The best camping near Trial Bay, NSW

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Stories from the community

Ethan

2 days ago

Tent

1 night at Bundilla River Camp

Great campsite by the river, the site was super well kept with clean toilets and enough activities for families to come along with kids and keep them entertained. The generosity of Rick and Cheryl was outstanding. My partner and I felt safe and was greatly appreciated of the hospitality. Firewood was offered once arrived and sites were clearly marked, with supplied fire pits. Would highly recommend going as this was such a beautiful area and the river was so warm and relaxing to be next to

helen

5 days ago

8 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bundilla River Camp

Beautiful, lush green area. Paddled their onsite canoes upriver. Lots of birds, including tawny frogmouth and her baby. Also saw a goanna.Relaxing and peaceful.

Kevin

1 week ago

5 m travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Bundilla River Camp

Beautiful flat grassy camping right next to the stunning river. Well behaved dogs welcome. Kayaks and body boards provided free. Well maintained drop toilets. Fires permitted in off ground fire pits. You can also buy wood and fresh eggs.

Steve

1 week ago

6 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bundilla River Camp

We enjoyed our 2 night stay at Bundilla site 2 with power, it was a spacious grassy site close to toilets and river access. The river is amazing to swim and kayak in and was very refreshing and a great temperature! Kayaks are provided free of charge which is fantastic. The toilets are spotless and clean and we appreciated the herb garden which you are welcome to pick from. There are small fire pits for use at the camp site. Rick and Cheryl were both friendly and helpful and we'd love to visit again one day.

Jason

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Bundilla River Camp

Great spot for an overnight stay. Peaceful, safe, great hosts. Answered questions very promptly. Nice river and grounds. Easy stay. Will come back with family.

Katie

2 weeks ago

7 m travel trailer

2 nights at Bundilla River Camp

We loved it here! Beautiful setting, quiet, lots for the kids to do and beautiful hosts. Thank you so much for our stay!

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bundilla River Camp

Awesome spot on the river. Kayaks included. Drop toilets. Absolutely loved it.

Leena

2 weeks ago

6 m Class A

Weekend Trip to Valley View Escape

Incredible place, great facilities, friendky care takers, great spot for families. Felt like we were in the middle of no where. Highly recommend and will be back again.

Amy

2 weeks ago

7 m Class B

With kids

1 night at The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Really enjoyed our stay. Very quiet and pleanty of space to spread out. My son loved all the animals, kyaking and the trampoline. Great spot for fishing too. Susan made us feel so at home and made sure we had everything we needed during our stay. Wish we could have extended our stay, but we needed to head home.

Luella

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Levenvale Farm in Bellingen

Great Spot, close to town but far enough to feel like you’re out in the country. Tidy and well kept property with clear signage and easy directions. Would 100% stay again 🌷🐄

Dannielle

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bundilla River Camp

Great spot. Actually very nice a quiet loved hearing the cows. Lovely place will be back thank you!

Dean

2 weeks ago

7 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bonville Camp Ground

Just perfect, no stress heaps of room never heard anyone , definitely recommend it to anyone

Emma

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bundilla River Camp

Such a peaceful place to stay. The camping area was lovely and grassy, no bindi’s!!! Spacious sites, enough fire pits for everyone , relaxing by the river, listening to the cows was a real treat. The river was beautiful and clean, wonderful for swimming. Easily sign posted , Cheryl and Rick were delightful to chat to , very helpful. Definitely be coming back

Elli

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Footprints in Style

Lucy’s place was incredible. The facilities were so clean and well thought out. the hot shower was amazing after swimming in the lake, and having the sauna was such a luxury touch. The whole property feels peaceful and private, and we had everything we needed for a really relaxing weekend. Lucy was so friendly and helpful, and made the whole stay feel easy and welcoming. Would 100% come back.

Mark

2 weeks ago

6 m pop-up camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bundilla River Camp

Great spot to spend time with family and friends! Dogs loved it too!

