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Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area

The best camping in Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area, NSW

Discover the natural splendour of Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area.

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Stories from the community

Camping area with fire pit and some wood.

Andy

4 days ago

7 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Cobbers Rest

Great camp site to get away from it all, very peaceful and secluded creek nearby lots of bird life, and very private. Melisa was very friendly and helpful.

Kelly

5 days ago

7 m travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Currambene Creek Farm

We had such a fantastic 3 night stay. Kirsty was an incredible host & very accommodating. Our kids went for a ride on the ATV, collected eggs and we watched the horses being ridden around the paddock. A beautiful property with a short driving distance to the beach.

Tony

1 week ago

7 m travel trailer

1 night at Cobbers Rest

Wonderful campsite in close proximity to Princes Highway and Wollongong area. A true campsite amongst the trees it truly felt secluded and away from it all. We stayed at site 2, a short drive on the property. No issues with overhanging trees or any obstructions and was easy to drive down and turn around. Plenty of privacy and secluded from all else, the running creek is a joy to be beside. Fit pit provided, BYO firewood. Small slope to the site but not major or inconvenient. Would easily return and would be suitable for small groups of 2 or 3 to make a enjoyable camping experience.

Constanza

1 week ago

5 m car

1 night at Wedderburn Hideaway

Our stay with Robert was honestly amazing! The space itself was big, spotless, and really well set up. The shower?l and toilet really good. And the firepit area was such a vibe. The pool was chef’s kiss — perfect for cooling off and floating around. And the absolute stars of the place? His three adorable dogs who decided we were part of their squad and played with us the whole time. We were obsessed. Robert himself was incredibly kind, sweet, and super attentive — the kind of host who makes everything feel easy and welcoming. 100% recommended

Tanya

1 week ago

8 m Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wedderburn Hideaway

We had an awesome time camping here! Robert was very welcoming, knowledgeable and super friendly. We took our motorhome out for its first rodeo and found the site peaceful with great amenities and easy access. The pool and friendly dogs were a bonus which our kids loved. Highly recommend!

Josef

1 week ago

5 m Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wedderburn Hideaway

I absolutely loved the camping site—it had heaps of space and a wonderful host. Plus, it’s a pretty good spot if you’re heading to or from Sydney.

Fiona

2 weeks ago

8 m pop-up camper

2 nights at Wombat Hollow

We loved our weekend at Wombat Hollow. We were spoilt having the whole place to ourselves which was ideal as we were looking for quiet downtime. After checking out the whole place we realised that even if all the other camps were full, each camp is in its own secluded spot with lots of space around it and between camps so other campers would not have been a bother at all and we still would have had acres and acres to ourselves. The whole place is well maintained and signposted. Lots of helpful instructions when booking so we knew exactly what to bring and if our vehicle amd camper would be suitable. Vallance is a superb host. The camp sites are perfectly simple. Great fire pit. Sturdy benches, level ground, shade and gorgeous lanscape and wildlife all around. Stunning night skies.

Levi watching the horses in next paddock

Linda

2 weeks ago

4 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Misty Mountain Farm - Farm Stay

Levi my pup and myself enjoyed an overnight stay with lovely views of mountain and vineyard. Plenty of room. Close to pet friendly Shoalhaven beach.

Ingelise

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Otford Park nr Royal National Park

Great space! Lots of room. Kitchen facilities, toilet and shower amenities made the camping experience so easy. Even took the opportunity to have an outdoor tub time! Easy to find with great communication from Natasha and only an hour from home. This was the perfect space for a first time camping with our dog.

Issy

2 weeks ago

3 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Buxton Getaway

Lovely location with a range of things to do and see. Highly recommend

Charlie

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Buxton Getaway

A lovely camping spot, there’s a good amount space between the different spots so we had privacy and could use our little music speaker without worrying about annoying anyone :) There was a lovely smooth area for our tent so it was super comfy sleeping! The Little River walk was lovely, as was the pond with the kayaks (my partner had a swim there and really enjoyed it). The toilet was very clean, and having clean water was really great too. Also no mozzies at all even though we were near the pond in November!!! I definitely recommend :)

tania

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Buxton Getaway

The site is great and well maintained. The hosts were very helpful when our gazebo broke. We had a lovely weekend chilling out at buxton getaway.

Charlotte

2 weeks ago

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Secrets of Terara

Beautiful chilled out spot. Feels very private and I think it would even if the four spots were taken. Had a lovely time sitting in the sun and cooking dinner. Paula is lovely and friendly. Totally worth the money for a nice camp spot in the shade of the trees. Woolies is only a 8 min drive for supplies. Wedding music on the Saturday night down the road really isn't that loud.

