .Close proximity to hiking tracks and mountain bike trails.
There is a beautiful Rustic communal bathroom facility for guests to use with four toilets and three hot showers.
We look forward to seeing you at Rivers Run :)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(429)
"DeView"
8 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Central Colo, NSW
***APRIL 2024***
We have had a recent flood...
Campsites that are available are high and dry and were not effected by flood water. River access on foot is still available although adjacent to river campsites are not available.
Beautiful property, nestled into the Colo Valley, next to the pristine Colo River. We have cleared grassy paddocks, some shady areas, and private access to the Colo River, one of the most pristine rivers in NSW.
Our river access is normally shallow, well suited to young families or those who just want to lay back and enjoy a quiet refreshing dip with a beverage or two. Amazing sunrises, sunsets, and star gazing are provided free of charge along with bird watching, local wildlife, and horses in surrounding paddocks.
We offer limited sites to comply with NSW Camping legislation and Hipcamp guidelines and to enable campers to experience the Colo as it should be, listening to the beautiful wildlife and really appreciating the outdoors. Sites are large spaces with distance between sites to enable you to enjoy the camping experience in your own space. If you are planning to stay with friends and you wish to share a site only 1 booking is required, the sites are large, some up to 30m x 30m.
(Long weekend 2 night minimum)
If you'd like to book the whole property Contact the host for special rates and any questions and to check availability.
Pets are allowed on a case-by-case basis, please check with Hosts prior to booking, as conditions and a charge applies.
There is no mobile reception or internet access, therefore, providing a true off-grid retreat. Self-sufficient campers are preferred.
There are fire drums available for use or you're welcome to bring your own subject to RFS bush fire danger ratings on the day.
There are three communal flushing toilets and one awesome hot water shower!
ALL waste is to leave with you!
There are local bush walks through National Parks and great places for mountain bike riding although be mindful of holiday traffic in peak times on our local dirt roads. We have a local guide that may be available to take you on guided walks so you can truly experience the valley at its best without the worry of knowing where to go. Get in touch with the host to arrange a walk.
The local shop, Colo Riverside is open 4 days a week just 10kms up the road providing last-minute supplies, ice, bottle shop, and cafe services.
Please note: Due to our location bookings may be canceled at short notice in times of bad weather due to flooding, limited access, fire or flood warnings. We trust you will understand we are only looking out for your safety and of course, Hipcamp credits will be arranged.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Canoelands Orchard Camping
9 sites · RVs, Tents81 acres · Canoelands, NSW
Canoelands Orchard Camping and Fruit Picking, is located just 1 hour from Sydney's CBD. The property is 81 acres in total with a small shop and cafe onsite. We offer pick your own fruit so are open to the public daily. We are surrounded by the stunning valley views of Marra Marra National Park. Guests can enjoy hiking, wandering the orchard picking fresh produce, taking a tractor ride, feeding the animals and relaxing. Please note we are a working farm so sometimes tractors and vehicles can be heard working from 7am. There will be foot traffic and possibly tractor rides operating near some of the sites although we will do our best to respect your privacy while you are here. We also have a quarry surrounding most of the property, so they sometimes operate machinery early. This is not generally too disruptive though. We are just 15 minutes' drive from the beautiful historical Wiseman's Ferry and the Hawkesbury River. There are multiple hiking tracks located close by. We have several sites to offer around the property. We have a beautiful huge dam just 350m down the gully. It’s super peaceful although a steep walk down the driveway to access, it's definitely worth it, so pack your walking shoes and some swimmers.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$39
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(370)
Myrtle Ridge farm
29 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Ourimbah, NSW
Private camp paddock located right on the banks of Ourimbah creek.
Walk track.
Loads of local fauna and close to all the Central Coast tourist attractions.
This circle campground is perfect for family get togethers or accommodation for a local wedding
The farm has been in the same family for over 80 years
This is a large flat paddock with loads of space and it is very private with a large hedge of trees surrounding it. Our Bottom Creek camp will also be open..
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Booked 2 times
Rock Shelf Campsite at Curl Curl
1 site · Tent1 acre · Curl Curl, NSW
This campsite is situated on top of a beautiful sandstone rock shelf in Curl Curl, NSW. The site has views across the valley to North Curl Curl. We keep native stingless bees and other beautiful native animals.
Located only 300m from the Beaches best surf beach which has two beautiful rock pools to explore. Especially good for people that are not used to the surf.
The 33km Northern Beaches Coast Walk is nearby. Cafes with views are everywhere. Only 30 minutes drive to Ku-ring-gai National Park. Close to W'gah mall and public transport for easy access to Manly and the city.
