The best camping in Cathedral Rock National Park, NSW

·

Discover the rugged beauty of Cathedral Rock National Park.  

The best camping in Cathedral Rock National Park, NSW

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Cracknback Riverside Campground

2. Cracknback Riverside Campground

99%
(276)
33km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · Lower Creek, NSW
Our working farm is located between Kempsey and Armidale in the beautiful Macleay Valley in the Northern Tablelands of NSW. We offer large, grassy campsites on the beautiful Macleay River and a modern amenities block with hot showers and flushing toilets. Choose your own campsite Additional guests welcome at $25 per head per night. Kids 5 - 15 years $5 per night. Under 5 years free **IMPORTANT INFORMATION** Roadworks will be occurring at Peedee Hill from now until July 2026. This will only affect campers travelling through Kempsey. Peedee Hill is 30 minutes from the campground and just over an hour from Kempsey. The road will be impassable Monday to Friday 9am – 3.30pm, Wednesdays 9am-2pm, Saturdays 8am – 1pm. If you leave Kempsey an hour before the road opens you will be able to drive straight through. Xmas. No roadworks from Sunday 21st December to Sunday 4th January. DO NOT USE GPS once on Kempsey Road! Because the road is closed on Live Traffic, GPS will take you into the back hills. From Kempsey 1.5 hours. Travel through Willawarrin, Bellbrook and continue straight for 32 kms until you see our signs on the left. From Armidale From the corner of Kempsey-Armidale Road and Waterfall Way, Cracknback is app 54km on the right. * Heaps of flat ground for kids to ride bikes * Watch tortoises and fish in the river * Dogs welcome (must be people, dog and cow friendly) * Free kayaks for use * Beautiful mountain ranges and such an open sky you can see the Milky Way! * Flushing toilets, hot showers * Family friendly * Fire pits provided but bring your own wood
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$31
 / night
Vallis Oakes

3. Vallis Oakes

100%
(71)
37km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Girralong, NSW
Welcome to Vallis Oakes, your own slice of paradise nestled on over 300 acres, surrounded by the tranquil Oakes State Forest and the vibrant Gumbaynggirr National Parks. Check out our instagram - @vallis_oakes Swim in the crystal-clear waters and be on the lookout for local wildlife like frogs, turtles, eagles, king parrots, black cockatoos, kingfishers, goannas, and the beautiful Crimson Rosellas. Fireflies have also been spotted! Discover a variety of activities including hiking trails, lookouts, motorbike and 4WD trails. Vallis Oakes is the perfect base for exploring the national parks and then relaxing by the fire under the stars. SELF CONTAINED CAMPERS ONLY To keep our valley pristine, all campers must be fully self-contained. This means having your own toilet, water supply, and taking all waste with you when you leave. This is non-negotiable to maintain the site's natural beauty. PETS are welcome provided they are good with other dogs and livestock. FLOOD WARNING The property is located on river frontage, it may be subject to flooding during heavy rain. Please check with us 3 days before arrival to confirm current conditions. In case of flooding, a full refund will be issued, or an alternate campsite on higher ground may be available. While the photos showcase the stunning blue waters, please note that the water’s appearance may change after heavy rain. You are welcome to enjoy campfires, provided there are no local restrictions. Firewood is available for purchase onsite. Plenty of space is available for caravans, camper trailers, and tents. The sites are 4WD only due to water crossings and challenging road conditions after heavy rain. PRIMITIVE CAMPING We do not have on-site amenities. Please bring all necessary supplies, including a camp toilet. It is essential to maintain the cleanliness of the site, NO DIGGING HOLES and all waste must be removed upon departure. We have a collection point for cans + bottles. Please note that there is no phone reception. If you require internet access, WiFi is available by the main cottage. We look forward to your visit and hope you enjoy everything Vallis Oakes has to offer! If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact us. Have a wonderful stay!
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$73
 / night
Blicks River Camping