Chris

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Old Forty Pumpkin Farm

Outstanding spot to camp, quiet, tranquil and remote. Host was very welcoming, a number of great spots within the property, would definitely recommend.

JUSTIN

2 weeks ago

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wombat Hollow

Picture perfect camp spot tucked away from all the hustle and bustle. Great body of water to swim in. Good mix of shade and sun in the camp are. Nice touch having a picnic bench and fire area with log seating. Vallance was a very hospitable host. He’s happy to have a chat but also respects your space. Unexpectedly picked up my son and I for a little tractor ride which really made it all worth it to stay on private land. We saw wombats, wallabies and a little platypus in the water. Will return again sometime soon.

Andrew

2 weeks ago

4 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pheasant Ground

Nice little spot to camp. We enjoyed the stay, other then some light road noise it was peaceful and relaxing at the site.

Sam

2 weeks ago

10 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wombat Hollow

What a terrific camping location at Wombat’s Hollow. We were welcomed by Vallance to his lovely property. We stayed at Dads Camp and had a great private area with the river at our doorstep, wombats (as promised) and loads of bird life and the many sounds of the Aussie bush. This Hipcamp will definitely make the “let’s go back again” list.

This is our largest site - it can easily accommodate double the cars and tents pictured. We're not precious about the ferns - they grow back very quickly. You get at least 400 sqm completely to yourself - no sharing with others.

Leonnie

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mellows Ridge

This place is not only amazing but the host is fantastic, a wealth of knowledge, friendly and accommodating and there are so many extras available. This is definitely a place to put on your list of “must visit places” we had a phenomenal time here and plan on going back soon! It was also very dog friendly

Arthur

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Pheasant Ground

Peaceful and well kept, toilet was more of a drive away rather than a short walk from this campsite but that kept us away from the road and the noise at night. Toilet was really clean!

Simon

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Joadja Gorge Retreat & Camping

Drive in is beautiful through the open paddocks then once in property driving through sets the tone of a quite stay and peaceful, sunset is a smaller private spot loved the table and chairs Leanne has set up to enjoy breaky and dinner especially as it was a bit of stormy weather. The peacocks sound great and loved their calling noises during my stay. The walks on the property are nice simple walks but enjoyable but must do the George walk absolutely stunning. Whilst I am a complete self contained camper the toilet and shower was really nice and great set up

Top-rated campgrounds

Misty Mountain Farm - Farm Stay

95%

(311)

56km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · Coolangatta, NSW

There are camp sites to suit your group of: 2, 4, 6 or up to 12 people (Book extra if required, your group will be allocated together) - Camp sites 11 -12 are for group bookings - 4-12 guests Misty Mountain Farm is a family run working beef cattle property and horse training facility situated at the base of picturesque Coolangatta Mountain. Camp grounds are well maintained grass paddocks surrounded by beautiful picturesque scenery. Campfires are permitted when local restrictions are not in place. - Fire pits can be provided. - Firewood for cooking is supplied. - Firewood can be purchased upon arrival 20kg bag @ $20. LOCAL THINGS TO DO: - Coolangatta Estate Winery cellar door wine tasting and restaurant is next door (First settlement on the south coast) - Local wineries: Mountain Ridge, Two Figs, Silos, Crooked River, Cambewarra. - Bangalay Restaurant is a multi award winning regional restaurant. - Heads Hotel Pub (offers courtesy bus from camp ground and return) - Berry (15 minutes) - Jervis Bay (45 minutes) - Boating and Fishing on Shoalhaven River - Dog friendly 7 mile beach (north of the surf club) - Jamberoo Action Park (40 minutes) Shoalhaven Heads (5 minutes) has: IGA, Chemist, Bottle Shop, Butcher, Bakery, Pizza takeaway, Chinese takeaway, Heads Hotel, Bowling Club, Dr's surgery and more *NOTE: You must provide your own portaloo and dispose of using a sewerage reticulation system or at a waste or resources management facility. Horse Riding - we are on FB - Misty Mountain Equestrian. - Lessons and property trail rides from beginners to advanced. - $120/hr property ride, $90/40min lesson, $60/half hr pony rides - Pricing is per person - Horse agistment - Camp with your horse. Horse $25/night - Qualified and accredited EA L1G Coach and Qualified Veterinary Nurse on site

Mellows Ridge

95%

(174)

