The best camping near Mares Forest National Park
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Mares Forest National Park adventure.
Discover the natural splendour of Mares Forest National Park.
Popular ways to camp
Community favorites near Mares Forest National Park
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
Top-rated campgrounds near Mares Forest National Park
94%
(1137)
Megalong Valley Farm
72 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · Megalong Valley, NSW
Discover the magic of the Blue Mountains at our unique property, located in the stunning wilderness of the Megalong Valley.
Our property is nestled in 2000 acres of totally private wilderness in the centre of the lush valley in the heart of the Blue Mountains.
Experience the magnificent ancient rainforest glen with a canopy of tree ferns, caves and huge towering gum trees.
Savour the moment and feel the magic of simplicity in our world of nature. Renowned for their spectacular scenery, the Megalong Valley Farm offers fresh mountain air, history and wildlife.
Guests can expect some of the most spectacular sunsets, sunrises and scenery in the Blue Mountains. While you're here, check out some of the iconic destinations our region has to offer.
We offer a range of camping options, . There is something to suit every taste.
If your Booking Request expires, please resubmit again.
BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
PHONES: Phone reception is good, there is a Telstra exchange on the property.
ROADS: Roads around the sites are unsealed, but most normal cars and the average SUV handle it okay. The road down into the Megalong Valley is tar sealed, very scenic but winding.
ICE: Bring your own ice
WOOD: Timber can be purchased at reception. We are an environmental biodiversity precinct so don’t permit damage to vegetation.
FIRES: Plenty of existing fire spots
SHOPS: The township of Blackheath is 15klm away up on the Gt Western Hwy, none in the Valley
SHADE: Plenty of shady areas
WATER: We are on town water
TOILETS there are 3 men's and 3 women's, plus 8 at reception, plus 2 in the Lodge.
SHOWERS: 3 gas hot water shots in men's, 3 in women's, plus 2 in Lodge
NOISE: Shutdown time for music is 10pm - no exceptions! but you can still enjoy the fires - quietly.
THINGS TO DO:
TEA ROOMS 2 klm away
VINEYARDS 4klms away, on the Six Ft Hiking Track.
SWIMMING: Old Ford Reserve 2.5 klm away
SCENIC RAILWAY 25 Klms away at Katoomba and 40 minutes travel time
BIKE & WALKING TRACKS: Plenty of bush tracks
Dont forget to bring along some bread to feed the horses and donkeys - they love it
You are reminded to allow enough time to arrive for this property.prior to dark, which is 5.30 in winter.
It is difficult to find a wilderness campsite in the dark and disturbs other campers.
We are requiring ALL vehicles to get registered PRIOR to going up to the site, resulting from so many vehicles trespassing at the venue and causing nuisances for other campers
Please indicate the details of cars such as make, model , colour and rego number prior to arrival.
We must also remind campers that this is not a venue for noisy partying as we are a quiet wilderness environmental zone. We do not tolerate it and will remove offenders. Other campers treasure the peace and quiet.
Kindly advise your anticipated time of arrival
Please forward this message to ALL persons in your group, thank you
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(160)
Monastery of 11 Strings
13 sites · RVs, Tents400 acres · Wombeyan Caves, NSW
Lovingly developed for 15 years as a mindful refuge & wildlife corridor by Victoria, a filmmaker/permaculture designer, the property was completely destroyed in 2018. Thus the mega bushfire cycle began impacting forever most of NSW's flora, fauna & people. Nature ultimately prevails & slowly the untamed terrain is healing.
After studying at RMIT School of Architecture & Design for three years with the intention to design tiny living house systems better suited for harsh environments, Victoria has returned. Slowly she rebuilds a humble off-grid existence from the burnt-out bus fusing knowledge of building design with her food forests/aquaponics passion, keen to create an environmentally connected experience to share with like-minded others.
By staying you are helping her & all the wild things emerge from the ashes.
Thank you.
