The best camping near Cotter Dam, ACT

Cotter Dam: A Sanctuary of Serenity and Natural Splendour.

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Stories from the community

Lainie

5 days ago

16 ft Class B

1 night at Farmily Land

I really enjoyed my stay here. Yifu greeted me and showed me to a nice flat spot to camp for the night. I loved waking up to the Alpacas, geese, goats, magpies and sounds of the roosters. It’s an incredibly peaceful place. Toilet and shower block works well. Was great to have a warm shower! Yifu gave me an egg in the morning and it was still warm, freshly laid! I would love to return and spend a few days here.

Julie

5 days ago

49 ft travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Farmily Land

This was our second visit and it was just as welcoming. Our grandson enjoyed the farm tour and collecting the eggs. It is a convenient base to visit the Canberra attractions and the wineries etc around Murrumbateman. Thank you.

Edward

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

No issues except it is very windy our whole tent tore open on the last night :) toilets are fantastic.. sink to wash dishes... soap.. toilet paper firewood all there.. some kids play equipment camp fires... farm was very clean. Pond isn't good for swimming or fishing. We saw alpaca ducks geese horse goats sheep cooks quail guinea pigs rabbits..... owner very accessible if you need help. Very quiet location not too far out of town. Shops about 15mins away. Would definitely stay again.

Ben

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Burrendah Farm Camp

Amazing views!!! Highly recommend. Sarah is lovely. 5 stars!

Lara

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Farmily Land

Fantastic location, very friendly and easy going host and He even gave us some eggs on arrival. Getting there is very easy, just off the highway, then the road turns into a dirt road. Very quiet at night, toilets and showers are easily accessed and very clean. There’s clamping tents available but we stayed in our swag. You stay in a paddock of geese and alpacas. 20 mins drive into Canberra.

Mindi

2 weeks ago

19 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

Friendly owners and great location. Very relaxing.

Lee

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

The host was warm and accommodating, and the amenities were clean and well-kept—ensuring a comfortable stay.

Anna

2 weeks ago

26 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

We had an incredible stay at this farm campsite! The hosts were super kind and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The kids loved seeing and interacting with so many animals – there were chickens, ducks, alpacas, Angora rabbits, horses, goats, and quails! They also had a blast collecting eggs, playing on the trampoline, and swinging on the simple swings. The little lake was beautiful, and we even spotted pelicans there. Such a peaceful, fun, and memorable spot for families or anyone who loves nature. Highly recommend!

Olivia

2 weeks ago

13 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

We had a great stay :) The kids loved feeding the animals - and play area was perfect for the kiddies :)Yifu and family were wonderful!

Matthew

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Private Bush Camp Exclusively Yours

Very nice, open, private campsite. Sheltered area available to hang out down by the creek. Easy to get to following the directions provided. It was very windy on day two, so Martina allowed us to move to the larger campsite, which is more sheltered. It is a great site, with plenty of room for multiple campers. The shelter/kitchen area is fantastic, and it has a beautiful view down over the property. Martina is a great host, who went the extra mile for us to make our stay great. Would definitely stay there again, and highly recommend this property for your next camping adventure.

Harry

3 weeks ago

19 ft Class B

1 night at Maddara.Organic.Farm.and.Art

Was mine and my girlfriends first camp in Australia, Margot and Michael were super helpful and understanding. Pointed us to the best spot to pitch up which had a great view, woke up to kangaroos around us and a great sunrise. Super peaceful spot. The hosts also helped us with general travel advice around Australia, and directions to Sydney. Would recommend to anyone, and would love to stay again.

Julie

3 weeks ago

49 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Farmily Land

We enjoyed the picturesque surroundings very much. The ground was level and the campfire was wonderful. The sunny paddock was excellent for charging the batteries, but there was shade from some trees too. We were enthusiastically welcomed and shown where to camp. The alpacas and geese were friendly and wandered around the camp. We were even given a dozen fresh eggs! Highly recommend. We will be back!

Elle

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Burrendah Farm Camp

Gorgeous view, perfect for an overnighter with my kids. Sunset was beautiful. Had water at the site, even though we’d brought our own, and Sarah was great. Very welcoming and even took us around the farm in their 4x4. Kids loved it, slept like a log and would highly recommended for an overnight stay.

