The best camping near Cotter Dam, ACT

Cotter Dam: A Sanctuary of Serenity and Natural Splendour.

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Stories from the community

Lee

4 days ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

The host was warm and accommodating, and the amenities were clean and well-kept—ensuring a comfortable stay.

Anna

4 days ago

8 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

We had an incredible stay at this farm campsite! The hosts were super kind and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The kids loved seeing and interacting with so many animals – there were chickens, ducks, alpacas, Angora rabbits, horses, goats, and quails! They also had a blast collecting eggs, playing on the trampoline, and swinging on the simple swings. The little lake was beautiful, and we even spotted pelicans there. Such a peaceful, fun, and memorable spot for families or anyone who loves nature. Highly recommend!

Olivia

4 days ago

4 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

We had a great stay :) The kids loved feeding the animals - and play area was perfect for the kiddies :)Yifu and family were wonderful!

ashlee

1 week ago

9 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Spring Creek Valley Farm

Great spot Close the canberra Host was great Beautiful scenery So peaceful will definitely be back again

Elle

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Burrendah Farm Camp

Gorgeous view, perfect for an overnighter with my kids. Sunset was beautiful. Had water at the site, even though we’d brought our own, and Sarah was great. Very welcoming and even took us around the farm in their 4x4. Kids loved it, slept like a log and would highly recommended for an overnight stay.

SEUNGJU

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Farmily Land

I visited here again so soon. My son loves this place. And Yifu and his family are always very kind. Thank you!

Craig

2 weeks ago

1 night at Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee

Jara II is the ultimate rural getaway. Located about 70 km from Canberra along the Hume Highway towards Melbourne, it’s a place I can easily see becoming very popular for Canberrans looking to escape the city. We were fortunate enough to stay just one night while passing through from Queensland to Victoria, and I truly wish we’d booked longer. I’d say a minimum of two nights is ideal, and four would be amazing — there’s so much to explore in the region, yet simply sitting back and watching life drift by would be just as rewarding. Ben, the host, has provided absolutely everything you could want. His attention to detail and the small luxury touches are second to none. There’s another bungalow identical to Jara II a discreet distance away — close enough that two groups could book both and stay connected, yet far enough to ensure complete privacy. Down the hill beside the river is a large, flat paddock where Ben hosts campers in caravans, tents and the like. It’s an impressive spot in its own right, right next to a beautiful flowing river. While we were there, a group in canoes paddled by, taking on the gentle rapids. My wife found time to meditate on the hill, taking in the bird calls, while Ben’s cows wandered past — just as curious about us as we were about them. And the nights… oh, the nights. A sky full of stars, the kind you can only see in places like this, while sitting around a cosy fire. I’ll be dreaming about coming back to this majestic place.

jen

2 weeks ago

With pets

1 night at Shepherds Rest

We loved our stay at in both the barn room and shipping containers. Clean and well equipped kitchen and shared bathroom. Scenic with great views and surrounds. Even with a group of campers in tents sharing the facilities it worked out well. Family friendly.

Willa

2 weeks ago

11 m travel trailer

4 nights at Miranda Springs Farm Stay

I stayed at site 5. Even though the sites are quite close, I was there by myself so it was no issue. Shared the paddock with sheep, kangaroos, lizards, rabbits and water birds. Lovely outlook over the little dam, and was able to see the bunnies and Roos hopping around. This is the second site I have stayed at where I didn’t meet the owners first up or at all. I have to admit that I prefer meeting the owners when I arrive, as a woman travelling alone it just feels better to meet the owners and know that I’m safe. This is just a personal preference, I’m sure others may not be bothered by it, but I appreciate the meet and greet. Other than that the stay was fine, location was great for an easy drive into Canberra, and communication with Janice was good also.

Matt

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

1 night at Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Great spot. Even had a platypus right in front of our van !

Edwina

2 weeks ago

10 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Goolabri Estate

Lots of space for many campers. Clean toilets. Lovely outlook looking over the dam. Lots of kangaroos and ducks

Jack

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spring Creek Valley Farm

Nice spot, plenty of firewood and a lovely view of rolling hills!