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No flies on us this winter... Book a stay until the end of July 2023 & get 25% off! Use the code EDMVEXWK when booking.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$33
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(845)
Blue Mountains Grass Tree Bush Camp
7 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Katoomba, NSW
Firstly, a big thankyou for all of the positive reviews. They have just contributed to Grass Tree Campground being awarded 3rd place in NSW for Hipcamp venues. It is great to get the feedback that campers appreciate this for what it is, a simple little Primitive Campground with generous spacing for each group to enjoy their own camping experience.
The Grass Tree Bush Camp is conveniently located just 2.5km north of Katoomba town center, so you can easily take advantage of all the upper mountain attractions in this amazing ‘World Heritage’ listed area. If we are booked out, we do have a couple of overflow sites that might suit your rig, so please reach out and we will see if we can help out.
If you are planning on having a fire, please do not remove firewood from the surrounding bushland. As you can imagine, if campers did that, the atmosphere of the campground would quickly deteriorate. Please plan to bring some from home, purchase some from the local service stations ($18 for 15kg), or alternatively, we can drop a 25+kg crate of mixed hardwood at your site for $20. If the later suits, just let me know. However, it is ok to collect small amount of kindling to start your fire.
Fires are restricted to existing fire pits to minimize scars on the ground. If you prefer to bring your own fire pit we ask that you leave no trace. Fires are only permitted when there are no RFS bans in place, we will communicate directly with you, in advance, if there are any upcoming 'Extreme' or 'Catastrophic' fire day warnings from the RFS. Please be extra vigilant around this as our community is only just recovering after the devastating recent fires. Fires are to be modest and discrete. Out of respect for our neighbors and other campers, please do not use a chainsaw at the campground. Please do not leave rubbish in your fire pit. Things like cigarette butts, cans, beer caps and food scraps need to be taken with you. We pride ourselves with keeping the sites as pristine as possible and ask that you follow our 'leave no trace' policy.
Note: there is no water on the property so you will need to allow enough to ensure you have completely extinguished your fire before you depart.
We have a unique 'BYO Hot water' shower for those looking to freshen up at the end of the day. Watch our instructional video to see how it works. You can find it in Instagram by typing in ''grasstreecamping'. It will come up as the first video. Or, type in https://www.instagram.com/reel/CjBmHdWBYhY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link.
We have seven unique sites that can accommodate various groups needs. Use this link to view our Site Map https://hipcamp-res.cloudinary.com/image/upload/v1664433572/campground-photos/wqnesuvdekhlfuo7ic2x.jpg. Please read the following information and select the most appropriate site when you request to book.
Site 1- Will fit a group booking of up to, two small (or 1 large) size camping rig/s with two cars.
Site 2- Will fit a group booking of up to, two small (or 1 large) size camping rig/s with two cars.
Site 3- Will fit a group booking of up to, two small (or 1 large) size camping rig/s with two cars.
Site 4- Will fit 1 large rig or multiple tents (on adjacent grassed area).
Site 5- One caravan, camper trailer or tent + car.
Site 6- This is a long pull-through site and will fit 1 extra large rig or multiple tents (on adjacent grassed area.
Site 7- One caravan, camper trailer or tent + car.
Only use allocated area as indicated by campsite site colour on site map. The logs at each site define site area, please do not drive through the grass clearing. Site numbers are on trees. Unless previously discussed, you are required to camp on the site you book and will be asked to move if you set up on another site. All traffic is to drive clockwise around ring road. The site numbers correspond with this direction of travel.
The campground is tranquil and has a large open, flat grassy clearing in the middle for family games. The secluded clearing is boarded by a Woodland forest with stunning flora like Waratahs, Xanthorrhoea's (Grass Trees), Orchids and Banksias. The property is home to many beautiful species of fauna like Gang-gang Cockatoo's, Eastern Rosella's and the cheeky iconic Magpie which will warble a warm welcome. The grassy clearing is occasionally frequented by Kangaroos at dawn and dusk.
