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South Ballina Beach

The best camping near South Ballina Beach, NSW

Discover the serene surf and secret fishing spots at South Ballina Beach.

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Camper favorites near South Ballina Beach

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Emma

3 days ago

3 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fern gully Creek, Coorabell

Great location: very shady, large fireplace and next to a small creek. Great for kids to play in and build dams. Lots of mulch around which really decreases dirt being tracked in your van. Enjoyed our stay, will be back!

Sophia

1 week ago

Tent

3 nights at Riverbend Retreat

Fantastic private camping spot, toilet and shower available, and thoughtful supplies from the host.

Helen

2 weeks ago

7 m Class A

With pets

2 nights at Ballina Beach Nature Resort

Great park, facilities excellent, the pool is beautiful and a short walk to the beach.

Nicola

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Parkers Place Gardens

Always amazing when we stay here. It’s just incredible 👌

Gerrard

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Everflow

Great spot. Private and serene. Nice little creek. Easy to find.

Eli

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to CREEKSIDE Farm

Would highly recommend , great hosts and perfect place for a family to camp and chill out

Lee

2 weeks ago

7 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Absolute Beachfront Patchs Beach

We loved this camp, its secluded, quiet, with beach access via a bush path and sandy access road. Perfect to get away for the weekend.

James

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Booyong Farm

Had a magic little stay in amongst the Macadamias. Cool, calm, and therapeutic. What's better than the sound of song bird's and a running stream.

Leisawindrider

3 weeks ago

5 m pop-up camper

1 night at CREEKSIDE Farm

Beautiful spot in the country Cameron was great host will go back again sometime 💜

Sam

3 weeks ago

5 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Parkers Place Gardens

Amazing stay couldn't ask for more, privacy shade, nature, creek

Benjamin

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay

Very nice and clean facilities, great little compound, very good and well laid out.

Talitha

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Absolute Beachfront Patchs Beach

Had such an awesome time, so relaxing and quiet having the place all to yourself. Can’t wait to go back!

Corinna

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Everflow

Very much liked the clear and direct signposts and instructions. Was absolutely lucky to be there on my own, so I could entirely emerge myself into the sparkling nature, the clean creek and the lovely horse named Brandy. Owners were minding their own business, so this enchanted orchard was all mine. Loved it.

Sam

3 weeks ago

5 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Parkers Place Gardens

Unbelievable camping spot a gift to anyone who gets to stay here beautiful gardens and wildlife just going about their lives

John

November 2025

5 m car

2 nights at CREEKSIDE Farm

I enjoying camping in my car. A beautiful property with a running creek. Cam was very welcoming and easy to chat with.

CHAD

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Brickella

Nice open space to enjoy and relax. Great to be able to launch boats from too.

Dylan

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Fern gully Creek, Coorabell

Fantastic secluded spot by the creek with beautiful big trees. Well maintained spot with good compost toilet. Tristan was a great easy going host and was a pleasure enjoying his gorgeous property

Graham

November 2025

9 m travel trailer

4 nights at Parkers Place Gardens

Brilliant spot. One camper at a time. Quiet, sheltered, gazebo with a 12volt supply and seating and barby, fire pit, potable water available, phone reception, immaculate (if that word applies to loos) composting toilet . Damien great guy, offered solutions to a power issue I had, and left us to enjoy his property. If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit here, do so, it rates amongst the very best we have been at in 20+ years.

Mathew

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Creek Edge, Macadamia Farm

Pitched camp right beside the creek which was deep enough to swim in. Great spot to take the heat off a hot day. Our host, Rebecca, dropped some firewood off in the late afternoon. We enjoyed our brief chat and got some good tips on where to eat (Eltham pub) which was spot on. You couldn’t ask for a more congenial, helpful host. We were surprised by the lack of mosquitoes (bonus). A great spot to tour the local hinterland of Lennox Head & Bryon. We would recommend to anyone who enjoys wild camping.

Harley

November 2025

4 m pop-up camper

2 nights at Absolute Beachfront Patchs Beach

Beautiful spot with a huge area to camp, lots of soft, flat ground. Beach is a short walk down a well marked track. I would definitely recommend if you like to be alone in nature, rather than surrounded by other campers. The beach is beautiful too and feels like you have it all to yourself.