Breony

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee

This was our second time staying at Jarabin - it’s one of our family’s favourite HipCamps. The property is beautiful and quiet, and we ordered the BBQ pack again which was brilliant. Instructions to access the property are very clear and easy to follow. Although the weekend ended pretty wet, the weather held out long enough for a post-dinner swim in the river with the sunset in the background. Pretty close to perfection!

Maeve

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Coots Creek Campground

Easy access and clear directions. Non potable and potable water is available, toilets are clean and equipped and located nearby. my site came with enough wood for a fire and i had a good amount of privacy. This was my second stay and it was as enjoyable as the first.

Benjamin

2 weeks ago

7 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

Host was excellent. Nice clean toilets and plenty of space. Cubby house was a hit with the kids. Will definitely return

Bowany

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

We had a great stay. Yifu and his wife are super friendly, and they went the extra mile tracking me down and returning my sunglasses i had left behind - not many people would put that effort in to return something left at a campsite! We chose to skip the farm tour as we had settled in by the fire then, but Yifu gave us fresh farm eggs for breaky. Facilities are fine with toilets and somewhere to wash plates, big communal firepit. My daughter loved seeing the 2 week old goat scampering about. Next time, I would book lakeside for a little more seclusion.

Giorgio

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Goolabri Estate

Great spot to relax, I'm recommend just bring toilet paper 🧻

ashlee

2 weeks ago

9 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

Great spot Great hosts Great facilities Great time had

Glenn

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

It was a lovely spot, the dam, the animals were all good. Good facilities, easy to find. No problem.

Alison

2 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Coots Creek Campground

Amazing place. Fully fenced for the dogs and so peaceful and quiet. Toilet was clean and close enough to the site. We were able to walk around and have a look at the other sites and they were all great. Will definitely be back.

Top-rated campgrounds

Bahwidgee on Tumut River

97%

(2227)

65km from Cotter Dam · 177 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bombowlee, NSW

Located on the stunning Tumut River, where River Red gums are scattered though out the camp,offering shade, privacy, and comfort. Here you have clear Snowy River water at your doorstep. It's so fresh we drink it! Each camping site is by the river, prime position for fishing, canoeing, and swimming. Based on availability, you are welcome to choose your spot on arrival. All options are grassed and level. You will have access to pit toilets (3) otherwise, please BYO facilities. Small campfires are welcome in the fire pits provided, or BYO firepit (permitting there are no restrictions in place at the time). Firewood can be purchased at the time of booking. We’re pet-friendly! Please note, however, that we are a working farm with ongoing activities and resident animals, including livestock and farm dogs, so all pets must be kept under control at all times. Aggressive, disruptive, or potentially dangerous dogs of any type are not allowed — especially restricted breeds (e.g. Pit Bulls, Bull Mastiffs). Only friendly dogs are permitted, and we reserve the right to ask you to leave if your dog is deemed unsafe or aggressive upon arrival. If you have any doubts, please message us prior to booking. Also, please ensure kids are supervised at all times, particularly around the river. Lifejackets are recommended. During your time here, visit the local farm gates in Tumut, Batlow, Tumbarumba, and Adelong for their delicious high-country produce. There are also some beautiful swimming spots and walks to discover in the region, as well as good facilities in town, including the local swimming pool and shopping centre. Enjoy a local brew and bite to eat at the Tumut brewery. Bahwidgee is just 3km from the Tumut town centre - so close you could ride in, or even walk.

Goolabri Estate

95%

(624)

30km from Cotter Dam · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · Sutton, NSW

You are invited to camp on what was once a golf course, and always has been surrounded by natural bushland. Situated only 20 minutes from Canberra, we offer you the opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in a peaceful country experience. There are dams to camp near, and a beautiful nature reserve where you can take a peaceful walk. If you would like to have a wander and experience some untouched bushland, please ask and we can provide simple directions. Bird watching and wildlife observation is unavoidable, and we recommend downloading the ACT Field Guide app. Enjoy your morning coffee surrounded by kangaroos and cockatoos. Suitable for Tents, Campers, Vans and Caravans, with good access for 2WD and caravans. Small campfires are permitted in designated areas, when restrictions aren't in place. You may use dead wood that you find on the golf course area as firewood. Please do not gather firewood from the nature reserve, for wildlife's sake. Pets are not permitted.