Just a stones throw from the property you have easy access to world class lookouts and bush walks. If you are into climbing, canyoning, trekking, trail running, cafes, restaurants or walking along breath taking National Park trails, then you will love visiting our area. If you are unfamiliar with the area, we recommend visiting the Information Centre at Echo Point to get all the information you need for your intended activities.
This camp is perfect for groups/families wanting to have a campfire, a bit of space from other campers and to have room for the kids to run around and kick a ball.
There is a composting toilet on-site with toilet paper and Hand Sanitizer supplied. When you visit the toilet, after you have finished, please place 1 cup of Sawdust into the toilet after a wee, and 2 cups after a Number Two. This bulkage is a significant element to the success of the composting process. If you use the last of the paper on a toilet roll, the cardboard roll can be thrown into the toilet as well to be composted. If you think anything is not how it should be with the composting Toilet, please reach out and we will come and take a look.
Well behaved pets are welcome and we encourage you to keep your dog on a lead if they are likely to adventure too far from your site and disturb the local wildlife or other campers.
If you are interested in a longer free stay and are open to a trade for a small amount of labor each day, please reach out. There is always lots of things we need to get done, but don't always have the time.
Acknowledgement of Country:
Our property is located within the Country of the Dharug and Gundungurra peoples. My family recognises that Dharug and Gundungurra Traditional Owners have a continuous and deep connection to their Country and that this is of great cultural significance to Aboriginal people, both locally and in the region. For Dharug and Gundungurra People, Ngurra (Country) takes in everything within the physical, cultural and spiritual landscape - landforms, waters, air, trees, rocks, plants, animals, foods, medicines, minerals, stories and special places. It includes cultural practice, kinship, knowledge, songs, stories and art, as well as spiritual beings, and people: past, present and future.
My family and I pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging while recognising the strength, capacity and resilience of past and present Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Blue Mountains region.
Our hope is that by being custodians of this beautiful property, we will help preserve it for future generations as a place to connect with nature and each other. We hope you love and respect this property as much as our family does. It is a privilege to share it with like minded people who enjoy stepping out of our busy lives to connect with nature, family and friends.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$35
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
88%
(4)
The Old Air Strip
1 site · RV, Tent100 acres · Wombeyan Caves, NSW
Pitch your tent on what used to be an air strip for local farmers and enjoy access to 100 acres of rolling hills, forest and a creek all to yourself.
The property is a 10-minute drive to Taralga where you can pick up fresh delights from the bakery Grand Ettie, unwind at one of two amazing pubs, including the hatted Argyle Inn or Taralga Hotel, and browse boutiques. Need to entertain the family? Head to Wombeyan Caves (now open) or Taralga Wildlife Park.
A little about us (Hannah and Craig): we are a young couple who live in Canberra and recently purchased the property. We plan to build on the property but want campers to enjoy the beautiful nature and wildlife in the meantime.
Please note there are few sheds and caravans on the property that are not for use by Hipcampers.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$35
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(19)
Forestvale Farm
2 sites · RVs, Tents571 acres · Wiarborough, NSW
Located in the beautiful Wiarborough Valley, Forestvale Farm sits on Gundungurra Country once home to the Burra Burra people with the Blue Mountains National Park, Mares Forest National Park and Wombeyan Caves at your doorstep, plus conveniently located on the Bicentennial National Trail, come and escape to the peace and quiet of the country, but with the convenience of great coffee and restaurants only minutes away.
We look forward to meeting you on arrival and showing you to your campsite on our working property depending on your vehicle and camp setup, weather and location of stock. Some sites are 2WD accessible via gravel or dirt road, and some sites require a capable 4WD particularly if you are towing a camper. All sites have lovely views.
Campers are required to be self sufficient with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste and rubbish with them on departure.
Fill your days swimming in the creek, exploring the property on foot, on mountain-bike, set up yabbie traps in the dams, or sit back and relax listening to the abundant birdlife that calls Forestvale home and keep your binoculars and camera handy for the visiting wildlife including wombats and kangaroos.