5. Blicks River Camping

93%
(115)
39km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Dundurrabin, NSW
Do you like private river swimming? Our property is in Dundurrabin which is inland from Coffs Harbour. Perfect for those seeking a spot 'off the beaten track.' You will need 4WD car, caravan/camper. There is no 2WD access. 4WD only. We offer beautiful river camping. Enjoy the company of platypus, turtles extensive bird life, reptiles, native flora and fauna. Spend your time swimming, river exploring & bush walking - all in total privacy. There is a pit toilet but you're welcome to bring your own amenities. Pets are welcome. Phone reception is limited. There is no Telstra signal, only Optus. Campsites are not allocated, you can choose wherever you would like to set up. We have 60 acres with the Blicks river running along the bottom end of the property. (our home is at the opposite end of the acreage so you will have your own space). We invite you to come and enjoy our property, groups and families welcome. Our only requirement is that you respect the river and the environment - no washing in the river (shampoo, dishwashing liquid etc). Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

6. Wild Nymboida Camping Dorrigo

100%
(296)
43km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Moonpar, NSW
Come and enjoy our private camping spots on the beautiful Nymboida River, New South Wales. Check in is before 5pm no check-ins after 5pm Campers have direct access to the river which is great for swimming and paddling. Please note that this is a free flowing river and there are rapids and waterfalls in parts, so care must be taken in parts. The campsites do require a 4WD to be accessed and are not suitable for larger caravans. Small of road vans and camper trailers are fine. Pets are welcome but we are a working cattle property, so if your dog is going to chase cattle it's probably not a great fit. There is a lot to do in the area, including bushwalking, chasing waterfalls, local markets, restaurants, wineries and galleries. 20 minutes from Dorrigo and 50 minutes from Bellingen. We charge $25 per adult per night Kids are free
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$31
 / night
Blue Hole Riverside R&R

7. Blue Hole Riverside R&R

100%
(110)
48km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Castle Doyle, NSW
Blue Hole Riverside Camp (via Castle Doyle Rd) is located 10 minutes out of Armidale and provides sunny, cleared acres to camp by the riverside with peaceful surrounds and total relaxation. Easy access to the river to swim, fish, kayak or canoe. A short two minute drive (approx 3kms) to the beautiful Blue Hole Picnic Area and Gara Gorge offers swimming, picnic seating, BBQ and bush walking in a scenic bush setting with clean toilets. Armidale is home to many gorges and national parks like no other region. Dangars falls is a stunning waterfall with a picnic area. This rural property suits self sufficient campers only with own drinking water and shower/toilet amenities. All campers must take their rubbish with them leaving no trace - no bins provided. Please note that wifi is limited in this camping area by the river. You will find certain spots around the area that will work more efficiently. We do not offer wifi. Take your time to relax by a fire and enjoy the serenity! Check out our instagram page "Blue Hole Riverside Hipcamp" for more photos of our campground! The "Reynella" Hut is now available to stay in. This well appointed, fully renovated hut is a studio with a queen bed, lounge area, tv, kitchen, bathroom/laundry, front deck with a bbq and views to die for!! This provides all the luxuries with a rustic charm embracing a peaceful getaway with a magnificent outlook.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$55
 / night
Yarrawin Camping

8. Yarrawin Camping

100%
(182)
53km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · Argents Hill, NSW
Yarrawin is 680 acre cattle farm and hardwood timber plantation in the heart of the Nambucca Valley, offering scenic, secluded, private campsites with their own swimming hole and a river gravel beach on 3km of beautiful double river frontage. Camping options include riverside camps, the Shack and riverside camp and a large secluded valley. Each campsite is separate from the others, giving guests privacy and exclusive use of the swimming hole (except Chinamans Valley) at their site. All riverside sites offer a natural gravel beach entry into the water. There are no amenities here, campers will need to be self contained and leave no trace. Every site has a fire pit which must be used for campfires. If you want to use your own it must be off the ground. Only sand mats or similar, NO TARPS, to be set up on the grassed areas to preserve the grass. Firewood $20/night (CASH ONLY PLEASE). Please let us know in advance if you want firewood. Beautiful drinking rain water is available in a 20lt Jerry can if required on arrival. Bird lovers can enjoy watching the various bird varieties, as well as ducks. Animals include wallabies, goannas, deer and fish as well as cattle and stock horses. Fishing is okay but it is STRICTLY catch and release ONLY. There are many places to go bushwalking, either following the river or heading up the valleys or hiking up the hills through the trees. The property is just 10kms from the convenience of Bowraville, a historic township with a supermarket, folk museum, a war museum, a historic theatre, and other historic buildings. Nambucca Heads and the beautiful surrounding beaches are just 27kms east and Coffs Harbour 80kms away. Please note this is a working farm, so there will be cattle and stock horses on the property that may approach your campsite.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$36
 / night
Valley View Escape

