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Platypus Pools

Hosted by Chris · Monkerai, New South Wales
5 sites · RV, Tent · 300 acres
100%
·
301 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.
Off-leash friendly
Pets can be off-leash at this Hipcamp.
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. With some lovely Spring rain the river is running beautifully and is great for a swim, fish or canoe. 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.
from
AU$121
/ night
5 sites

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Vehicle/tent sites

5 sites
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Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)

100%
(105)
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
from
AU$121
/ night
for 4 guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

The Dell

100%
(88)
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
from
AU$121
/ night
for 4 guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
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Cedar Glade

99%
(78)
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
from
AU$121
/ night
for 4 guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

The Rapids

100%
(65)
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
from
AU$121
/ night
for 4 guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

Platypus rock

100%
(45)
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
from
AU$121
/ night
for 4 guests
from
AU$121
/ night
5 sites

Reviews

100% Recommend560 Ratings · 301 reviews
Recommends
· February 2026
Platypus Rock site- beautiful!
12 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Platypus rock
We had such a wonderful time at Platypus Rock . So peaceful and private. Our dog loved it too! We would not hesitate to recommend and we will definitely be back many times in the future. Already planning our next booking!!
M
Maxine B.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2026
Return guests
5 m pop-up camper · With pets ·
The Dell
We loved how peaceful this location is. Sitting by the fire and listening to the water running over the river stones all night. Couldn’t find a more stunning location. Almost don’t want to put a great review up as we want to keep it all to ourselves!!
B
Barb C.
2 reviews
Recommends
· January 2026
A special camp spot
7 m travel trailer · Group trip ·
Cedar Glade
Our third time at Cedar Glades campsite. It really is a special spot, so quiet and peaceful. Private, you won’t see anyone since the camp spots are so far from each other. Waterhole is awesome. Chris is a five star host. He genuine care about giving everyone space to enjoy.
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Michele E.
52 reviews
Recommends
· January 2026
Beautiful, peaceful spot
10 m travel trailer · With pets ·
The Rapids
Beautiful, peaceful spot by the river. Kids had a ball on ‘the rapids’.
M
Martine F.
3 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2026
Beautiful sites
Tent · With pets ·
Cedar Glade
Beautiful sites, clear water, and very helpful host!
A
Amy T.
2 reviews
Recommends
· January 2026
10 m travel trailer ·
Platypus rock
We loved the spot beside the river and the stars were amazing, beautiful and quiet, lovely countryside. Didn’t realise individual spots were such a distance from one another or that we could have camped on the one spot with our family. Good idea to take a picture of the directions as there is no internet. Would definitely like to do it again.
C
Coralie H.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2026
The Dell
8 m travel trailer · With pets ·
The Dell
The Dell, and the whole property, was a seriously good camp ground. Perhaps one of the best we’ve stayed at. Specifically, it was the space and privacy that each site had. So often everyone’s crammed in together, but that’s not how Chris set up his property and we really appreciated it. The river was excellent for swimming and we a great time all round.
N
Neil J.
7 reviews
Recommends
· January 2026
6 m pop-up camper · With pets ·
Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)
WOW. What a beautiful spot for over a week’s camp. The site was amazing as was the river and all the platypus. My 3 kids did not want to leave. Thanks for sharing your amazing property.
A
Aaron B.
4 reviews
Recommends
· January 2026
5 m pop-up camper · With pets ·
Platypus rock
Great spot very private, creek is beautiful even saw a few platypus. Chris is a top bloke.
T
Timothy H.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2026
Great stay
7 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Platypus rock
We had a wonderful time camping at Platypus Rock. Short drive from Sydney, so the road trip there with kids and a dog was short and sweet. The campsite was well maintained and easily accessible with space to turn around with caravan (15ft). The site was private and we didn't see or hear anyone even though it was fully booked, which was great. The river was clean and water clear, so naturally the kids spent most of the day swimming. Such a beautiful farm and really kind and helpful host. Chris sent clear directions, directed us to our site and stayed to have a chat, which made us feel very welcome. We will be back for sure!
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Natalie K.
10 reviews
Recommends
· January 2026
Great spot
5 m car ·
The Dell
Such a peaceful spot, great to set up a tent or swag or park up the 4wd with a rooftop tent. The river is so beautiful. Couldn’t recommend it higher.
A
Abe A.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2026
Tent ·
Cedar Glade
The water was at our doorstep. The site was awesome. Chris is an awesome fella. We've stayed 3 times here and will keep staying there. Swimming, kayaking and fishing. What else do you need. We work with young fella's who are needing to get away from the grips of technology, need to get some mountain air and just escape life's pressures. And this is the best place for it. Chris comes and says g'day to the fella's. He treats them with respect and they return it. Thanks Chris for allowing access to your property
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Chris G.
3 reviews
Recommends
· January 2026
Such a stunning location
Tent ·
Cedar Glade
I would highly reccomend camping at platypus pools. The location is absolutely stunning, with a beautiful river to swim in, fire pits, and private sites, you truly feel like you are able to step away from everything into a little world of your own. Would highly recommend, and we will definitely be coming back!
R
Raven S.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2025
Swimming Holes & Serenity
6 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Cedar Glade