Dominic

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

5 nights at Maddara.Organic.Farm.and.Art

Really lovely location with beautiful and spacious spots. An especially wonderful area for digs to be off leash while still in a securely fenced area (which is huge!) The shower is a bit hit and miss. They’ve recently switched to an electric heater but it wasn’t working when in mattered so cold showers were endured. I imagine this will be fixed promptly though. This is a great spot with a very friendly host. Thanks Margot and Michael

Ashley

3 weeks ago

13 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee

We booked Site 3 but decided to upgrade to the glamping as it was a milestone day for us and also the last night of our trip. Jarabin is a great spot and one we have visited and camped at before. The hosts were wonderful to communicate with and we loved the BBQ meat package. The thin sausages were superb and we will be buying them again. It's a great spot on the river whether you decide to camp or glamp like we did. Well done to the hosts, it's a credit to their time and effort.

Mike

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

4 nights at Burrendah Farm Camp

We had such a lovely stay here. The property is absolutely beautiful with serene, wide-open views that make you instantly relax. It’s peaceful, well-kept, and a perfect spot to unwind after a big day. Highly recommend!!

SEUNGJU

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Farmily Land

I visited here again so soon. My son loves this place. And Yifu and his family are always very kind. Thank you!

Craig

3 weeks ago

1 night at Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee

Jara II is the ultimate rural getaway. Located about 70 km from Canberra along the Hume Highway towards Melbourne, it’s a place I can easily see becoming very popular for Canberrans looking to escape the city. We were fortunate enough to stay just one night while passing through from Queensland to Victoria, and I truly wish we’d booked longer. I’d say a minimum of two nights is ideal, and four would be amazing — there’s so much to explore in the region, yet simply sitting back and watching life drift by would be just as rewarding. Ben, the host, has provided absolutely everything you could want. His attention to detail and the small luxury touches are second to none. There’s another bungalow identical to Jara II a discreet distance away — close enough that two groups could book both and stay connected, yet far enough to ensure complete privacy. Down the hill beside the river is a large, flat paddock where Ben hosts campers in caravans, tents and the like. It’s an impressive spot in its own right, right next to a beautiful flowing river. While we were there, a group in canoes paddled by, taking on the gentle rapids. My wife found time to meditate on the hill, taking in the bird calls, while Ben’s cows wandered past — just as curious about us as we were about them. And the nights… oh, the nights. A sky full of stars, the kind you can only see in places like this, while sitting around a cosy fire. I’ll be dreaming about coming back to this majestic place.

Willa

3 weeks ago

36 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Miranda Springs Farm Stay

I stayed at site 5. Even though the sites are quite close, I was there by myself so it was no issue. Shared the paddock with sheep, kangaroos, lizards, rabbits and water birds. Lovely outlook over the little dam, and was able to see the bunnies and Roos hopping around. This is the second site I have stayed at where I didn’t meet the owners first up or at all. I have to admit that I prefer meeting the owners when I arrive, as a woman travelling alone it just feels better to meet the owners and know that I’m safe. This is just a personal preference, I’m sure others may not be bothered by it, but I appreciate the meet and greet. Other than that the stay was fine, location was great for an easy drive into Canberra, and communication with Janice was good also.

Edwina

November 2025

32 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Goolabri Estate

Lots of space for many campers. Clean toilets. Lovely outlook looking over the dam. Lots of kangaroos and ducks

Top-rated campgrounds

Burrendah Farm Camp

99%

(47)

11mi from Cotter Dam · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Wallaroo, NSW

200 acres of beautiful farmland situated on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Enjoy a campsite overlooking the stunning Brindabellas, a small spot next to the dam, if you bring your 4WD, or a fabulous site next to the old cottage that comes complete with a flushing loo! Our beautiful border collie, Sollie, will naturally want to come say hi no matter which site you pick. There are plenty of local food and wine venues in the surrounding area for you to enjoy. Pets are welcome but we do have livestock on the property, so please keep them on leash. Campfires are allowed as long as there are no fire restrictions in place. All campers must have their own supplies and be self sufficient as we do not supply any amenities: you will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet, shower and water. Please do not dig a toilet hole, even though you leave it covered, it doesn't take long for the foxes to dig it up!! There is mobile reception. No shooting, archery or hunting. Camper trailers and caravans are welcome but can only stay at the easily accessible camp site. Please note, the road to the river is now impassable even for 4WD - we will update here when it is back up to scratch. But you do get your pick of 2 other lovely sites!

