Forest camping in Central Coast
Seaside towns and lush national parks make NSW’s Central Coast the perfect getaway.
94% (3650 reviews)
- Central Coast
94% (3650 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Central Coast
Dog-friendly getaways
Under $50
12 top forest campgrounds in Central Coast
99%
(350)
Mt Nellinda Campsite
30 sites · RVs, Tents47 acres · Cooranbong, NSW
The property rests on the shoulder on Mt Nellinda on nineteen hectares of land, there are two large Greenhouses where we grow potted flowers and some veggies, also several large dams which are used for irrigation and act as a Sanctury for our geese, best of all are the views. The perfect spot for relaxing next to a fire and listening to the Frogs and nightlife and waking to the sounds of kookaburras and bird life, Lots of Rock Wallabies in the evenings and early mornings.
Dog friendly, no leads required, portable toilets in the multiple Camp site 1 and an older style toilet in the camping area 2, fresh water available only next to the portable toilets camping area 1. also included is a camp kitchen with fridge, kettle microwave etc for your convenience. Check with host regarding campfires.
Group bookings accepted with prior notice to save camping areas.
Range of six camping areas.
Strictly one vehicle per campsite. Friends can stay together.
CAMP 1 allows up to 14 or more campsites to include caravans, motor homes, large or small. tents etc. with flat and slightly flat areas and close to the roadway dead end street.
CAMP 2 allows up to eight or more smaller caravans tents rooftops etc also with some flatter areas.
CAMP 3 is a private in the bush area and will cater for five or so rooftops tents, difficult for caravans or large vehicles.
CAMP 4 smaller possibly two tents or rooftops secluded in the bush.
CAMP 5 similar to camp 3 in the bush and completely private great for a get together with friends.
CAMP 6 is the very top of the mountain with a long wide strip of cleared area with bush on both sides and a window at the end to the valley below, very private, must be fully contained and would suit most vehicles, may lose traction if pulling a heavy caravan or trailer.
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from
AU$32
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(996)
Bunyip's Camp
18 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Martinsville, NSW
At the foot of the Watagan mountains, close to the Watagan 4WD tracks, picnic areas, and bike tracks. Also close to Lake Macquarie where you will find fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing etc. About a 20 - 40 min drive to beautiful beaches.
Ideal for those wanting to be surrounded by birds, nature and a couple of friendly doggos. Also great for people wanting to try out their new camper, van or tent for the 1st time as we are an easy 1 hour drive north of Sydney on the M1 and close enough to shops for those forgotten items.
Also we have unfenced dams, if you are camping with young children please consider carefully and let me know before booking.
We have very basic bathroom facilities of 1 flushing toilet in the shed and an outdoor warm shower.
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from
AU$18
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(523)
NSW Ski Gardens
6 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Wisemans Ferry, NSW
NSW Ski Gardens is situated on the banks of the Hawkesbury River at Wisemans Ferry.
Every October - April is our peak time and its busy! Please be aware there is river noise during our busy times on weekends so may not suit those looking for tranquillity on weekends. During the week it's fine but weekends are busy and a bit noisy.
We are 1.2 km from the township along the River Road. There are powered and unpowered sites for caravans and campers set in a rustic location.
Amenities include hot showers, laundry, on-site kiosk and boat ramp (fee applicable).
BBQ and covered picnic area.
Dogs are welcome on leash.
Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
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from
AU$21
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(59)
Canoelands Valley Camping
4 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Canoelands, NSW
Canoelands Valley Camping is an easy-to-access camping area with magnificent views through the National Park Valley. With only two allocated camping/van zones enjoy the privacy and access to walk around the 40 acres.
Located 1.15 hrs from Sydney CBD this is an ideal place for a quick weekend getaway for keen hikers, mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts.
Surrounded by the Marramarra National Park you have a short drive to access the Canoelands Ridge Trail (17kms), Duckponds Ridge Trail, Marrarra Ridge to Smugglers Point Ridge Trail.
Enjoy a tour at the Canoelands Orchard, a short drive to dine at Wiseman Ferry, and only 11 minutes from the local Woolworths.
