Forest camping near Newcastle with campfires
Sunny shores, surf breaks, and golden sands await campers at this NSW beach town.
96% (4435 reviews)
- Newcastle
96% (4435 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Newcastle
Dog-friendly getaways
Available this weekend
12 top forest campgrounds near Newcastle with campfires
98%
(397)
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
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from
AU$32
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Booked 21 times
"40 Acres"
82 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Palm Grove, NSW
* Please note, we will have a group of 30-50 people camping over the October long weekend. There is plenty of space for everyone, however if you are looking for privacy and seclusion this may not be the weekend for you. The group is very friendly bunch that value feeling free in nature, so there may be some nudie bums around! *
If you need to take a break from the hustle and bustle of civilisation this is the place for you! Our little valley is located 90 minutes from either Sydney or Newcastle, but feels a million miles away. We are nestled in the middle of lush rainforest, at the meeting of two ever flowing creeks. The Great North Walk is literally on our doorstep, and a lovely 2.5 hour walk loops around the property through the surrounding National Park. We have 2 paddocks available for campers to enjoy, as well as our "TajMaPoo" comprised of 5 compost toilets and 5 showers (4 hot, 1 cold). We also have a large rustic shelter with lounges which acts as a wonderful communal gathering space. We absolutely love sharing this piece of paradise with any nature lovers who are respectful and kind to this pristine environment we are lucky to call home.
We ask any and all campers to please follow the following rules:
- "leave no trace" anything you bring in you must bring out. This includes all rubbish, which must be taken home or to a public bin, but NEVER placed in any of the bins along our road
- please drive slow on the road in and out of the property, taking extra care around horses and any pedestrians or cyclists during the day, and of course wildlife at night
- please treat the toilets/showers with care and respect. If you make a mess clean it up, and leave the space ready for the next person to relax and take care of business :)
- All dogs must be friendly (to people/strangers, children and other dogs). Dogs must remain in owners eye-sight and under their control at all times. All poos in open grassy areas must be picked up. Please ensure dogs are treated for ticks, as these are around and can be lethal for our beloved canines.
- Fires only in receptacles that do not affect the grass. There are two communal fire circles already set up in the main paddock, which you are welcome to use. Please do not leave any metal or rubbish in communal fires.
Pets
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from
AU$28.05
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(1141)
Bunyip's Camp
19 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Martinsville, NSW
At the foot of the Watagan mountains, close to the Watagan 4WD tracks, picnic areas, and bike tracks. Also close to Lake Macquarie where you will find fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing etc. About a 20 - 40 min drive to beautiful beaches.
Ideal for those wanting to be surrounded by birds, nature and a couple of friendly doggos. Also great for people wanting to try out their new camper, van or tent for the 1st time as we are an easy 1 hour drive north of Sydney on the M1 and close enough to shops for those forgotten items.
Also we have unfenced dams, if you are camping with young children please consider carefully and let me know before booking.
We have very basic bathroom facilities of 1 flushing toilet in the shed and an outdoor warm shower.
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from
AU$18
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(731)
Wattle Valley Farm
33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Paynes Crossing, NSW
Wattle Valley Farm lies is a 100 acre property, bounded by the iconic Wollombi Brook, which many native wildlife call home. During your stay, you might even come across some of our friendly native residents like wombats, kangaroos, echidnas, goannas, kookaburras and black cockatoos. We also have a number of short walks you are welcome to take if you want to explore the property while you are here, including local Aboriginal cave art and our beautiful scenic river walk.Wattle Valley Farm is located in the heart of the Wollombi Valley and the Hunter Valley wine region, making it an ideal base while you explore everything the region has to offer. The historic village of Wollombi is only five minutes up the road, and has a lively cafe scene, unique experiences and the famous Wollombi Tavern. Meanwhile, the popular Broke and Pokolbin wine regions are a short 30-40 minute drive along the beautiful, meandering country roads.
