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Manning River Retreat

Hosted by Graham · Mount George, New South Wales
5 sites · RV, Tent, Lodging · 125 acres
100%
·
35 reviews
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Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Graham and Chris is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
Romantic
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is romantic.
Creature comforts
Enjoy the comforts of home—including flush toilets, showers, and a kitchen.
Escape to paradise at the Manning River Retreat and holiday on 125 acres nestled beside the pristine river. This tranquil haven offers a plethora of delights. Experience the rustic charm of a cattle hobby farm and indulge in a range of activities along the river's edge. Swim in deep holes perfect for relaxation, cast a line for a leisurely fishing experience, or explore the waters by paddleboard, kayak or dinghy. Shallow, calm areas are ideal for young children to splash around safely. And don’t forget your water shoes for the best comfort and grip—your feet will thank you! Embrace nature's symphony with abundant birdlife in a serene and private setting. Explore undulating countryside and stargaze under beautiful skies. With a diverse range of accommodations, from camping to glamping in a cosy log cabin or even an historic church, we have something to suit everyone. Our amenities, including toilets at various locations and a rustic bush shower, ensure your comfort in the great outdoors. You also have a private fire pit - subject, of course, to weather conditions. This hidden gem in NSW's stunning Mid North is easily accessible by bitumen road. Located just 2.5 hours north of Newcastle and 4 hours from Sydney, the historic town of Wingham, with its cafes, quirky shops, and amazing museum is only 20 minutes away. Offering you an ideal spot to unwind, reconnect with nature, and experience a truly memorable escape, why not book your stay now! Note: 1. The May 25 flood has changed the appearance of the river area slightly, but it is still pristine, and the campgrounds are as beautiful as ever. 2. You can reach the church with a 2WD vehicle, but camping and log cabin sites require a 4WD (not AWD). In adverse weather, we may allocate you to a more suitable site.
from
AU$73
/ night
5 sites

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Vehicle/tent sites

3 sites
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Middle Camp

100%
(12)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 10 m
Experience the tranquillity of nature at our grassed camping sites. All sites are in the same general area, each with its own massive 500 sq m area. South camp gets the early morning sun with late afternoon shade, whereas Middle camp is shady first thing in the morning and then in full sun until evening. The shower block is very close to all sites, with Ryan’s Den camp kitchen a 5-minute stroll up the hill. A pleasant 15-minute walk wearing closed-in shoes will take you to the river, or you can drive your car most of the way. Enjoy your private fire pit! Firewood for cooking and water heating is provided by the hosts. Campfires, of course, are always subject to weather conditions. A short, but steep, 200m drive down a grassy slope (4WD required for ascent) takes you to your serene hideaway. Connect under the stars for a truly unforgettable outdoor retreat!
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
from
AU$73
/ night
for NaN guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

South Camp

100%
(9)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 10 m
Experience the tranquillity of nature at our grassed camping sites. All sites are in the same general area, each with its own massive 500 sq m area. South camp gets the early morning sun with late afternoon shade, whereas Middle camp is shady first thing in the morning and then in full sun until evening. The shower block is very close to all sites, with Ryan’s Den camp kitchen a 5-minute stroll up the hill. A pleasant 15-minute walk wearing closed-in shoes will take you to the river, or you can drive your car most of the way. Enjoy your private fire pit! Firewood for cooking and water heating is provided by the hosts. Campfires, of course, are always subject to weather conditions. A short, but steep, 200m drive down a grassy slope (4WD required for ascent) takes you to your serene hideaway. Connect under the stars for a truly unforgettable outdoor retreat!
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
from
AU$73
/ night
for NaN guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

North Camp

100%
(3)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 10 m
Experience the tranquillity of nature at our grassed camping sites. All sites are in the same general area, each with its own massive 500 sq m area. South camp gets the early morning sun with late afternoon shade, whereas Middle camp is shady first thing in the morning and then in full sun until evening. The shower block is very close to all sites, with Ryan’s Den camp kitchen a 5-minute stroll up the hill. A pleasant 15-minute walk wearing closed-in shoes will take you to the river, or you can drive your car most of the way. Enjoy your private fire pit! Firewood for cooking and water heating is provided by the hosts. Campfires, of course, are always subject to weather conditions. A short, but steep, 200m drive down a grassy slope (4WD required for ascent) takes you to your serene hideaway. Connect under the stars for a truly unforgettable outdoor retreat!
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
from
AU$73
/ night
for NaN guests

