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Platypus Pools

Hosted by Chris · Monkerai, New South Wales
5 sites · RV, Tent · 300 acres
100%
·
340 reviews
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Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Staff verified
Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.
Chris is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
Private sites
99% of recent Hipcampers say the sites felt private.
Premium and exclusive natural camping at its best. Our farm is located on the beautiful Karuah River in the picturesque Monkerai valley. The river is a fresh mountain river running from the foothills of Barrington Tops. We only offer 5 sites across our 300 acre property giving you absolute privacy and a sense of serenity We were very pleased to have been recognised by Hipcamp as being one of the top 20 Hipcamp locations in NSW for 2022. Most of the year the river is lovely and clear and ideal for swimming canoeing floating on airbeds fishing photography or just enjoying. There is also some really nice bike riding and walking opportunities around the valley although you will be on gravel roads and we are only 25 min drive from the popular Dungog mountain bike park. You are likely to see a variety of birdlife other wildlife including black and white cockatoos ducks some lizards, occasionally wallabies, echidnas and if you are lucky a Platypus or two. We are fortunate to see platypus in the river frequently which is a sign of just how pristine the water running down from the mountains really is. You will have your campsite completely to yourself with no other camper near you. Privacy, tranquillity, relaxation and just enjoying nature is waiting for you. Be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution. Swimming, canoeing and running the rapids on surf mats is always popular at our property and as long as the river is it normal levels and a lot of fun. However, we always highly recommend people wear some form of footwear in the river such as rafting sandals or old joggers or similar as the rocks are very hard on your feet and there’s a particular nasty little fish called a “Bullrout” that whilst rare can infect a nasty sting if you tread on one. No need to be overly concerned but be mindful. Our property is ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, it’s up to you. There are no toilets so only suitable if you have your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All toilet waste, leaving our property is very important and an absolutely essential requirement for all visitors. Public waste dump points are at Stroud, Dungog and Gloucester. Gloucester Dungog and historic Stroud village are nearby as well as Barrington Tops World Heritage wilderness area and national park. This is an operating farm and therefore farming activities such as cattle droving, fencing, grass cutting or hay making may occasionally be occurring somewhere near your site but we would always let you know. We are sure you will enjoy our farm far more than a crowded traditional caravan park or campgrounds. We do have some limited bags of firewood for sale at $20 a bag most of the year. These are heavy bags of very dry local Hardwood. You can also collect firewood along the riverbanks yourself or bring your own firewood for a campfire (subject to any fire restrictions) if that is easier and more convenient for you. When you make a reservation at the property we will always endeavour to put you in your preferred location as best we can. However if we are impacted by adverse weather or need to run cattle on certain parts of the farm then we may need to make a change to the actual site you are in and trust you understand. We look forward to you visiting our farm.

Select a site

Vehicle/tent sites

5 sites
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Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)

100%
(114)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 14 m
Very flat and scenic site overlooking a lovely big waterhole ideal for swimming. Casuarina trees provide shady areas for relaxing by the river out of the sun. Set well back from the road for absolute privacy. Whilst not guaranteed, platypus are often seen from the campsite. Very flat and spacious. None of our sites have toilets, so all are only suitable if you bring your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All of our campsites are ideal for having a campfire, be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution. Ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, its up to you.
4WD recommended
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
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The Dell

100%
(98)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 14 m
Private, tranquil shady spot overlooking a lovely run of river including a pool and rapids, set amongst Casuarina trees. Very suitable for a single group or a number of families. Gives you direct access to the longest stretch of flat water on our farm being approx 600m of water ideal for canoeing, paddle boarding, fishing or swimming. None of our sites have toilets, so all are only suitable if you bring your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All of our campsites are ideal for having a campfire, be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution. Ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, its up to you.
4WD recommended
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
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Cedar Glade

99%
(88)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 14 m
Our largest and most secluded site overlooking the expansive swimming hole includes a flat grassed area for setting up camp and shady trees for relaxing under. Most suitable for larger groups and family get-togethers. Plenty of afternoon shade and a myriad of beautiful sections of rapids to explore nearby. Platypus are often seen here. Good base for bass fishing as well. None of our sites have toilets, so all are only suitable if you bring your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All of our campsites are ideal for having a campfire, be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution. Ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, its up to you.
4WD recommended
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
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The Rapids

