Best camping, glamping, and outdoor stays on the Hawkesbury River
Discover historic towns and national parks along the banks of the Hawkesbury River.
93% (9017 reviews)
- Hawkesbury River
93% (9017 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Hawkesbury River
Under $50
Dog-friendly getaways
12 top campgrounds in Hawkesbury River
94%
(1229)
Megalong Valley Farm
82 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · Megalong Valley, NSW
BEFORE YOU BOOK:
1. We are not permitting people to set up in the dark, it is totally black, no lighting in wilderness zone and far too difficult to locate your site, and it disturbs other campers.
2. If you have other campers coming make sure you book on the one booking otherwise you will not be placed together.
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 for fires 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. plus 3 in pioneer and 3 in corner paddock
SHOWERS: 3 gas hot water showers 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:
SCENIC RAILWAY 25 Klms away at Katoomba and 40 minutes travel time
BIKE and WALKING TRACKS: Plenty of bush tracks, plus walks up at Porters Pass and Blackheath
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 us of your anticipated time of arrival
Please forward this message to ALL persons in your group, thank you
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(1054)
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$18
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(813)
Fern Valley Ranch
20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Somersby, NSW
**FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE AVAILABILITY, PLEASE CHECK AND BOOK THROUGH THE CALENDAR (If you write to us, we may not get to your message in time)**
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** We are only taking Mon-Thu bookings during school holidays. Please check back here for updates if we start again 😊
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Are you looking for a retreat to get away from the city, or a refreshing alternative to a caravan park along your journey?
We have CAMPSITES nestled in our Orchard or in the Pine Trees paddock, (with nearby amenities); or for more of a comfortable and unique stay, try our CHARMING, CONVERTED SCHOOL BUS!
Fern Valley Ranch has it all- waterfall viewing, bush walks, animal feeding.
Unwind; relax by the campfire with quiet cup of tea (or a beer). Leave the city behind and tune back in to the birdlife and whistle of the breeze among the tall trees.
CAMP SITES- Max 5 campers (see Campsite Listing for number and type of dwellings allowed per site.)
SCHOOL BUS- Max 4 guests (no pets)- can book separate bus campsites after booking Bus.
SCHOOL BUS CAMPING- Get friends to camp next to you in the Bus.
*** NO ENTERING ANY WATER ON THE PROPERTY, YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE IMMEDIATELY IF YOU DO NOT RESPECT OUR RULES ***
If you want to swim, there are beaches within half an hour from our farm.
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We are just an hour between Sydney and Newcastle; and 15 minutes to Gosford.
THINGS TO DO IN THE CENTRAL COAST:
- Australian Reptile Park
- Great North Walk
- Fire Creek Botanical Winery
- Mount Penang Farmers Market
- Mangrove Creek Dam
- Many Cafes & chocolate shop
-BEACHES: The Entrance, Toowoon Bay, Shelley, Terrigal
- Gosford Regional Gallery
- Edogawo Commemorative Gardens
- Take a drive to the small village of Spencer
- Golf clubs
are all nearby.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$55
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(954)
Rivers Run Colo River
19 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 :)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(281)
Riverside Escape
4 sites · RVs, Tents44 acres · NSW
This property has been in our family for over 42 years. 2021 was the first year we have opened up to the public. Our slice of river paradise, we are one of the largest private properties left along the Hawkesbury river in Leets Vale. The property was home to the first school in Wisemans Ferry.
Set up just a few steps to the Hawkesbury River! The property has a stunning view overlooking the mountains.
Mid week you will enjoy complete serenity, on weekends it can get busier with people on the river.
Camp spots are a 10 minute walk from houses so you have privacy and we can maintain ours.
Chilled vibes only please, no parties or groups.
No pets, sorry.
No facilities, campers must be self sufficient and remove all waste.
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$55
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(381)
Mt Nellinda Campsite
31 sites · Lodging, 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.
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$32
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(91)
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.
We are a short drive to dine at Wiseman Ferry, and only 11 minutes from the local Woolworths. Or enjoy a beautiful walk at Fagan Park in Galston.
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 please bring your own. All Sites have fire pits.
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)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$39
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(569)
NSW Ski Gardens
6 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Wisemans Ferry, NSW
Attention! A Landslide has blocked access from Wisemans Ferry on River Road please (check live traffic) Road is closed at this stage
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$26
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(770)
Jila Camp Grounds
27 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$85
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(444)
"DeView"
8 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Central Colo, NSW
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. Sites are large spaces with distance between sites to enable you to enjoy the camping experience in your own space. If you are planning to stay with friends and you wish to share a site only 1 booking is required, the sites are large, some up to 30m x 30m.
