The best camping near Royal National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Royal National Park adventure.

Cliffs, beaches, and rainforest make Australia’s oldest national park one of its most popular.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Royal National Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Royal National Park

99%
(320)

Otford Park nr Royal National Park

3 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · 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. . There is also the option of parking roadside, and walking in approx 400m 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 & just a walk 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 through, I assess the number of people booked for a site, and adjust availability on the others accordingly (such as blocking the rest of the day/s to prevent over-crowding) We usually only have two unconnected groups/families at a time. Our site is the perfect place to camp in comfort and safety, when taking an overnight rest after the long backpacking trek from Bundeena. We have firewood available for our cosy camp firepits (one firepit available for each site) We buy in reclaimed hardwood to reduce the impact of logging of native forest, but also often have seasoned firewood from our own fallen trees. $20 for approx 20kg. Heaps of kindling sticks are around on the forest floor. Please leave large and rotting logs alone for wildlife. Water - Connected to Sydney Catchment drinking water, so supply isn't an issue, but we conserve where we can. Kitchenette We have a tiny house mobile kitchenette with sink, basic table wear, microwave, kettle, toaster, LÓr Nespresso compatible Pod machine (BYO pods) single hot plates, mini bar fridge ,and; USB ports. You can also use the facility to recharge your mobile phone and; torches. We also provide a billy kettle, cast iron fry pan and camp fire hot plate. You'll also find 6 comfy directors chairs stored within the kitchenette, and a deck of cards, jigsaw puzzles, boardgames etc. Cricket bat, Bocce ball game, and Finish Kubbs set are stored within the timber box under the gazebo. "Nature Calls" We have a new long drop compost toilet - only human waste and; toilet paper please. A small bin is provided for sanitary products etc. Please leave the bushland surrounds free of solid waste. Gazebo Weatherproof /insect meshed gazebo and outdoor furniture. Absolutely no fires under the gazebo, otherwise it will melt and catch fire. Quiet Hours Quiet hours between 10pm and 7am Outdoor and Indoor Showers Warm water is heated by LPG gas bottles - please help conserve water and gas QUIET HOURS: To respect other campers who may be staying, and our amazing nocturnal wildlife, our quiet hours are 10pm to 7am, when noise is asked to be kept minimal. Such an exception would be event times like New Years Eve. We have found that camping is a great way to reset your Circadian rhythm - waking and sleeping according to the natural light & darkness , and a drink around a crackling camp fire super relaxing :) CONTACT: If you want me to send you more photographs of the camping sites/facilities , you can look up Otford Park or OtfordParkCamping on Facebook and contact me through there (can't send photos etc via HipCamp messages yet) WHAT TO EXPECT: We have horses, poultry, dogs and abundant wildlife so visiting pets must be either caged or leashed at all times. We have two waterproof dog beds available - just need to bring their blanket etc for softness As its a sanctuary for wildlife - absolutely No Hunting is permitted. Wildlife can be loud at times - morning and night, from the wild deer that wander through, to domestic roosters that like to visit. Its a bit 'farm country and wild bushland' tucked between Sydney and Wollongong Caravans/large motorhomes cannot access the rear of our property, due the narrowness of the track, but no problem for the many 4wd style camper vehicles. Necessities/consumables We have a supply of toilet paper, hand wash, hand sanitiser, insect repellent , fire lighters, mossie coils, matches, dish soap, paper towels and spray disinfectant. Its an honour system for use just while you're here, so please don't take them home with you. If you need to buy toilet paper for your next journey, just ask me. WHAT'S NEARBY: - easy walk to Otford railway station - easy