River, stream, or creek and dog-friendly camping near Newcastle
Sunny shores, surf breaks, and golden sands await campers at this NSW beach town.
97% (4143 reviews)
- Newcastle
97% (4143 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Newcastle
Available this weekend
Under $50
12 top river, stream, or creek and dog-friendly campgrounds near Newcastle
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.
Potable water
Toilets
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Trash
from
AU$55
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(1060)
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.
Potable water
Toilets
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from
AU$18
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(410)
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..
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(31)
Willowbank
5 sites · RVs, Tents252 acres · Stroud Road, NSW
"Willowbank" is a stunning 252 acre property located in the picturesque Stroud Road 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. Enjoy the great outdoors without feeling overcrowded! We want our guests to be happy and have the best experience possible.
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. With two adjoining sites at The Paperbarks that can be booked seperately or if you would like the whole place to yourselves, book both! If the other sIte is already booked and you would like a little more space we have a few other areas we can show you. Alternatively, there are also two other sites further down the river, these are 4wd accessible only.
We do have an extra campground, Long Flat, suited to caravans and motor homes. This is available subject to weather and farming activities. Please contact us if you are needing room for a larger group.
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 10 minutes drive away).
Access to The Paperbarks sites is provided by the unsealed council road right to the sites. The sites themselves are subject to wet weather so 4wd vehicles are preferred though 2wd vehicles may be parked just off the road if it gets a bit wet. Please note, we do have a house up the hill from these sites. It faces away from the area though. The Rapids and Riverview sites are accessed via a laneway through the property. These sites are for 4WD VEHICLES ONLY with tents or camper trailers.
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.
Adjoining Site 1 (The Paperbarks) the larger of the sites 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!
Adjoining Site 2 (The Paperbarks) is slightly smaller and is also suited to camper trailers, caravans, camper vans or tents. It also has a flat area with some slight slope and river access. Put up your hammock between the trees and just relax.
Site 3 (The Rapids) and Site 4 (Riverview) are both private, flat sites with 4WD ACCESS ONLY. Bring your tent, swag or camper trailer and enjoy the river rapids.
The river bank is 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 (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 numerous birds, water dragons and wallabies that also 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 your pet has adequate tick protection.
We do have 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. Dungog is located 25 minutes drive away and also has many historic buildings and cafes etc.
Gloucester is 40 minutes drive and offers similar 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.
Campfires
from
AU$35
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(181)
Mandalong Manor
10 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · NSW
Mandalong Manor is set in a small valley partly cleared with lots of trees , creek and dam , peaceful setting , wildlife , wallabies , kangaroos , kookaburras cockatoos , occasional koala and wombat , goanna , deer can also be seen . There are a few nice spots for camping .
The property is just near Jimbo’s Industrial Art Emporium .
You may notice a collection of interesting vehicles , machinery and building materials on your way to the gate .
Please come in the main gate and contact me when you arrive ,
I will meet you there .
The camp sites are on the other side of the paddock .
Potable water
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from
AU$50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
93%
(405)
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.
Toilets
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from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
92%
(78)
Fernbrook
8 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Stroud Road, NSW
Nestled within the picturesque Karuah River catchment area, Fernbrook is a working poultry and cattle farm, set over eight peaceful acres, and just five km away from the historic Stroud township.
Spend evenings around the firepits (when fire restrictions are not in place), roasting marshmallows and stargazing under the night sky. Mornings are filled with the melodies of birds and wildlife, allowing you to truly reconnect with nature. Encounter local Red Necked Wallabies, Eastern Grey Roos, and the occasional Echidna.
A haven for birdwatchers, the area teems with bird life, including King Parrots, Eastern and Crimson Rosellas, Kookaburras, Yellow Tailed and Glossy Black Cockatoos, satin bowerbirds, and various honey eaters.
Mill Creek, which runs through the property, offers Bass fishing and summertime paddling and swimming opportunities. There is a short walking trail along the eastern bank of the creek to another small picnic area. Keep in mind this trail was created by and is shared with the local wildlife.
Adventure awaits just minutes from our property, as kilometers of public bush tracks cater to hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts.
Alternatively, explore the charm of Stroud, with its country pub, golf club, shops, cafes, and free public swimming pool. Local conveniences include our friendly country butcher and IGA supermarket. With roots dating back to the late 1820s, Stroud boasts a rich history as the headquarters of the Australian Agricultural Company. Join us each July for the renowned Stroud Brick throwing competition!