Miranda Springs Farm Stay

96%

(65)

17mi from Cotter Dam · 6 sites · RVs · Springrange, NSW

Private and very easy to access caravan sites available just 20 minutes from Canberra City Centre and 10 mins to fuel, Aldi, takeaway etc. Plenty of room to turn around and sites are nice and level. Guests can enjoy our peaceful and scenic paddock away from it all. Plenty of wildlife to see, Birds, Kangaroos, Reptiles and Wallabies, the occasional Wombat and lovely easy walks. Try some yabbying in the nearby dam too if you like. We are just 7km from the Barton Highway and provide a very secure property that allows you to go off exploring with confidence. DOGS are permitted on LEAD only. Self contained vehicles. (toilet) required. Fires permitted when no fire ban, fire pits provided. Wood provided at cost on request.

Farmily Land

99%

(95)

18mi from Cotter Dam · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Springrange, NSW

Just a half hour out of Canberra, Farmily Land is an animal rescue, off-grid farm where you can have a day trip, go for a picnic, camp out, go fishing, feed and pat the farm animals, go boating or just relax and unwind with your friends and relatives in a leisurely way. There are a number of sites for caravans, vans, camping trailers, campers, tents, swags and a very unique ‘Glamping' option will be coming soon. We keep the sites spacious and well distanced so you can really feel the farms special vibe. We have dozens of friendly farm animals you can feed and pat! They are very interactive and most were rescued and hand raised by us so have very unique personalities. There is a nature playground for the kids. Very limited reception. We are pet friendly for well behaved dogs! We have a strict on-leash policy at all times and if your dog is off leash you might be asked to leave. Respect all our animals at all times. We have zero tolerance for disrespect for our farm animals. This includes off leash dogs and allowing your dog to go too close to the farm animals especially the Alpacas. Please leave no trace. Take all waste away with you, during your stay and when you leave. Be considerate of other visitors. Feel free to use the fire pits provided by the farm. You can purchase excellent firewood from the staff or bring your own. The scattered branches on the farm can be picked up and used at will. However, we have zero tolerance for the act of damaging living trees.

Goolabri Estate

95%

(625)

19mi from Cotter Dam · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · Sutton, NSW

You are invited to camp on what was once a golf course, and always has been surrounded by natural bushland. Situated only 20 minutes from Canberra, we offer you the opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in a peaceful country experience. There are dams to camp near, and a beautiful nature reserve where you can take a peaceful walk. If you would like to have a wander and experience some untouched bushland, please ask and we can provide simple directions. Bird watching and wildlife observation is unavoidable, and we recommend downloading the ACT Field Guide app. Enjoy your morning coffee surrounded by kangaroos and cockatoos. Suitable for Tents, Campers, Vans and Caravans, with good access for 2WD and caravans. Small campfires are permitted in designated areas, when restrictions aren't in place. You may use dead wood that you find on the golf course area as firewood. Please do not gather firewood from the nature reserve, for wildlife's sake. Pets are not permitted.

Coots Creek Campground

99%

(360)

21mi from Cotter Dam · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Murrumbateman, NSW

Beautiful 240acre cattle property for campers to enjoy the beauty of the land and its flora and fauna in a pieceful environment. Campers have enjoyed the easy accessibility, stunning sunset views and the peace and quiet of feeling like they are a million miles away from civilization. 2 Dams available for swimming. All sites in the Campground area are fenced and sited to give maximum privacy and safety from any fire threat, with plenty of room to place tents/vans/motorhomes for best viewing position. Campground Sites x 8 Beautiful private sites that feel like you are away from the rest of the world. Watch kangaroos, wallaroos and wedge tail eagles. Drive through comfort for large Caravans/RV. Toilets for your comfort nearby and potable water available for refill of tanks. Campfires are allowed unless there is a fireban. Why not hire a van if you have no equipment- they will set the van up on your site https://www.camplify.com.au/rv/caravan-rental-murrumbateman-nsw-viv-the-viscount/33909