Your camping/van area is supplied with red/yellow bins, and camping toilet is provided. Dogs allowed but please let me know first. They will need to be unleash all the time and well behaved. Please pick up after them and also they must be vaccinated.
A campfire during permitted times is allowed but only in the fire pits. There is loads of dried kindling and small logs around the property otherwise byo.
Beautiful spot to relax, with loads of wildlife and bird watching.
Please use bins supplied and leave no trace.
* There are 4 allocated camp sites. Two are easy(2WD & Vans/trailers) access and have the direct view through the valley. Two require high wheel clearance vehicles (just small hill to drive up with some rocks), these are more private sites(cannot see the other campers) still with lovely views.
**Now offering access on weekdays but ONLY Site 1 & 2 (weekend access to Sites 1-4)
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AU$39
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
93%
(386)
Cranky Rock Hunter Valley
11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Sweetmans Creek, NSW
Set at the base of the mountains on a beautiful valley floor, located in wine country in the lower Hunter Valley, Cranky Rock gets its name from a 25 tonne sandstone rock that graces our home. The 120 acre working beef and horse farm is situated a scenic 2 hour drive North from Sydney or 1 hour East from Newcastle. Whether you chose to stay of one of our campsites or in our pioneer-style cottage, all visitor being awoken to the natural bush sounds of lyre birds and cooling their heels in the crystal creek at the bottom of the property. On your way in or out, be sure to check out the boutique village of Wollombi which is just 10 minutes from Cranky Rock, where you'll enjoy wine tasting, fresh produce and quaint cafes. Other must-see's in the area include the Olney State Forest and the Wattagan National Park.The property is located just off a scenic drive, over a 2wd accessible creek crossing. It is peaceful and secluded. Campers can used shared kitchen and bathroom facilities located at the top of the camp area. Dogs are welcome, but as it's a working farm, we ask the remain on leash at all times.
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from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(104)
Camping @ Emerald Park Equine
26 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents112 acres · Mandalong, NSW
Located at Mandalong, a small rural community near the town of Morisset and west of Lake Macquarie, New South Wales.We offer campsites and glamping. Glamping @ Emerald Park means nothing better than relaxing. Imagine having your own glamping tent waiting for your arrival for the duration of your stay on a private property with amazing views.The established green 112 acre equine property has the Watagan Mountains as the backdrop. We are approximately 5 minutes off the M1 Motorway and 1 hour drive north of Sydney. For those wanting to explore further, we are 40 minutes out from the Hunter Valley and a nice drive to stunning local beaches, cafes and restaurants.Groups welcome! Special events, weddings birthdays, family gatherings - just ask.
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from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(166)
Hawkesbury River Rural Campground
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Wisemans Ferry, NSW
We do this because we believe humans in nature bring out the best of human nature.
The 350 acres comprises of native bushland, riverside mangroves and cleared pastures. It is completely surrounded by the Marramarra National Park. The property dates back to early English settlement and is entwined into the Hawkesbury’s rich history.
There are a number of activities that can be experienced on the farm including kayaking, bushwalking, fishing, crabbing (in warmer months) and boating to name a few.
