Forest camping near Newcastle with fishing

Sunny shores, surf breaks, and golden sands await campers at this NSW beach town.

97% (2305 reviews)
97% (2305 reviews)

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12 top forest campgrounds near Newcastle with fishing

99%
(382)

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 hot showers. 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. DUE TO A RECENT BAD EXPERIENCE WITH A DRUNK CAMPER WHO THEN ABUSED OTHER CAMPERS., ABSOLUTELY NO "LOUD" MUSIC AFTER 10:00 PM. YOU WILL BE GIVEN TWO WARNINGS. ONE HOUR APART TO TURN THE VOLUME DOWN. IF YOU PERSIST IN BEING A SERIAL PEST, THEN YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE AND THE COPS WILL BE CALLED TO ASSIST EVICTION AND OFFER YOU A ROOM FOR THE REST OF THE NIGHT. 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$49
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(77)

Willowbank

5 sites · RVs, Tents252 acres · Stroud Road, NSW
"Willowbank" is a stunning 252 acre property located in the picturesque Karuah River valley with 1km of river frontage. The property has been in our family for 4 generations, being bought by Ian's great grandfather in the 1920's. We cater for guests that are looking to get back to nature and enjoy the great outdoors without feeling overcrowded! We want our guests to be happy and have the best experience possible. Why not follow us on Facebook @Willowbank Hipcamp and see what is happening on the farm and in our community! Located only 8 minutes drive from the historical town of Stroud which was settled by the AA Company in the 1820's as a food growing area. There are still many beautiful buildings from that period to explore. A dairy farm for many years, we switched over to beef around 15 years ago. Currently we run around 120 head of Angus and mixed breed cattle. Within 3 hours drive of Sydney and around an hour from the Barrington National Parks, Newcastle, Maitland, Forster and Nelson Bay, it makes it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway! We are offering four beautiful, partly shaded, camping sites along the pristine Upper Karuah River. All sites are separated for privacy and are all right on the edge of the river. All sites are site only and no toilet or shower facilities are provided. You will need to bring your own camping toilet or self contained caravan/ camper (which can be emptied at the dump point located in Stroud township, 8 minutes drive away). Access to The Paperbarks site is provided by the unsealed council road right to the sites. The site itself is subject to wet weather at times so 4wd vehicles are preferred though 2wd vehicles are normally fine. If it is a bit wet, cars may be parked just off the road. Please note, we do have a house up the hill from these sites. It does face away from the area though. Long Flat's access is through a gravelled lane and is usually fine to access with either 2wd or 4wd vehicles. The Rapids and Riverview sites are accessed via a laneway through the property. These sites are for 4WD VEHICLES ONLY with tents, camper trailers or small off road caravans. As sites are located along the riverbank, at times they are subject to flooding. This may mean that camping there may not be suitable at all times and you may need to move to higher ground in this event. The whole property is also cut off from road access during times of flood. Site 1 (The Paperbarks) is a large site and is suited to camper trailers, caravans, camper vans or tents. It has some flat areas and also some slightly sloping, with river access. Bring your cricket bat and enjoy a game or put up your hammock between the trees and just relax. Site 2 (The Rapids) and Site 3 (Riverview) are both private, flat sites with 4WD ACCESS ONLY. Bring your tent, swag, camper trailer or small off road van and enjoy the river rapids. Site 4 (Long Flat) is a private large flat site for 4WD vehicles with caravans. Perfect for larger groups. The river bank can be a little steep in places and access is via a track so please be mindful when walking. River shoes are also encouraged as the rocks in the river can be slippery. Perfect for a relaxing stay in summer with swimming, canoeing or floating on your raft down the river. Bring your fishing gear for some relaxing bass or mullet fishing during the summer months (catch and release is encouraged). The pristine river is also home to platypus which can be seen early in the morning or late afternoon from the campsites. Please do not try and interact with these beautiful animals, photography is encouraged though! There are also numerous birds, wallabies, possums, water dragons and various other creatures that inhabit the area around the campsites. Sit around the camp fire (restrictions permitting) and watch the stars with family and friends. Firepits are provided for use, subject to fire restriction periods. Remember to bring wood with you! There are opportunities for bush walking, bird watching and mountain bike riding over the back of the property. It is a bit of a hike to get to the access but well worth it, with beautiful views from the top of the mountain as well. Our farm is a working beef cattle property. Please be mindful that cattle and horses have free range of the property, which includes the road, so take care when driving. There will also be at times motorbikes, chainsaws and vehicles operating around the farm as well as on neighbouring properties. We will endeavour to keep the noise away from campers where possible. There will also be the odd cow/horse poo and mooing at night in case anyone has an issue! Small to medium dogs are allowed but must be on a leash at all times. This is due to there being working dogs and cattle in the area. Sorry, NO LARGE DOGS allowed due to past issues. Please also be aware that we are in a tick prone area so make sure you and your pet has adequate tick protection. We do have TV and mobile phone reception with Telstra and Optus on the property. Historic Stroud township has a supermarket, butcher, chemist, cafes, a club and pub along with swimming pool, playground and skate park. There is also a great gin distillery and restaurant, The Farmer's Wife, located at Allworth around 20 mins drive away. Dungog is located 25 minutes away and also has many historic buildings, boutique shops and cafes etc. Gloucester is 40 minutes away and offers similar attractions as well as access to the World renowned wilderness of the Barrington Tops National Park. We hope to make your stay a pleasurable one with many happy memories made. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. ***sorry no parties allowed*** Your hosts, Jo and Ian.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$35
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(764)