11. Valley View Escape

99%
(536)
57km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Buckra Bendinni, NSW
Valley View Escape is a 500 acre working dairy farm located in the beautiful Nambucca Valley just 25 minutes off the highway. There is stunning 360 views of mountain ranges and Lake Lumby from all our sites. We offer powered sites and unpowered sites which are all level grounded with grass and accessible by 2WD. There is non potable water available. Our powered sites are conveniently located close by the amenities with flushing toilet, hot shower and dump point. We are a pet friendly campsite but we ask you to keep your pets on a leash and always have full control. Enjoy and relax at our communal picnic area with fire pit, shade, picnic table and pontoon on Lake Lumby which is great for kayaking and swimming. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @valleyviewescape_stay ***CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS*** Extra powered and unpowered sites will be open from 19th of December 2025 to 31st of January 2026 on our River Flats. Ready to be booked now
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$37
 / night
Missabotti Wia Ora

12. Missabotti Wia Ora

98%
(132)
59km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Macksville, NSW
My property consists of 100 acres with two rivers joining in the property with at least 1 km of river frontage. We are located in the foothills of the Nambucca valley. Pristine beaches are 20 minutes away, mountains and four-wheel drive tracks are a quick 20 minutes the other way. From here it's 15 minutes to Bellingen, 25 minutes to the famous Pub With No Beer and 5 minutes to the historic "verandah posts" town of Bowraville. Here you will find beautiful bird watching, animals and wildlife. Park your car or set up your caravan next to the river where you will wake up to amazing views. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverbank, breathe in the fresh clean air, try a spot of fishing or sit back and enjoy some bird watching. Warm your feet by the campfire in the evenings. ​We're located 20 minutes from Nambucca Heads as well as Scotts Heads beaches, and 30 minutes from Taylors Arm. A quick trip up into the foothills will take you to some great 4WD and mountain biking tracks, or you can explore the region and visit the historical Pub With No Beer. You need to be a self-contained camper with your own camping toilet/shower. There is access to drinking water, a picnic table and rubbish facilities. We recommend 4WDs to access the campsite and the river but 2WDs are ok. Your pet is welcome to camp with you.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$43
 / night
Big Sky Farm

13. Big Sky Farm

100%
(39)
59km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bellingen, NSW
Big Sky Farm is situated on 85 stunning acres, 3km from the beautiful Bellingen township. There are three sites in total, stretching approximately 150 metres. Two are camp sites and there is a Glamping/ Bell tent site coming soon. All three sites have direct river access. Riverview camp site offers a timber outdoor setting and a private campfire. Riverfern offers a private campfire. (Campfires are to be used when fire restrictions aren’t in place, limited firewood supplied but can be purchased at an additional cost) The Kalang river runs through the property offering direct access to spectacular private swimming holes, views and wide river frontage. There is also plenty of shade trees along the river. You are welcome to bring your own kayaks to explore on the river. There is plenty of access for cars, caravans and motor homes. We now have a brand new portable loo for your convenience, however we do suggest considering what else you will need to bring before you make a booking. Internet is limited with 5G in some spots around the river and camping areas. Pets unfortunately are no longer permitted as American Bison and cattle are farmed on the property. Some of the areas best beaches are under 20 minutes from the property with Coffs Harbour and the airport approximately 30 minutes away.
Toilets
from 
AU$101
 / night
swimming hole