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from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(520)
Spirit of the Forest
19 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Boolambayte, NSW
Spirit of the Forest is one of the oldest properties in the area. Many years ago it was an old dairy farm, but it has been through many transitions since then.... uniquely situated only a few kms. from the majestic "Grandis" tree it has an abundance of wildlife close by, wallabies come out to feed on the pasture at dusk and dawn, mighty eagles soar overhead and beautiful Arabian horses run free in the paddocks.Trevor and Maya moved here from Berry NSW 17 years ago. Trevor is an internationally acclaimed entertainer and horse whisperer and Maya is an artist, author and lecturer. Both found the property a haven from their busy schedule of performing overseas.A unique 70 acre Arabian horse property, surrounded by Myall Lakes National Park 4 kms from "The Grandis" the tallest tree in NSW and 10 kms from Bulahdelah Town also near to beautiful North Coast beaches. There are many beautiful areas to choose from to camp, as well as a cabin.A portable 240v generator (1) is available for hire $10.00 a day, fuel included, advance booking.
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from
AU$45
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(86)
Hunter Valley Hill Top
32 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Lovedale, NSW
Situated in the heart of the Hunter Valley, our 300 acre property boosts spectacular views over Hunter Valley and Wine country. Set amongst all the wineries this is the perfect spot to camp, set up your caravan or motorhome.
We offer showers, toilets, BBQ facilities, function room, kiosk, campfire area, courtesy bus to our local hotel, concerts, wineries and much much more.
We offer an extensive range of activities that include horse riding, tractor hayrides, ATV tours including a horse stud tour, bush walking, cray fishing, kayaking, spot lighting and more.
Our Property boasts a fantastic array of wildlife, kangarros, wallabies, goannas, Wedge Tail eagles, Black Cockatoos, Possums etc etc.
COME STAY AND PLAY AT HILL TOP!
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from
AU$120
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(342)
Fame Mountain Camp - pets welcome
7 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Pindimar, NSW
We are a "farm stay" style camp in an actively managed pine forest located in the middle of the north shore of Port Stephens. There is lots of space for campers so you will have privacy whilst you enjoy your camping adventure.Our property is conveniently located just 5 mins off the Pacific Highway but a world away. You'll be 2 mins away from Pindimar Beach and 11 mins from Bennetts beach and Jimmy's beach. Good fishing pretty much everywhere you can wet a line.
We have clean flush toilets and showers facilities.
The campsite has good Mobile Phone Signal.
Free firewood. Each campsite has its own fire pit.
Pets are welcome, but please pick up after them.
If your dog is on the government list of restricted breeds or on the dangerous dog list please leave at home
We have a gentle and well trained German Shepherd who adores kids but she likes to stay inside the house and doesn't wander around the campsites .
Important Note: PLEASE PUT OUT YOUR CAMPFIRE WHEN YOU LEAVE YOUR CAMPSITE TO AVOID STARTING A BUSH FIRE. NO LOUD MUSIC AFTER 10:00 PM.
PLEASE NOTE: 1) We have a maximum of 2 camper trailers or caravans or motorhomes or any combination thereof per site. No limit on number of tents.
2) IF You Have more than 3 vehicles/site please contact host before booking.
3) Depending on the weather on the day, we may have to limit the number of vehicles that can be parked adjacent to your campsite.
Please note this property is a working private pine forest. Therefore, as and when the weather is right we could be, logging the forest, milling the logs, or drying the large dimension traditional timber framing lumber. In the near future we will be running sustainable building classes from the property. i.e. showing people how to economically build their own tiny homes using timber sourced from their own land.
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AU$49
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
90%
(15)
Kintelliko
3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Newcastle, NSW
A beautiful flat grassy bed for your Rv, caravan or tent awaits you at Kintelliko. Kintelliko means “to laugh” in the local Awabakal language and we hope to share our joy of living on this beautiful acreage nestled into 100 acres of bushland - yet only 5 minutes to the beach, lake and shops.
Your fully powered site has everything you could need. A compost toilet (sorry you have to share it with the brush tail possum who’s decided it’s nice there), an amazing outdoor hot shower made from a huge sculpture, an outdoor kitchen with BBQ and stainless steel benches (it’s out in the open).