Lodging

2 sites
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

Historic Woodside Church 1869

100%
(8)
Quirky · Sleeps 5
Here’s your opportunity to experience life as it was in the 1800s. You’ll be substituting luxury for uniqueness, with a few added modern-day conveniences, such as battery-operated lanterns (sorry, no electricity), a quirky shower that you’re bound to love and, of course, a toilet! Imagine lying in bed in this restored rosewood building, staring out of your sash window at a beautiful star-studded sky. Built in 1869, this Presbyterian church held its last service in 1984 and was then forgotten until Graham and Chris lovingly restored it who now offer it as a unique experience. You’ve heard of glamping – now try ‘champing’! Inside the church is the ‘nave’ comprising 3 beds (2 double and 1 single - we provide the mattress sheet only so you’ll need to bring the rest of the bedding including your pillows, towels etc), a Jacobean lounge suite, dining table and chairs, a piano in good working order, and, of course, the pulpit and a pew. There’s also a potbelly stove for the Winter season. The small ‘vestry’ room houses a kitchen dresser, a marble-topped bench, and an antique ice box in good working order – you just need to source a large ice block (good luck with that one)! Outside there’s the ‘outhouse’ with toilet, wash basin, and that unique shower. Next to it is an old laundry trough where you can wash your dishes. Water can be boiled using the wood chip heater. The outside table is beautifully shaded from the afternoon sun and a great place to sit without a modern structure in sight. Here you can use the fire pit which is ideal for a pot roast using the swinging arm cast iron camp oven provided. Firewood for cooking and water heating is provided by the hosts. We will advise you when fires are not permitted. And for the little ones, a swing hanging from the tree. What to bring: top sheet, doona, pillow (plus eye masks, if you want to sleep in); toiletries, towels; drinking water or purifying tablets; food, drinks; bags for you to take home your rubbish; matches to light your fire; and a sense of adventure! So, are there ghosts? Come and find out! The church is accessible by 2WD. A pleasant 10-minute walk wearing closed-in shoes will take you to the river, or you can drive your car most of the way. Site area: 450 sq m approx. Church: 78 sq m approx
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
Showers
Picnic table
from
AU$279
/ night
for NaN guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

Cosy Log Cabin

100%
(7)
Cabin · Sleeps 8
Live your childhood dream of staying in a real log cabin with a private fire pit! This idyllic hideaway sleeps 2 people (single beds) with room on the site for a camper trailer and/or tent. There are flyscreens on the windows but expect to get a few bugs etc. Inside the cabin, there is a small table, 3 chairs, 3 stools, battery-operated lights and two beds. Cutlery, crockery or cooking equipment is not provided. The beds will have a clean fitted sheet (covering the mattress), so you’ll need to bring the rest of the bedding, your pillows, towels, etc. Also, bring drinking water or purifying tablets; bags to take your rubbish home with you; matches to light the fire; and a sense of adventure! The shower block is very close to all sites, with Ryan’s Den camp kitchen a 5-minute stroll up the hill. A pleasant 15-minute walk wearing closed-in shoes will take you to the river, or you can drive your car most of the way. There is a short, but steep, ascent to and from the log cabin, so 4WD (not AWD) is essential. After heavy rain, there is a shallow river crossing. Site area: 364 sq m approx Cabin area: 20 sq m approx
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
Showers
Picnic table
from
AU$170
/ night
for NaN guests
from
AU$73
/ night
5 sites