walk to our free local tennis court just down the road -road walk up to Bald Hill lookout (famous for its hang-gliding and view of the Seacliff Bridge) or hike up the fire trail and around the Stony Batter headland - walk to Otford Lookout and the start of the many trails through the Royal National Park or the hike down (about 20 to 30min) to Bulgo beach to swim, fish or snorkel. Be sure to take water and wear comfy shoes - quick walk to the hidden entrance of the historic abandoned Otford railway tunnel entrance -its also an interesting and fun way to walk to Stanwell Park beach! Otherwise its just few minutes drive to Stanwell Park beach and Coalcliff Beach - all clean and beautiful or go further north to the many stunning beaches of the Royal National Park such as Garie, Burning Palms, Wattamolla - Darkes Forest - for trail horse riding, and the Glenbernie Orchard, for fresh apple and stone fruit produce and apple picking tours * * * * * * * * * * Off Leash Beaches - If you have a dog , it will probably love the northern end of Stanwell Park beach its been designated an off-leash area, north of the creek. - park your carpark of Park Parade. Sharkey's Beach, Coledale. A dedicated off-leash beach for dogs and surfers alike, all year round. Approx 10 min drive south. * * * * * * * * * * Others Sights & Activities - Four km to Symbio Wildlike Park - a lovely day out to see both exotic animals such as cheetahs or more local cuddly koalas and opportunities to hand feed kangaroos and wallabies. A water theme park will keep the kiddies entertained and cool too - On the way to Symbio is the beautiful Kelly's Falls - part of the Garrawarra State Conservation area & historic Princess Marina Cliff Walk. - Seacliff Bridge - Not to be missed and part of the Grand Pacific Drive along the South East Coast, Seacliff Bridge is now an iconic Australian landmark. It beautifully hugs the huge sandstone cliffs around the ocean, and is popular to tourist and film makers alike. - Cafes - yum! Walk to the Otford Pantry on the corner of Domville Rd and Lady Wakehurst Drive, open weekends for great coffee and pastries, overlooking the ocean. Then many other cafes in nearby Stanwell Park and Helensburgh - We are situated in a valley, with the Illawarra train line about 500m to 1km away, so occasionally you might here a coal train passing, or more interesting on many weekends the historic Cockatoo Run steam train comes through around 10am and on its return approx 6pm. If children are at the station waiting to see it, the drivers usually oblige with a friendly toot of the steam horn. - Horse Riding - Book ahead for trail rides at either the local Otford Farm in Lloyd Place, or can drive to Darkes Forest Riding Ranch - Wodi Wodi track at Stanwell Tops - if you're fit and love a challenging hike, the Wodi Wodi track can take you from the Hanging swamp around and down to Coalcliff. Water, comfortable shoes and insect repellent (for the odd leach) etc is essential, but the spectacular views at the top and destination make it worth it FOOD and PROVISIONS Helensburgh shopping centre is just 4km drive away. But if you're hiking on foot from the Royal National Park and would like basic provisions such as milk and bread available on your arrival, please let us know in advance, and we'll do our best to have them here. We have a generator run mini-fridge in the kitchenette to keep such items cold, if needed. TINY HOUSE If you'd like to sleep in a bit of luxury, check out our new tiny house listing here SYDNEY, WOLLONGONG &; BEYOND Otford is 9km by car to Waterfall, Sutherland Shire, 43 km to George St, Sydney CBD, 25km to Wollongong CBD. 44km to Bondi Beach, and 53km to Kiama. All can be accessed by train too. So the perfect area to set up base camp, whilst exploring greater Sydney, as well as the many beautiful spots within walking distance. HIP CAMP REVIEWS When reading and leaving reviews , please have a heart towards your camp hosts. The way the rating % works, it takes about 111 positive reviews out 112 reviews, to over-ride that 1 negative. So for the average Hipcamp, it takes a looong time, to get back to 99 or 100% positive feedback. If you have an issue onsite, please raise it immediately. I know the majority of hosts will try and rectify it for you.
from 
AU$60
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(672)