PEACEFUL RURAL PROPERTY SUTTON, NSW

100%

(108)

23mi from Cotter Dam · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Sutton, NSW

Located on a sealed road, on 220 acres of land, approximately 5-6 minutes to Sutton or Gundaroo, 10 minutes to Gunghalin and 20 minutes into Canberra. The site is very quiet and private. Sutton village (5 kms away) has a toilet block and shower amenities available. A beautiful quiet location to stay. Close to a lot of amenities, such as Bakery, Wineries, Gundaroo, Mulligan's Flat Reserve and Gunghalin shops. Sutton has a world class bakery, we recommend chicken and leek or pepper steak pies. Gundaroo has an old world pub with local wines and food. The old police station at Gundaroo has been converted to a gourmet pizza restaurant, there is also an excellent restaurant named Grazing. There is also Eagle Hawke pub, which is very popular. There are numerous wineries nearby including Gundog at Gundaroo and all of the many Murrumbateman wineries. Water refill and waste disposal is available at Queanbeyan showground. The Mulligans Flat Reserve, about 10 minutes away, is a real first in Australia, given that a very large area has been set aside near Canberra to foster wildlife. A walk through the reserve is well worth while. Check it out. None of the above should be missed if you visit our area. Situated on a farm, our property has flat terrain in most areas. We have a land for wildlife reserve on site to explore native plants and wildlife. Sites are suitable for Tents, Campers, Vans and Caravans.Must have own amenities.• Check in: After 12 PM• Check out: Before 11 AM• Cancellation policy: Flexible • On arrival: Meet and greet • Minimum nights: 1 night• Accepts bookings: 1 month out Surface type: grass or field Surface levelness: flat Generators allowed Show less Approximately 30 minutes into Canberra. Owners live on site.

Kaemlai Park Bywong

90%

(10)

27mi from Cotter Dam · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Lake George, NSW

Only 17 minutes to Canberra, this camp site gives you the best of both worlds. The Camp site has access to a large Dam, and an active creek. Explore the creek, bush walk, swim in the Dam or just sit back and enjoy the serenity. Camp site has no facilities so this is only suited to self sufficient campers with own facilities.

Maddara.Organic.Farm.and.Art

99%

(149)

28mi from Cotter Dam · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Yass River, NSW

Once a much larger property, we purchased our 120-acre (50-hectare) in 1984 as a means to live sustainably and raise a family. Living in our shed whilst we prepared the garden, installed watering infrastructure, and built our house, which we finally moved into when our daughter was 6 months old in 1990. Over the ensuing years, we have continued to increase biodiversity on the property and set it up so we can live sustainably, harvesting our own water, electricity, and food. If you're lucky, you could get a hamper of our product when there is sufficient in season. With the increased biodiversity, you will find that in the mornings and evenings, kangaroos and wallabies will visit with the occasional echidna, rabbi,t and hare; and to forget the large array of bird life - that may wake you early in the morning with the songs. This campsite is set on lovely grassy open areas interspersed with gum trees. The sunrise looks spectacular near the dam, when the trees give off a lovely glow. The main paddock has a Geodome, a shared space for relaxing in. With all that space, you can park and set up camp anywhere in the paddock. There is access to drinking water, toilets, and a hot shower. Around the dome is a fire pit, drinking water, and a camp kitchen. The fire pit features an Argentinian BBQ and a plate for cooking. The kitchen has plates, cups, cutlery, and other bits and pieces for you to use. We also allow your pets to stay on-site; this includes horses. If you want exclusive use of the paddocks, refer to Group Bush Retreat.