Farmily Land

99%

(89)

30km from Cotter Dam · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Springrange, NSW

Just a half hour out of Canberra, Farmily Land is an animal rescue, off-grid farm where you can have a day trip, go for a picnic, camp out, go fishing, feed and pat the farm animals, go boating or just relax and unwind with your friends and relatives in a leisurely way. There are a number of sites for caravans, vans, camping trailers, campers, tents, swags and a very unique ‘Glamping' option will be coming soon. We keep the sites spacious and well distanced so you can really feel the farms special vibe. We have dozens of friendly farm animals you can feed and pat! They are very interactive and most were rescued and hand raised by us so have very unique personalities. There is a nature playground for the kids. Very limited reception. We are pet friendly for well behaved dogs! We have a strict on-leash policy at all times and if your dog is off leash you might be asked to leave. Respect all our animals at all times. We have zero tolerance for disrespect for our farm animals. This includes off leash dogs and allowing your dog to go too close to the farm animals especially the Alpacas. Please leave no trace. Take all waste away with you, during your stay and when you leave. Be considerate of other visitors. Feel free to use the fire pits provided by the farm. You can purchase excellent firewood from the staff or bring your own. The scattered branches on the farm can be picked up and used at will. However, we have zero tolerance for the act of damaging living trees.

Canberra Holiday Village

20km from Cotter Dam · 137 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Canberra, ACT

Located in the peaceful suburb of Symonston, just ten minutes from Canberra’s city centre, our village offers a range of affordable accommodation options including self-contained cabins, powered and unpowered sites, and long-stay rentals. Each is designed for comfort and convenience, whether you’re here for a few nights, a few weeks or longer. Here for work, study or a short break? Canberra Holiday Village is your easy, welcoming place to stay with everything you need close by. Enjoy flexible accommodation, friendly staff and a relaxed community atmosphere in one of Canberra’s most convenient locations. Park Facilities At Canberra Holiday Village, we offer a range of practical and family-friendly amenities to make your stay comfortable and convenient. From weekend visitors to long-term guests, our facilities are designed with every traveller in mind, providing the perfect balance of ease and enjoyment during your time in the capital. Planning a weekend escape, road trip stopover or a base for exploring the ACT? Canberra Holiday Village has a range of stays to suit every style and budget, from self-contained cabins to powered caravan and camping sites.

Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee

100%

(420)

60km from Cotter Dam · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Berremangra, NSW

Follow us on Facebook and Insta - Jarabin.au Located along a 2km stretch of the Murrumbidgee River with a mountain backdrop, Riverview is a working Angus cattle farm, it does not get more breathtaking than this! Little over an hour from Canberra and three from Sydney, you can enjoy large campsites right on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Swimming, floating down rapids, fishing, bike riding, and hiking! So many activities to keep you entertained or just sit back and listen to the rapids from the front of your tent. We are pet friendly, bring your four-legged family members with you - they'll love it just as much as you! We also have secure yards with water for horses, with plenty of walking and riding trails on the farm, you'll have an unforgettable time! Please note, no mobile reception at sites. You will receive a notification 2 days before arrival with the gate code, please note this down as you will not be able to access the Hipcamp app on site (due to no mobile reception). All campers must be self-contained with their own camp toilet, and we kindly ask you take all waste with you when you leave.

Maddara.Organic.Farm.and.Art

99%

(147)

45km from Cotter Dam · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Yass River, NSW

Once a much larger property, we purchased our 120-acre (50-hectare) in 1984 as a means to live sustainably and raise a family. Living in our shed whilst we prepared the garden, installed watering infrastructure, and built our house, which we finally moved into when our daughter was 6 months old in 1990. Over the ensuing years, we have continued to increase biodiversity on the property and set it up so we can live sustainably, harvesting our own water, electricity, and food. If you're lucky, you could get a hamper of our product when there is sufficient in season. With the increased biodiversity, you will find that in the mornings and evenings, kangaroos and wallabies will visit with the occasional echidna, rabbi,t and hare; and to forget the large array of bird life - that may wake you early in the morning with the songs. This campsite is set on lovely grassy open areas interspersed with gum trees. The sunrise looks spectacular near the dam, when the trees give off a lovely glow. The main paddock has a Geodome, a shared space for relaxing in. With all that space, you can park and set up camp anywhere in the paddock. There is access to drinking water, toilets, and a hot shower. Around the dome is a fire pit, drinking water, and a camp kitchen. The fire pit features an Argentinian BBQ and a plate for cooking. The kitchen has plates, cups, cutlery, and other bits and pieces for you to use. We also allow your pets to stay on-site; this includes horses. If you want exclusive use of the paddocks, refer to Group Bush Retreat.