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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
93%
(423)

Cranky Rock Hunter Valley

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Sweetmans Creek, NSW
Set at the base of the mountains on a beautiful valley floor, located in wine country in the lower Hunter Valley, Cranky Rock gets its name from a 25 tonne sandstone rock that graces our home. The 120 acre working beef and horse farm is situated a scenic 2 hour drive North from Sydney or 1 hour East from Newcastle. Whether you chose to stay of one of our campsites or in our pioneer-style cottage, all visitor being awoken to the natural bush sounds of lyre birds and cooling their heels in the crystal creek at the bottom of the property. On your way in or out, be sure to check out the boutique village of Wollombi which is just 10 minutes from Cranky Rock, where you'll enjoy wine tasting, fresh produce and quaint cafes. Other must-see's in the area include the Olney State Forest and the Wattagan National Park.The property is located just off a scenic drive, over a 2wd accessible creek crossing. It is peaceful and secluded. Campers can used shared kitchen and bathroom facilities located at the top of the camp area. Dogs are welcome, but as it's a working farm, we ask the remain on leash at all times. 
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Cooking equipment
from 
AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(456)

Dean's Green Paddock, Hunter Valley

12 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Martins Creek, NSW
Welcome to our hobby farm, with a pretty creek running through the lush green acreage. Along with our primitive camping areas, we have an outdoor petting zoo, that kids will love. We also offer holistic music tuition and are a counseling-accredited venue. We have 100 fruit trees, a very wealthy veggie garden, herbs, poultry, sheep, and beef. Wake up to fields of native birds and wallabies. We love animals, so your dog is welcome too! There is a swimming pool you are welcome to use at your leisure and a toilet and shower you can access. The property is 20 min walk to the train station, and the local pub, post office, and shops are just a 7-minute drive away. There is so much to delight kids here. They can feed the goats, sheep, ducks, pigs, chooks, turkeys, and guinea pigs! They can meet Brownie the horse, help care for the baby chicks, and hunt for chook eggs! They can feed the baby ducks and turkeys and socialize with the geese! We have various equipment you can hire, including golf clubs, bbq, chairs and tables, and push bikes. For the family we can organize coits (a traditional Aussie hoop game) and a True Blue Aussie damper or doughboys for you to cook in the fire (all you need to bring is some flour). Firewood can be supplied by arrangement. Please go to YouTube and search "Deans Green Paddock" for a walkthrough. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$45
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(474)

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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(466)