Scott

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

Another amazing stay! Large sites, welcomeing hosts, pkenty of firewood and fresh eggs. The hosts dogs Jack and Sally are amazing. Great access to the river! This was our second stay and we'll be back again!

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bonville Camp Ground

Not overly crowded which was nice. Lots of cute cows in the surrounding paddocks. There are two (really well maintained) compostable toilets, fire pits, rubbish bins, (bore) water and firewood for sale on site ($15). Gregg came around to make sure everything was okay. You do get a bit of noise from the road but nothing that is unbearable.

Marjon

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

I loved my very short overnight stay at Hatch Farm because there were animals everywhere to pat, feed and just have around. I really liked to see all the different birds, feeding the goats, looking at the little lambs and watching the geese waddle. But best of all was patting the friendly Border Collies who came to say hello as the walked around the farm. On arrival, I was greeted by Bernie who explained the facilities and guided me to my perfect little site very close to the amenities. The drop toilet had charm and there was hot water available from an outside tap. There were other campers but everyone kept noise under control so I had a peaceful rest. I had to leave before 6am to continue my long drive home but would love to come back to stay for a longer experience, including a paddle on the river, with all equipment readily available at the farm. After one last pat of one of the dogs that had come to see me off, I left this little slice of paradise with a smile😀.

Sarah

2 weeks ago

5 m Class B

1 night at Bonville Camp Ground

We had a great time at Gregg’s farm! It’s a wonderful set up, so spacious with gorgeous surrounding views. We particularly loved using the fire pit! And the farm fresh eggs were an added treat.

Beautiful fresh running water, dogs coats were very soft after swimming

Christopher

2 weeks ago

6 m Class B

With pets

2 nights at Oasis of Hope

Beautifully landscaped lawns and gardens, fantastic creek for our dogs to swim in. Don was very helpful and accommodating, will definitely be back 🐶❤️🐶❤️

Top-rated campgrounds

Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone

94%

(925)

55km from Trial Bay · 175 sites · Tents, RVs · Telegraph Point, NSW

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure at Stoney Park! Picture this: waking up to a breathtaking sunrise over a pristine lake, with your unpowered campsite perfectly positioned on the waterfront. Stoney Park isn't just a place to stay—it's your base camp for an incredible getaway. Spread across 127 acres of stunning, manicured land, Stoney Park offers the ultimate escape. Set up your tent with spectacular views of the lake or next to the serene lagoons. The park is home to Australia's largest inflatable Aqua Park, a floating playground of epic proportions that promises a day full of splashes, slides, and non-stop fun. Located next to the picturesque Wilson River and just a 15-minute drive from Port Macquarie, this is the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and coastal excitement. Ready to make some unforgettable memories?

Bonville Camp Ground

99%

(491)

53km from Trial Bay · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Bonville, NSW

Located minutes off the A1 it's the perfect spot to stop overnight or for a few days to see all the Coffs Coast has to offer. Beautiful camping on pristine grasslands that back onto the Bongil Bongil National Park. Cows with Guns MTB park and Sawmill are close by as well. Enjoy the splendid views or walk through the bush which, also has the biggest tree in the area. With fishing available and plenty of horse trails around, there is plenty to do. Bore water is available on-site.

Oasis of Hope

97%

(535)

70km from Trial Bay · 68 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Upper Orara, NSW

Nested in the Coffs Harbour hinterland is this stunning 250 acre property, offering both powered and unpowered site options and great facilties over 2 campsites. Wayper Creek flows though the property, and there are manicured lawns, a large toilet and shower block with hot showers, a caravan dump point, a large BBQ shelter, firepit, and lots of lovely spots to enjoy the plethora of wildlife. During holiday season we have a second campsite opened, which has lovely amenities, too. We regularly have abseilers come down our creek, as a set of 7 waterfalls is only a 60-minute hike through the creek away. It is a stunning place for relaxation. With limited phone reception. Pets are welcome too.