Coots Creek Campground

99%

(360)

34km from Cotter Dam · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Murrumbateman, NSW

Beautiful 240acre cattle property for campers to enjoy the beauty of the land and its flora and fauna in a pieceful environment. Campers have enjoyed the easy accessibility, stunning sunset views and the peace and quiet of feeling like they are a million miles away from civilization. 2 Dams available for swimming. All sites in the Campground area are fenced and sited to give maximum privacy and safety from any fire threat, with plenty of room to place tents/vans/motorhomes for best viewing position. Campground Sites x 8 Beautiful private sites that feel like you are away from the rest of the world. Watch kangaroos, wallaroos and wedge tail eagles. Drive through comfort for large Caravans/RV. Toilets for your comfort nearby and potable water available for refill of tanks. Campfires are allowed unless there is a fireban. Why not hire a van if you have no equipment- they will set the van up on your site https://www.camplify.com.au/rv/caravan-rental-murrumbateman-nsw-viv-the-viscount/33909

Miranda Springs Farm Stay

96%

(65)

28km from Cotter Dam · 6 sites · RVs · Springrange, NSW

Private and very easy to access caravan sites available just 20 minutes from Canberra City Centre and 10 mins to fuel, Aldi, takeaway etc. Plenty of room to turn around and sites are nice and level. Guests can enjoy our peaceful and scenic paddock away from it all. Plenty of wildlife to see, Birds, Kangaroos, Reptiles and Wallabies, the occasional Wombat and lovely easy walks. Try some yabbying in the nearby dam too if you like. We are just 7km from the Barton Highway and provide a very secure property that allows you to go off exploring with confidence. DOGS are permitted on LEAD only. Self contained vehicles. (toilet) required. Fires permitted when no fire ban, fire pits provided. Wood provided at cost on request.

Burrendah Farm Camp

99%

(45)

18km from Cotter Dam · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Wallaroo, NSW

200 acres of beautiful farmland situated on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Enjoy a campsite overlooking the stunning Brindabellas, a small spot next to the dam, if you bring your 4WD, or a fabulous site next to the old cottage that comes complete with a flushing loo! Our beautiful border collie, Sollie, will naturally want to come say hi no matter which site you pick. There are plenty of local food and wine venues in the surrounding area for you to enjoy. Pets are welcome but we do have livestock on the property, so please keep them on leash. Campfires are allowed as long as there are no fire restrictions in place. All campers must have their own supplies and be self sufficient as we do not supply any amenities: you will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet, shower and water. Please do not dig a toilet hole, even though you leave it covered, it doesn't take long for the foxes to dig it up!! There is mobile reception. No shooting, archery or hunting. Camper trailers and caravans are welcome but can only stay at the easily accessible camp site. Please note, the road to the river is now impassable even for 4WD - we will update here when it is back up to scratch. But you do get your pick of 2 other lovely sites!

MOUNTAIN VIEW RETREAT

100%

(167)

59km from Cotter Dam · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Mundongo, NSW

We are located a short drive from Tumut in the Snowy Mountains region. Pitch your tent or RV overlooking the gorgeous mountains. We are half a kilometre from the main road behind locked gates, and just 10 minutes from town for all your supply needs. There are plenty of scenic walks and fishing spots nearby, at camp you can enjoy complete privacy. There is a shower and toilet available which is separate from the main residence. There is also bar fridge, large chest freezer, jug, toaster, and microwave available, We are on tank water and can offer drinking water. We ask that you are conservative with your water use, and we encourage you to bring your own. Enjoy waking up to the tranquil sounds of wildlife of all sorts, (not having to hear any traffic being 500meters off the main road). plus the views of the kangaroos in the mornings is pleasant too! The campsite is accessible by 2WD and we can accommodate all types of camping vehicles. You will need to level your vehicle depending on which site you choose. Your pet is welcome to join you and can cool off in the dams we have available.