26km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Calderwood, NSW

Nestled right up against the escarpment at an elevation of 450m, this high-end, off-grid 40 acre property effectively offers your own private slice of Macquarie Pass National Park - amazing views, giant cedar trees, fern forests, cascading waterfalls and palms surround. It feels remote but it's only 90 min from Sydney, 30 min to Kiama and just 15 min to the shops. The property also offers the only hiking path up to the top of the escarpment for some truly amazing views. As of September 2025, many of the trails on the property have been degraded by the rains and are now challenging for 2WD cars. If you're towing or it's wet we recommend AWD or 4WD vehicles. Since this is coastal rainforest and it has been very wet, expect leeches anywhere it is damp. These are easily kept at bay with deet and or trousers tucked into socks. We're not particularly price sensitive - until all those rate rises - but we are extremely value sensitive so we set out to make your stay extremely good value for your hard earned money. The land itself does most of the heavy lifting but also personal service and of course there's Lana to fall in love with. Note, Mellows Rd is 2.6km long and rises 400m - in parts the road is a 15 degree grade. It's all paved but narrow so if you are towing a large heavy load, it's going to strain your car.

Buxton Getaway

98%

(407)

36km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Buxton, NSW

Located just one hour from Sydney, our property features 19 acres of pure serenity with two dams and one large enough to kayak on (kayaks supplied). The back of the property is perfect for camping and suitable for a small to medium caravan/camper. The larger dam has a picnic area and kayaks available to paddle on. Adjoining our property is Nattai National Park with a lovely 20 minute walk down to Little River. The Aqua Pool Trail in the National Park is just gorgeous. If you wish to try and catch some yabbies from the dams the only allowable and fun way is by a long stick and sausage. Hooks, fishing lines and traps are not allowed as we have people, dogs and horses swimming in the dams. We welcome self-contained campers who bring their shower/toilet set up. We do have two drop pit toilets available and each campsite has a pit fire provided. We are getting low on firewood so you will need to bring some along with you. There is access to drinking water. Our property is 2WD accessible and can accommodate small caravans and camper trailers. Not far from Buxton is Thirlmere where the Steam Train Museum is and train rides are available on the weekends, a great activity for the kids. Thirlmere Lakes National Park is perfect for a relaxing picnic, walk, birdwatching, and glimpse into locomotive history. Mittagong and Bowral have great wineries with restaurant/bistro. Pets are welcome. There's a range of different bushwalking trails in the region, including Starlights trail, a scenic bushwalk suited to experienced hikers, which forms part the Greater Blue Mountains trail network between Mittagong and Katoomba.

Shoalhaven Heads Village

54km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Shoalhaven Heads, NSW

Tucked away on the stunning NSW South Coast, Shoalhaven Heads Village (formerly Ingenia Holidays Shoalhaven Heads) is the perfect escape for families, couples, and adventurers alike. Whether you're unwinding by the beach, exploring local wineries, or seeking a pet-friendly holiday, our Shoalhaven Heads caravan park offers a relaxing and memorable stay. With a range of Shoalhaven Heads accommodation options—including spacious powered caravan sites, cozy cabins, and scenic camping grounds—we cater to every traveler’s needs. Enjoy a laid-back coastal atmosphere with modern amenities, all within easy reach of pristine beaches, the Shoalhaven River, and top attractions like Jervis Bay and Berry. Book direct for the best rates and experience why Shoalhaven Heads Village is a favorite for holidaymakers looking for the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation. Plan your next Shoalhaven holiday with us today!

Young Macdonald’s Farm

100%

(228)

60km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 4 sites · Tents · Tapitallee, NSW

Young Macdonald’s Farm is 100 acres in the Shoalhaven region on the NSW South Coast. It’s a family farm that was historically dairy-based but is moving to regenerative agriculture. Your hosts are Mac and his parents, Gina and Shawn. The property is at the base of Brown’s Mountain, 15 mins from Nowra and the Shoalhaven River, 30 mins from beaches, 15 mins from Berry, and 20 mins from Kangaroo Valley. It boasts private and secluded spaces for camping, two creeks, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. We want to share the farm experience and encourage you to be a part of our adventure as we begin this new chapter of a six-generation family farm on traditional Wodi Wodi land.