Tree Fern Dam

57km from Trial Bay · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bonville, NSW

Pull up to your own flat, private, grassed area, set up with power, water, a firepit, and a park bench. Conveniently located in beautiful Bonville, it’s an easy stop off the highway for an overnighter to break up your trip, or a few days’ stay to explore everything the area has to offer! We are flanked by Bongil Bongil National Park, with a pontoon and picnic area very close by. We also have access to Bonville Creek elsewhere on the property, where you can kayak all the way to Sawtell if you’re feeling energetic! Let us know if you’re interested in the kayaks, and we can get them ready for you. The site itself is next to a dam with water dragons, echidnas, and we’ve even spotted a koala in the tree there. Please be mindful of the dam’s close proximity for safety with little ones. There is an easy driveway to the site, and it’s not far off the road at all. We are directly across the road from Bonville International Golf Course. Sawtell village is about a 6-minute drive, brimming with cafes, restaurants, and a quaint cinema. Bohemian Bellingen is a beautiful 20-minute drive, with three different routes from here — one even includes a dirt road through the state forest. North Beach Cafe at Mylestom and Urunga Boardwalk are about 15 minutes away, and Valla Beach is 20 minutes — all wonderful options to explore! Please note: While this is a quiet area, the road can get some early morning traffic noise due to a development further up the road. It’s nothing like camping in a caravan park right next to the road, but perfect serenity should not be expected. We also expect quiet guests for our friendly neighbours. You have the site to yourself, so you can enjoy peace and quiet as well. We love animals, but we ask that no pets be brought along, as we have free-range chooks nearby and our own dogs on the property.

Bundilla River Camp

99%

(1140)

58km from Trial Bay · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · Ballengarra, NSW

Come camp along the beautiful Wilson River on a working cattle property. Shady, grassy campsites by a flowing river, just 25 minutes drive from Port Macquarie. Check in time is strictly prior to 7pm. The camp area includes toilets, a basic camp shed, where campers can make use of the picnic table, stainless steel food preparation bench and camp fire pit. There are only 2 sites available with power which is included in the site price. Check out our discount for single travelers and extras like eggs and firewood. Fresh honey also available sometimes during the year. Toilet block newly built. Early check in and late checkout available on request. Laundry services available on request. If you have 3 or more children please call me for a discount. Also we have a huge discount for single travels. Kids will love the farm tour (4.45pm to 5.30pm daily) for the feeding of chickens, horse, sheep and goats. It's an excellent area for mountain bike riding as well! Kayaks available for free. Don't have a caravan, we have partnered up with Wrighty's Caravan Hire and Repairs. linktr.ee/wrightyscaravans. They offer family caravans delivered, setup ready for you to enjoy. Pets allowed but you must have on lead when walking around the property near cattle. Note a maximum of 2 dogs per camp site. Rules: 1. For the piece and quiet of other campers all check-ins must be before 4.30pm during the colder months. Check ins after 7pm may be turned away in busy times. 2. No Fireworks - this is very unsettling for our livestock 3. 9pm quiet time. 4. No drones in the camping area, for the privacy of other campers 5. Generators are allowed for short period of time but not permitted after 8pm. 6. Dogs on leads when walking around the farm - Limit of 2 dogs per camp site. Rick and I thank you for your support in these matters.

Valley View Escape

99%

(533)

36km from Trial Bay · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Buckra Bendinni, NSW

Valley View Escape is a 500 acre working dairy farm located in the beautiful Nambucca Valley just 25 minutes off the highway. There is stunning 360 views of mountain ranges and Lake Lumby from all our sites. We offer powered sites and unpowered sites which are all level grounded with grass and accessible by 2WD. There is non potable water available. Our powered sites are conveniently located close by the amenities with flushing toilet, hot shower and dump point. We are a pet friendly campsite but we ask you to keep your pets on a leash and always have full control. Enjoy and relax at our communal picnic area with fire pit, shade, picnic table and pontoon on Lake Lumby which is great for kayaking and swimming. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @valleyviewescape_stay ***CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS*** Extra powered and unpowered sites will be open from 19th of December 2025 to 31st of January 2026 on our River Flats. Ready to be booked now

