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The Cells State Conservation Area

The best camping in The Cells State Conservation Area, NSW

Discover the natural splendour of The Cells State Conservation Area.

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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.

Nobby

5 days ago

8 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bundilla River Camp

Great spot along the river. Quite with great hosts.

Greg

6 days ago

5 m Class A

1 night at Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

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

Katie

1 week ago

9 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

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

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.

Bernard

1 week ago

11 m travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

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

Anish

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Gloucester Tops Riverside Caravan Park

Good spot for tent with great view of mountains i will recommend to all my friends.

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!

Sam

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Cracknback Riverside Campground

Absolutely stunning spot! Ammenities were really good and it was so peaceful. Beth and Ben are lovely people and amazing hosts!

Cassandra

2 weeks ago

5 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Hamiltons Hideaway

Jaime’s land is so relaxing and peaceful, we absolutely loved our stay there 💗

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.

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.

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!

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

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!

Kelly

2 weeks ago

11 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Hamiltons Hideaway

We loved camping here with our dog, very peaceful and beautiful spot. Lots of wildlife and kangaroos and sheep and gorgeous birds. The camp sights are massive with your own fire pit and if you don’t bring wood that’s fine, cause Jaimie the owner brings it straight to you for $20 a big bag and great wood 🪵. The hosts are super friendly and always on hand if you need them. Definitely be back for a paddle and fish.

Top-rated campgrounds

Riverside Camping - Long Flat Pub

94%

(113)

36km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · Wauchope, NSW

Enjoy the seclusion & picturesque location of this idyllic location. The 7 acre camping area has spacious un-powered sites. Pitch your tent, set up your camper trailer or caravan next to the river. Easy accesses for swimming in the river, adjacent to the camping area. Bring your kayak, canoe, lilo, or inflatable boat & enjoy the rapids, or bring your fishing rod! Dogs under supervision are welcome - notification is required when booking, including the breed of dog and conditions, do apply. Long Flat Travellers Rest Hotel is one of Australia's original country pubs and is nestled on the banks of the beautiful Hastings River, is on the Oxley Highway in the picturesque village of Long Flat just 50km from Port Macquarie NSW.

Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone

94%

(925)

67km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 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?

Bundilla River Camp

99%

(1142)

60km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 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.

Camp Kundle

61km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · Kundle Kundle, NSW

Relax, explore, and reconnect at Camp Kundle — a peaceful working cattle farm where families can slow down, stretch out, and enjoy a true country escape. With over 1 kilometre of natural creek frontage, it’s the perfect place for swimming or simply soaking up the serenity of farm life. Just 10 minutes from the highway, it’s easy to get here — but once you arrive, you’ll feel a world away from the noise and stress of everyday life. Set up your tent, caravan, or camper on spacious grassy sites within our 30-acre camping area, and enjoy the comforts of flushing toilets and hot showers after a day in the fresh country air. Kids love exploring the open paddocks and spotting the cattle, while parents can unwind by the fire beneath a blanket of stars. What families love about Camp Kundle: ✅ Only 10 minutes from the highway — easy access for all vehicles ✅ 30 acres of open camping space to explore and play ✅ Over 1 km of natural creek frontage for swimming and picnics ✅ Campfires allowed (check local fire bans) ✅ Clean, comfortable amenities — flushing toilets & hot showers ✅ Plenty of space for bikes, games, and stargazing ✅ Family-friendly and pet-friendly (on leash) Whether it’s your kids’ first camping adventure or your family’s new favourite getaway, Camp Kundle is a place to relax, reconnect, and make memories that last. Other things to note: There are plenty of beautiful spots to choose from at Camp Kundle — set up under a shady tree, beside the creek, or further away for extra privacy within our spacious 30-acre camping area. Whether you prefer sunny or shaded, you can relax and watch the tide come and go or simply enjoy the sight of animals meandering across the paddocks from a peaceful distance. You’ll also find clean toilets, hot showers, and sheltered picnic tables, making it easy to settle in and make the space your own — however you like to camp.

The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie

98%

(1377)

69km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 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

Riverside Farm Stay

99%

(84)

74km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 5 sites · RVs · Riverside, NSW

Experience the ultimate caravan getaway on our grassy sites, complete with water access. Our farm stay offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, perfect for families and nature lovers. Meet our friendly animals, including alpacas, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens, and ducks. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool or relax by our private beach and jetty. With plenty of activities available, there's always something to do. Book your caravan site now for an unforgettable farm experience filled with nature, peace, and joy!

Fernbank Creek - Port Macquarie

97%

(303)

69km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Fernbank Creek, NSW

***FERNBANK CREEK - PORT MACQUARIE*** Six and a half acres of level paddock with two spring fed dams surrounded by tree lines for morning and afternoon shade. Suitable for self-sufficient vans, tents, camper trailers, motorhomes. You will need your own amenities. Good mobile phone service. Suggest families with young toddlers camp away from the dams. You can utilise your own fire pit, strictly no glass to be burned. You can find sticks and branches along the tree lines. All rubbish is to be removed. Direct road access to the property. Just 7 minutes drive to the centre of Port Macquarie and an easy 2 minute drive from the Pacific Highway on a quiet and scenic road. Pets welcome, but please be mindful of other guests and our resident pets. Fernbank Creek Road runs along a natural ‘chain-of-ponds’ water way, wildlife include turtles, ducks, quail, red bills, tawny frogmouth, ring tail possums, sugar gliders and kangaroos to name a few. Walking distance to local winery and horse riding centre. We do our best to allow you to access our piece of paradise.