These campsites suit self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower and drive 4WD or AWD vehicles. It's not advisable to use a 2WD vehicle to come along our road due to it's condition, we are currently waiting for Hornsby Council to repair and maintain the approach road to the property. knowing I've highlighted my concerns about the road allows me peace of mind that guests have been informed. We have a toilet and warm shower available if needed up at the farm cottage. The cottage is also for rent which is clean and cosy with two queen sized bedrooms that open out onto the wrap around verandah which over looks the Hawkesbury River. It has a self-contained kitchen with a gas oven and separate island style gas cooktop. The small fridge is also gas but there is a 12v fridge that runs off solar too, the kitchen is equipped with cooking utensils, tea and coffee, oil, salt and pepper and dishwashing liquid etc. There is a nice living and dining area in the cottage with a wood burning fire for heat if needed, firewood is supplied free of charge when renting the cottage. Also there is a large undercover outdoor living area with a barbeque. The cottage is powered by solar so things like hair dryers, microwaves and any high powered electrical equipment can not be used. The battery packs recharge during sun light hours so any mobiles or alike should be charged up during the day. There is a back up generator in case there's a problem so you will always have power one way or another. The cottage comes with it's own private jetty which gives you another means of transport, bring your own boat or arrive by water taxi. There is access to a drinking water supply which comes from a natural spring high up in the sandstone cliffs which can also be shown to you if you don't mind a hike. Arriving by boat or taxi is an option also, as there are a number of water taxi services from Brooklyn who will ferry you to the farm at a cost. Campground 2 is the smaller of the two sites but comes with its own private jetty and water access. It also boasts it's own bathroom, with toilet and shower for exclusive use by campground 2 guests only. Campground 1 is much larger and can be adapted to whatever the campers needs are, it has fantastic views of the surrounding cliffs and is only five minutes walk from the jetty and amenities. Campground 3 and 4 has a communale jetty and a boat/jet-ski slip, it also has a bush toilet and indoor camp kitchen. Campground 5 is a three minute walk to the jetty but stands alone. Campground 6 is a secluded site in amongst Ironbark trees and Campground 7 is a large site in an open paddock. Extras can be added depending on the occupancy of the other sites. The towing of traditional caravans along our approach road is not advised at the moment however we are working on improving that. Rubbish and recycling facilities are also catered for too.
We supply fishing gear and crab pots for a small cost, but you have to bring your own bait for both. We also offer a $10 cow feeding experience which the kids love, in fact everyone does. Firewood can be gathered in amongst the trees surrounding the camp sites, but we can supply wood if needed, please see Extras.
Enjoy the evenings telling tall tales around the campfire. You may experience a number of animals throughout your stay including native birds, cows, goannas, wallabies and bush turkeys. There are a number of walks in the surrounding area that we can provide information on if you're wanting to explore. On our adjoining property (40 acres) there is an amazingly beautiful waterfall with a little refreshing dip pool at the base. This is obviously only appreciated when there has been some good rain in the area. There are also cafes and pubs in the nearby towns that can be enjoyed plus a fantastic Thai restaurant located just across the river at Spencer. If you are truly looking for a rural camping experience then look no further than the Hawkesbury River Rural Campground, we will do everything possible to make your stay enjoyable.
On the southern shore of the Hawkesbury upstream from Mangrove Creek in Haycock Reach. Peter Hibbs (1762-1847) was a seaman who was a member of Governor Phillip’s party which explored the Hawkesbury. In 1823 he was granted 60 acres here. He is buried in the Wisemans Ferry Cemetery at Laughtondale. Reed gives “Cooranggoorah” as meaning “grass tree”. The Aborigines used the gum from these to attach spear heads and for a variety of other purposes. These grasstrees are abundant in much of the Hawkesbury sandstone region.
Access by road:
Hawkesbury River Rural Campground is approximately a 1 hour and 50-minute drive from Sydney CBD, a 2-hour drive from Gosford or a 3-hour drive from Newcastle CBD. The road is sealed for the most part except for the last 3 km’s which is unsealed and can be rough at times. Arrival before dark is advised.
Access by water:
Hawkesbury River Rural Campground is approximately a 35-minute boat ride from Brooklyn Marina and Hawkesbury River Train Station. You may take your own boat or catch a Water Taxi which we can help organise.
Hawkesbury RIver Rural Campground acknowledges the Dharug and Darkinjung people as the Traditional Custodians of the Hawkesbury and pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
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from
AU$100
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(673)
Wattle Valley Farm
33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Paynes Crossing, NSW
Wattle Valley Farm lies is a 100 acre property, bounded by the iconic Wollombi Brook, which many native wildlife call home. During your stay, you might even come across some of our friendly native residents like wombats, kangaroos, echidnas, goannas, kookaburras and black cockatoos. We also have a number of short walks you are welcome to take if you want to explore the property while you are here, including local Aboriginal cave art and our beautiful scenic river walk.Wattle Valley Farm is located in the heart of the Wollombi Valley and the Hunter Valley wine region, making it an ideal base while you explore everything the region has to offer. The historic village of Wollombi is only five minutes up the road, and has a lively cafe scene, unique experiences and the famous Wollombi Tavern. Meanwhile, the popular Broke and Pokolbin wine regions are a short 30-40 minute drive along the beautiful, meandering country roads.