Cedar Glade was absolutely divine. The property is peaceful, beautifully maintained, and feels like a little pocket of calm away from the world. The campsite itself was private, spacious, and thoughtfully set up, making it easy to truly relax and settle in. The other campsites could be seen when leaving the site or when exploring the property, but were all far enough and tucked away that I never heard any of them, everyone had privacy and could enjoy their own slices of heaven Chris was incredibly welcoming, with great communication from start to finish. You can tell a lot of care has gone into creating this place — it felt safe, grounding, and restorative. Chris gave perfect thorough directions to the property and to the site that made it genuinely impossible to get lost. It was such a genuinely dog-friendly stay. With my pup enjoying exploring, relaxing, and soaking up the calm as much as we did. It’s always special finding a place where your dog is not just “allowed” but truly welcomed. Waking up to the sounds of nature and ending the days under the stars was exactly what we needed. The water holes and small rapids along the river were so fun to explore and swim in, with lots of fish and other little creatures around. Even a goanna popped by the site to say gday! We left feeling refreshed and grateful, and would absolutely recommend this spot to anyone looking for a quiet, special place to unwind. We can’t wait to return
T
Tiana J.
2 reviews
Recommends
· December 2025
Space, privacy and floating!
Tent · Group trip ·
Cedar Glade
Our stay at Cedar Glade on Chris’s property was fantastic. Loads of flat space, afternoon shade, river was so nice to float about in. Our dogs loved the freedom to roam and fossick and chase the magpies (never got within cooee of them). Thanks for keeping the cows well clear Chris. Our area was also very private. Chris’s instructions to our site were very clear and it was nice to meet him later that day. Plenty of firewood of varying size for collection if you want a fire. No need to bring any. Thanks for hosting us Chris. We’ll be back for sure.
P
Phil P.
3 reviews
Recommends
· December 2025
5 m car ·
The Dell
Beautiful, secluded little spot. Perfect for us and our old dog.
J
Jade L.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2025
A great place to relax and unwind!
7 m pop-up camper · With pets ·
The Rapids
Such a beautiful little spot with a lovely view of the rapids and river. Although it was quite hot, the river provided a peaceful and relaxing place to cool down. Chris was a great host. Would definitely recommend and hope to be back again soon.
J
Jo Anne S.
2 reviews
Recommends
· December 2025
Private river paradise
6 m pop-up camper · With pets ·
The Dell
Been here 8 or 9 times and it never disappoints. The camps are spaced out so you have your own little section of river. The area is flat with both morning and afternoon sun available, with a move of the folding chair 😄 Had 2 days, in our 5 day stay, over 40 degrees but being right on a shady stretch of river it was very manageable. The swimming hole is just lovely with shade, deep and shallow sections plus rapids for the kids as well. Platypus can be seen at dusk and dawn upstream but one of my favourite aspects is the bird life. Too many types to list. My dog loves it as well. The hosts are terrific with communication and work so hard to keep the sites just lovely. It is a privilege to be able to come to the property and we, as always, are extremely grateful. We will be back soon
R
Ruth J.
5 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
10 m travel trailer · With kids ·
Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)
2nd time staying at plateaus pools. Beautiful as always. Nice and private. Chris the host is always friendly and accomodating. Can’t wait for our next visit.
I
Ian R.
5 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
6 m travel trailer · With pets ·
The Rapids
Had an amazing time at the rapids. The site had great views over the river top little swimming hole below the rapids and floating down the river. If you are looking for a relaxing break I highly recommend Chris’s farm. We will definitely be back in the near future. Thanks Chris we Loved our stay.
T
Todd L.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2025
11 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)
Absolutely beautiful spot. Perfect for relaxing, swimming and exploring. The platypus sightings were an extra bonus. Easy access and large private site.
R
Rebecca W.
2 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
River camping at its best!
8 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Cedar Glade
What a location! Pulling our van up alongside the river was magical. We had the best time and most certainly will be back. Chris is also a great host and made finding our spot extremely easy. A huge bonus was getting to see all the baby calves with their mums.
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Celeste W.
2 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
The Dell
Beautiful location and heaps of privacy We will definitely come back here for another trip
B
Brad B.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Great spot, great host!
Tent · With pets ·
The Rapids
We loved camping at Platypus Pools! We ended up camping in the Rockpool site. We loved swimming and fishing in the river. The site was very private and Chris and his son made sure we were comfortable and checked on us each day. The farm is 25 mins away from Stroud or Gloucester in case anything is needed from shops. We forgot marshmallows so got that from Gloucester. We will be back!
A
Alfredo C.
3 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
The Dell kid & pet friendly camping
8 m travel trailer · With pets ·
The Dell
Platypus pools was incredible. Site : The Dell. So much space right on the river. The dogs loved the freedom to be off leash, the kids had a ball swimming, catching fish & spotting the platypus. The cows came to say hello too so many cute little bubbas this time of year too. Perfect area, easy to find. Cannot fault at all and we will certainly be back.
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Katrina H.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
9 m travel trailer · With kids ·
Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)
Peaceful, peaceful peaceful. This place is heaven on earth. Chris makes check so easy and the sites or well kept.
I
Iain G.
5 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent · With kids ·
The Dell
This was our second time camping at The Dell. Beautiful spot by the river with shady spots throughout the day. We had lots of fun swimming and kayaking. Thanks for having us Chris!
J
Jemma H.
3 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
The serentiy!
6 m travel trailer · With kids ·
The Dell
We loved our stay at The Dell. What a great spot. We had a blast paddling up the river, swimming and playing at the little rapids at the site. There was great birdlife, friendly cows, and we even saw a platypus up the river! There was plenty of room at the site, Chris the host is fantastic, and we hardly saw any other campers all weekend. Will hopefully stay again!
S
Sarah L.
3 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Cedar Glade
Our second time camping at Chris’ place and we’ll definitely come back again! Private, beautiful river with rapids and a deep swimming hole. Perfect spot!
L
Lilian W.
3 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Camping as it’s meant to be.
12 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Rock Pool (aka Platypus Pool)
Absolute riverside bliss, just as camping is meant to be. So relaxing, and the occasional platypus. Chris is a great host, super helpful.
M
Matthew M.
2 reviews

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: 80%Response time: Within 5 hours

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