Doraville Farm Campsite

95%

(120)

64km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Moorland, NSW

Welcome to Doraville Farm - Established in 1887, an Organic working farm. We grow and produce organic citrus, beef, honey and pumpkins. Farm honey, marmalade and seasonal produce available upon enquiry. Offering toilets and showers. Accessible to RVs, caravans and camper trailers. Tents allowed. Pets allowed in camping area only and on lead. 5 and under free!

NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park

82%

(11)

76km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 377 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Port Macquarie, NSW

Some things are classic for a reason, and holidays by the beach are no exception. At NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park, you get the sense the good old days are now. All the ingredients for family memories are right here. Port Macquarie accommodation or a campsite just metres from the sand. A resort-style pool for that pruney-finger kind of fun. A place where the kids can roam free with new pals. A friendly, welcoming atmosphere where the good times flow as easily as the tide slipping out past the breakwall. With facilities and activities for rollicking family fun, you may never want to leave our Port Macqaurie holiday park. But then you remember the waves, the bush and the koalas, and the world outside looks bright indeed. NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park is located in the heart of Port Macquarie on the Mid North Coast of NSW, a four-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney. Bordering the beach and the break wall at the mouth of the Hastings River, holiday parks don’t come much more ideally situated than this. The shops, cafes and restaurants of Port Macquarie are within walking distance.

Elsewhere (Escape2Nature)

95%

(33)

77km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Invergordon, NSW

Nestled on a picturesque 100-acre farm, your private campsite awaits. Choose from one of five secluded sites—each spread out over 5 acres, with your own exclusive large riverfront site to unwind, swim, and disconnect. Spend your days exploring deep-water swimming holes, soaking in natural rapids, trout or fly fishing, or simply relaxing under the stars with the soundtrack of the river. Lawns are lovingly maintained and there's firewood for purchase from the farmhouse to make your stay even easier. 🚗 Access: The farm is reached via a well-maintained unsealed road, suitable for 2WD vehicles. Expect a few shallow, low-speed creek crossings—just enough adventure to feel like you're truly off the grid. Please be aware that river crossings are dangerous. Flood waters can rise quickly. Please review current weather in advance and use common sense when entering river crossings and don't take risks. 🔥 Amenities: Fire pits welcome, and yes—there’s wood for purchase. This is your chance to disappear into nature, without disappearing completely.

Herring Estate - Panoramic Views

99%

(69)

70km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 6 sites · RVs · Koorainghat, NSW

Amazing views, nestled in nature and only 1 minute off the highway. Located close to the Forster-Tuncurry exit. We are located 3 hours north of Sydney and 5 hours south of the QLD Border making it a convenient stop over for your travels, or a nice place to stop and explore the local areas being close to beaches and the Barrington Tops. The property has spectacular views that you won't find anywhere else. We are in a quiet rural area where the neighbours can't be seen. There are walking tracks for you to explore the natural environment. There are many kangaroos, wallabies and numerous amount of birds in the area. The property backs onto national park. There is a river that is only a few kms behind the property that you can put a small boat in to take you out to Saltwater Beach. Old bar beach is a 12 minute drive, Forster-Tuncurry is 15 minutes and the beaches of Pacific Palms a 45 minute drive. There are file piles near the bush sites that you can help yourself too. If in need of groceries or supplies Taree supermarkets and Stores are only 10 minutes away.

Shoreline Hobby Farm

72km from The Cells State Conservation Area · 5 sites · RVs · Riverside, NSW

Part of a 101-acre property on the North Shore of Port Macquarie, this 1-acre lot fronts the Hastings River. Two powered sites are available for either a caravan or motorhome (that are self contained) with each offering spectacular views and breathtaking sunsets across the water. The site provides one of the best fishing spots in the area if you’d like to cast a line, or you can simply relax on the private jetty—or at your van—and watch the activity along the river. A slipway is also available should you wish to launch your canoe. As we are located on the North Shore of Port Macquarie, you will need to either access the property via the Settlement Point Ferry or take the dirt road through Kempsey (which can be in poor condition at times). The Hibbard Ferry is only 300 m from the campsite, making it easy to pop into town, explore Port Macquarie’s attractions, or visit the region’s wineries. For longer stays, a discounted ferry pass can be purchased on your behalf. North Shore Beach is a 5-minute drive away, and the local gin distillery is just a 15–20 minute drive up Maria River Road. PLEASE NOTE the property only permits Caravans or Motorhomes as no facilities are available

The best camping in The Cells State Conservation Area, NSW guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure through The Cells State Conservation Area, a pristine expanse of wilderness waiting to be explored. Traverse the rugged landscapes, immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the bush, and witness the diverse wildlife that calls this conservation area home. While camping options are not available, the area offers a multitude of activities for nature enthusiasts and day-trippers alike.

When to go

The Cells State Conservation Area is a year-round destination, with each season offering its unique charm. However, the best time to visit is during the cooler months, from April to September, when the weather is more temperate and conducive to outdoor activities. Summer can be quite hot, so if you're visiting during this time, be prepared for higher temperatures and plan your activities accordingly.

Know before you go

Check the latest updates on fires, closures, and other alerts before planning your visit.
Ensure you have a detailed map as mobile reception can be unreliable in remote areas.
Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for rugged terrain.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent to stay hydrated and protected.
Respect the natural environment and local wildlife by adhering to conservation guidelines.

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