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Chichester Dam

The best camping near Chichester Dam, NSW

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Stories from the community

Celia

2 days ago

5 m travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Camp Merriwa

This site is a beautiful bush block set well away from the houses at North Arm Cove. It’s very private and you really feel like you’re in the middle of the bush. Plenty of room. We found access to be a little tricky – we recommend that both car and van have good clearance. Communication with the owner was always very prompt and helpful. it was wonderful that we were able to bring our dog with us. Thanks!

martin steingrímur

2 days ago

5 m car

Group trip

1 night at Willowbank

Great spot by the river. Very nice friendly host. Showed us around the camp and the river

Mackenzie

3 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Willowbank

Spent the weekend here with my partner and dog. Really great, flat and private spot and right near the river so perfect for warm weather as you can jump in and cool off.

Maya is watching sunset 🌅 in the camp site, every night the sunset is different

George

4 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

We had an amazing time staying at Mei’s! The area is quiet and remote and the views are amazing! We arrived a day late due to flight cancellations and Mei offered us an extra night for free which was very kind. She was very accommodating and made everything very clear for us. Shower and toilet facilities are great and showers were nice and warm. Fridges are very useful for storing food and freezers had ice lollies for guests which was a nice touch! Would 100% recommend staying here. Thanks Mei!

Lachie

4 days ago

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Peaceful Pond

This is a real hidden gem! The pond was beautiful to swim in and a great place to camp next to. Tim was very accommodating and it really made the stay perfect. I will definitely be back soon!

Victor

4 days ago

3 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Willowbank

Really great camping spot. Sites are well spaced and private. Property is immaculate The owners are very accommodating and helpful. Would highly recommend

Eliza

4 days ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Iggys Haven @ Anna Bay

We absolutely loved this camp site! Thank you Nathan for being so accomodating x

Rob

4 days ago

6 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Willowbank

Fantastic spot right on the river; the host was excellent and very responsive. Would highly recommend a visit to Willowbank. Five stars!

Michael

4 days ago

8 m travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Willowbank

Stayed at long flat for 3 nights. Site was very large and well maintained. Had platypus right in front of our camp each night. They came out just as the sun set over the range. Jo and Ian were very welcoming and happy to help. All sites spaced far apart so you hear no noise of other campers. Highly recommend and we already booked our next weekend away while we there.

Darren

4 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Willowbank

A great spot to camp by the river. Lots of fun swimming in the river. Will be back!

Tony

5 days ago

13 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Our Kindred Acres

We had a fantastic stay at OKA, site was clean, peaceful and a beautiful place. Kellie, Rod and Ruby were welcoming friendly and helpful. We absolutely loved the site with the deck in between two caravans was a first for us. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for relaxing getaway way. Thanks Kellie and Rod for the memories.

Lee

5 days ago

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Our Kindred Acres

We absolutely loved our kindred acres.. so peaceful and wonderful facilities.. we will definitely be back.

Louisa

6 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Our Kindred Acres

Most beautiful campsite ever. Absolutely loved the layout, the camp kitchen, outdoor shower, decorations, beautiful land, everything. So peaceful. Wonderfully welcoming hosts who ensured we had everything we needed. Will be telling everyone we know about this campsite!!

Greg

6 days ago

5 m Class A

1 night at Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

we selected a site 5 amongst the tall gums, watching the dappled light shine through the tree tops and the sound of the birds was peacefull, the location was only 5 mins off the highway but very quiet without any traffic noise it was a great stop on our way further south, it is a large site with tall trees, branches and logs were gathered up against the tree by the host, excellent thought. we loved the setting greg

Katie

1 week ago

9 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

Great easy access off the highway for an overnight stay. Pretty spot, could have stayed longer.

Emma

1 week ago

6 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Our Kindred Acres

This place is an absolute delight. Very peaceful and welcoming. Me and the kids loved playing with the dog, walking around the property and making use of the shared covered area and kitchen facilities. The shower was a great bonus to wash the sand away at the end of the day. We will definitely be back :)

Bernard

1 week ago

11 m travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

This is a great place to stop for the night, so close to the highway yet surrounded by nature (no road noise). The directions were very clear and signage made it even easier. Accessibility is great for large vehicles towing large caravans. The sites are very well maintained and spaced out. Would recommend.

Karen

2 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

2 nights at Our Kindred Acres

We thoroughly enjoyed our couple of nights at OKA. Beautiful peaceful location with majestic trees filled with staghorns and a lovely dam with pretty water lilies. The facilities are well maintained and the camp kitchen is amazing - complete with chandeliers and lots of eclectic things to look at. Kellie and Rod were very welcoming as was their beautiful dog Ruby.