Jila Camp Grounds

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Yarramundi, NSW
Come and enjoy these river side sites with over 50 acres available to camp, bush walk and mountain bike. With over 600m of river frontage you'll be sure to find a secluded spot to swim, camp and fish. Located in the Grose Vally there are some challenging walking trails adjacent to the camp grounds. Just a 10 minute drive to Richmond, a town located beside the Hawkesbury-Nepean River, it is an interesting combination of modern outer suburbia with a significant number of important historic buildings dating from the 1810s and 1820s. Bring some loose change for a donation to Beyond Blue for kayak hire or to purchase some home grown avocados when in season. Extra vehicles can be paid for as an extra, this money is donated to Beyond Blue.
from 
AU$100
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(36)

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. We currently accept weekend bookings only. 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. There is firewood for a campfire during permitted times around the property. Loads of dried kindling and small logs, 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 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.
from 
AU$39
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(326)

'Elouera Vale' Farm

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents140 acres · Mittagong, NSW
Elouera Vale is a working farm located just outside Mittagong NSW. We breed and train camels for sale, especially into the Southern Highlands. Camels are excellent for weed control and co-grazing with cattle. 'Elouera Vale' also breeds Belted Galloway cattle, Dorper and Wiltipol sheep and donkeys. Our property covers over 140 acres, 80 acres cleared and pasture improved and the rest consisting of forest. The Chain O Ponds creek runs through the property and makes for a lovely walk. You will probably get to see kangaroo, wallaby, wombats, echidnas, koalas and lots of bird life. The lush green hills abound with walking and cycling trails. You can head to the spectacular Nattai Gorge via the Box Vale Mine walking track, an easy 4.4km circular walk that follows an old railway line through a tunnel to breath-taking views. Enjoy a picnic in the magnificent Lake Alexandra Reserve or hike up extinct volcanic peak Mount Gibraltar. The closest shops are approximately a 15 minute drive to the Mittagong Town Centre where you will find all the shops, cafes and restaurants for your needs. It is well worth a visit to ‘The Shaggy Cow’ cafe, one of our favourite foodie spots (don’t forget to mention Elouera Vale). While you're here please try the Cool Climate wines. The region’s rich soil and high altitude are ideal for cool-climate wine growing. Visit cellar doors in the hills and valleys around Mittagong, including Centennial Vineyards. Enjoy a pleasant wine tasting experience at Centennial (don’t forget to mention us). The Camel Cottage offers a luxe off-the-grid escape for couples just one hour from Sydney but feels like "miles from anywhere". The Gums Cottage is a fully contained, off-grid modern getaway, surrounded by the magnificent white gum trees that are its namesake. The serene setting and stylish interior of The Gums provides all the essentials for a picturesque and peaceful country escape. The White Gum Forest Retreat offers campsites nestled in a white gum forest, not far from a beautiful trickling creek. There is access to toilets and a small dam near campsites for water supply for showers where required. For a truly memorable experience we recommend hiring our function space, White Gum Forest Functions, which is available for day visitors as well as guests staying overnight in our cabins and campsites. Why not book your next special family group gathering, milestone birthday or wedding here! The function space can cater for up to 50 guests, please contact us with your time and date requirements before booking. Feel spoilt in the midst of beautiful waratahs, grevilleas and ferns, watching camels grazing in the adjacent paddock. It's like being on a safari! There is 5G mobile telephone reception at the farm so you can reconnect with the world if need be. No pets please.
from 
AU$65
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(513)

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.
from 
AU$21
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
Booked 24 times

Ingenia Holiday Sydney Hills

41 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Sydney, NSW
Located 30 kilometres north-west of Sydney in the suburb of Dural, Ingenia Holidays Sydney Hills provides an escape from the city or the perfect place to pull over for a few nights during a long road trip. Choose to pitch your tent, put down the caravan legs, park your motorhome or check-in to one of the cottages or cabins which accommodate anywhere from two to five guests. While the holiday park offers landscape grounds to relax, there’s plenty of adventure waiting to be explored – whether it be stepping it out along the trails of the Blue Mountains to throwing down the picnic blanket along the banks of the Hawksbury River. For those wanting to stay close to home, you’ll find a tennis court and swimming pool to keep everyone in the family entertained. Hire a brazier to test your campfire cooking during your stay or fire up the BBQ and prepare your meals in the camp kitchen.
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AU$39
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Misty Farm

10 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Robertson, NSW
100 acres of farmland and bush walks, old cattle yard, camping area near water. Located 700 meters above sea level on the escarpment, among the clouds. Firewood and wildlife at night, including wombats, black cockatoos, owls, and wallabies. Non-powered sites with no toilet facilities. Good access, water available if required, and wood available for the campfire area.
from 
AU$20
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(54)

Wedderburn Hideaway

5 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · 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 .There is a hot outdoor shower and a toilet on site just a short walk from all the camp sites. 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.
from 
AU$60
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(394)

"DeView"

8 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Central Colo, NSW
**FULLY BOOKED FOR EASTER LONG WEEKEND 29th -31st March 2024** Beautiful property, nestled into the Colo Valley, next to the pristine Colo River. We have cleared grassy paddocks, some shady areas, and private access to the Colo River, one of the most pristine rivers in NSW. Our river access is normally shallow, well suited to young families or those who just want to lay back and enjoy a quiet refreshing dip with a beverage or two. Amazing sunrises, sunsets, and star gazing are provided free of charge along with bird watching, local wildlife, and horses in surrounding paddocks. We offer limited sites to comply with NSW Camping legislation and Hipcamp guidelines and to enable campers to experience the Colo as it should be, listening to the beautiful wildlife and really appreciating the outdoors. (Long weekend 2 night minimum) If you'd like to book the whole property Contact the host for special rates and any questions and to check availability. Pets are allowed on a case-by-case basis, please check with Hosts prior to booking, as conditions and a charge applies. There is no mobile reception or internet access, therefore, providing a true off-grid retreat. Self-sufficient campers are preferred. There are fire drums available for use or you're welcome to bring your own subject to RFS bush fire danger ratings on the day. There are three communal flushing toilets and one awesome hot water shower! ALL waste is to leave with you! There are local bush walks through National Parks and great places for mountain bike riding although be mindful of holiday traffic in peak times on our local dirt roads. We have a local guide that may be available to take you on guided walks so you can truly experience the valley at its best without the worry of knowing where to go. Get in touch with the host to arrange a walk. The local shop, Colo Riverside is open 4 days a week just 10kms up the road providing last-minute supplies, ice, bottle shop, and cafe services. Please note: Due to our location bookings may be canceled at short notice in times of bad weather due to flooding, limited access, fire or flood warnings. We trust you will understand we are only looking out for your safety and of course, Hipcamp credits will be arranged.
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AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(843)