100%
(76)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 14 m
Spacious site overlooking rapids and a pretty waterhole. Lovely uninterrupted views downriver all the way to the Monkerai bridge. Our sunniest spot in cooler months but without afternoon shade in the summer. Ideal for running the rapids so bring your surf-mats. Good for larger groups. None of our sites have toilets, so all are only suitable if you bring your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All of our campsites are ideal for having a campfire, be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution. Ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, its up to you.
4WD recommended
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
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Platypus rock

100%
(50)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 14 m
Our smallest site but absolute privacy is assured in this tucked away location overlooking a lovely section of the river. Most suited to lightweight camping, swags, roof-tops or a camper trailer etc. Two vehicle limit for your group. Regular platypus sightings in this location. Nice for kayaking on a 300m stretch of river. None of our sites have toilets, so all are only suitable if you bring your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All of our campsites are ideal for having a campfire, be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution. Ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, its up to you.
4WD recommended
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup

Reviews

100% Recommend428 Ratings · 340 reviews
The Dell at Platypus Pools offers a serene camping experience with plenty of privacy and direct access to the clear waters of the Karuah River. Guests appreciate the peaceful setting, ample space, and friendly atmosphere provided by host Chris. The campsites are well-maintained, dog-friendly, and ideal for taking a break from city life. The presence of wildlife, such as platypuses, adds to the charm of this riverside retreat.
Summary AI-generated from real reviews
Recommends
· October 2026
10 m campervan · With pets ·
Cedar Glade
Had a great time! Nice little stream the dogs enjoyed and very private and quiet. Perfect. We hope to be back! Thank you for hosting Chris
Recommends
· September 2026
Amazing Rapids
3 m rooftop tent ·
The Rapids
What an absolutely beautiful spot! We stayed at The Rapids and loved every minute of it. Right on the river with the sound of the running rapids — it was so peaceful and relaxing. Chris was an amazing host, really friendly and welcoming, and made our stay even better. Such a special location and we will definitely be back! Highly recommend 😊
Recommends
· September 2026
3 m rooftop tent ·
Platypus rock
Awesome spot super private with easy access to the river, we really enjoyed our selfs and would definitely come back, Chris was a really good communicator making it super easy to find our spot and ask any other questions, will be back for sure
Recommends
· September 2026
Peaceful getaway with the fam
8 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Cedar Glade
We loved our stay at Platypus Pools. The site, Cedar Glade, was so peaceful and lovely. The kids and dogs had so much fun, with lots of kayaking and a bit of fishing. It was nice to switch off and reset for the weekend, with having the site overlooking the water made it extra relaxing. Chris was very helpful and quick responses as well. We would highly recommend a stay here ☺️
Recommends
· September 2026
Natural beauty
14 m travel trailer ·
The Dell
Chris has thoughtfully created campsites that are private, have good river access, are flat and well maintained. The natural landscape with lots of birdlife was a joy and we will be back.
Recommends
· September 2026
Cedar glades
13 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Cedar Glade
Cedar Glades was secluded, picturesque and large enough to accommodate a couple of caravans. We had a 17 foot van and travelled with our dog and while we had it all to ourselves, the separation between sites made it so peaceful and quiet. Fortunate enough to see platypus and enjoyed walks around the property. Chris was responsive with great instructions on the site and an excellent bag of wood! We will definitely be back! Thanks Chris!
Recommends
· September 2026
4 m rooftop tent ·
The Rapids
We absolutely loved our stay here! It’s such a beautiful, peaceful spot and exactly what we were hoping for. We loved that you actually feel like you have your own little piece of the property rather than camping right next to everyone else. We could properly slow down, sit by the river and just enjoy how quiet everything was. And seeing the cows wandering around with their little calves was definitely one of our favourite parts 🥹 Chris also made the whole experience even better. He was so welcoming and genuinely looked after us from before we even arrived, checking in and making sure we had everything we needed, then doing the same throughout our stay and even afterwards. We felt really looked after the whole time. You can tell how much care goes into the property and into making sure people have a good experience there. We had the best time and we’re already looking at dates to come back. Definitely one of those places you find and immediately know you’ll be returning to!
