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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Kempsey Showground
Pipe Dream Bush Camp - Dog Friendly
Pipe Dream Bush Camp - Dog Friendly
96%
(187)
8.9km from Kempsey Showground · 111 sites · Tents, RVs
If you want to avoid the crowds our property is only 10 minutes drive to great local surf and fishing beaches at Crescent Head. There is an abundance of bird life, the odd kangaroos and wallabies, and other wildlife. There is a melaleuca forest that children are welcome to play in and build a cubby house, and 2 pretty little dams to catch yabbies, and for dogs to enjoy a swim.
The property where camping is provided is approx 20 acres with a limit of 10 groups so you can find your own little piece of paradise.
There is plenty of fire wood for you to collect on the property on your way in. Please help yourself to any fallen timber for firewood but please do not cut any standing trees down. When checking out, ensure you properly extinguish fires and return any unused firewood to the bush.
Dogs are welcome to be here off leash as long as they are well socialised and reasonably obedient. There is large areas for them to run freely and dams to swim in.
It is accessible via a 2WD dirt road, even with a little wet weather. If rainfall is extreme we recommend 4wd's.
The property is completely off grid so we have a 'leave it as you found it' approach. This means you will need a camp toilet, and to take all of your rubbish with you. We are a rural property so do not have rubbish collection services. (Fees apply for any left behind rubbish).
Happy camping!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$37
/ night
Playstation Campsite
Playstation Campsite
97%
(88)
10km from Kempsey Showground · 6 sites · RVs
No Tents or sleeping in cars that do not have shower and toilet facility. We are a 4 minute drive from the historical town of Gladstone, which has a bakery, butcher, general store, retail shops, fruit and veg shop, nursery, cafes, restaurants, an op-shop, second hand wares shop, galleries, outdoor swim centre and of course the local pub.
Gladstone Markets are on the 3rd Sunday of the month. It's a 20 minute drive to South West Rocks, Hat Head and Crescent Head. Just 45 minutes north of Port Macquarie and 1 hour south of Coffs Harbour.
Please arrive before dark, or advise arrival time if not possible . You must be fully self contained, there are no facilities. Please no tents or swags.
Enjoy a beautiful campsite near a large dam, watch the ducks, rosellas, cranes, herons and the occasional Jabiru, feed and nest in the trees. A great spot for bird watching.
Pick your own spot, maybe near one of the fire braziers, but not directly under the trees if windy. No livestock on property but we have visiting kangaroos, tortoises, green frogs, and eels in the dam if you want to fish for them.
Mid Coast Flying operate a private 800 metre airstrip on the property, and Trial Instructional Flights (TIFS) are available, for $150 for 45 minutes. Please speak to Ross when you arrive.
You can pick your own site.
Unfortunately we may have to close after torrential rain events. We are also pet friendly, however there are no bins, so please pick up after your pets in the camping area.
Water is available near the hangar as you drive in.
Pets
from
AU$43
/ night
Macleay River private Retreat
Macleay River private Retreat
95%
(29)
12km from Kempsey Showground · 5 sites · RVs
A beautiful little gem on the river bank just on the outskirts of Gladstone. Gladstone has many beautiful little stores and cafes as well as the amazing Heritage Hotel if you would like a pub meal for lunch or dinner.
It is only a 20 minute drive to South West Rocks or Hat head and 25mins to Crescent Head.
You can sit back on the bank and fish, go for a swim, canoe or enjoy some water skiing and put your boat in the river from the property itself.
Pets
from
AU$46
/ night
Ellerslie Farm
Ellerslie Farm
95%
(20)
15km from Kempsey Showground · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Privileged to be on Thunghutti/Dungutti Country, Ellerslie Farm is situated on the Macleay River, 15 minutes from Kempsey, (home of Akubra hats and the Slim Dusty Center) and 35 minutes from the beaches of Crescent Head. An ex-dairy farm, Ellerslie Farm has been in our family for over 150 years and is now run as a beef and crop production. This place is special to us and we want to share it with you. Pass the old cottage and sheds and drive down to the grassy river flats to our camping grounds right on the river. Plenty of casuarina and banksia trees for shade, the flat is long and faces west for the most beautiful sunsets. Watch the abundant bird life, go fishing or canoeing and you might even get a visit from a resident cow or 2. Best of all...just relax. (Not suitable in extreme wet weather as this are of the river floods.)
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$49
/ night
Kingfisher farm
Kingfisher farm
95%
(56)
16km from Kempsey Showground · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Campsite surrounded by farm land and a throw stone away for the beautiful crystal clear waters of Dungay creek
Enjoying swimming, bird watch, say hello to the friendly cows and maybe even spot the platypus.