14. Jumping Dog

98%
(128)
60km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · Spicketts Creek, NSW
Seven acres mixed forest and lawn alongside Spicketts Creek which is excellent for swimming in with a waterfall and a diving board. The birds are amazing here - you'll be woken by kookaburras. Extensive State Forests are adjacent to the property so there are lots of walks. Motorbikes can be stored here although not ridden on the property itself. We offer 12 sites for campers, mainly well grassed with beautiful views and varying degrees of privacy. Toilet and cold shower available. The 400m gravel driveway has speed bumps and is not normally suitable for 2WDs that are towing vehicles or front WD motor homes. Certain sites may also not be suitable for rear wheel 2wd motorhomes. Caravans up to 6m with 4WD cars OK. Camper trailers OK with AWD. Sites will be allocated on arrival depending on weather conditions. All campers have access to the same swimming hole and creek. 3 fresh water supply taps. Long drop "loo with a view" is 140m from the creek. Cold shower at the creek. Up to 2 small and medium dogs up to 20 kg Dogs Ok but Male dogs under 3 yrs old must be desexed and all dogs on leashes within 25 metres of house or as otherwise requested.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$36
 / night
Full after the rain

15. Bunya Farm Bellingen

98%
(152)
60km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bellingen, NSW
One booking at a time so the space is yours to enjoy. Beautiful river flats with direct frontage onto the Kalang River. Site is located next to steps down to the river. The site doesn't have much shade at the moment but the river has abundant shaded retreats. In dry conditions accessible via 2WD, ok for caravans and motorhomes. In wet conditions please check with us before arrival. 60 acre farm only 5 min from beautiful Bellingen. Beautiful river flats with direct frontage onto the Kalang River.In dry conditions, access is good and suitable for 2WD and caravans. Some parts of the property will require 4WD (such as Mountain Views site). In wet conditions please check with us before arrival.Pet considered on prior application - please ask first (we are a farm with livestock).No amenities - please BYO everything you need and leave no trace. Campfires permitted when restrictions aren't in place. Firewood is available to purchase (see extras).
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$49
 / night
Bellinger River Camping

17. Bellinger River Camping

95%
(341)
63km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · Bellingen, NSW
Nestled along a picturesque 1-km stretch of the Bellinger River, our camping grounds offer level, grassy sites with open spaces perfect for relaxing and reconnecting with nature. Just a short walk into town, you’ll find a charming milk bar serving fresh fish and chips only 700 meters down the road, or for the adventurous, swim across the river for breakfast or lunch at the iconic Old Butter Factory Cafe. Enjoy complimentary on-site kayaking, fishing right from your camp, and a chance to spot the elusive platypus! A new fence keeps the cows out, so you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Facilities include a pit toilet. We welcome pets and families, with free entry for children. Only one vehicle per booking is allowed, though we can easily accommodate group bookings on a single site—just email us to arrange. Caravan hire is also available for added convenience.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$61
 / night
Levenvale Farm in Bellingen

18. Levenvale Farm in Bellingen

94%
(217)
63km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Valery, NSW
We are farmers, living the dream on 500 acres in beautiful Bellingen. Our farm is called Levenvale Farm. You will feel a million miles away, yet we are only 7mins into the town of Bellingen. We run an organic cattle property and have found a few spots around our farm to share with campers and glampers. Our campsites are "Beyond the Bridge" and "Old Flat Camp". Both are on cattle paddocks and have private access to Hydes Creek. Hydes Creek is a murky sandy base creek. There's lots of logs so its not recommend to jump in, but it's beautiful to cool off in the creek on a hot day. Both campsites have access to our compost toilet, and camping shower (gas hot water). If you prefer a bit more comfort or don't have your own camping gear, you can escape the hustle and enjoy being perched up on one of the highest points on the farm (with incredible views), in our Farm Huts. Both mHuts are furnished with beds and linen with limited power. Both gave private ensuite with compost toilet, gas hot water shower and basic kitchen. Book these Huts via our farm website. At all our campsites, we welcome you to have a small fire, and cook up a BBQ. Our Farm Shop is open 24/7 to self serve and grab some organic beef sausages or steaks. Reach out if you want us to have them defrosted for your arrival. All of our listings offer spectacular sunrises, sunsets over the mountains and wanderings through lush rainforest. Experience all the adventures of Levenvale Farm and reconnect with nature.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$49
 / night
Outlook to Nature Reserve from Fruit Tree Hill