Recommends
· September 2026
The Dell: A Hidden Gem
4 m pop-up camper · With pets ·
The Dell
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We spent two nights at The Dell at Platypus Pools and it quickly became one of our favourite HipCamps. Communication from the host was excellent, with detailed instructions and directions making arrival really easy. Chris was an absolute legend: friendly, welcoming and genuinely happy to have a chat. We even had a great little yarn while he was doing his rounds on the farm. The campsite itself was beautifully clean, tidy and well kept, with lush green grass that had been freshly mowed and made for a perfect place to set up camp. The Dell is private and well away from the other sites, giving us the feeling that we had the whole place to ourselves. The scenery is absolutely beautiful, with excellent access to the Karuah River. The water was crystal clear, with beautiful little swimming holes right beside the campsite and some fun little rapids nearby. It’s also dog friendly, which was a huge bonus for us. Luna absolutely loved it, spending her days exploring the riverbank and frolicking in the water. There’s a fire pit for those evenings around the campfire, although you do need to be fully self-contained. And if you’re into astrophotography, the dark skies here are fantastic. Once the sun goes down, there’s very little light pollution and the stars really come alive. A beautiful, peaceful and incredibly scenic spot. We absolutely loved our stay and are already looking forward to returning. Definitely one of our favourite HipCamps.
Recommends
· September 2026
5 m travel trailer · With kids ·
Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)
Incredibly beautiful spot by the karuah river. The host, Chris is a gentleman
Recommends
· September 2026
13 m travel trailer · With kids ·
The Rapids
Great location, awesome country. Site had great arvo sun for the solar. Chris was responsive and directions easy to follow. Will be back.
Recommends
· August 2026
The Dell Campsite
6 m travel trailer · Group trip ·
The Dell
A beautiful site on the river. We were on The Dell site. Cows roaming the nearby paddocks definitely make you feel like you’re out of the city. Lots of birds. The river is beautiful & clean. Such a quiet place & the hosts are lovely.
Recommends
· August 2026
10/10
Tent · With pets ·
Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)
Chris's property ticks all the boxes - beautiful location, just over 3 hrs from Sydney, easy to find and the perfect spot to switch off once you get there. Platypus Rock site was immaculately maintained and right on the banks of the river so plenty to keep the kids busy. The other site's are spread out across the property so you won't bump into any new neighbours unless you go looking form them. Chris was a great host, prompt comms and simple directions - thanks for having us Chris, we'll be back ASAP!
Recommends
· July 2026
Tent · Group trip ·
The Dell
Unreal spot lovely property owner was very welcoming will definitely be going back
Recommends
· July 2026
3 m pop-up camper · With kids ·
Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)
This spot is one of the most beautiful places we’ve camped. Stunning water, wildlife, grass and surrounds. Chris and his son Hamish were very welcoming, great communications, huge swag of firewood, has to be up there with the best camps on hipcamp. We will 100% be back.
Recommends
· July 2026
Peaceful Oasis
9 m pop-up camper ·
The Rapids
A stunning location. This is a beautiful and peaceful working property on the majestic Karua River. You ll find large grassy sites overlooking the river with easy car/trailer access and fireplaces. Chris is a welcoming, generous and accommodating host. The Rapids at Platypus Pools is definitely our fave Hip camp so far. Being so close to Sydney we expect to return to this piece of paradise again and again.
Recommends
· July 2026
4 m pop-up camper · With kids ·
The Dell
Chris is a great host. The sites are beautiful and if you are after peaceful, private camping by the river then this is the place. Looking forward to going back!
Recommends
· June 2026
11 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Cedar Glade
Second time camping here and loved it just as much.
Recommends
· June 2026
Secluded serenity
7 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Cedar Glade