Forestvale Farm is a working farm and you are welcome to view whatever activities are happening during your visit, or head out beyond the farm gate to visit the Taralga Zoo, stock up on fresh organic produce grown by our neighbours, dine on hearty pub dinners in town, or fish for trout on the Abercrombie River just up the road.
Campfires are permitted (subject to prevailing bushfire risk conditions) but please speak to your hosts before lighting one. They must be kept contained and at a reasonable size.
Pets are welcome but must be kept restrained at all times to protect stock and wildlife. Guests will be asked to leave if their dog is not restrained.
Please note mobile reception is limited in the Wiarborough Valley. What a great opportunity to switch off and enjoy your holiday.
No hunting allowed.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$35
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
90%
(5)
Noonameena - Sleep in the Bush
4 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Berrima, NSW
Noonameena is a 100 acre natural bushland property located approx 7kms outside of Berrima, NSW in the Southern Highlands. While most of the property is covered by a variety of natural bushland, a small flat area of cleared land is perfect for recreational campers.
The property has access to the Wingecarribee River to the south, a natural pool and large dam in the camping area.
Other property features include commercial gardens, orchards and free range chicken coop as well as a homestead with surrounding gardens.
There are also plenty of walking tracks on the property.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$80
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(49)
Two Little Piggies
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents36 acres · Wayo, NSW
Situated on an amazing 36 acres located only 15 minutes from Goulburn NSW whilst overlooking the magnificent lake Pejar. We are currently establishing our cattle and produce enterprise at Wayo.
Whilst driving up our driveway through the corridor of birch trees you will start to immerse yourself and unwind before arriving at your campsite over the hill.
We have 4 very unique sites ranging from absolute luxury and pampering (including all food as a package) at our glamping lodging to just pitching a tent in a secluded patch of our cattle paddock.
Every site is unique and special offering amazing views and experiences and although we do have several sites, you do have your own space to roam around and unwind.
Fur babies are most welcome though please ensure your fury friend is good with other dogs as we do from time to time have other families stay with their dogs.
We have access to the lake only 2 minutes from our farm gate. There is amazing fishing with Bass and Trout in the lake as well as non motorised sports for a peaceful getaway.
If doing nothing is your thing, then sit back in front of the fire, enjoy a beer or wine and just admire the views.
We just know you will love staying on our little slice of paradise, one of the districts best kept secrets and views :)
Please note that there is a minimum one weeks notice for all extras (just so we can make everything perfect for your visit)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
81%
(8)
The Gulf
3 sites · RVs, Tents965 acres · Mittagong, NSW
The Gulf is a 965-acre property situated near Wombeyan Caves in NSW. It's a fantastic property and wider region to explore, and enjoy an authentic Aussie bush camping experience. There's the Gulf Creek nearby that you can get to by 4x4 or you can go fishing, bushwalking, swimming, bike riding or horse riding.
We offer two camping areas, that have enough space for multiple groups. One is higher up with great views, and access for caravans and camper trailers and the like. The other camping area is down by the creek but really only accessible for those with a 4X4, swags, rooftop tents etc.
Plenty of fallen timber you are welcome to collect for firewood.
All campers need to be self-sufficient at this time as we don't currently offer toilet facilities.
Campfires
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
91%
(221)
Oberon Showground
14 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Oberon, NSW
Refunds' are only given before you receive the code to the amenities
Oberon Showground offers casual camping on gently sloping sites. Campers will have access to the amenities block with toilets and showers.
Power is available.
There are several water taps available.
The showground is located in the heart of Oberon, a small rural community located just 2.5 hours from Sydney.
Situated on a plateau at a height of 1130m above sea level, Oberon is on the western fall of the Blue Mountains.
Enjoy the nearby spectacular scenery, Jenolan Caves, alpine lake, Mayfield and other fabulous cool climate gardens.
The showground is a short walk to shops and restaurants, pubs and clubs.
The Visitors information Centre is conveniently just across the road.
