The best camping near Watsons Creek National Park
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Watsons Creek National Park adventure.
Discover the natural splendour of Watsons Creek National Park.
Popular ways to camp
Community favorites near Watsons Creek National Park
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
Top-rated campgrounds near Watsons Creek National Park
96%
(446)
Hillside Farmstay
99 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Nemingha, NSW
A 200 acre horse breeding property on the outskirts of Tamworth. 6 minutes to the Country Music Capital CBD. Lots of shady trees to camp or park your van/RV. Hills that you can see forever from the top of....
Some outdoor seating. There's two flush toilets, two hot showers.
Dogs are welcome but must be strictly on a lead at all times. There is a dog run available if you want to leave your dog and go to town or the Country Music Festival.
Generally most people stay and camp near the horse barn. Indoor shower and toilet available and there is a outdoor hot shower and a sink and a tub to rub a dub dub. Laundry is available. Ask for the key ($5)
The outdoor shower is private but has no roof so you can shower under the stars. Picnic table provided and a fire pit to barbecue in winter (fire bans in summer)
Transported horses are also welcome...yards available.
Price is per person.
Children under 12 are free.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$12
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(278)
Riverside Escape Off Grid Camping
25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Manilla, NSW
A beautiful, off grid, riverside campground with amazing swimming hole on private property.
This private campground is located in North West NSW. 50 minutes from Tamworth. Conveniently located 20 minutes outside the pretty town of Manilla and right on the river banks of the Namoi River. Also 20 minutes from beautiful Warrabah National Park.
The campground is tucked away in a little valley overlooking an idyllic stretch of windy river with an amazing swimming hole, sandy beach, tranquil rapids and a beautiful, mesmerising, majestic rock.
We have four primative campsites suited to all types of large and small, self sufficient campers in RV's, caravans, camp trailers, vans and tents. All sites are unique and positioned to enhance space and privacy as well as proximity and views of the river. They all showcase the varying, natural beauty and characteristics of the landscape.
You can also book our amazing, award winning glamping tent.
We are not a party campsite. Our little slice of paradise is for peace and relaxation. We also need to respect and encourage the presence and abundance of birds and animals and continue to ensure it is a peaceful and quiet home for them. You can enjoy your music just as long as other campsites and the local wildlife can't hear it.
Manilla, only 20 minutes away has two dump points and water refill stations as well as a good number of shops to cater to all your needs during your stay.
We are not in a high traffic area so you may get to enjoy having the place all to yourself.
Our campsites have good access for all types of camp set ups and are not impacted by flooding. Nor do they become boggy in wet weather due to the high sand content in our soil.
You could be sitting on the warm sandy bank overlooking the river and being captivated by the surrounding beauty and the magnificence of the swimming hole.
This secret little piece of paradise has been untouched for 40 years and is home to an abundance of birdlife. Birds include the colourful Rainbow bee eaters, Kingfishers, Superb Fairy Wrens, Eastern Yellow Robins, Red Browed Finch and many more.
A magical place that will delight your senses and make you feel relaxed and at peace.
BYO camp toilet and leave no trace.
Fish in the river; cod, cat, golden perch and carp.
Well behaved dogs on leash and supervised at all times are welcome.
If you would like to enquire about having the place to yourselves send me a message.
ACCESS CONDITIONS:
To help you decide if your set up is suitable you can google Riverside Escape Camping Manilla and find 2 videos on 23 and 25 May 2022 taken of me driving up and down the track to the campsites in my old Ford Courier that is NOT 4x4. There are lots of other useful videos to get a good sense of our campsite.
You will also get a sense of the distance between each site.
We recognise the Kamilaroi / Gomeroi people as the traditional custodians of this land.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$16
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(28)
Muluerindie
4 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Bendemeer, NSW
Located just outside Bendemeer, our property features 21 peaceful acres with frontage to the beautiful McDonald River and a nice flat shaded area for camping.
This is the perfect getaway spot to relax, complete with platypus, wombats and amazing bird life, fishing for trout and yellow belly. Lots of kayaking and swimming in summer, and plenty in winter too if you're brave!).
We're around 30 mins from Tamworth where you can find all the supermarkets and supply stores to meet your camping gear needs, and there's lots of great cafes and restaurants too.
Power is available if required but not next to the river.
Camp next to the river (4WD access only) with your tent or rooftop set up or park uphill overlooking the river with your caravan or motor home, it's only a little further away (100 metres) with power available.
Campfires allowed at both locations ( fire season permitting) you will need to bring your own wood.
We welcome self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/ shower. Rain water is available for campers and caravans as required, and there is access to rubbish facilities.