We spent the weekend at Cedar Glade and absolutely loved it. The campsite is a beautiful spot right on the river, offering stunning scenery and a wonderfully secluded atmosphere. We had a lovely time exploring along the riverbanks and taking in the peaceful surroundings. Although the site is close to a road across the river, the traffic was minimal and certainly not enough to detract from the experience. The site felt very private and quiet, which was exactly what we were looking for. We especially loved having the cows nearby—it added to the charm and country feel of the property. Chris was a fantastic host, and the directions provided were impeccable. The property is so well signposted that there is virtually no chance of getting lost. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and will definitely be back. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a peaceful riverside getaway.
Recommends
· June 2026
Peace and serenity
6 m pop-up camper · Group trip ·
The Rapids
We had such an amazing long weekend camping at The Rapids site. Such peace and serenity, listening to the river run. Site was spacious and flat, right on the river. Chris was an amazing host, so friendly and welcoming, his directions were easy to follow. Easily one of the best hipcamps we’ve been to, would highly recommend to anyone looking for a private weekend away. We’ll definitely, be back. Thanks again Chris!
Recommends
· June 2026
Camping at Cedar Glade
Tent ·
Cedar Glade
Absolutely a magical spot! We had such a relaxing nice long weekend at Chris’s property! The river was crystal clear, the camp site was perfect! Thanks again Chris! Looking forward to checking out the other sites in the near future.
Recommends
· June 2026
7 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Platypus rock
Awesome site! Directions were easy to follow and Chris was a great communicator. We stayed in Platypus Rock site and enjoyed complete privacy as other camp sites were not nearby. A great getaway with the dogs. I would definitely recommend this camping spot and will return myself.
Recommends
· May 2026
Great weekend
11 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)
We had a great weekend walking the dogs along the river and sitting by the fire. The campsite was private and well maintained. Chris is an accomodating host and great communicator.
Recommends
· May 2026
Platypus Rock is Perfect!
4 m pop-up camper · With pets ·
Platypus rock
We had a brilliant weekend camping at the Platypus Rock camp ground. Privacy, a body of water and some rolling hills are our criteria for an amazing weekend and this was 10/10. Chris was lovely to chat to and very helpful, the river was fresh but nice and clear for a morning awakening! Our GSP, Louis, had plenty of areas to explore - this will definitely make it on our regular rotation!
Recommends
· May 2026
6 m travel trailer · Group trip ·
Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)
Beautiful riverside camping. Easy access to swimming hole.
Recommends
· May 2026
8 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Cedar Glade
I loved camping at platypus pools. Beautiful location. Privacy,peaceful, dog friendly. We will definitely be back.
Recommends
· April 2026
Platypus rock
Platypus Rock was a delightful and stunning place to escape to. The site is grassy, level and right next to the serene Karuah River, shaded by Casuarina trees and isolated from other sites. In fact we couldn’t see any other signs of civilisation. Entry was via a track through paddocks. Chris was a friendly and helpful host. We didn’t see any platypus this time but we loved being able to relax by a campfire in such a serene and beautiful spot.
Recommends
· April 2026
Happy Repeat Customers
6 m pop-up camper · With kids ·
Platypus rock
Our second time at this hipcamp, this time at Platypus Rock. A fabulous spot with great evening shade and easy access to the river. Private, comfortable. Shaded River play in the heat of the day. Platypus spotting in the evening. Great hosts. Highly recommend
Recommends
· April 2026
One of the best spots!
10 m travel trailer · With pets ·
The Rapids
This is our second time here at Platypus Pools, and it did not disappoint! The directions were very clear, the site was big and well maintained. We loved the sounds of the rapids throughout the day and it made for a great nights sleep too! Our kids (and dog), swam in the river every day and the water was so clean and clear. Sites are very far apart and very private. This place has become a favourite for sure! Thanks for being such a great and welcoming host Chris!
Recommends
· April 2026
7 m pop-up camper · With pets ·
Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)
Had a nice couple of days at rock pool. Flat site, mowed and clean, overlooking the river. Chris showed us to the site and then we didn't see a soul after that. Kids and dogs had fun swimming and paddling in the river.
Recommends
· April 2026
Camping with the dogs (and cows)!
5 m travel trailer · With pets ·
The Dell
We loved camping at The Dell. Chris was a superb host. Very spacious sites right on the creek. We even got to see a few platypus. No phone reception makes it an ideal getaway!

Location

Monkerai, 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 Chris O.

Joined in September 2020
Response rate: 100%

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