Here's a list of nearby things to do! https://maps.app.goo.gl/dTWofk8ToBP8aD6x9
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AU$48
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(116)
Camping @ Emerald Park Equine
34 sites · RVs, Tents112 acres · Mandalong, NSW
Located at Mandalong, a small rural community near the town of Morisset and west of Lake Macquarie, New South Wales.
The established green 112 acre equine property has the Watagan Mountains as the backdrop. We are approximately 5 minutes off the M1 Motorway and 1 hour drive north of Sydney.
For those wanting to explore further, we are 40 minutes out from the Hunter Valley and a nice drive to stunning local beaches, cafes and restaurants.
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AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(7)
Gateway to Port Stephens
6 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Salt Ash, NSW
Our 25 acre property is set on rural farm land adjacent the Worimi Conservation lands at the gateway to beautiful Port Stephens and the Tilligerry Peninsular.
We are located 40 mins from Newcastle ,20 mins from Birubi Beach Anna Bay the northern end of the 32 km long Stockton beach which is well known for its giant sand dunes and great surfing, you can also go for a camel ride while you are there ,it's 30 mins to Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay which has several beautiful beaches and great restaurants.
Next door is Oakvale Wildlife Park and close by is Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters and Go carts Go ,a boat ramp to the Tilligerry river is 2.5 kms away which is a great area to fish and kayak .
Popular bushwalking tracks are also nearby.
Our local shops including a Bp foodworks, bakery, bottle shop, fruit and vege and Take away are a short 2.5 km away.
Also close by is Murrays Brewery and Sunset Vines both with great food , wine , beer and weekend entertainment.
On our property we have tents sites available as well as room for RV's.
A toilet is available and water for onsite usage only and we ask that you conserve water usage as we are on Tank water.
Electricity hook up is available and we also have a power source for you to charge your phones and Laptops if needed.
We supply a fire pit and firewood for your use when there are no fire restrictions in place.
Dogs are welcome and must be kept on leash during your stay as we have horses on our property.
We are in a rural area so there will be mozzies so bring your insect repellant
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from
AU$60
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(459)
La Cascina
3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Floraville, NSW
*****No toilet or shower available at this listing. You must bring your own. PLEASE BE AWARE ENTRY TO THE PROPERTY IS STEEP. Entry is not ideal for large caravans or campervans. *****
We do not allow fires at the campsite between the 1st of October and the 1st of March. We apologise for any inconvenience to this rule.
La Cascina is a small property on a hill surrounded by trees and bushland. There are two main camping areas which would suite tent and small to medium van/car camping. There is access to neighbouring bushland with nice short walks available in the area. Only 20 minutes by car to Newcastle CBD, 10 minutes by car to Redhead Beach and 5 minutes by car to Lake Macquarie.
La Cascina is a great spot to stop overnight on a road trip or to get away for the weekend to relax. We have no toilets so please bring your own. The access to the property is a steep sealed driveway.
Site 1 is an open site with plenty of shade. The area is flat. More suited to larger camping setups. This site is less private. There is vision of the neighbouring property and an overflow campsite 50 meters away.
Site 2 is a more uneven surface area which is better for smaller vans and tents.
Redhead Beach is the closest dog beach 10 minutes by car.
Croudace Bay is a dog park on the lake which is 5 minutes by car.
This is a family owned acreage that brings the best parts of environmental living with the benefits of being close to the coast and a city. A very long time ago it was the site of a quarry. The nature has returned and we are left with a beautiful forested acreage.
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from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(101)
Arcadia Family Campsite
32 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Martinsville, NSW
The whole property affords total peace, privacy and above all
tranquillity. Set in the splendour of rural Martinsville, backing onto both the Watagan and NSW State Forests, it is a combination of grassland and bush. The whole property is very private, peaceful, picturesque and also
a Wildlife Refuge. It is home to a resident mob of wallabies, fallow deer, numerous amphibians, native birds, flora and fauna. The billabong affords ample opportunities to view and enjoy a nature experience.