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from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(161)
Mandalong Manor
10 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · NSW
Mandalong Manor is set in a small valley partly cleared with lots of trees , creek and dam , peaceful setting , wildlife , wallabies , kangaroos , kookaburras cockatoos , occasional koala and wombat , goanna , deer can also be seen . There are a few nice spots for camping .
The property is just near Jimbo’s Industrial Art Emporium .
You may notice a collection of interesting vehicles , machinery and building materials on your way to the gate .
Please come in the main gate and contact me when you arrive ,
I will meet you there .
The camp sites are on the other side of the paddock .
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from
AU$50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
89%
(80)
Mulla Villa Farm
50 sites · RVs, Tents74 acres · Wollombi, NSW
Mulla Villa Farm is set on 74 acres in the beautiful Wollombi Valley Hunter Valley. Set up camp down by the creek and listen to nature at it's best. With fishing, bush walking and exploring right out side you're door. Walk the trails through our land and find the caves up in the bush or just sit and relax by the creek.No amenities so campers will need to have own camping toilet and leave no trace. Dog friendly. Campfires permitted. No drinking water so BYO.The creek is the perfect spot to pitch your tent or camper. Come and take advantage of the Wollombi Valley's beautiful scenery and atmosphere. Sit and relax while taking in fresh air and wild life all around you. Take a walk up the bush track and find the caves.We look forward to welcoming you soon!
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from
AU$12
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Booked 4 times
Cedar Brush Farm
3 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Cedar Brush Creek, NSW
Cedar Brush Camp is pet (dog and horse) friendly and is nestled on the banks of Cedar Brush Creek, en route the Great North Walk. There are numerous secluded and spacious camp sites to choose from on over 100 acres of lush pastures and rainforest woodland. The creek has a 20foot deep swimming hole that is teeming with Bass in summer, catch and release or enjoy a BBQ. The farm adjoins the Watagan and Olney state forests and is close to mountain bike and dirt bike facilities.
Resplendent with fauna and flora and the elusive platypus, Cedar Brush Camp is a great location for the nature enthusiast, artist, forest drummer, nature bather, photographer or simply a quick weekend escape from the big smoke. Only an 1hr 30min from Sydney and Newcastle.
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from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(195)
Mistinthegumtrees BUDGET 2 GLAMPING
10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents106 acres · Cooranbong, NSW
Campsites are in our lovely small manicured bush garden setting. It's a level, grass/lawn shaded area. There are 5 x 15 amp powered sites. Suitable for small quiet groups/ families. Not suitable for loud partying. The state forest is a short 10min drive away for bush walking, mountain biking and 4 wheel driving. Beach is
40 min drive away. We are located close to the Central Coast and Newcastle. (In Cooranbong )
Our camp sites have access to three eco toilets and only one shared shower, rubbish facilities and drinking water. (Campfires) we have 5 fire pits on some of our sites , fires are permitted during the winter months.
We also have 2 x 4 star cabins which sleep 15 between them, they are listed separately on Hipcamp. However the guests from both the camp sites and the cabins have shared access to the pool and facilities. Which includes a large under cover patio area.
FRIENDLY PETS welcome. Small kitchen with microwave dishwasher and cook top and fridge may be used . Please just clean up any mess you make. For the next guest All cleaning products under sink. WE HAVE 2 DOGS that are people friendly., who love to meet new fury friends , they do have the run of our property .
As our property has a lot of maintenance lawns /gardens ; we may use mowers blowers etc , we will possibly maintain between 10 am to 2 pm If needed.
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from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Star Hosts in Central Coast
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Forest camping in Central Coast guide
Overview
Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in Central Coast NSW. Whether you're a forest enthusiast or simply looking for a serene getaway, we've got you covered. With over 38 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your needs. Looking for top-rated spots? Check out Myrtle Ridge Farm (76 reviews), Central Coast Valley Farm (32 reviews), and Gondwana Retreat (19 reviews). Our campsites offer popular facilities such as pet-friendly accommodations, potable water, and cooking equipment. And if you're into wind sports, paddling, or biking, you'll have plenty of opportunities to indulge in your favourite activities. So pack your gear and get ready for a memorable camping experience in Central Coast!
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Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.