Pets are welcome and we have a fire pit available. Please bring your own firewood.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$60
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(332)
Otford Park nr Royal National Park
3 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Otford, NSW
Otford is a historic village in a valley between Sydney and Wollongong, and bounded by the Pacific ocean. Our private acreage backs onto the southern tip of the Royal National Park, so the outlook from the campsite is all leafy trees. Walk to lookouts over the ocean, hike down to the beach or a few minutes drive to dog friendly beaches. Our bathroom and kitchen facilities make it an easy experience for first time campers. We are well-behaved-dog-friendly BUT you must let us know in advance.
Our access track to the camping sites has been repaired with a deep layer of asphalt but still best suited to 4WD. . There is also the option of parking roadside, and walking in approx 400m to the sites. Please message us if unsure about your vehicle.
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ
1. Please let us know if you are bringing a dog/dogs - we have horses, house dogs, chickens and; wildlife plus likely other campers close by, so need to be forewarned. Dogs must be on lead or contained at all times.
2. If you need to camp out of your 4WD RV (such as a roof top tent), please contact me before booking to ensure those two particular vehicle sites are still available :) and that your vehicle is suitable for our track. Maximum length is approx 5m. Please scroll through the photos to see our amenities and camping sites.
3. We limit the number of people staying at any one time, so weekends book up quickly. That said, due to Covid and weather, people often cancel at the last minute too, so if we are currently booked out, it's always worthile checking again closer to the date for any availability.
We are on acreage (approx 7 acres) in Otford, surrounded by forest, backing onto the very southern end of the Royal National Park Sydney/Wollongong. Sleep under the stars, and to the hoot of our local owls, and yips of the gorgeous feather-tail gliders. Lovely, peaceful and private in a bushland backdrop but so close & just a walk to famous sites, beaches, cafes and bushwalking - so the perfect spot to stop, unpack and then go exploring.
Max of 3 camp sites booked at a time. Each camp site is within shouting distance of each other, so if looking for absolute privacy, please talk to me first. As bookings come through, I assess the number of people booked for a site, and adjust availability on the others accordingly (such as blocking the rest of the day/s to prevent over-crowding) We usually only have two unconnected groups/families at a time.
Our site is the perfect place to camp in comfort and safety, when taking an overnight rest after the long backpacking trek from Bundeena.
We have firewood available for our cosy camp firepits (one firepit available for each site) We buy in reclaimed hardwood to reduce the impact of logging of native forest, but also often have seasoned firewood from our own fallen trees. $20 for approx 20kg. Heaps of kindling sticks are around on the forest floor. Please leave large and rotting logs alone for wildlife.
Water - Connected to Sydney Catchment drinking water, so supply isn't an issue, but we conserve where we can.
Kitchenette We have a tiny house mobile kitchenette with sink, basic table wear, microwave, kettle, toaster, LÓr Nespresso compatible Pod machine (BYO pods) single hot plates, mini bar fridge ,and; USB ports. You can also use the facility to recharge your mobile phone and; torches. We also provide a billy kettle, cast iron fry pan and camp fire hot plate.
You'll also find 6 comfy directors chairs stored within the kitchenette, and a deck of cards, jigsaw puzzles, boardgames etc. Cricket bat, Bocce ball game, and Finish Kubbs set are stored within the timber box under the gazebo.
"Nature Calls" We have a new long drop compost toilet - only human waste and; toilet paper please. A small bin is provided for sanitary products etc. Please leave the bushland surrounds free of solid waste.
Gazebo
Weatherproof /insect meshed gazebo and outdoor furniture. Absolutely no fires under the gazebo, otherwise it will melt and catch fire.
Quiet Hours
Quiet hours between 10pm and 7am
Outdoor and Indoor Showers
Warm water is heated by LPG gas bottles - please help conserve water and gas
QUIET HOURS:
To respect other campers who may be staying, and our amazing nocturnal wildlife, our quiet hours are 10pm to 7am, when noise is asked to be kept minimal. Such an exception would be event times like New Years Eve.
We have found that camping is a great way to reset your Circadian rhythm - waking and sleeping according to the natural light & darkness , and a drink around a crackling camp fire super relaxing :)
CONTACT:
If you want me to send you more photographs of the camping sites/facilities , you can look up Otford Park or OtfordParkCamping on Facebook and contact me through there (can't send photos etc via HipCamp messages yet)
WHAT TO EXPECT:
We have horses, poultry, dogs and abundant wildlife so visiting pets must be either caged or leashed at all times. We have two waterproof dog beds available - just need to bring their blanket etc for softness
As its a sanctuary for wildlife - absolutely No Hunting is permitted. Wildlife can be loud at times - morning and night, from the wild deer that wander through, to domestic roosters that like to visit. Its a bit 'farm country and wild bushland' tucked between Sydney and Wollongong
Caravans/large motorhomes cannot access the rear of our property, due the narrowness of the track, but no problem for the many 4wd style camper vehicles.