Rivers Run Colo River

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents26 acres · Central Colo, NSW
26 acres nestled along the Colo River! Just 1.5 hours from the Sydney CBD, this is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Come and enjoy a Glamper or camp site nestled on the banks of the beautiful Colo River with an abundance of birdlife to sit back and listen too. Rivers Run is great for people that would like some quiet time, as our sites are private and placed between natural bushland. Enjoy the sights of horses grazing in the paddocks .Close proximity to hiking tracks and mountain bike trails. There is a beautiful Rustic communal bathroom facility for guests to use with four toilets and three hot showers. We look forward to seeing you at Rivers Run :)
from 
AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(6)

Warm Corner

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Sydney, NSW
25 acres of rural land next to the Windsor Downs Nature Reserve. Town water available and all service road to pad . Next to treatment plant and subject major floods. Abundant wild kangaroos ,birds and wildlife including the occasional snake and fox. Backs on to South Creek not suited to swimming. Fishing allowed if the DPI Fisheries rules and regulations, licences are followed. Shared ammenities if needed. Bathroom, small kitchen and sink, microwave, kettle and toaster. Near the M7 close to Penrith, Windsor.
from 
AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
77%
(39)

Yerrinbool hobby Farm

9 sites · RVs, Tents17 acres · Yerrinbool, NSW
Yerrinbool is 1 hour from Sydney and a great spot to spend a weekend away, 15 mins from Bowral and 10 mins to Mittagong There are animals on the farm including ducks, chickens, goats, sheep and sometimes even baby cows. The property does need a little clean up but the rear of the property is nice and tranquil. We are directly next to the HWY so sometimes there is road noise, but it's a great location for an easy stopover. Easy access for caravans, keeping in mind the weather as like in all areas it becomes soft when wet. Please note, while we do permit more than one car per site booking, we only allow 1 caravan per site. So if you are in a group with more than 1 caravan, you will need to book multiple sites. Any questions, please let us know. We have Fire Pits in key locations around the farm PLEASE DO NOT move them as they signify each spot for camping. They have allocated spots and we do not need them moved. We also have a toilet in a small cabin close to the house for people who are using tents and water if you're required to fill your tanks or rinse off. We have two dams with yabbies you are welcome to collect. If you do collect some please be respectful in the amounts you collect and also throw some raw meat and or frozen veggies like peas and corn into the dam to provide food for the others to grow. Firewood is available to purchase at time of booking - see Extras.
from 
AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

The best camping near Royal National Park guide

Overview

About

If you were to design your ultimate outdoor playground, you’d likely come up with Royal. Flush with the southern suburbs of Sydney, Royal features more than 100 kilometres of walking trails that snake from exposed sandstone headlands and Aboriginal engravings to the low-tide Figure 8 Pools. The Coast Track, a spectacular two-day, 26-kilometre walking track, runs north-south through the park. Most visitors are day trippers doing only short bushwalks, so you can easily escape the crowds at either of the park's two hike-in camping areas. Don't miss the remarkable Wedding Cake Rock.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for overnight hikers: North Era Campground features tent sites for 36 people behind a huge Aboriginal shell midden (mound) on North Era Beach.
  • Best for cascade lovers: Uloola Falls Campground offers tent-only overnight stops for 18 hikers (and mountain bikers) beside a permanent waterfall.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Camping sites within the national park must be reserved and pre-paid (online or by phone) with a one-night maximum.
  2. Book early to secure a site on weekends.

When to go

Royal is busiest over spring and summer, with wildflowers colouring the heathlands in October and November (look out for towering red gymea lilies) and swimmers and surfers flocking to the beaches and waves on hot summer days. Consider visiting in autumn (April or May), for cooler walking weather, and in winter (June through August) to see the ocean at its most powerful and watch humpback and southern right whales migrating up and down NSW's South Coast. Both camping areas remain open throughout the year, and because Sydneysiders see Royal as their backyard getaway, the picnic areas and northern walks can get busy any time.

Know before you go

  • Royal is accessible by public transport, with metropolitan Sydney trains to Cronulla (where ferries head to Bundeena on the park’s northern boundary) and Otford, in the south. This is the best option for busy times when car parks are at a premium.
  • Park entry fees apply for vehicles. You can get a ticket from pay-and-display machines in parking areas or seasonal booths.
  • Park Connections provide a ticketed bus service between popular park destinations. Operating times vary through the year, and bookings are recommended.
  • Drinking water is not guaranteed at either in-park campground, so remember to check with the visitor centre before setting off.
  • The park can close when severe storms and extreme wildfire conditions are forecast.

Nearby attractions

Just an hour outside Sydney in the Royal National Park, Garie Beach is a semi-protected cove. Great for picnicking and exploring the sandy shores, this is one of the few patrolled beaches in the park.

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