Rick

2 weeks ago

4 m pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Our Kindred Acres

This was our second visit to this beautiful place. We loved it so much that we returned and brought along a few friends to enjoy the property. Thanks again to Kel and Rod for a memorable couple of days.

Jose

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

Great views and the host are very friendly with the best dry wood fire The little touches that make the difference Dot stop your dream with a great place Pele and Jose

Top-rated campgrounds

The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah

98%

(698)

61km from Chichester Dam · 46 sites · Tents, RVs · Forster, NSW

The Riverside Farm Escape is a family owned cattle farm situated on the picturesque Wang Wauk River in Minimbah, Mid North Coast NSW. Our well maintained, grassy campground and RV stop provides spectacular views of the Wang Wauk River, which flows into the magnificent Wallis Lakes. The Riverside property spans 103 acres of rich farmland and has over 500 meters of river frontage, ideal for kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing, with water access to Forster / Tuncurry. A gravel boat ramp provides easy access to Wang Wauk River ideal for small boats/tinnies. The property also boasts a beautiful dam, full of blooming lilies, a favourite for the kids to kayak and swim. Surrounding natural bushland is teeming with wildlife, including wallabies, kangaroos, lizards, and vibrant native bird species. Access: Suitable for 2WD and 4WD vehicles Site Options: Powered and non-powered sites available. Non powered sites on the River front, Lily Dam and Paddock Views. Fire Pits: Provided at all sites for cozy evenings under the stars Firewood: Conveniently available for purchase Pet-Friendly: Bring your furry friends (on-leash at all times) Please clean up after them. Family-Friendly: A perfect escape for all ages Toilets/Shower: Available for a fee ($10 per site per night) *Cold water only Kayaks: Complimentary for guests to enjoy river adventures River Access: Direct water frontage for kayaking, paddle boarding, and small boat launching. Noise Policy - Quiet hours strictly 10pm - 7 am Daily. No loud music permitted. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Nabiac Village (7 mins): Supermarket, charming cafes, chemist, pub, post office, dump point, potable water, and the Artisan Farmer for paddock-to-plate delights. Tuncurry/Forster (25 mins): Stunning beaches, vibrant restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. Barrington Tops (25 mins): Explore breathtaking trails and scenic vistas. Blueys Beach (50 mins): Relax on pristine, sandy shores. Port Macquarie (60 mins): A vibrant coastal town with pristine beaches, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities.

Abstobys Retreat

96%

(754)

66km from Chichester Dam · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bobs Farm, NSW

I have a small private property with grass campsites by a tidal outlet to Port Stephens harbour. We do not offer secluded camp sites away from other people on large acreage. You can spend your days fishing, kayaking or enjoying Nelson Bay and surrounding areas and beaches which are only 15 minutes away. Guests have the use of a retreat shelter/fire place/BBQ area and wifi. Campers must try to be self contained bringing their own water, toilet and shower. Sorry, no caravans over 20ft. Suite solo travellers, couples wanting a quiet weekend and LGBT friendly. We do have available tank, rain water for drinking, a toilet and hot shower, microwave and free wifi available for those who cannot be totally self contained. Yes there are mozzies because you are near water, so bring repellent. Pets are welcome but must stay on a leash throughout your stay. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please BYO firewood. Fires are only permitted when there are no fire restrictions and in the designated fire pit and designated fire pit area for your own fire pit. Children 16 & under stay for free. Please notify host if you are bringing children. Please be careful and supervise young children near the water.

Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome

98%

(633)

61km from Chichester Dam · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Pindimar, NSW