Murphy's Campground - Crescent Head

28km from Trial Bay · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Crescent Head, NSW

Murphy’s Campgrounds – Crescent Head, NSW Escape to Murphy’s Campgrounds, a peaceful, family-run hideaway set directly opposite the stunning Hat Head National Park. From your campsite, wander along a beautiful sandy trail—just 1 km through the national park to Killick Beach, perfect for surfing, beach walks, or simply soaking up the coastal beauty, with highland cows as your neighbors. Only six minutes from Crescent Head’s town centre, this coastal farm campground is dog-friendly, making it easy to bring your furry companions along for the adventure. Toilets are located 200 meters away.

The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

98%

(1377)

59km from Trial Bay · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · The Hatch, NSW

Welcome to Port Macquarie's 'The Hatch Farm'; a pet friendly, interactive animal and fishing farm stay! A 150-acre working farm with a stunning outlook over the saltwater Maria River (with a rustic boat ramp and waterway running into the Hastings River). There is plenty to do and see at this hipcamp which was awarded to be one of the best hipcamps in NSW for 2024, and Australia wide for 2025! Located on the Mid North Coast NSW, 4kms off the Pacific Highway, and a quick 13/15-minute drive to the holiday township of Port Macquarie. Port Macquarie is known for its beautiful beaches, coastal scenery and walks, koala hospital, local strawberry and tomato picking, and 4WDing at nearby beaches and through Cairncross State Forest. Bernard and Susan are custodians of the farm, primarily using the land for poultry (egg), pig, and goat farming. They are transitioning to an off-grid and eco-friendly lifestyle for their retirement. The Hatch Farm is home to many animals, most of whom are rescues - including border collies, cavalier king charles spaniels, chickens, ducks, pigs, sheep, goats, miniature horses, cows, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs. There is plenty to do and see around the farm from complete relaxation, interacting with the friendly animals (there is usually a variety of babies to cuddle!), to casting a line or launching your boat from the rustic boat ramp. Please note that all animal interactions are self-led (including our animal nursery), and children must be supervised by their parents/carers. During NSW School Holidays, host led animal interactions will be available at designated times. Friendly pets welcome. For bookings call or text Susan 0418 842055

Racecourse Camping

96%

(439)

42km from Trial Bay · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · Crescent Head, NSW

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.

Way Way Getaway

98%

(385)

15km from Trial Bay · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Way Way, NSW

Minutes away from Scotts Head beach and town, but feels like you’re out in the bush. Surf famous Scotts head point, or head to the back beaches for some in crowded beach breaks, explore local rural towns, enjoy some peace and quiet! Fire friendly, pet friendly, family friendly (pretty friendly in general)!

Yarralen Retreat

93%

(442)

13km from Trial Bay · 47 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Yarrahapinni, NSW