Top-rated campgrounds near South Ballina Beach

Ballina Beach Nature Resort

91%

(83)

0.5km from South Ballina Beach · 194 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Ballina Beach Nature Resort is more than a campground, glamping retreat, caravan park or short-stay hotel - we're a family; offering adventurers, from the local region and across Australia, the opportunity to experience NSW, Ballina, the Byron Bay region and natural coastal wildlife. Whether you're a grey nomad, van-life enthusiast, an admirer of nature, in search for your next romantic getaway, or looking for an afternoon coffee or takeaway, our beach resort accommodation and Turtles Café have got you covered!

Sugar Beach Ranch - Horse Holidays

97%

(74)

1.1km from South Ballina Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Wind through the picturesque sugarcane fields of South Ballina where you will find us on our 60 acre property with spectacular ocean views, beautiful native bushland and Australian wildlife. Sugar Beach Ranch is one of the most secluded treasures in the Northern Rivers, only 40 mins from Byron Bay NSW and within 30 mins to Ballina, Bangalow and surrounding scenic waterfalls. The property offers a two-bedroom bungalow and a secluded campsite for self-contained campers, in addition to our other variety of services including retreats, equine therapy, weddings and venue hire. Our property is surrounded by the crystal clear ocean, a beautiful rural outlook and rainforest walks. Sugar Beach Ranch offers you a private and picturesque beachfront experience. Simply put it's ‘Nature’s Playground’. Sugar Beach Ranch is a special place... a place of relaxation and reflection. We want guests to enjoy the break away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Wake up to songs of native birds. Bring your own horse, guitar, or your writing book and loll away the hours nurturing your soul in paradise. All guests have shared access to the 15m resort-style magnesium pool and direct beach access from the property. We are a wildlife sanctuary and an operating farm with horses, chickens, ducks, pigeons and a peacock. There are dogs on the property to protect the chickens and other animals from predators, so please don’t bring any pets of your own. Enjoy Sugar Beach Ranch with your horse, bring them along for the holiday, and plenty of beach and trail rides. Paddock accommodation available. As we are located in the secluded and sleepy cane fields of South Ballina there is limited access to shops, cafes, restaurants, etc. The Burns Point Ferry is the best way to get to us, it runs from 5:30am until 12.30am daily, consistently running back and forth. An approx. 8min journey each way and costs $.00 each way, payable by credit card only. So you can easily go into Ballina town for all shops, cafes, restaurants, etc. If the ferry isn't for you, you can drive to Ballina via Wardell on River Drive. The bungalow is located approx. 25m from the main residence, and the campsite is located approx. 300m from the main residence tucked away in the paddocks and forest. We are onsite and available if needed. Sugar Beach Ranch is an operating farm with staff onsite caring for animals and maintaining the grounds. All care is taken to ensure minimal disruption to guests.

Absolute Beachfront Patchs Beach

97%

(65)

8.2km from South Ballina Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Discover this absolute beachfront campsite spanning 22 acres of native coastal bush, with 500 meters of beachfront along the beautiful Patches Beach. Tucked away at the end of a tranquil country lane, it offers the ideal spot to park your RV and soak in breathtaking views of the azure ocean and pristine sandy shores. This site is a hidden gem for those who relish sun, sand, sea, and plenty of open space. It's best suited for camp setups and caravans that are fully self-contained. Please ensure you bring your own toilet facilities and commit to packing out all waste and rubbish. The area is environmentally sensitive, with an abundance of wildlife and protected plant life, and we are committed to preserving this natural wonder for all to enjoy. Leave only footsteps, take only pictures!

from

AU$109

/ night

Riverdell Farm

93%

(130)

11km from South Ballina Beach · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Escape to Riverdell Farm, a 43-acre working cane farm located just 5 minutes off the M1/Pacific Hwy in East Wardell, perfect for campers, surfers, families, backpackers, or anyone looking for a peaceful break on their journey between Sydney and the Gold Coast. Just 2 minutes from the stunning Dog Friendly Patches Beach, enjoy the freedom of beach visits without the crowds, or spend your days fishing, boating, and biking along the tranquil riverfront. The peaceful firelit campsites are the perfect spot to unwind, offering a rustic yet comfortable retreat with nature right at your doorstep. Only 15 minutes from Ballina CBD and 30 minutes to Byron Bay Shire, you'll be able to explore the best of the region, from vibrant local culture to beautiful beaches, while escaping the hustle and bustle of larger campsites. Pet-friendly for your furry companions, Riverdell Farm lets you enjoy nature together. (Just a reminder, there are no fences to contain pets, so supervision is required.) Whether you're on a road trip, planning a short break, or looking for a serene place to camp, Riverdell Farm offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation!