Reviews

100% Recommend39 Ratings · 35 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Off-grid luxury!
Group trip ·
Historic Woodside Church 1869
We loved staying in the church, it is simply unique and swimming in the pristine river so refreshing! Graham and Chris are so lovely and very hospitable, little touches such as vases of fresh home grown flowers and herbs make it special! The bucket shower is the best!! Dinner cooked over an open fire was delicious.
M
Mark B.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent · With kids ·
South Camp
We really enjoyed our stay at South camp. The kids had a fantastic time playing in the open spaces, enjoying nature and going down to the river. The facilities were clean and well maintained. Perfect for people looking for a quiet getaway. We would love to go back some time.
A
Alfred T.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Middle Camp
We absolutely loved our stay! Thank you Graham and Chris for hosting us so warmly. We loved swimming in the river and basking in the mountain views. The children delighted in seeing fireflies on our first evening. Thanks again, Craig and Janina
J
Janina V.
3 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
5 m pop-up camper ·
South Camp
Had an amazing 4 nights camped here - very peaceful place to unwind and relax. Plenty of space and excellent facilities - including the best fire pits we have seen and nice dry wood supply. We loved getting the hot water fire going for a hot evening shower.
A
Alison W.
7 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
4 m travel trailer ·
Middle Camp
Great camp sites. Well maintained sites. Sites are not on the river. It’s a bit of a drive through the paddock and across the railway line to get to the River. Very nice section in the Manning once you get there. Chris and Graham were brilliant.
G
Grant C.
3 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Cosy Log Cabin
We really enjoyed our time at Graham and Chris’s property. It’s a lovely place and the log cabin was very cozy and a lovely place to stay. Graham and Chris were very welcoming and checked in on us every day to make sure we had everything we needed ; even bringing us beautiful mandarins from their garden and worms to fish with! The river was a nice place to have a swim and skim some rocks. We will definitely be back. Thank you
J
Joanna B.
8 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2025
6 m travel trailer · With kids ·
South Camp
We had an absolutely wonderful Hipcamp stay at the Manning River Retreat! From the moment we booked, the host was fantastic – communication was prompt, friendly, and incredibly helpful. We booked Middle and South camp for our group. They went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed and were always available for any questions we had. The property itself is beautiful, and the walk down to the river was a highlight. It's an easy and picturesque stroll, and the river itself is perfect for swimming. Our family had such a relaxing and enjoyable time splashing around and soaking up the natural beauty. We truly appreciated the host's support and warm hospitality. It made our family getaway even more special. We highly recommend this Hipcamp for anyone looking for a peaceful and refreshing escape with easy access to the stunning Manning River. We can't wait to come back!
T
Tinu S.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2025
Great campground and hosts
9 m pop-up camper · With kids ·
North Camp
We loved the two nights we spent here. What a beautiful spot and such warm and friendly hosts! The site is located the perfect distance for you to take a stroll down to the river for a swim, nearby toilet and hot shower (what a luxury!) and rolling hills full of cows and stunning views. We’ll definitely be back.
S
Shannon P.
4 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
Tent ·
Middle Camp
Hosts Chris and Graham were so lovely and welcoming right from the time we arrived. We stayed at the Middle Camp site at Manning River Retreat and had such a great time! The campsite was nicely spaced out, giving us plenty of room to unwind without feeling crowded. The river was a real highlight, a peaceful spot to relax. It’s a well-kept spot that we’d definitely return to.
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Larissa M.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2025
Awesome Easter
7 m travel trailer · With kids ·
South Camp
Another awesome Easter spent at Manning river retreat. Thank you Graham and Chris for your hospitality.
D
Daniel C.
2 reviews
Recommends
· February 2025
Amazing Experience in an 18C Church
Historic Woodside Church 1869
Chris and Graham were so hospitable. Chris met us with organic tomatoes from her garden and Graham checked in daily to ensure we had what we needed. The church itself is amazing and very comfortable. The river is a 5--10 minute walk away and we headed down each morning for a delicious swim. However our absolute favourite was sitting by the fire under the stars at night. We were blessed to have amazing weather whilst we were there. I would thoroughly recommend staying in the church, it's an amazing experience. I did overlook the fact that no power means no plugs to charge a phone, and I hadn't bought a battery pack. However, Graham kindly showed us where we could use some power sockets up near their house.