Your well behaved pet is welcome to camp with you.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from
AU$35
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(29)
Kentucky Family Campsite
10 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Kentucky South, NSW
The Kentucky Family Campsite is 4 acres of flat countryside for you to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature whilst being only a short drive from the essentials (3km from a general store). A world renowned gin distillery offers tastings (and food on weekends) or 15 mins to the township of Uralla for a great pub meal, supermarket, bakery, butchery or cafes, and we're 40 minutes to the regional centres of Armidale or Tamworth.
There are sites under shady trees or in an open field. The camp area has views of fields and a small dam. It is a quiet setting but with conveniences close by. Friendly hosts who are happy to help with whatever is needed or offer guidance on places to visit.
You need to be a self-contained camper with your own camping toilet/shower, and drinking water. Whilst amenities are basic the property is being improved all the time so it is more suited to self contained at present.
The nearby village offers a licensed general store and cafe for supplies and a distillery where you will be amazed by the selection of tastings (both liquor and food). Further up the road Uralla has all the extras you might want, with cafes and hotels, bakery, butcher, IGA supermarket and much more.
Picturesque foggy mornings will greet you and stunning sunsets will delight you over a glass of wine or beer at the end of each day, as you listen to the crackling of your campfire.
Tents, swags, caravans, motorhomes, camper vans or natural star gazing sleepers sleepers all welcome. This campsite is 2WD accessible.
Well behaved pets are welcome.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(34)
Bai-Yai River Eco-Camp & Artist Retreat
4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents480 acres · Retreat, NSW
Bai-Yai is a 480 acre partly Conservation Covenanted property, 70 minutes south-west of Armidale & 70 minutes north-west of Tamworth. On the tablelands 700 metres above sea level, next door to Warrabah National Park. Our northern boundary is the Macdonald river, just before it drops westward through the gorges & changes its name to the Namoi.We're for the nature-lover who enjoys peace & quiet away from crowds, who values birdsong above the hum of cars & generators! Our facilities are simple but comfortable, all off-grid. There's a covered platform kitchen area overlooking some of the great river swimming spots for campers to enjoy, a pit toilet, simple shower, & fresh drinking water supplied daily. The owners house is out of sight but within coo-ee if needed.The river & general wildness of terrain make Bai-Yai camping not really suitable for young children who requite 24/7 supervision for their safety.CRITICAL: Please ensure your personal profile is completed including a photo before submitting a booking request.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$15
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(5)
Namoi Valley Escape
1 site · RV, Tent2000 acres · Manilla, NSW
We are located near Manilla,
which lies
45km
northwest of Tamworth. You can purchase all you need at the shopping centres there, or in Manilla where you can can pick up groceries and fuel.
We are suitable for caravans or motorhomes with self contained toilets and showers as we have no facilities. There is a waste dump station in Manilla.
Our property offers flat access from the road, with plenty of room to manoeuvre. We recommend 4WDs - please message us if you are unsure about your vehicle.
You are welcome to camp
near the river or in a hidden valley.
Swim in the river and have a camp fire. Walk in the area, see the abundance of birds and wildlife.
This is a hilly and mountainous area to explore, you are welcome to
go fishing along the river bank, or bring a camera as
it's a photographer's delight. Very private camping areas.
Enjoy listening to the crackle of the campfire in the evenings.
There is access to drinking water, but no amenities so you need to be a self-sufficient camper and bring your own camping toilet/shower.
Well behaved pets welcome.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(19)
Oakey Farm
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents180 acres · Piallamore, NSW
Oakey Farm is situated 15km from Tamworth's CBD, on a 180-acre farm. Take in the beautiful lights of Tamworth and views of the Peel Valley.
The camping space is shaded and grassed, with a powered modern bathroom facility with a flushing toilet and shower.
Children under 12 are free. Please still add them to the booking so we are aware of the numbers, you will not be charged.
We currently only accept three bookings at one time, so you'll have plenty of space and tranquility.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(4)
Bimbivale Caravan & Camp Sites
10 sites · RVs, Tents540 acres · Kentucky, NSW
Bimbivale is a working farm located half way between Sydney and Brisbane on the New England Highway. We grow superfine wool, sheep and beef cattle, and we enjoy working with our Australian Stock Horses, Welsh Mountain Ponies and various working dogs on farm.
There are critically endangered White Box - Yellow Box - Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodlands located across the property, making it a beautiful place to experience the great Aussie outdoors. Being granite country, the property offers some special rocky outcrops and features. You may get to see some rare or even endangered species here.