Casa G & T

97%

(38)

17km from South Ballina Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV

We have 10 acres of land offering you the peaceful feel of country life. We have an orchard with a variety of fruit and nut trees. We have 2 friendly pet goats (Gus and Daryl); the camp sites offer a private, off-grid experience while being only 15 minutes from Alstonville supermarkets, shops, pub and cafes; and about 25 mins from Ballina. Local Places to visit * Alstonville - cafes, pub, shops, supermarket * Summerland Farm is great for kids and adults * Victoria Park Rainforest * Killen Falls * Tosha Falls * Patches Beach (just 15 mins away) * Lennox Head, Ballina, Evans Head and Byron Bay are all comfortable drives to the beach * Lismore is about 30 mins drive away

CREEKSIDE Farm

99%

(142)

18km from South Ballina Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Located in the heart of the northern rivers, centrally located to Lismore Ballina Lennox and Byron. The property is bordered on one side by the beautiful Pearces Creek which has a number of great swimming holes and idyllic camp spots where you can enjoy a cuppa by the fire. Swimming and fishing can be enjoyed in the creek or take a walk to the top of the hill for a sunset picnic overlooking the border ranges. 20 minutes to Lismore, 20 minutes to Ballina, 25 minutes to Byron Bay, and 15 minutes to Lennox Head. Set up camp along the creek and enjoy the sound of the running water. Watch the kingfishers dive for fish. Try your luck at catching a bass or perch. Have a swim or canoe. Make a fire and get cosy. You need to be a self-contained camper with your own camping toilet/shower, and drinking water. The cows will probably come and say hello (they’re friendly). Why not take a walk up the hill or through the big scrub bush walk at Booyong (3 mins drive away.) You can also go for a surf at some of NSW's most iconic surf spots including Lennox Point and The Pass at Byron bay. If you want to escape the crowds, take your surfboard down to Evans Head (40 mins away). While you're here why not enjoy some of the best local artisan shops, cafes and markets including the famous Bangalow Markets. Or just sit, relax and unwind. Well behaved pets are welcome to camp with you.

Creek Edge, Macadamia Farm

96%

(165)

18km from South Ballina Beach · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Our peaceful macadamia farm sits in the Eltham Valley along Pearces Creek. We are located 18 mins from Ballina and 7 mins from Alstonville & Clunes , The Clunes Village cafe is not to be missed & of course the Iconic Eltham pub is only 4 mins away by car. The pub can also be accessed by a courtesy bus from our doorstep ( please reconfirm this with the Pub directly - subject to availability ) . Follow us on Instagram @creek.edge.camping Our camp site is perched on the creek edge with little rock pools and running fresh water suitable for a refreshing swim. A large fire pit area along the creek edge leaves you warm on those cooler nights . Please add the extra firewood bundle and we will have it prepared before your arrival. Pitch your tent or drive your 4WD right up to our running creek that features lovely swimming holes, rock pools and large shady trees. This area is great to watch the sunset over the macadamia orchard or sit by the campfire at night. This campsite is set in a very private location on our 26 acre property. You need to be a self-contained camper with your own camping toilet/shower, and drinking water. There is access to a picnic table for meals. We recommend 4WDs to access this campsite, and caravans and camper trailers are ok. If you're unsure about your vehicle please message us. Dogs are welcome and love the open space.

Parkers Place Gardens

100%

(102)

18km from South Ballina Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Our campsite is set within our own ten acre private garden. With only one site booking, you have ensured the privacy to relax and explore the seasonally variable gardens, from the spring magnolia's, dozens of varieties, through to the camellias both sasanquas and japonicas, with the autumn colour of the acers. Centrally located great base to unhook and explore the Northern Rivers. These gardens are part of a wholesale nursery and there are a few times that staff may be in the gardens collecting cuttings. There is no access to the nursery. Our place suits relaxed self-contained travelers only who want to relax and recharge. Located just 10 minutes from Pacific highway at Ballina. Pets are Ok, we have a friendly large dog who may visit. There is a covered BBQ area with table and chairs. For group bookings, up to 10, use the extra van / tent site in the extras section.