C
Candice D.
2 reviews
Recommends
· February 2025
Tent ·
North Camp
Had a great time camping here. Graham and Chris are lovely hosts and very helpful. Fished the manning river for some nice bass. Really beautiful spot.
J
John J.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
Beautiful off-grid church stay
With kids ·
Historic Woodside Church 1869
We had a great time staying in the old church. My 7 year old enjoyed delivering regular sermons to her heathen parents from the pulpit, complete with massive bible! The set up is completely off grid so make sure you bring plenty of food, a good cold esky, water and pre-charged devices if you can’t quite go electronics free. We had a lovely daily swim down at the river. Graham even gave my husband and daughter a ride with his friendly old dog in tow in the farm jeep up from the river one day which my daughter loved. Highly recommend this as an off grid get away!
T
Tania L.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
6 m travel trailer · Group trip ·
South Camp
Graham and Chris were lovley hosts who accomodated our needs at their camp sites. The wood fire shower was great and facilities were always clean and well maintained. We had some lovely days enjoying the Manning River, swimming and kayaking. A very quiet and relaxing place to visit.
K
Kim J.
3 reviews
Recommends
· December 2024
5 m car · With kids ·
North Camp
Our camping trip was fantastic! Chris and Graham were so kind and helpful, especially when we accidentally left some things behind. We really appreciate their generosity they’re truly wonderful people. The location was peaceful and serene, which made the experience even better. It was an unforgettable trip, and we loved every minute of it!"
A
Armel L.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2024
Tent · With pets ·
Middle Camp
What a beautiful place. Graham and Chris are very welcoming while giving you your privacy. Middle camp had lush green grass with heaps of space. There a great fire pits and amenities are a short walk. All very clean, functional and well thought out. Their access to the manning river is great, we spent the whole afternoon chilling there. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend this place to anyone who is after some peace and quiet in the countryside.
L
Luke T.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2024
With kids ·
Cosy Log Cabin
Gorgeous little hand built cabin in luscious surroundings. A short walk to the river for daily swims. Quiet, peaceful and beautiful. Highly recommend.
Avatar
Kellie T.
3 reviews
Recommends
· October 2024
Easy Camping in the country.
Tent · Group trip ·
Middle Camp
Graham and Chris are lovely hosts and do a great Job making Camping at their place comfortable. The two camp areas are close but sound did not carry. Amenities were good.Its a lovely valley with paddocks around full of beautiful cattle.It was further from the river than we expected but we had a great time.
J
John C.
5 reviews
Recommends
· October 2024
6 m travel trailer · With kids ·
Middle Camp
Great spot to swim and kayak with your own farm access to the river. We saw some platypus in the river. Camp grounds were really nice, facilities were great. There was plenty of fire wood prepared for us and the wood fired shower was sensational. The hosts Graham and Chris were amazing. We would love to visit there again.
D
Dominic T.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2024
With kids ·
Cosy Log Cabin
The log cabin was fantastic. We enjoyed staying there as well as camping using our tent. The site is very well laid out and has many useful features for visitors. Graham and Chris were very welcoming and generous hosts. The area is beautiful and looks even better than the photographs! Very highly recommended. We will certainly plan to return soon
D
David S.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
Group trip ·
Historic Woodside Church 1869
We loved our 3 nights staying in the historic Woodside church. Chris and Graham gave us a full tour and went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed. I really loved all the little things – the fresh flowers, vintage tea towels, vintage crockery & cutlery, ice-box fridge, jaffle irons, and the camp oven. The beds were comfy, there was plenty of firewood, the piano provided lots of amusement, and the bucket shower worked a treat!! Really looking forward to coming back.
A
Anthea B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· June 2024
With kids ·
Historic Woodside Church 1869