Pets welcome on leash and under control.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
85%
(27)
The Shed At Tarlo
16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Goulburn, NSW
Want some space to breathe and relax away from everybody else by a permanent river close to a major regional town?
Just 15 minutes from Goulburn, on the Southern Tablelands of NSW, our farm in Tarlo has 40 hectares of fields, bushland and river to enjoy and explore. With 2 km of Tarlo River access, extensive views of Tarlo Gap and Tarlo Hill, 5 km of paths and tracks, 4 picnic areas, swimming holes and more you can have your own rural experience for an afternoon, day or weekend.
We have renovated a historic shed overlooking the river and valley with landscaped gardens and stairs down to the picnic area by the river where you can stay or host your own occasion such as a BBQ, party, conference or wedding (separate fees apply).
Book through HIpCamp now or search "The Shed At Tarlo" for our website to book without the HipCamp fees, Google Maps and socials for more information or on anything available or contact us directly (0412 388 598).
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$11
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(4)
Binacrombi
11 sites · Lodging, Tents530 acres · Jerrong, NSW
Binacrombi is a beautiful property featuring 530 acres of raw bushland. It is covered in trails and is the perfect location for adventuring, hiking, swimming, exploring, and biking. We currently have the following available for your enjoyment:
2 x 4 occupancy cabins
2 x 5 occupancy cabins
2 x 6 occupancy cabins
25 person dormitory
3 campsites
Accessible to all of our guests is a communal recreation room featuring a shared kitchen and dining facilities, as well as an indoor lounge and game room.
With our camping sites, cabins and large 25 person dormitory we are perfectly equipped to handle large group bookings so keep us in mind for your next group gathering.
We are also a licensed off-road recreational vehicle area. Please note riders/drivers must sign a waiver from Binacrombi before hitting the trails, as motorbikes and 4WD's ARE NOT covered by Hipcamp insurance.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(3)
The Hermitage
1 site · Tent100 acres · Jerrong, NSW
The Hermitage is an untouched heavily-wooded property, nestled on the banks of the Abercrombie River.
The campsites are shared with kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, deer, and of course turtles and fish in the river.
Fish or swim in the river, ride your bikes, or set up camp and then head off on an adventure walk including the Blue Mountains National Park to the south of the river.
The Abercrombie River is known for gold and gemstones, so if you're into panning, there's some good spots along the river.
There are plenty of opportunities for 4WDing and bushwalking in the local area.
Fires are allowed (fire restrictions permitting) within the designated areas.
Wood can be collected from fallen wood around the property, or bring your own if you prefer.
Pets are welcome for a one-off fee per animal.
We are in the early stages of our Hipcamp journey and there are plans to make for a much more enjoyable experience. All monies will be re-invested into facilities.
There is no mobile reception at this location.
There are no toilets at this location (yet).
You can follow us on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehermitageatjerrong
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
The best camping near Mares Forest National Park guide
Overview
About
Embark on an adventure through the scenic landscapes of Mares Forest National Park. Established in 2010, this park spans 2559 hectares of pristine wilderness, inviting explorers to immerse themselves in its diverse activities. From birdwatching to uncovering historic heritage, the park offers a plethora of experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
When to go
The best time to visit Mares Forest National Park is during the milder seasons of spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer brings warmer temperatures ideal for wildlife spotting, while winter may see some areas less accessible due to cooler conditions. Always check local alerts for current conditions before planning your visit.
Know before you go
- Check the NSW National Parks website for any current alerts or fire bans before your visit.
- Remember to bring adequate water and sun protection, as the Australian sun can be intense.
- Be mindful of the park's conservation efforts and adhere to guidelines to protect biodiversity and threatened species.
- For emergencies, contact services at 000 and stay informed about wildfire conditions via the Rural Fire Service.
- Visitor facilities are available, but it's wise to come prepared with essentials as some areas are remote.
Top cities near Mares Forest National Park
- Mares Forest National Park
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.