The Lodge at Tinneburra

100%

(21)

29mi from Cotter Dam · 1 site · Lodging · Captains Flat, NSW

The Lodge at Tinnenburra is a secluded getaway just 55 minutes from Canberra. Located above the most picturesque waterfalls on the Queanbeyan River; the Lodge started as a humble fishing cabin and has evolved over the years into a cozy, off grid sustainable eco-house. Perfect for a family weekend away or a get together with friends to enjoy the beauty of the surrounds. The drive in through neighbouring farms and national parks sets the tone for the escape from the suburban surrounds of the Canberra region. Enjoy exploring the farm, the surrounding Yanununbeyan National Park or exploring along the gorges and flats of the river. There is an amazing array or native flora and fauna - spot the Platypus in the river gorges; the wombats on the flats in the evenings; the wallabies and kangaroos grazing in the paddocks nearby and more.

Michelago HILLDYKE 160 yr old farm

100%

(220)

32mi from Cotter Dam · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Michelago, NSW

**Please let me know if you are bringing a caravan, I can only accomodate caravans at certain sites with the weather** Our property is just 25 minutes from Canberra City but feels a world away, and offers a peaceful country paradise and wide open spaces. We have several sites for 100% self-contained campers, where you'll be spoilt with spectacular views of the Tinderry Mountains, access to undulating walking trails, and the Namadgi National Park nearby. On clear nights, the stars here are spellbinding. We have many animals here too! View our placid Scottish Galloway cattle (currently with calves!) pat our friendly poddy Cody and grab a photo opportunity. We also have a beautiful horse Ali and her yearling colt diesel, just watch your fingers with him, gelded now but still thinks he’s a stallion. 5 fat Dorper sheep look like running rugs running around. A real country experience! An Angora goat and slashed tracks to access the beautiful 130 acres around the farm. The small village of Michelago is 5km from our property, has the fuel servo and a terrific General Store, which serves great burgers and milkshakes plus much more. 20mins to the town of Bredbo with its own pub is great for counter lunches and dinners. The Town of Cooma, the gateway to the Snowy mountains is a 40 min drive south. Also if you want to go camping with friends and introduce them to the great outdoors and they don’t have the gear ask about our hire service of all things needed to have a great camp, some are listed but more is always available to hire, just send me a message. As one of our many happy Hipcamp guests have said the photos don’t do the views justice, they are truely spectacular:) Thats all folks, our paradise is your paradise to enjoy.

Forest Elbow

91%

(29)

32mi from Cotter Dam · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bungendore, NSW

We are a 5 min drive to the historic township of Bungendore where you can find plenty of shopping and cafes. It's just a 25 min drive to Queanbeyan and a 30 min drive to Canberra CBD. We are about 1.5 hours from Batemans Bay and the NSW south coast.The night sky here is mesmerising. The milky way core is visible from January through to November and is an astrophotographer's dream. Bring a camera!

Camp Rossi

91%

(99)

34mi from Cotter Dam · 6 sites · Tents · Bungendore, NSW

Small acreage about 400m from the Tallaganda State Forest which is known for picnic area with water wheel, lookouts, trout streams, bush walking, mountain bike riding and single track motorcycles.Campsites are beside the natural spring creek. The creek is suitable for swimming but a word of warning is it's freezing!Includes filtered rain water, shelter, toilet, gas BBQ, fire pit and free firewood.Not suitable for caravans at the moment. 2WD ok and suits camper trailers and tents only. Dogs welcome on a leash/restrained & well controlled.

The best camping near Cotter Dam, ACT guide

Overview

About

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Cotter Dam, where the rush of water and whisper of wind through native vegetation beckon adventurers and nature lovers alike. Here, the Cotter River's journey culminates in a stunning display of pristine waterways, offering scenic drives, bushwalking, mountain biking, and bird watching. While camping is not available within the reserve, the surrounding areas provide ample opportunities for overnight stays amid the wilderness.

When to go

The best time to visit Cotter Dam is during the milder months of spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer can be quite warm, making it less ideal for strenuous activities. Winter, while cooler, offers a unique beauty, though some tracks may be less accessible.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and plan your visit when conditions are favourable for outdoor activities.
Be aware that 1080 poison is used in the area for fox control, so keep pets on a leash and on designated paths.
Respect the prohibition of swimming in the catchment to protect water quality.
Remember that boating and fishing are restricted to certain areas; always follow local regulations.
Take care to leave no trace, ensuring trash is properly disposed of and the natural environment is preserved.

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