Just 20mins from Kempsey and 40mins to beaches
Not suitable to camp during heavy rain periods, as it is subject to flooding
Please note that during prolong periods with no rain the creek can dry up and sometimes there can be algae in water but is generally clear
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$44
/ night
Heartwood - tranquility
Heartwood - tranquility
97%
(96)
16km from Kempsey Showground · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Heartwood Farm is a centrally located 120 acres on the Mid-North Coast - about halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, only 1.5 kms off Pacific Highway, 25 mins to Port Macquarie, 15 Mins to Kempsey, 30 minutes to Crescent Head and 45 mins to South West Rocks.
We are off grid and live close to nature and enjoy the abundance that provides. We have been building and developing for the last few years. We are still a work in progress.
There are three Brumbies that live over the fence and 5 other horses that will no doubt come and say hello. They are all friendly, especially if you have a carrot. There are also a lot of kangaroos and wallabies, some quite friendly as they have been raised by our neighbour who does animal rescue. There are also a lot of different species of birds, including the much-loved Black Cockatoos which are in abundance here. We have also seen turtles, frilled neck lizards, diamond pythons, red belly black snakes (rarely) and goannas.
Pets
from
AU$31
/ night
Appydaze Hideaway
Appydaze Hideaway
97%
(87)
17km from Kempsey Showground · 12 sites · RVs
Welcome to Appydaze Hideaway, where our motto is 'Stars, not street lights!’ What we have to offer is simple, and often, simple things are best!
Contact 0402264583 or
Www.Appydaze Hideaway.com.au
Our property is a 120-acre working family property, with 1.2km of river frontage on beautiful Piper's Creek in Kundabung, near Crescent Head.
Centrally located between Sydney and Brisbane (Just 2 minutes off the Pacific Hwy), 10 minutes South of Kempsey Service Centre, and 18 minutes North of Port Macquarie Service Centre.
The camping area is level and open, with plenty of space for your setup. All campers must be self-contained, with their own toilet, and we kindly ask you to take all waste when you go.
Pets are welcome too.
We have spent many years building the camp area in order to enable access so that we can share with you, what we are lucky to wake up to each day. This property and our camping offering is a work in progress, any feedback/suggestions (be they positive or negative) we would love to hear from you when you stay with us.
Every sunrise and every sunset is different and makes for a new chapter each and every day.
Pets
from
AU$46
/ night
Windermere Farm
Windermere Farm
99%
(359)
17km from Kempsey Showground · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Great location near Hat Head and South West Rocks
This lovely 4 acre camping spot is situated at Kinchela on the tidal Kinchela Creek which runs directly into the mighty Macleay river.
Please note that in very wet weather , being riverside camping, the sites can be unsuitable for caravans and camper vans . Please enquire by message with us to verify current conditions. We endeavour to accomodate you but cannot predict the weather. Tent sites usually okay at any time(remember you will need to have your own toilet facilities) .
You can fish , kayak, paddle board, bring the tinny or just relax and enjoy the water view and surrounding farmland.
A few shade trees and quiet surroundings makes this the perfect spot for your next getaway.
Fire pits available at each site with initial load of wood to get you started.
Conveniently located only a 5 minute drive to Gladstone shops and hotel.
There is a tap and hose (town water) on site. NOTE This is not available for vehicle washing, cleaning fish or filling large tanks. No emptying /cleaning of portable toilets please.
PLEASE NOTE Campers must be equipped with their own toilet facilities , absolutely no exceptions. People abusing this rule will be asked to leave. We like our riverbank to be pristine and enjoyable for everyone. Thank you.
Safe surroundings for solo travellers.
We live opposite campground if assistance is required.
Enjoyable fishing spot here, however no crab pots thank you. Our lovely waterway is recovering from a major flood.
Last Minute Bookings Welcome ONLY subject to availability and not in holiday period. Long weekends and holidays are subject to a minimum booking 3-5 days 😊
Pets
Potable water
from
AU$49
/ night
Summer Island Farm
Summer Island Farm
98%
(33)
17km from Kempsey Showground · 2 sites · RVs
170 acre working cattle farm with approx 1km Esplanade river frontage along the mighty Macleay.
10 minutes drive to South West Rocks which has some of the best beaches in Australia. Not far to the surfing Mecca of Crescent Head and beaches at Hat Head.
Only 6 minutes drive to the villages of Smithtown and Gladstone, renowned for their cafes, galleries and friendly pubs.
Activities include, fishing on your doorstep.
Up close experiences with farm animals including cattle and chickens.