Grady's Riverside Retreat

96%

(399)

68km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 51 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Burrier, NSW

Grady’s Riverside Retreat was first established in 1979. The retreat is located 20 minutes west of Nowra and is set on 17 secluded acres on the banks of the beautiful Shoalhaven River, surrounded by natural bushland, mountains, cliffs and dairy pastures. This makes Grady’s Riverside Retreat an ideal place to bring your friends and family to relax, unwind and enjoy the scenery. Grady’s has over 500 metres of direct access to the Shoalhaven River. The river is deep and also is tidal which means we have a large variety of fresh and saltwater fish that inhabit these waters. Majority of our well maintained grassy sites are located along the river or have uninterrupted river views. With a boat ramp and beach areas for you to utilise at your leisure. Grady's is a pet friendly Retreat and we also allow campfires. We strongly believe these few extra things are essential to create a true camping experience. The park grounds are well maintained throughout the year. The amenities are fresh and cleaned daily. If you are the adventurous type there are many activities to offer in the vicinity such as canoeing, fishing, swimming, bushwalks, 4WDriving, bike riding, jet skiing, water skiing and much more. Come and enjoy our absolute riverfront camping, -Secluded camping sites are available on request (subject to availability) -We also have powered camp sites and Riverview cabins and cottages available. -The picturesque banks of the Shoalhaven River play host to the perfect escape from the burdens of city life. Only 2 hours from Sydney but feels like a world away. Amongst the trees and under the clear blue sky, sit around your campfire and allow yourself the time to reflect, reconnect, and revel in nature's abundance. Activities:- *Fishing/swimming *kids playground *basketball court/ volleyball court *large reserve for ball sports etc *BMX Track - Grady’s has a BMX track on site *Canoeing and Paddle Boards for hire - Grady’s is a great location for the canoeing and paddle boards beginners or enthusiasts. *4WDing and Dirt Bike Riding - Grady’s is in close proximity to many fire trails and 4WD tracks. *Bushwalking and mountain biking - There are many walking tracks in and around the Yalwal region. *Boating - Bring your own boat or jet ski and enjoy the use of our boat ramp

Wedderburn Hideaway

100%

(145)

27km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Wedderburn, NSW

Hello Campers! Our beautiful property is located on 20 acres in a convenient location just 10 minutes out of Campbelltown. The property is a short drive to Dharawal National Park, and a great 'home base' while you explore everything the area has to offer. There are fire pits provided for campfires, given there are no fire bans or restrictions in place. If you would like to be further away you can camp near our dam which is becoming more popular as of late .If you would like to be totally tucked away in the bush we also have spots totally surrounded by bush, please let us know when booking. There is a hot outdoor shower and a toilet on site just a short walk from all the camp sites. Please take note that our dogs which love people and are super friendly wander around freely and will come and visit you, so if you do not like dogs please do not book in . We also have a day spa and a gut health clinic on site, for additional charges. www.macarthurcolonics.com.au We have fresh water and powered sites available.

Wombat Hollow

99%

(139)

62km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Budgong, NSW

100 acres of secluded paradise with a kilometer of free flowing pebbled creek. Bound on two sides by the craggy escarpments of the Budgong and Morton National Parks there is ample grassland to give a feeling of space yet an abundance of trees to wander through as you engage with the tame wildlife and magnificent birdlife. Bring your mountain bike, fishing rod, swimmers, hiking boots, tennis racket, basketball (a hoop on the tennis court) or climbing gear and leave the kids in the play area while you sit by the creek and listen to the water tumbling through the rocks. If you are as intrigued by rare animals as we are, then this is the place for you. 63 Bird species, 24 mammals, 16 reptiles, and 12 amphibians have been sighted in the area (Clarke 2012) and this includes many rare and endangered species including the platypus, brush-tailed rock wallaby, Giant burrowing frog, Gang-gang cockatoo, Glossy black-cockatoo, Koala, Little Lorikeet and the Yellow-bellied glider. We only have three campsites at present, so you will be guaranteed peace, space and privacy. with a minimum of 400m between all sites. Please note, that your group must be self-contained, with their own camp toilet, however fresh drinking water is available. Access is into a valley on a well maintained unsealed road but there are some minor causeways making it unsuitable for busses or long low slung vans. An ordinary sedan will do for Billabong and Dad's camp sites but you will need some power for towing and a 4x4 to tow out in any rain. Riverbend site is only suitable for 4x4's and off-road camp trailers. You are a 40 minute drive from the sea (try the Shoalhaven 100 beach challenge https://www.shoalhaven.com/100-beach-challenge/ ) and just 15km from the historical town of Kangaroo Valley with its myriad of water activities, golf, wine estates, and quaint shopping. ttps://visitkangaroovalley.com.au/see-and-do/

Coolendel Camp

96%

(46)

67km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 407 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Buangla, NSW

Coolendel Camp is a beautiful nature reserve located on the Shoalhaven River three hours south of Sydney. The 2.5 kms of stunning riverfront attracts an extraordinary abundance of Australian wildlife. The comforts of modern facilities, the convenience of the Coolendel Store and the help of our friendly Coolendel crew, provide Coolendel’s visitors with a truly unique ‘back to nature’ camping and glamping experience.