We stayed for a long weekend in the little church and had the best time. Graham and Chris have been excellent hosts who made sure we had everything we needed. The church itself was well equipped with a wood-fired oven for colder nights, and enough firewood is provided. Outside of the church is a sink for doing the dishes (well equipped with a drying rack, sponges, etc.). There is no stove, but you can prepare your food over a bonfire (or bring your camping stove as we did). Pots, pans, plates, glasses, and cutlery are all there. A special gem is the bucket shower – just heat up water in a wood-fired boiler outside of the church and enjoy 3 minutes of hot shower in the little shed with the toilet and sink. Pure luxury! Before we arrived, it had rained a lot, so we had enough rainwater for the dishes, toilet, and showering. In case it's of interest: cell reception was pretty good. Additionally, it is fantastic to watch the Milky Way there due to the lack of light pollution and the exposed location of the church. There are no obstructions to disturb the view, providing an amazing stargazing experience. Overall, it was an unforgettable stay, and we highly recommend it!
A
Anna B.
3 reviews
Recommends
· June 2024
Rustic & Relaxing Stay
Cosy Log Cabin
We loved our stay at the log-cabin and were touched by the hospitality of Graham and Chris. They are fabulous hosts. The place is ideal for nature lovers and has a rustic charm. The log house and amenities are hand crafted and work flawlessly. Surrounded by trees, ample of birds to hear and sight, plenty of open areas for children to play, Ryan’s den to enjoy family meals and close to manning river. Campfire site is great, equipped with all facilitie😀 we had fun cooking and relaxing at this place. Also had a tour of other church site cabin and it was amazing. Grateful to the hosts to upgrade us from tent site to log cabin. It was an awesome experience for my family. Hoping to come back here again.
S
Suruchi S.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2024
Comfortable cabin in a nice spot
Cosy Log Cabin
We had a great couple of days here, filled with some kayaking, some walks and lots of relaxing. Plenty of firewood to enjoy nightly campfires. Graham and Chris are lovely people and were extremely helpful. They have maintained the cabin beautifully.
B
Brett R.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2024
Cosy, quiet get away!
Cosy Log Cabin
This was such a great stay! I had everything I needed and it was such a great get away getting, heating water and cooking on the fire, swimming in the river and saying hello to the cows. It was also a bonus to have reception when I needed it. The beds were so comfy too! I would definitely recommend
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Jéan Louise O.
2 reviews
Recommends
· April 2024
Group trip ·
Historic Woodside Church 1869
The place is beautiful and the terrain is so amazing. Watching milkyway from firepit will remain as my favourite memory. Highly recommended!
S
Suman B.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2024
5 m Class A · With kids ·
South Camp
We had a fantastic time at Manning river retreat south camp such a beautiful setting with amazing amenities, the wood fire heated shower was epic! Graham and Chris are excellent Hosts we would not hesitate to recommend their property. We will definitely be returning for a longer stay.
D
Daniel C.
2 reviews
Recommends
· March 2024
Easter 2024 family camp
Tent · With kids ·
Middle Camp
Very quite and peacefull place to get away for a weekend. The kids loved watching the cows rocking up every morning. Wood fired Hot shower was perfect. Short trip to the river to cool off on a hot day. Host Graham and Chris are very friendly and happy to help and answer any questions. Lovely place
V
Vineet N.
2 reviews
Recommends
· January 2024
4 m pop-up camper ·
South Camp
Two completely contrasting days of weather! 42 degrees when we arrived so we drove straight down to the river after Graham showed us our campsite and spent the afternoon swimming. Water was so refreshing (but warmer than we’d imagined) and deep enough in the middle to be up to our necks. Would be great to bring kayaks and to paddle upstream as current strongish going downstream. Back to campsite to set up and a cool shower in the converted water tank - bliss. The stars overhead and the full moon were beautiful. Cicadas were going full bore! Misty drizzle and mid 20’s the next day but the river was so warm we went swimming again. Had a lovely chat with Chris - very welcoming and friendly lady 😊 Fire in the evening - wonderful that wood is supplied. We just had to find small twigs to get fire started. Relaxing weekend reading books, playing board games, swimming and appreciating the stunning countryside bathed in sun and wreathed in clouds. Thankyou for a lovely stay 🙏🏼
I
Ian C.
4 reviews
Recommends
· January 2024
Cosy Log Cabin
Graham and Chris have done a fantastic job of building the cosy log cabin! Very comfy! Hosts were friendly and very hospitable! Beautiful land and scenery and will be planning a return visit soon!
D
Daniel M.
5 reviews

Location

Mount George, New South Wales, AustraliaTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Graham And Chris M.

Joined in September 2020
Response rate: 100%Response time: Within an hour

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