19. Bandicoot Bend

97%
(18)
64km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Nymboida, NSW
Our property is nestled between state forests and nature reserves, near the village of Nymboida which is approx. 44km southwest of Grafton. You will find a variety of bird life and by night our marsupials. Bandicoots, possums and if you have a keen eye, owls. With 1.5km of creek frontage, you can explore away, fish in the waterhole for freshwater catfish or go for a walk along one of the valleys. Situated on 650 acres in hill country. You will certainly find something for your relaxing getaway.Pitch your tent in a variety of places, we have two areas available that offer complete privacy from other campers. Mill Flat (the location of the steam mill that was built when the property was a logging property) is located on around 3 acres of mostly flat grass land with direct access to our creek. Nearby, Fruit Orchard Hill is the location of the original home before the fires, the outlook from here is of the sheer mountain range of the neighbouring National Park. This camping area is elevated.Our third site is not so private but is the most central and conveniently located for exploring the creek and gaining access with big campervans. If staying longer you can go for a white water kayak in the Nymboida River only 15 min away or head the other way to discover endless National Parks that stretch from the property to Dorrigo.We welcome self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower and water. You must have your own amenities.Well behaved dogs are most welcome to join you. Although we are pet friendly, please be aware and courteous to other campers. If your pet needs to be tied up please do so.We recommend 4WDs to access the campsite. Some places can be accessed by 2WD and walk to campsite. Caravan drivers need to be competent for hilly terrain and tight access, some roads are cut into steep ground and have very little give. However Site 1 is easy access for caravans. If unsure about your vehicle please message us.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$43
 / night
Enjoy the peace

20. Black Mountain Nymboida River 4/AWD

99%
(64)
66km from Cathedral Rock National Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nymboida, NSW
You will come here to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of `Black Mountain'. `Black Mountain’ is on Gumbainggir country. It is a registered conservation property bordering Nymboida River and Nymboi-Binderay National Park. Alastair and I have shared the property for more than 25 years and consider ourselves custodians of this precious place. Visitors enjoy: the pristine river; walking tracks through diverse terrain; starry night skies and campfires. Previous guests recommend staying at least two nights to soak up the atmosphere and explore the area. Choose from the 'Ant Shack' or four adjacent campsites with easy access and views to the Nymboida River. Shared facilities include a hot shower and composting toilets. You can walk, swim and kayak, explore the area or just relax for days. We can’t accommodate domestic animals or allow fishing, not even catch and release, because we protect our wildlife and the endangered Eastern Cod. Black Mountain is remote but just 60 kilometres from Grafton or Coffs (via back way). 2WD access to our house is from Nymboida only. 4WD/AWD from Lowanna or Glenreagh and 4WD/AWD down to the river/campsite area - Not suitable for caravans. All proceeds from Airbnb and Hipcamp are invested in the continuing conservation of Black Mountain.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cathedral Rock National Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Cathedral Rock National Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

The best camping in Cathedral Rock National Park, NSW guide

Overview

About

Cathedral Rock National Park beckons adventurers with its iconic granite tors and diverse wildlife. Venture into this scenic wonderland to camp amid eucalypt forests, hike to breathtaking summits, and immerse yourself in birdwatching. With campgrounds like Barokee and Native Dog, you can extend your stay and awaken to the park's serene beauty.

Notable campgrounds

  • Barokee campground: Nestled in a tranquil forest setting, perfect for a peaceful retreat into nature.
  • Native Dog campground: A gateway to the park's walking tracks, offering a true bush camping experience.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot at popular campgrounds like Barokee and Native Dog.
  • Visit during off-peak seasons for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on the park's website for last-minute cancellations and openings.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximise your chances of finding a site.

When to go

The best time to visit Cathedral Rock National Park is during autumn and spring, when the weather is mild and the park's flora is in full bloom. Winter offers clear days but requires warm clothing for the cold nights. Summer provides a cool escape from the heat, though always check for fire danger closures.

Know before you go

  • Always check the latest park alerts for closures or safety information before your visit.
  • Access to campgrounds is via unsealed roads suitable for 2WD vehicles in all weather.
  • Mobile reception is limited, so plan ahead and download maps.
  • Remember, pets are not permitted within the park.
  • Facilities include toilets and picnic tables at both Barokee and Native Dog campgrounds.
Be the first to review
Share your experience here to help other campers.