Rockhaven Booyong

95%

(32)

19km from South Ballina Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

An intimate space of grand proportions. Rockhaven is a 60acre farm hosting angus cattle with beautiful valley views and peaceful surrounds. Wake with sunrise and the sounds of local birds, or settle in for an uninterrupted sunset view across the valley. A place to escape in the hinterlands of Byron, while being close enough to drive less than 10min to the famous Eltham pub, or 15min to Bangalow or Alstonville. Visit the creek with fishing pontoon, have a beer amongst the cattle, or simply roam the grounds. Fresh produce seasonally available from the market garden for purchase. We have three social and inquisitive dogs who will likely pay you a visit during your stay. You might also like to visit the goats and chickens while you're here, or come along for daily egg collection.

Booyong Farm

98%

(130)

22km from South Ballina Beach · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Our Hinterland hideaway, Booyong farm is Nestled in the beautiful Clunes hills. With a combination of natural bush and 600 grand old macadamia trees, Booyong Farm can give you that private off grid experience while being only 5 minutes to Clunes Store and Cellars (which has great food, coffee, groceries, fruit / veg, alcohol and a postoffice), 15 minutes to Bangalow, 20 minutes to Lismore and 30 minutes to Byron Bay.  Alongside our old horse Sunny, our Chooks, the Cows and our dogs Bowie and Naboo :) there is abundant wildlife on the property such as wallabies, echidnas, platypus, eagles and a wide variety of other birdlife. Choose from 3 sites in either the Main Farm Plateau (Site 1), Creekside (Site 2) or the Macadamia field Site 3). Note: for Creekside and Macadamia Field access you will need a 4WD. All sites offer privacy for guests and have a great view of the stunning sunsets we have each day at Booyong Farm.  The spring fed freshwater creek is accessible year round for all sites and is nice to cool off in after a bush walk, either on the property or at one of the many breath-taking locations nearby.  There is so much to do in this area... from fine dining and horse riding to lazy days on the beach. No matter what time of year it is there is always something fantastic to experience here in the Byron Shire.

Dungarubba Fields

91%

(184)

23km from South Ballina Beach · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Thankyou for considering Dungarubba Fields. We offer you a well located and secure camp-site to explore the North Coast or for that overnight stay while you are travelling to your destination and need a safe place to camp. Our four campsites are spacious and are freshly mown flat grassed sites. Each campsite has 1 or 2 stone circles for campfires, with free kindling and free firewood supplied to all campsites. Whether you are a single traveller, a couple, family or group booking we have the campsite for you. We are family friendly and dog friendly. Dungarubba Fields is a private, rural setting on six acres on Bundjalung country. Four of our camp sites are situated across a small bridge in the back paddock, and one camp site is situated just before the bridge for those self driving campervans with a wider wheel-base. The paddock was once cleared and in recent years we have planted and cared for over 100 new Koala and rainforest trees. After the Northern Rivers floods of 2022 we are now continuing the bush regeneration beside the Dungarubba wetland which borders our property. Our camp-sites offer shade, space, wildlife and birdlife. Campfires are allowed 12 months a year depending on fire ratings and local conditions except on days of Total Fire Ban and the preceding evening going into a Total Fire Ban. We supply the free firewood to each campsite as we understand how important the campfire is to the camping experience. Outside the fire season we can supply a readymade Bonfire at an additional cost to your booking. Hipcampers can access fresh drinking water (rainwater) from our rainwater tanks, with an accessible tap near our home. Hipcampers have access to a downstairs flushing toilet at the house. We offer a Portaloo for larger group bookings situated beside your camp site as an optional extra for an additional cost. The Portaloo needs to be booked when you make your booking. The house on the property was originally built in 1903 as the Catholic Church of the nearby locality Riley's Hill. In the 1940’s it was moved to the current site after low attendance by parishioners who didn’t want to have to row across the Richmond River and get their feet wet to attend Mass. The church sold the building in the 1980’s and it was raised off the ground with two new wings attached on either side to become a private residence. The sugar cane and soybeans, however more surrounding land is being planted to Macadamia nuts which will change the look of the landscape in future. During May to November of an evening, you can look out for the occasional cane fire which is a historic part of the harvesting of sugar. The Richmond River and boat ramp is a short 2 minutes drive for both fishing and water skiing. The Broadwater National Park with sand-dunes and a fishing beach is only a 10 minute drive away. The Pacific Highway is 7 minutes drive away. The beautiful coastal village of Evans Head with shops, a medical clinic and a patrolled beach is just a 15 minutes drive. The nearest townships are Broadwater (2 fuel stations and a pub under new management), Coraki (junction of 2 rivers), Woodburn (pub with a bistro and a laundrette) and Evans Head (a township with most services). We are a 45 minutes drive to Byron Bay and 25 minutes to the coastal city of Ballina up the Pacific Highway or 25 minutes drive inland to the city of Lismore. We welcome friendly dogs and there is plenty of space for them to run around and chase balls or other dogs. Our dog Stella is a 4 year old Blue Heeler, who greets people from the balcony barking as you drive in. Don’t let the barking fool you as she loves visitors and their dogs. We expect owners to be responsible for their dogs and in particularly when there are Koalas close by. We ask dogs not to roam at night as Koalas are nocturnal (and so are other critters) and night-time is when they choose their food tree for the next day and roam around. We are in Core Koala Habitat and love our koalas, we hope you do too. We look forward to hosting you and in creating a sensational camping experience for you. Lise and Pete Dungarubba Fields.