At 1100 m elevation, the winters are cold (with occasional snow), and the summers are divine, with daytime maximums reaching a top of around 28-30 degrees.
Activities include bushwalking, mountain biking, fishing for trout or yellow belly in the farm dams, watching spectacular sunrises or sunsets from elevated parts of the New England landscape, watching your campfire crackle (fire season permitting), visiting the nearby Dobson's Gin Distillery or Kentucky General Store (10-12 km), or treating yourself to Uralla's many fine eateries or shopping experiences just 20 km up the highway.
Bimbivale is also just 45 minutes from Tamworth and its Country Music Festival and AELEC (Australia Equine & Livestock Events Centre), or just 30 minutes from Armidale, host city to the University of New England and base for visiting the many National Parks and World Heritage Wilderness areas the region offers.
Our camp sites are located along a central ridge line, which is fully accessible by motorhomes, caravans, camper trailers and two wheel drive cars in dry weather conditions. Most sites have a fire pit and access to water, but we recommend you byo drinking water. We can top up drinking water if required.
Currently we prefer visitors who have their own ensuite/toilet facilities, although we will soon offer a toilet on-site. Sometimes we can offer eggs and fruit or vegetables from our orchard and garden.
We are happy for your well-behaved dog to visit with you, as long as it remains confined or on a leash at all times.
If you have more than 6 guests or 3 cars in your group, please book additional sites and we can ensure you are all able to camp together.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(1)
Dales Do Drop Inn
3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Westdale, NSW
Westdale 10mins drive west of Tamworth's main street.
A larger than normal suburban backyard with no neighbours.
Access for large vehicles. Can accommodate tents, caravans, buses, RV's of all sizes.
Flat level all weather block.
Dale enjoys Happy Hour most evenings and loves a chat.
Or she can leave you to your own devices.
There is one site with power and water and plenty of room for those who are self sufficient.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$15
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(1)
Mountain View
2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Hallsville, NSW
A great 5 acre block with mountain views. we are just 10 minutes out of Tamworth not far from Manilla Road. The property is quiet and safe, situated in a dead end street. Just leave the van and explore the region then come back at the end of the day to watch the sun set behind the distant mountains.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(1)
Barrnation
2 sites · RVs, Tents6000 acres · Armidale, NSW
Barrnation is a working 6000 acre cattle and sheep farm nestled in the heart of the Boorolong area. Well off the beaten track, this property has an abundance of land to explore.
Mountain views and wide open spaces;, Barrnation is for those who are seeking solitude and an off grid experience. With the Abbington creek running through the entirety of the property, we are fortunate to be able to offer several secluded, peaceful camping spots beside the creek or up on one of the mountain ridges.
Horses and their riders also welcome, with so many unexplored places to discover. Solitude, sunsets and a sense of escape is awaiting guests.
Please be mindful that Barrnation camping sites are 4WD access only. Rough terrain to camping areas means 4WDs and equivalent camping trailers only.
Non-off-road trailers are not suitable.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$28
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(3)
Balaka Farm
7 sites · Lodging, RVs122 acres · Tamworth, NSW
Situated just 20 mins from the regional city of Tamworth, home of Australia's largest Country Music Festival, Balaka Farm offers a family friendly stay.
Sit and relax on the verandah of our converted shearing shed and enjoy the views of the hills. There are so many activities to enjoy in the local area with dams and creeks for fishing or swimming or head into Tamworth and visit the myriad of galleries and museums, playgrounds and parks on offer.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
The best camping near Watsons Creek National Park guide
Overview
About
Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Watsons Creek National Park, a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Established in 2011, this 335ha park invites you to explore its diverse landscapes, from serene creek beds to rugged bushland. Whether you're keen on birdwatching, seeking scenic walking trails, or simply yearning for a peaceful picnic spot, Watsons Creek offers a multitude of activities to satisfy your wanderlust.
When to go
The best time to visit Watsons Creek National Park is during the milder months of spring and autumn, offering pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. Summer brings warmth, perfect for early morning or late afternoon explorations, while winter can be crisp, ideal for those who prefer cooler hiking conditions. Always check local alerts for current conditions before planning your trip.
Know before you go
- Ensure you have the latest information on park conditions by visiting the official website or contacting the Armidale office from 8:30am to 5pm.
- Stay safe by adhering to all park safety guidelines, including fire bans and wildlife encounters.
- Accessibility varies across the park, so check ahead if you require specific facilities.
- Local alerts may affect your visit; stay informed on closures or restrictions.
- Remember to pack essentials, including water, as amenities may be limited in certain areas of the park.
Top cities near Watsons Creek National Park
- Watsons Creek National Park
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.