Pheasant Ground

96%

(246)

32km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Robertson, NSW

Situated just off Jamberoo Mountain Road, we are ideally located between Bowral and Kiama. This campsite is a flat grassy area with rural views to the west and north west. Enjoy the lush green grass under the shade of old gnarly trees. Dogs on leashes are very welcome. Campers will have access to toilet during their stay, just a short walk from the camping area. Various birds, wombats and wallabies are common around our farm and we're located very close to Carrington Falls (Budderoo National Park), the Illawarra Fly Tree Top Walk and Barren Grounds Nature Reserve where you can go for a lovely bushwalk or have a swim. This campsite is best suited to caravans or RVs as we are situated near a semi-busy tourist road between Robertson and Jamberoo (perfect if you need a safe place to stay on your adventure). Our front paddock has easy access off Gordon’s track.

Otford Park nr Royal National Park

98%

(455)

21km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Otford, NSW

Otford is a historic village in a valley between Sydney and Wollongong, and bounded by the Pacific ocean. Our private acreage backs onto the southern tip of the Royal National Park, so the outlook from the campsite is all leafy trees. Walk to lookouts over the ocean, hike down to the beach or a few minutes drive to dog friendly beaches. Our bathroom and kitchen facilities make it an easy experience for first time campers. We are well-behaved-dog-friendly BUT you must let us know in advance. Our access track to the camping sites has been repaired with a deep layer of asphalt but still best suited to 4WD. The majority of standard 2WD cars manage the track fine There is also the option of parking roadside, and walking in approx 300m to the sites. Please message us if unsure about your vehicle. IMPORTANT PLEASE READ 1. Please let us know if you are bringing a dog/dogs - we have horses, house dogs, chickens and; wildlife plus likely other campers close by, so need to be forewarned. Dogs must be on lead or contained at all times. 2. If you need to camp out of your 4WD RV (such as a roof top tent), please contact me before booking to ensure those two particular vehicle sites are still available :) and that your vehicle is suitable for our track. Maximum length is approx 5m. Please scroll through the photos to see our amenities and camping sites. 3. We limit the number of people staying at any one time, so weekends book up quickly. That said, due to Covid and weather, people often cancel at the last minute too, so if we are currently booked out, it's always worthile checking again closer to the date for any availability. We are on acreage (approx 7 acres) in Otford, surrounded by forest, backing onto the very southern end of the Royal National Park Sydney/Wollongong. Sleep under the stars, and to the hoot of our local owls, and yips of the gorgeous feather-tail gliders. Lovely, peaceful and private in a bushland backdrop but so close and just a hike to famous sites, beaches, cafes and bushwalking - so the perfect spot to stop, unpack and then go exploring. Max of 3 camp sites booked at a time. Each camp site is within shouting distance of each other, so if looking for absolute privacy, please talk to me first. As bookings come throu

Secrets of Terara

98%

(99)

61km from Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Terara, NSW

This enchanting tree-filled, 13-acre property is located in the beautiful South Coast region of NSW, close to the spectacular beaches of Jervis Bay and quaint villages of Berry and Kangaroo Valley. The property is hidden away among the gumtrees and surrounded by dairy country. It is a perfect, peaceful place to base yourself for a weekend or a week exploring the beaches and nature walks in the region, or the rock climbing areas of Nowra. Your accommodation is either a cosy room in our converted barn, where you'll be very comfortable with all you need for a great weekend away, or a spacious camping spot in your own tent or van.

The best camping in Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area, NSW guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure through the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area, where the thrill of exploration awaits. Traverse lush rainforests, hike along scenic trails offering panoramic views, and immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity that defines this stunning landscape. Whether you're a birdwatcher, a hiker, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, the Illawarra Escarpment offers a diverse range of activities to satisfy your wanderlust.

When to go

The best time to visit the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area is during the milder months of spring and autumn, offering comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities. Summer brings warmer weather, ideal for early morning or late afternoon explorations, while winter can be crisp, perfect for invigorating hikes. Avoid periods of heavy rainfall to ensure the best experience on the park's trails.

Know before you go

Check the local alerts for any closures or safety information before planning your visit.
Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking along the escarpment's trails.
Be mindful of the park's biodiversity; take care not to disturb the wildlife.
Remember to carry sufficient water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available.
For any inquiries, contact the Glen Innes office from 8:30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

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