(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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(409)
Myrtle Ridge farm
29 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Ourimbah, NSW
Private camp paddock located right on the banks of Ourimbah creek.
Walk track.
Loads of local fauna and close to all the Central Coast tourist attractions.
This circle campground is perfect for family get togethers or accommodation for a local wedding
The farm has been in the same family for over 80 years
This is a large flat paddock with loads of space and it is very private with a large hedge of trees surrounding it. Our Bottom Creek camp will also be open..
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(22)
Wildwoods
6 sites · RVs, Tents330 acres · Megalong, NSW
At Wildwoods you'll find 330 acres of natural bushland and a small amount of cleared farmland/paddocks with incredible views in every direction. Endless gullies, mountains, forests, cliffs, and caves to explore on the property or on the crown land adjoining.
An amazing amount of wildlife - Birds, wombats, kangaroos of all kinds (wallaby, wallaroo, eastern greys etc), goannas, echidnas, turtles, ducks just to name a few.
There are also plenty of roads to ride and explore via mountain bike or foot.
I have only owned this property for a couple of years so there is not much here, every camper that stays helps to improve and maintain the land for future use. The road in is a little rough, and there is only a small amount of levelled land. But it is still an amazing spot, where nature does all the hard work, and I would love to share it with people.
This is the perfect place for those who want to be in total peace and quiet, surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Each campsite is private, some more so than others - Read each description for details.
I allow self check in, but also love meeting campers. I won't disturb you unless you ask me to. If you would like to meet me, talk about the property, Megalong or the Blue Mountains I would be more than happy to come and see you - Just reach out on arrival. I have grown up in this area so can recommend just about anything! If you would like to meet the animals (goats, peacocks, chickens, geese, dog, cat) please just ask. I will accommodate wherever possible.
Update 25/4/24 - Please note, Megalong Road (the only access in to and out of Megalong Valley) sustained a major landslide on 5/4/24. The road is open, but there is boom gates, an escort vehicle and one lane open only. The journey down is slow, with tight corners, but it is beautiful. Take your time & enjoy it. Don't come in a hurry. The road has a 7.5 tonne limit.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Available this weekend
Star Hosts in Hawkesbury River
Best camping, glamping, and outdoor stays on the Hawkesbury River guide
Overview
Looping around Sydney, the Hawkesbury River winds its way from the Blue Mountains in the west to the estuaries of Broken Bay along the Pacific Coast. Set sail along the river on a boat cruise, ride the historic cable ferry at Wisemans Ferry, or stop at colonial towns such as Pitt Reach, Ebenezer, and Windsor. National parks flank the riverbanks, affording campers plenty of choices, and the region’s mild temperatures mean that outdoor activities are enjoyable year-round. Cruise around coastal estuaries, hike through rainforest gorges, discover glow-worm caves, or enjoy wine tasting at a Hawkesbury Valley winery.
Where to go
Hawkesbury
North of Sydney, Wisemans Ferry sits at the meeting point of the Hawkesbury and Macdonald rivers. Hiking, mountain biking, and canoeing are the main activities on offer in the neighbouring Dharug National Park, and to the north, Yengo National Park has thrilling 4WD tracks and remote bush campgrounds. Wisemans Ferry is also the starting point of the Old Great North Road, an important site in Australia’s convict history.
Broken Bay
The Hawkesbury River meets the ocean at Broken Bay, flanked by two coastal national parks. Cruise the waterways, fish along the coast, or trek between Aboriginal heritage sites in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. On the north shore, Brisbane Waters National Park bursts with colour during spring wildflower season—explore by bike, kayak, or boat, then camp at Pindar Cave.
The rainforest-clad peaks of the Blue Mountains rise on the horizon along the western section of the Hawkesbury River. Head into the Blue Mountains National Park to hike and mountain bike through the rainforest, ride the Scenic Railway to the Three Sisters lookout, and discover gorges, waterfalls, and natural swimming holes. Camping comes with views, too—pitch your tent by the creek or in tranquil forest valleys.
Australia’s largest city might not seem like an obvious choice for camping, but there are lots of ways to get outdoors in and around the Sydney. Swim and surf along the North Shore, cruise around Sydney Harbour, or even attempt a daring Sydney Harbour Bridge climb.
Top regions near Hawkesbury River
Top cities in and near Hawkesbury River
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.