Private Bush Camp Exclusively Yours

97%

(37)

56km from Cotter Dam · 7 sites · Tents · Bungendore, NSW

Peaceful unspoilt bush and farm land in the Southern Tablelands, on the Great Dividing Range. 1 hour from Canberra, 3 hours from Sydney. Suits tents, rooftop tents and camper trailers only - no caravans or motor homes. Drive 6.5km private dirt road off highway to access private individual campsites along short bush tracks. Choice of small number of secluded locations on different parts of the property; each booking enjoys their own private camping area completely to themselves. Campfires allowed when conditions permit, firewood available to buy. No services (power, water, sewerage, rubbish collection or wifi). 1. PEPPERMINT GUM CAMPGROUND is well established and suits a larger group of friends or 2-3 families (max 16 guests per booking, your group will have this place all to yourself). Located in 1.6ha / 4 acres of grassy woodland, it offers a good choice of mown tent sites in shade or sun. A large centrally located clearing for your group to gather, with a rustic camp kitchen hut for all-weather cooking and eating. A rustic pit toilet is a short walk away, with handwashing station and views! 2. SNOWGUMS CAMPSITE is a smaller camping area for up to 6 people, on a low forested ridge overlooking Sandhills Creek. Choose from separate mown tent sites and gather in a campfire clearing in protected snowgums forest. A rustic pit toilet is a short walk away. Several kilometres of marked walking trails within the property. Explore the creek line, hike up the mountain to the old stone trig point, walk to the swimming hole on the creek with jetty, picnic area and rowboat. Numerous picnic spots. A swimming dam, jetty, and picnic sites are accessible via marked walking and driving tracks. There are also several kms of walking tracks directly from the campsite along Sandhills Creek and the 'mountain paddock'. Owners live further along the road on the property, and can be contacted if needed. A separate AirBnB house is located on the property; please respect the privacy of fellow guests.

Spring Creek Valley Farm

99%

(63)

63km from Cotter Dam · 1 site · Tent, RV · Warri, NSW

Spring Creek Valley Farm is a 2200-acre farm located in the beautiful southern tablelands, 1 hour to the Canberra CBD and just 1 hour to Batemans Bay on the coast. With over 3km of creek frontage and 100+ acres of untouched native bushland, there are ample options for campsites to suit just about anyone. All campers must be completely self-contained, with their own camp toilet, and take all waste when they go. The original name of this property is Wooraba which is an aboriginal word for 'hidden' which describes it very well. Here, you will immerse yourself in the Australian bush and enjoy a truly peaceful retreat. Enjoy fantastic bushwalks amongst the native flora and fauna, or take your mountain bike to the high open hilly area to check out the expansive views. Or lay in some of the creek's rock pools and sunbathe. Whilst we can accept dogs, this absolutely must be discussed with us prior to booking. We are a working farm, with sheep, and it is important that any visiting pets do not hassle our sheep, and are kept on a lead at all times. Campfires are permitted in the designated fire pit when conditions allow and no local fire bans are in play.

The best camping near Cotter Dam, ACT guide

Overview

About

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Cotter Dam, where the rush of water and whisper of wind through native vegetation beckon adventurers and nature lovers alike. Here, the Cotter River's journey culminates in a stunning display of pristine waterways, offering scenic drives, bushwalking, mountain biking, and bird watching. While camping is not available within the reserve, the surrounding areas provide ample opportunities for overnight stays amid the wilderness.

When to go

The best time to visit Cotter Dam is during the milder months of spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer can be quite warm, making it less ideal for strenuous activities. Winter, while cooler, offers a unique beauty, though some tracks may be less accessible.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and plan your visit when conditions are favourable for outdoor activities.
Be aware that 1080 poison is used in the area for fox control, so keep pets on a leash and on designated paths.
Respect the prohibition of swimming in the catchment to protect water quality.
Remember that boating and fishing are restricted to certain areas; always follow local regulations.
Take care to leave no trace, ensuring trash is properly disposed of and the natural environment is preserved.

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