Yarralen is a peaceful 40-acre bush retreat on the Mid-North Coast of NSW, sitting under Mt Yarrahapinni and surrounded by National Parks. We’re halfway between Sydney and Brisbane and close to pristine beaches including Grassy Head, Scotts Head and the Macleay River. Pet fees apply: $10 for campsites, $15 for lodgings (vans and units). We offer a magical bush escape with modern facilities and a range of accommodation: Campgrounds * Eclectic Bush Haven Campground: Family-friendly camping (kids under 12 camp free) with access to the fully equipped camp kitchen, toilets, showers and electricity * Yarralen Retreat Campground: Secluded area for fully self-contained off-road campers. A 4WD is needed for access (IMPORTANT: Campers who book Yarralen Retreat Camp Ground 2 DO NOT have access to the camp kitchen and amenities). Lodging * Butterfly and Blue Van: Our Butterfly and Blue Van are renovated caravans offering cosy, comfortable stays surrounded by nature. * Roos Rest: Cosy fully equipped 2 Bedroom home tucked inside Yarralen Retreat, surrounded by peaceful bushland * Unit 1 and Unit 2: Offer simple, comfortable accomodation surrounded by peaceful bushland. *Eco Bush Cabins: Our Ruby Red, Cream Leo and Blue Ivy Cabins offer cosy, nature filled stays with rustic charm and peaceful surrounds. Entire Property Hire Your Private Bush Retreat: Hire the entire 40-acre Yarralen Retreat for your group and enjoy complete privacy, peaceful bush surrounds, and full access to all cabins, vans, campsites and to all facilities - including the magnesium pool, yoga deck, sauna, camp kitchen and rustic bush bath house - perfect for retreats, gatherings, and special events. Explore eclectic artworks, forest pathways, water lilies and roaming peacocks. Campsites sit on grassed areas surrounded by tall shade trees. Enjoy the Magnesium pool, infra-red sauna, and cosy campfires at night (BYO Firewood). Entry to Eclectic Bush Haven main camping area is via an asphalt driveway suitable for all vehicles. A 4WD is required for Yarralen Retreat Campground 2. Please use tank water sparingly and bring your own drinking water. We look forward to welcoming you!

Anchorage Park

99%

(432)

42km from Trial Bay · 7 sites · RVs · Urunga, NSW

To protect our lawns, Anchorage Park Urunga now requires the use of breathable eco grass-friendly camping mats or enjoy the grass. Thank you for helping keep Anchorage Park beautiful. With the warmer season approaching we advise to familiarise yourselves with the NSW Rural Fire Services - Bush Fire Danger Period runs from 1 October 2025 to 31 March 2026 Check out our social media pages for current up to date NEWS Riverfront campground on the majestic Kalang River. Boating, fishing, crabbing, swimming literally from your awning. 20 minutes south of Coffs Harbour, 5 minutes from Urunga town centre. All sites are waterfront, somewhat level and grassed. Communal fire pits and potable water on-site seasonally - Contact us before arrival. All campers must be self contained (removing rubbish and must have own toilet) Use of boat ramp, jetty, kayaks and fire pits available from farm house. Wood for sale This is a dog friendly campground inviting self contained campers to enjoy our beautiful property. Raised individual fire pits are allowed (no fires on the ground) Out of respect for our campers privacy and insurance requirements, UNAUTHORISED entry to campgrounds is prohibited. Note ** extra adult charge refers to (school) children 16 years or older staying with parents. Group bookings are welcomed, please contact host directly for details **Conditions apply

The best camping near Trial Bay, NSW guide

Overview

About

A beautiful partially sheltered beach with an elaborate past, Trial Bay is a great place to spend your day exploring both nature and history. Perfect for groups of mixed ages, the bay's northern end has consistent waves great for surfing. Just a short walk away, the waters in the sheltered part of the bay to the south are great for swimmers of all ages.

Nearby, Trial Bay National Park offers many walking paths through coastal heathlands, forests, wetlands, and grasslands. The park is home to several threatened species of animals and plants like the fairy penguin and the broad-toothed rat-kangaroo. For history buffs, the ruins of Trial Bay Gaol and the on-site museum offer fascinating insights into the region's storied past.

Nearby attractions

Sandy beaches, rocky coves, and bush-covered headlands await in Arakoon National Park, along with one of NSW’s most fascinating historical sites.
With beautiful bush-walking trails in a coastal setting, Hat Head National Park is a hotspot for whale-watching.
Explore Grassy Head for white sand beaches, natural bushland, and scenic headland.
A small town along the Macleay River, Kempsey is a great pitstop for campers in northern New South Wales.
Emerald Beach is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing escape. The area offers various activities such as swimming, fishing, and hiking, as well as plenty of space for picnicking and taking in stunning views.