Platypus Pools

5 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Monkerai, NSW
Premium and exclusive natural camping at its best. Our farm is located on the beautiful Karuah River in the picturesque Monkerai valley. The river is a fresh mountain river running from the foothills of Barrington Tops. We only offer 5 sites which are all well spaced out across our 300 acre property giving you absolute privacy and a sense of serenity. We were very pleased to have been recognised by Hipcamp as being one of the top 20 Hipcamp locations in NSW for 2022. Most of the year the river is lovely and clear and ideal for swimming canoeing floating on airbeds fishing photography or just enjoying. There is also some really nice bike riding and walking opportunities around the valley although you will be on gravel roads and we are only 25 min drive from the popular Dungog mountain bike park. You are likely to see a variety of birdlife other wildlife including black and white cockatoos ducks some lizards, occasionally wallabies, echidnas and if you are lucky a Platypus or two. We are fortunate to see platypus in the river frequently which is a sign of just how pristine the water running down from the mountains really is. You will have your campsite completely to yourself with no other camper near you . Privacy, tranquillity, relaxation and just enjoying nature is waiting for you. Be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution. With some lovely Spring rain the river is running beautifully and is great for a swim, fish or canoe. Swimming, canoeing and running the rapids on surf mats is always popular at our property and as long as the river is it normal levels and a lot of fun. However, we always highly recommend people wear some form of footwear in the river such as rafting sandals or old joggers or similar as the rocks are very hard on your feet and there’s a particular nasty little fish called a “Bullrout” that whilst rare can infect a nasty sting if you tread on one. No need to be overly concerned but be mindful. Our property is ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, it’s up to you. There are no toilets so only suitable if you have your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All toilet waste, leaving our property is very important and an absolutely essential requirement for all visitors. Public waste dump points are at Stroud, Dungog and Gloucester. Gloucester Dungog and historic Stroud village are nearby as well as Barrington Tops World Heritage wilderness area and national park. This is an operating farm and therefore farming activities such as cattle droving, fencing, grass cutting or hay making may occasionally be occurring somewhere near your site but we would always let you know. We are sure you will enjoy our farm far more than a crowded traditional caravan park or campgrounds. We do have some limited bags of firewood for sale at $20 a bag most of the year. These are heavy bags of very dry local Hardwood. You can also collect firewood along the riverbanks yourself or bring your own firewood for a campfire (subject to any fire restrictions) if that is easier and more convenient for you. When you make a reservation at the property we will always endeavour to put you in your preferred location as best we can. However if we are impacted by adverse weather or need to run cattle on certain parts of the farm then we may need to make a change to the actual site you are in and trust you understand. We look forward to you visiting our farm.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$100
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(37)

Peaceful Pond

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · The Branch, NSW
Peaceful Pond is our 10-acre property in bushland, just 15 minutes from the village of Karuah, NSW. The pond has an island, reached via a floating bridge. Enjoy the tranquility of listening to the abundant birdlife, or swim in the cool, clear water, among the waterlilies. If you prefer more activity you can paddle a kayak or go for a bush walk. There are pushbikes available to ride through the bush tracks to the river, if you feel energetic. You may see wallabies and kangaroos, goannas, and even echidnas. The dark night skies are ablaze with stars for you to enjoy. Tim and Vicki will welcome you with some fresh eggs for your breakfast, and give you access to drinking water from their rainwater tank. We offer several camping sites tucked around the property. All for self-contained campers, with no access to power or running water, so campers must have their own toilet. Fires are permitted in firepits provided when weather and fire ratings allow. Firewood is provided. Pets are welcome, as long as they are on a lead or under close control, to ensure the safety of the wildlife. Relax, unwind, and listen to the sounds of nature.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(29)

Hunter River Bush Camp

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Greta, NSW
Located in the heart of the Hunter Valley. Come stay with us at the Hunter River bush camp, located on our 20 acres! The campsites are located on our lower paddock - secluded and private. You will be likely not see another human in your time down there. Theres plenty of space for large groups and vehicles. IAs to maintain the private and secluded nature of this site, we have limited the space to 1 site only so youll have the place to yourself! The Hunter River is a short 5min walk down the stone steps, where you can fish and swim. The property has good access - less than 10mins from Hunter Expressway. 1hr40mins from Wahroonga, 40mins from Jesmond Full phone coverage on all parts of the property Fires are permitted - firewood available for purchase during booking. Dogs are allowed. Note that there are no toilets provide, this is a bush camp.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$45
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Forest camping near Newcastle with fishing 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 aboundseek 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.

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