We are a farm forestry property located in the middle of the north shore of Port Stephens. Two hours north of Hornsby. 1 hour north of Newcastle. 2 mins to Pindimar beach, 9 minutes to Coles and bottle shop, 11 minutes to surf beach Bennett Beach 12 minutes to Jimmy's Beach. Pets are welcome please pick up after them. Unfortunately, due to a recent incident. All dogs from now on must be on a leash at all times. The dangerous dog in question bit 4 people in less than 24 hours. Including my husband twice. You know your dog, But you cannot predict what another campers's dog is going to be like. Any dog on the NSW dangerous dogs list is absolutely not welcome here. Free use of fire pits and free firewoods. You will need to be split the logs yourself. axes and wheelbarrows are supplied. Hot showers and decent toilets, Good mobile phone signal. Two Communal Fridges .There is lots of space for campers. We have two sites with shade, four without. We suggest you bring a decent quality gazebo or equivalent. If you choose a non-shady site and then it's sunny, it is beyond our control. We are located on a dead end road, so very rare to have any traffic after 8pm. PLEASE NOTE: 1) We ONLY ALLOW ONE camper trailer or ONE caravan per site. No limit on number of tents. 2) IF You Have more than 3 vehicles/site please contact host before booking. 3) Depending on the weather on the day, we may have to limit the number of vehicles that can be parked adjacent to your campsite. 4) NO late night check in . If you are a group larger than two people, the check in time is between midday and sunset. Do not arrive after sunset. If in doubt call. 5) As the business name suggests (mountain) our property is on a hill. we are creating more level campsites. This year the weather has been terrible. From record rain to drought conditions in 3 months. Because of the earthworks there has been a bit of dust, which we have tried to control with grass seed and then no rain.... once each section of earthworks is done. Shade trees are being planted. But they are slow to grow. 6) Please check weather report a minimum of 7 days before you arrive and CANCEL your booking if you are not sure. 7) We cannot control the wind, the sun, rain, or lack of rain.

Camp Merriwa

100%

(1)

57km from Chichester Dam · 1 site · Tent, RV · North Arm Cove, NSW

New listing to Hipcamp We welcome you to enjoy a tranquil bush camping experience located at North Arm Cove in New South Wales, offering a nature retreat with nearby amenities. The location features include: Location: North Arm Cove, NSW, Australia. Access: Gently sloping land with beach access 200m away, accessible via a short dirt road (requires high-clearance vehicle). Amenities: Close to shopping centres, with a BBQ, tennis court, and 24/7 public toilets at the nearby North Arm Cove Community Centre. Short drive to Tea Gardens and Karuah. Activities: Great for kayaking and exploring oyster leases in calm waters. Connectivity: Device-free bush camp with no internet access on-site (available approximately 500m away). Offline Google Maps recommended. To find local services or plan your trip, you can explore the Port Stephens Council website for information on the area, including local shopping centres and facilities in Tea Gardens or Karuah. You can find detailed local maps and information through resources provided by the Council or NSW government sites.

Willowbank

100%

(319)

25km from Chichester Dam · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Stroud Road, NSW

"Willowbank" is a stunning 252 acre property located in the picturesque Karuah River valley with 1km of river frontage. The property has been in our family for 4 generations, being bought by Ian's great grandfather in the 1920's. We cater for guests that are looking to get back to nature and enjoy the great outdoors without feeling overcrowded! We want our guests to be happy and have the best experience possible. Why not follow us on Facebook @Willowbank Hipcamp and see what is happening on the farm, videos of our sites and info on what is on in our community! Located only 8 minutes drive from the historical town of Stroud which was settled by the AA Company in the 1820's as a food growing area. There are still many beautiful buildings from that period to explore. A dairy farm for many years, we switched over to beef around 15 years ago. Currently we run around 120 head of Angus and mixed breed cattle. Within 3 hours drive of Sydney and around an hour from the Barrington National Parks, Newcastle, Maitland, Forster and Nelson Bay, it makes it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway! We are offering 6 beautiful, partly shaded, camping sites along the pristine Upper Karuah River. All sites are separated for privacy and are all right on the edge of the river. There are plenty of opportunities for bird watching, hiking, swimming, kayaking, fishing (in summer), star gazing or just relaxing. All sites are site only and no toilet or shower facilities are provided. You will need to bring your own camping toilet or self contained caravan/ camper (dump point is located in Stroud township) We hope to make your stay a pleasurable one with many happy memories made. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. ***sorry no parties allowed*** Your hosts, Jo and Ian.

Spirit of the Forest

99%

(625)

56km from Chichester Dam · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · Bulahdelah, NSW

Spirit of the Forest is one of the oldest properties in the area. Many years ago it was an old dairy farm, but it has been through many transitions since then.... uniquely situated only a few kms. from the majestic "Grandis" tree it has an abundance of wildlife close by, wallabies come out to feed on the pasture at dusk and dawn, mighty eagles soar overhead and beautiful Arabian horses run free in the paddocks. Trevor and Maya moved here from Berry NSW 17 years ago. Trevor is an internationally acclaimed entertainer and horse whisperer and Maya is an artist, author and lecturer. Both found the property a haven from their busy schedule of performing overseas. A unique 70 acre Arabian horse property, surrounded by Myall Lakes National Park 4 kms from "The Grandis" the tallest tree in NSW and 10 kms from Bulahdelah Town also near to beautiful North Coast beaches. There are many beautiful areas to choose from to camp, as well as a cabin.