Flat sheltered grassland with camp shelter/BBQ .
Choose your own campsite. Please note: There is a 2 .5 tonne limit on the road and bridge entering the property. Due to the small size of the bridge, the even
weight distribution between cars and small trailers of 2 tonne or less are permitted.
Due to the location and the calm nature of the surrounding areas Arcadia is
not a party venue. It is an oasis of peace and tranquility and a wild life reserve . Although, it is a family oriented property, we also welcome couples and small groups, for those who are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and come back to nature. In order to maintain the serene and quite nature of your visit but also, to comply with social distancing requirements, we only accept
a maximum of 25 guests (including children) per day.
Loud music and loud noise is not permitted.
There is no fee for children
under 3.
Potable water
Toilets
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from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Under $50
Star Hosts in Newcastle
Forest camping near Newcastle with campfires guide
Overview
Whether you’re a beach lover, adrenaline junkie, or just want to get outside, Newcastle makes a strategic base for discovering central NSW, just a two-hour drive north of Sydney. Head beachside for surfing and water sports, venture inland to hike through rocky gorges and kayak around alpine lakes, or go wine tasting in the Hunter Valley. Camping options abound—seek out remote camping grounds in the heart of the hinterlands, enjoy a glamping experience complete with a traditional campfire BBQ, or park your campervan or camper trailer at a holiday park with a swimming pool.
Lake Macquarie
Just a short drive south, camping spots around Lake Macquarie afford easy access to the town and Stockton Beach. A popular getaway for Sydney-siders, there’s plenty to do, from boat cruises around the lake and bushwalking in the mountains to dining at lakeside restaurants or lounging on sandy beaches.
Great Lakes
North of Newcastle, the road to Port Macquarie passes through one of the most scenic stretches of New South Wales coastline. Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and water sports in the Great Lakes region, where the Myall, Smiths, and Wallis Lakes are bordered by both beaches and rainforest. Pitch your tent in Myall Lakes National Park, or check into one of the camping sites or caravan parks around Forster and Bulahdelah.
Greater Blue Mountains
Extending north of Sydney all the way to Newcastle, the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area encompasses the Yengo, Wollemi, and Blue Mountains national parks. Adventurous campers can sleep beneath the mountain stars in wooded camping grounds or trek to remote campsites accessible only by 4WD. Get set for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
When to go
Newcastle’s balmy summers (December through February) are the ideal time for coastal road trips or mountain getaways, escaping into the hills or cooling off at the region's lakes and beaches. Spring and autumn are the best times for hiking in the national parks, with spring flowers and autumnal leaves brightening the landscapes. Crowds dwindle in winter, but many campsites remain open and the weather is still mild enough for caravanning.
Know before you go
- Regular buses run between Sydney and Newcastle, as well as to other destinations along the Central Coast, but having your own transport is preferable for exploring the region’s national parks and state forests.
- Newcastle has a number of grocery stores and camping gear shops, where you can stock up on supplies before heading out.
- Fire bans are common in New South Wales during summer and dry periods, so be sure to check local recommendations before lighting your campfire or using designated firepits.
- A National Parks pass is required to visit, hike, or camp in Australia’s national parks
Nearby attractions
- The best surfing beach in the Pacific Palms precinct, Boomerang Beach's unique shape, and rock formations give consistent and powerful waves.
- An exciting adventure for anyone camping near Port Macquarie, Caves Beach is home to much more than just stunning ocean views.
- Clean sands and rolling green hills are dotted with remnants of the once bustling coal mining operation at Catherine Hill Bay.
- Perfect for surfers, offroaders, and nudists alike, Samurai Beach is a hidden gem that has nothing to hide.
- Small and secluded, the 400-metre shoreline at Frazer Beach lies in a serene protected cove. Perfect for groups with younger campers, the calmer waters inside the cove are great for cooling down after a long day of exploring.
- A lengthy stretch of golden sands against the backdrop of Belmont Wetlands State Park, Nine Mile Beach is known for its natural beauty and immersive 4WDriving experiences.
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.