Necessities/consumables
We have a supply of toilet paper, hand wash, hand sanitiser, insect repellent , fire lighters, mossie coils, matches, dish soap, paper towels and spray disinfectant. Its an honour system for use just while you're here, so please don't take them home with you. If you need to buy toilet paper for your next journey, just ask me.
WHAT'S NEARBY:
- easy walk to Otford railway station
- easy walk to our free local tennis court just down the road
-road walk up to Bald Hill lookout (famous for its hang-gliding and view of the Seacliff Bridge) or hike up the fire trail and around the Stony Batter headland
- walk to Otford Lookout and the start of the many trails through the Royal National Park or the hike down (about 20 to 30min) to Bulgo beach to swim, fish or snorkel. Be sure to take water and wear comfy shoes
- quick walk to the hidden entrance of the historic abandoned Otford railway tunnel entrance -its also an interesting and fun way to walk to Stanwell Park beach!
Otherwise its just few minutes drive to Stanwell Park beach and Coalcliff Beach - all clean and beautiful
or go further north to the many stunning beaches of the Royal National Park such as Garie, Burning Palms, Wattamolla
- Darkes Forest - for trail horse riding, and the Glenbernie Orchard, for fresh apple and stone fruit produce and apple picking tours
* * * * * * * * * *
Off Leash Beaches
- If you have a dog , it will probably love the northern end of Stanwell Park beach its been designated an off-leash area, north of the creek. - park your carpark of Park Parade.
Sharkey's Beach, Coledale. A dedicated off-leash beach for dogs and surfers alike, all year round. Approx 10 min drive south.
* * * * * * * * * *
Others Sights & Activities
- Four km to Symbio Wildlike Park - a lovely day out to see both exotic animals such as cheetahs or more local cuddly koalas and opportunities to hand feed kangaroos and wallabies. A water theme park will keep the kiddies entertained and cool too
- On the way to Symbio is the beautiful Kelly's Falls - part of the Garrawarra State Conservation area & historic Princess Marina Cliff Walk.
- Seacliff Bridge - Not to be missed and part of the Grand Pacific Drive along the South East Coast, Seacliff Bridge is now an iconic Australian landmark. It beautifully hugs the huge sandstone cliffs around the ocean, and is popular to tourist and film makers alike.
- Cafes - yum! Walk to the Otford Pantry on the corner of Domville Rd and Lady Wakehurst Drive, open weekends for great coffee and pastries, overlooking the ocean. Then many other cafes in nearby Stanwell Park and Helensburgh
- We are situated in a valley, with the Illawarra train line about 500m to 1km away, so occasionally you might here a coal train passing, or more interesting on many weekends the historic Cockatoo Run steam train comes through around 10am and on its return approx 6pm. If children are at the station waiting to see it, the drivers usually oblige with a friendly toot of the steam horn.
- Horse Riding - Book ahead for trail rides at either the local Otford Farm in Lloyd Place, or can drive to Darkes Forest Riding Ranch
- Wodi Wodi track at Stanwell Tops - if you're fit and love a challenging hike, the Wodi Wodi track can take you from the Hanging swamp around and down to Coalcliff. Water, comfortable shoes and insect repellent (for the odd leach) etc is essential, but the spectacular views at the top and destination make it worth it
FOOD and PROVISIONS
Helensburgh shopping centre is just 4km drive away. But if you're hiking on foot from the Royal National Park and would like basic provisions such as milk and bread available on your arrival, please let us know in advance, and we'll do our best to have them here. We have a generator run mini-fridge in the kitchenette to keep such items cold, if needed.
TINY HOUSE
If you'd like to sleep in a bit of luxury, check out our new tiny house listing here
SYDNEY, WOLLONGONG &; BEYOND
Otford is 9km by car to Waterfall, Sutherland Shire, 43 km to George St, Sydney CBD, 25km to Wollongong CBD. 44km to Bondi Beach, and 53km to Kiama. All can be accessed by train too. So the perfect area to set up base camp, whilst exploring greater Sydney, as well as the many beautiful spots within walking distance.
HIP CAMP REVIEWS
When reading and leaving reviews , please have a heart towards your camp hosts. The way the rating % works, it takes about 111 positive reviews out 112 reviews, to over-ride that 1 negative. So for the average Hipcamp, it takes a looong time, to get back to 99 or 100% positive feedback. If you have an issue onsite, please raise it immediately. I know the majority of hosts will try and rectify it for you.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$60
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Available this weekend
Dog-friendly getaways
Camping near Sydney guide
Overview
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.
Where to Go
Royal National Park
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
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
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.
Cockatoo Island
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.
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.
Top cities near Sydney
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.