Tinker Farm

79%

(12)

66km from Chichester Dam · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Bobs Farm, NSW

At Tinker Farm, nature takes centre stage. Tucked away in the bush, our farm is a peaceful retreat where guests can slow down and reconnect with the rhythms of the land. Among horses, ducks, chickens, and loyal farm dogs, you’ll find a space that feels both grounding and welcoming. Enjoy boutique camping under the stars, wander along scenic bush walks, or spend the day exploring the beautiful local beaches, reserves and local coastline. We’re just eight minutes from shops, beaches, and a medical clinic in Anna Bay, 15 minutes from Nelson Bay, and only a short stroll down the road to Murrays Winery (B Farm). Whether you’re seeking time in nature or adventure along the coast, Tinker Farm offers the perfect sanctuary.

Bucketts Way Camp n Stay

96%

(342)

49km from Chichester Dam · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Twelve Mile Creek, NSW

PLEASE NOTE : check-in from 11am till close at 6pm strict. A late arrival fee of $50.00 applies after closing time if not pre-organised directly. This Payment will be required before entry. Upon arrival please call numbers located at the boom gate to arrange entry. Being only 2 hours from Sydney and 470 metres off the Pacific Highway, Nth of Newcastle & a 40 drive to Port Stephens, we are set on 25 acres, with lge sites, most drive through (dry weather only) for your convenience. Hot showers are available ($1 coin for 2 min hot water), toilets and a disability accessible bathroom. The camp kitchen is large and well equipped with tables, chairs, a lounge area & tv for you to enjoy. The kitchen has cooking facilities, a kettle, toaster, microwave, prepping areas & more making it a comfortable space to prepare and eat meals under cover. Campers have reception to 4G. We have a turning lane entrance with boom gate security. When you arrive and set up, you will be able to ramble around our property and enjoy the ambience of the beautiful tree studded campground. Sit back in the afternoon and enjoy nature at its best and then a beautiful warm campfire, perfect!! Whether you're camping in a tent or vehicle, there's plenty of space to set up. The campsite is grassy and level, and 2WD accessible. We offer water hookup for caravans fill then disconnect $2, and there is a dump point for your camping toilet. Generators are permitted from 8am till 5pm (extreme heat on the day consideration). Pets welcome.

Melaleuca at One Mile

91%

(70)

72km from Chichester Dam · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · Boat Harbour, NSW

Relax and unwind at our Land For Wildlife property, Melaleuca @ One Mile a boutique hostel and campground set on 6 acres of natural bushland in beautiful Port Stephens and only a 500m walk from the sparkling waters of magnificent One Mile Beach in Boat Harbour. It is located just past Anna Bay village which is 2.5km away and the entrance to Worimi Conservation Lands the largest moving Sand Dune system in the Southern Hemisphere, where you can 4WD, swim, surf, or enjoy a camel or horse ride. We have off-street parking with the car park area alongside the only car-free campground in Port Stephens. A large open grassed area surrounded by large melaleuca trees is perfect for throwing down a swag or setting up a tent for camping. You are not limited to a small site, you can use as much space as you desire, and we ask that guests respect others and give each other some room. In addition to the camping area, there is a small off-street, shaded area for a small number of campervans, there are no powered sites and sorry but we do not take caravans. All guests have access to the facilities including warm showers and toilets, a large Main building housing double kitchens with crockery and cutlery, toasters and kettles. There are indoor and outdoor covered seating areas and a free gas BBQ on the decked area with free Wi-Fi available. The Tomaree Peninsula has 26 beaches with numerous walking trails, including the recently upgraded Tomaree Coastal Walk and plenty of water activities including Dolphin and Whale watching cruises, diving, surfing, kayaking, fishing and snorkelling. Nelson Bay is the main tourist centre with plenty of restaurants and cafes and there are more clubs and food options dotted around the peninsula.

Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach

96%

(57)

72km from Chichester Dam · 209 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · One Mile, NSW

While many of our holiday parks offer a beachfront location, Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach takes things up a notch with a 1.6-kilometre stretch of sand, right on your doorstep. Set on the holiday park’s namesake – One Mile Beach – there’s no need to factor in a commute for your morning beach stroll or swim these holidays. If you’re feeling adventurous during your stay, you’re in for a treat with over 26 beaches located in the Port Stephens region including the 32-kilometre Stockton Beach, which is home to the largest sand dunes in the southern hemisphere. It’s these very dunes where you can experience camel rides at sunset or sandboarding down them at high speed. Choose between camping, caravan sites, cabins or villas for your stay at Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach – with direct beach access available from all villas for those who enjoy the idea of waking up to the sound of rolling waves. While you’ve got the best of Port Stephens less than 15 minutes’ drive away, there’s plenty to keep the family entertained within the holiday park grounds such as a games room, jumping cushion, playground and ball court. Given its position along the coastline, seafood lovers will love the local oyster bars and seafood restaurants close by, like restaurant institution Rick Steins at Bannisters.