The property has 3 of the oldest and largest Morton Bay Fig trees in this area.
from
AU$72
/ night
Twin Oaks Estate
Twin Oaks Estate
100%
(10)
18km from Kempsey Showground · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Situated in the heart of the Macleay Valley with river frontage, Twin Oaks is a 40-acre sheep and cattle farm operating on organic farming principles.
It is very peaceful as we are positioned a long way from any busy roads etc. The location makes for a great starting point for day trips to endless attractions around the mid-north coast.
All sites are private and offer plenty of space for a relaxing, spread-out camp setup. We don't offer facilities at present, so all campers need to be self-contained, with their own camp toilet and all waste must depart with you.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$44
/ night
Footprints in Style
Footprints in Style
97%
(628)
23km from Kempsey Showground · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Relax under the big shady fig tree, pitch your tent by the creek and swim in the massive spring-fed lake which covers five acres and never runs dry. This 300-acre bamboo property gives you total tranquillity in nature.
There are boats and boards to use, and an island kingdom for kids to play.
Kiss and release fishing (Perch) in the awesome lake, which is also great for swimming, and building bamboo rafts. Adventures awaits!
Basic, off-grid camp kitchen, big weatherproof wedding venue space to hire, posh dunnies (composting toilets), and a hot water shower shack with a magic view of the lake!
There is plenty of shade and we're dog-friendly. Well-behaved dogs are welcome off-lead.
Endless space, and plenty of privacy, campers can choose a spot when they get here.
A bundle of firewood is provided on arrival, and you're welcome to bring more with you if you need.
Price is per person per night, kids under 16 half price. Under 5 stay free so don't include them in booking numbers.
Join us for cocktail hour at the brand-new Tiki bar! BYO drinks! We also have a brand-new sauna that campers are welcome to enjoy!
All this, close to stunning beaches and cute cafes.
Leave only footprints 👣 make awesome memories.
NOTE: We currently only advertise availability three months in advance. If you are interested in dates outside this booking window, please still send us an enquiry and we may be able to assist you.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$36
/ night
Racecourse Camping
Racecourse Camping
96%
(452)
23km from Kempsey Showground · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
Secluded Racecourse Beach is a short drive south of Crescent Head on the mid-north coast of NSW. We have a beautiful 11 acres of coastal land where you can hear the waves as you sleep with the pristine Racecourse Beach only a 5 to 10 minute walk away. We are not directly on the beach and do not have beach access.
Racecourse Beach is a great spot for surfing, fishing and swimming. All you need to do is find one of our intimate sites for you to pitch a tent or pull up with the camper van.
THERE ARE NO AMENITIES SO YOU MUST BE FULLY SELF CONTAINED AND LEAVE NO TRACE.
Fires are allowed, but must be contained in an off ground fire pit brought by camper. Firewood is available to purchase from the service station in Crescent Head and you are also welcome to gather wood from the property.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$22
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
L
Luke
5 days ago
6 m pop-up camper
With pets
WOW we love this place it a little peace of paradise beautiful views swimming hole to die for, Steve was a wonderful host communication was impeccable, animals are friendly.
110% recommended to stay here we wish we'd did have to leave
See more
t
tara
1 week ago
6 m pop-up camper
With kids
Truely magical time was had at Desley’s land. We had the whole place to ourselves. Such a lovely spot to stay, we stayed and the campsite under the trees. My kids roasted marshmallows on the fire for the first time. We took a trip down the road and swam in the creek, the water was crystal clear. It was a lovely way to get back to nature. The caretaker Wendy was beautifully kind and generous with her knowledge. Would love to return in the future.
See more
T
Tom
1 week ago
7 m travel trailer
With kids
Amazing spot, just 10 minutes from everything.
The hosts were incredibly friendly and welcoming.
We extended our stay because we loved it so much.
Our kids absolutely enjoyed the animals, especially the friendly dogs.
Evenings by the fire and beautiful sunsets and sunrises over the river made it extra special.
10/10 — the best place we’ve stayed so far.
See more
z
zarah
1 week ago
5 m car
We had the most amazing stay at Scott’s property. He was so welcoming and generous, letting us interact with all his animals the horses, goats, cows and pigs were such a highlight. The creek was absolutely beautiful and so peaceful. Scott’s son was lovely and took the time to show us around, which made the experience even more special. Such a wholesome, relaxing place we’d definitely love to come back!
See moreA
Alistair
1 week ago
Tent
Bill was a very friendly, accomodating and hospitable host. His property was great for camping and Bill’s border collies were great company for us
See moreS
Shannon
1 week ago
Tent
Fantastic, we loved our stay, close to town and private.