Riverbend Retreat

96%

(50)

24km from South Ballina Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to our 100-acre family farm nestled in the picturesque Eltham Valley, a place where history and nature intertwine. As fifth-generation farmers, we’ve embraced a new chapter, transitioning from dairy to beef farming while still cherishing our roots. Our property is bordered by 4 kilometers of the Wilson River, where gentle rapids create the perfect backdrop for kayaking, swimming, and bass fishing. Picture yourself camping under a blanket of stars, gathering around a cozy campfire, and listening to the soothing sounds of nature. Here, diverse wildlife thrives: from colourful birds to elusive platypus, and even the charming echidna. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join your adventure, but do keep them supervised, as we share our land with working cattle. Take a stroll up the hill for a picnic, soaking in breathtaking views of the Eltham Valley, or let the wind guide a kite across the sky on breezy days. We believe in the importance of quality time, whether with family, friends, or simply enjoying your own company. That’s why we offer only one booked site for your exclusive use, with the option to reserve up to five campsites for small groups. Explore the local area with highlights like the historic Eltham Pub, just six minutes away, or venture to the serene beaches of Ballina and Lennox, 25-30 minute drive. For groceries, Bexhill is only eight minutes away, and Lismore offers a larger selection. Indulge in the fantastic local cuisine in Clunes, Bangalow, Ballina, Byron, and Lennox. And don’t forget to explore the Northern Rivers Rail Trail for an unforgettable biking experience! We invite you to create your own story here, where every moment spent is an adventure waiting to unfold.

The best camping near South Ballina Beach, NSW guide

Overview

About

Embrace the coastal charm of South Ballina Beach, where the surf whispers secrets of hidden fishing havens. Venture eastward from Wardell, or take the scenic Burns Point Ferry to this tranquil retreat. Here, the Ballina Beach Nature Resort offers camping amidst the soothing sounds of the ocean, inviting you to stay where the river meets the sea.

Notable campgrounds

Ballina Beach Nature Resort - Nestle into nature at this resort, offering camping spots a stone's throw from the surf.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot at the popular Ballina Beach Nature Resort.
Consider off-peak seasons for better availability and a quieter experience.
Check for last-minute cancellations to snatch up an unexpected opening.
Explore nearby camping options for alternative stays if the resort is full.

When to go

The best time to visit South Ballina Beach is during the warmer months, from September to April, when the sun graces the sands and the water beckons. Winter can be less inviting with cooler winds, though the solitude it offers may appeal to some.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and prepare for the northerly winds that make South Ballina an ideal surf spot.
Accessibility is catered for; contact the operator for specific details regarding disabled access.
Remember to bring your fishing gear to take advantage of the local secret spots.
Ensure you have a valid ferry ticket if you're planning to use the Burns Point Ferry.
Be aware of the local wildlife and practice safe and respectful camping to protect the environment.

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