Iggys Haven @ Anna Bay

97%

(174)

70km from Chichester Dam · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · Anna Bay, NSW

Beautiful 25 acres with natural wild life, Koalas, Kangaroos, Flying Squirrels, Kookaburras and much more. Located amongst 27 beaches (Samurai Nudist beach is one of them) around the Port Stephens peninsula with entry point to the largest sand dunes on the Eastern coast of Australia…stretching 41 kilometres. 4WD, camel rides or some great fishing at Birubi Beach NSW. Property is located off grid, but also 2 min from Anna Bay Tavern, 3 min drive to the nearest rock pools and some fine surf.

Our Kindred Acres

100%

(46)

59km from Chichester Dam · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Bombah Point, NSW

Our Kindred Acres is our 92 acre property, a “peaceful natural escape” for like-minded folk. Entering the gates of this unique property you will feel the serenity as she “wraps her arms around you”. Whilst you take time to enjoy every picturesque view, instantly leaving “it all behind”. Explore 10 acres of cleared lush lawns, 82 acres of natural rainforest, bush wilderness with walking/riding tracks throughout [depending on weather conditions]. An ideal place for your next secure, safe and quiet stopover, whilst you “rest your weary head at night”. Situated between Newcastle and Port Macquarie, 7 kms via Bulahdelah with the beaches, lakes, mountains of Seal Rocks, Forster, Port Stephens, Gloucester, Myall Lakes, the Mid North Coast within easy drive. Our Kindred Acres is in the perfect position with so much to offer locally including wildlife, fishing, boating, swimming, bush walking, bird watching, bike riding, relaxing, and the overwhelming enjoyment of mother nature at her best. Our jaw-dropping Camp Kitchen has all things required to make your stay as relaxing as possible. Accessible to RVs, camper trailers, tents caravans. Guests to be self-sufficient with their own water, power, shower/toilet facilities, cooking facilities. Bathroom facilities on request. Camp Kitchen is a communal area for all guests, leave clean and tidy. Leave No Trace – please take all rubbish/items and dispose correctly. Dogs on request, friendly and well behaved, restrained on arrival as we have free range chooks. Pick up dog poo and take it with you. National Parks are nearby, you should familiarise yourself with their domestic pet rules; locations, all available on the NSWNP website. Fires – on arrangement, you are welcome to bring your own firepit and firewood or OKA can supply. Before setting up, we will organise pavers and sand to ensure our grass is protected. We do have firewood available to purchase, 20kg @ $20.00. Firewood/Kindling collection is not permitted without our consent. Permission to use generators & chainsaws must be sought. If granted, generators to be super quiet and off between 9pm and 7am. Our 10pm noise curfew is for the enjoyment of all guests. Guests are to acknowledge Conditions of Entry prior to entering property which will be messaged.

The best camping near Chichester Dam, NSW guide

Overview

About

With its reservoir lying in the protected Barrington Tops National Park, Chichester Dam has formed one of the most pristine catchments in all of Australia. While you can't boat or swim on the water, the untouched reservoir behind Chichester Dam is truly a serene sight. Walking along the edge of the water, you can catch the mesmerising backdrop of the Barrington Tops forestland reflecting off of the vibrant depths. While camping near Chichester Dam will afford you all of these luxuries, the dam itself is an engineering marvel well worth the visit. With 254 metres in length and 43 metres in height, when the gravity fed dam begins to flow, you can feel it. Visiting the dam under wet conditions will ensure an awe-inspiring experience.

Nearby attractions

Yengo National Park is a wilderness area surrounded by rugged terrain, scenic vistas, and historic cultural sites. Camping is available among the natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Barrington Tops National Park is a stunning mountain range surrounded by dense forests and pristine rivers. With camping sites set among the natural beauty, campers can enjoy a peaceful escape from the noise and stress of modern life.
Lostock Dam is a tranquil water body surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and pristine rivers. With camping sites set among the natural beauty, campers can enjoy a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Gloucester Tops is a breathtaking mountain range surrounded by lush forests and pristine rivers. With camping sites set among the natural beauty, campers can enjoy a peaceful escape from the noise and stress of modern life.
Lake Glenbawn State Park is a picturesque water body surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and scenic vistas. With camping sites set among the natural beauty, campers can enjoy a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.