See moreV
Valerie
1 week ago
6 m travel trailer
With kids
Bill was a great host! Lots of room along the river with beautiful grass as carpet!! Nice and close to boat ramp and south west rocks. Loved it and hope to go back and stay longer next time!!! Good fishing too!
See moreK
Kristen
1 week ago
13 m travel trailer
With pets
Beautiful land / grounds next to the river. Loved the chickens and so very peaceful. Great spot for fishing and so close to town.
See more
Mitchell
1 week ago
5 m car
Great campsite, nice grassy fields and very friendly farm dogs.
See moreK
Kristen
2 weeks ago
11 m travel trailer
We really enjoyed our two-night stay over New Year’s. Super close to town but felt a million miles away from the crowds. Beautiful, well-kept grassy sites with plenty of space. Bill was easy to deal with, quick to reply, and helped us with a morning check-in so we could explore and visit friends in Hat Head without worrying about our van. Thanks Bill!
See more
S
S
2 weeks ago
5 m pop-up camper
Location beautiful, people lovely. A quiet place and fishing right across the road. Everything I could have wished for and more. I would happily stay again.
See moreT
Tara
2 weeks ago
7 m travel trailer
We loved our stay, the land was amazingly well maintained, very close to SWR, very flexible and good communication. Great access to the water and Bill was very helpful to answer any questions we had during the stay. Would recommend
See moreD
David
2 weeks ago
4 m travel trailer
Awesome spot, 2 minutes to Coles and 5 minutes to the beach.
Lots of room to spread out and enjoy the river front!
See moreC
Carly
2 weeks ago
5 m pop-up camper
With kids
Such a great spot! Close to everything and plenty of space so you aren’t too close to anyone else. Hosts were lovely and happy to show our kids their chickens and new baby chicks. All areas were very level and perfect if camping with multiple families. Will definitely be back!
See moreK
Kara
2 weeks ago
8 m travel trailer
With kids
We had a great stay here! Stayed a week over the Christmas/New Years period with 4 other vans in our group and always had plenty of space. Bill was a great host and showed us the best spots to set up. Caught some crabs and fish from the river.
We’ll be back for sure 😊
See more
Sarah
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Scott was very accommodating and flexible to let us stay very last minute and responded straight away to help us confirm details. We were in and out so didn’t get a chance to explore the property just grateful we had a safe place to stop. Will be back again :)
See more
Amy
2 weeks ago
Tent
The turf farm was great and had stunning riverside spots. As someone who has camped in a swag many times - there is nothing better than sleeping at a turf farm, we were so comfortable! Only a few mins out of town and public bathrooms 1km away. Mick was super helpful and very responsive. Would absolutely stay here again. Plus, the cows in the paddock nextdoor were super cute.
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Leanne
2 weeks ago
7 m travel trailer
Lovely quiet riverside sites a short drive from South West Rocks. The complete opposite of being packed in like sardines at the coastal campgrounds in peak season.
See more
T
Tessla
2 weeks ago
Tent
Was a great spot to camp at. Really nice and quiet along the river. Super clean. Host and all other campers were really nice. Made for a very relaxing space
See moreE
Eloise
2 weeks ago
Tent
We loved staying at Bills property, partner took the kayak out and caught a couple of flatty. And we loved having the dogs come visit and kept us company around the fire!
Would stay again :)
See moreThe best camping near Kempsey Showground, NSW guide
Overview
About
The Kempsey Showground in New South Wales is an idyllic camping destination, perfect for a weekend away or an extended holiday with loved ones. Vast grassy fields, perfectly surrounded by trees and foliage are ideal for pitching a tent or parking up a caravan. With the Macleay River only a few kilometers away, campers can enjoy the beauty of nature, taking part in activities such as fishing and kayaking on the river. Hot days can be spent lounging by the swimming pool and for those nights that call for cooking outdoors, there are plenty of BBQs provided. Strolling through the village, you can immerse yourself in the local ambiance, where friendly locals are ready to share stories and experiences. Whether you prefer relaxation or adventure, Kempsey Showground is the perfect spot to enjoy life and escape from reality.
- A beautiful partially sheltered beach with an elaborate past, Trial Bay is a great place to spend your day exploring both nature and history.
- Explore Grassy Head for white sand beaches, natural bushland, and a scenic headland
- Sandy beaches, rocky coves, and bush-covered headlands await in Arakoon National Park, along with one of NSW’s most fascinating historical sites
- Beautiful bush-walking trails in a coastal setting, Hat Head National Park is a hotspot for whale-watching
- A small town along the Macleay River, Kempsey is a great pitstop for campers in northern New South Wales.
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