The camping area is caravan-friendly, but mindful access during wet weather is crucial to preserving the landscape.
Fernbrook welcomes your furry companions too but requires dogs to be supervised and leashed at all times for their safety and that of our livestock. Leaving dogs off-leash may lead to eviction without refund, and any harm to livestock or dogs must be avoided.
Basic amenities include a toilet (please bring your own environmentally friendly toilet paper) and shower. Campers may use our rainwater to fill their tanks, and hot water connections are available, with campers providing their own gas bottles. A small kitchenette equipped with a sink, cupboards, microwave, and power outlets for fry pans is available, with clear labeling of personal belongings.
We provide firepits for your enjoyment and offer firewood upon request for a fee. Alternatively, campers may bring their own firewood.
Please remember to take all waste with you upon departure.
Potable water
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from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(203)
Mistinthegumtrees BUDGET 2 GLAMPING
10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents106 acres · Cooranbong, NSW
Campsites are in our lovely small manicured bush garden setting. It's a level, grass/lawn shaded area. There are 5 x 15 amp powered sites. Suitable for small quiet groups/ families. Not suitable for loud partying. The state forest is a short 10min drive away for bush walking, mountain biking and 4 wheel driving. Beach is
40 min drive away. We are located close to the Central Coast and Newcastle. (In Cooranbong )
Our camp sites have access to three eco toilets and only one shared shower, rubbish facilities and drinking water. (Campfires) we have 5 fire pits on some of our sites , fires are permitted during the winter months.
We also have 2 x 4 star cabins which sleep 15 between them, they are listed separately on Hipcamp. However the guests from both the camp sites and the cabins have shared access to the pool and facilities. Which includes a large under cover patio area.
FRIENDLY PETS welcome. Small kitchen with microwave dishwasher and cook top and fridge may be used . Please just clean up any mess you make. For the next guest All cleaning products under sink. WE HAVE 2 DOGS that are people friendly., who love to meet new fury friends , they do have the run of our property .
As our property has a lot of maintenance lawns /gardens ; we may use mowers blowers etc , we will possibly maintain between 10 am to 2 pm If needed.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
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from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(8)
Kintelliko
4 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).
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
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Trash
from
AU$60
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(2)
99 Hipcamp
2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Cessnock, NSW
Close to vineyard concerts; close to vineyard restaurants; close to Hunter Valley wineries.
20 acres of 'almost parkland' with dam and small wooded area. Quiet and peaceful. Plenty of space to wander and explore.
Park you van on the high side, but walk anywhere.
And we have a very friendly cat called Gladys! :)
Places of interest nearby might be the Bimbadeen Lookout, the Watagan Mountains viewing areas, Mount view look out - close to Wollombi and Broke historic villages. Lots of markets held nearby too!
Campfires
from
AU$22
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(49)
Camp on Hunter (Elderslie)
14 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Branxton, NSW
Riverside camping at Elderslie near Branxton. Located on 6 hectares. Camp kitchen in shed. Bbq and wood heater in shed.
Well water. Port-a loo available.
Fishing, swimming, kayaks or just relax and watch bird life.
Dogs on lead. Level places for vans.
Fires must be contained, when fires are permitted.
Also a fire bunker for camp ovens - pending fire restrictions.
Gas hot shower available.
On the river means keep eye out for snakes in the warmer months.
Camping under gum trees is not permitted- see photo.
Toilets
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from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(10)
Wombat Flats Campsite: Martinsville
1 site · RV, Tent100 acres · Martinsville, NSW
Wombat Flats Campsite is an exclusive, private camping area at the back of our 100 acres. We only book one group at a time, so you will have the entire site and facilities all to yourselves! The campsite borders Watagan National Park and guests can access the park directly through our back gate for bushwalking activities. Our farm itself includes walking trails, a dam and plenty of native wildlife, including birds, wombats, wallabies, echidnas and reptiles. We are devoted to horses and care for a diverse herd that includes some rescue brumbies and other beautiful equines you may meet on your walks.
The closest cafe (Bistro Eden, a popular spot for coffee and food) is 15 minutes drive, and the closest Coles/Woolworths is 20 minutes drive away at Morisset. The Hunter Valley is an easy 1 hour drive away, with many wineries and restaurants to choose from. Fishing activities in Dora Creek or Lake Macquarie (15 - 20 minutes drive) are a popular pastime, as are beaches activities (45 minutes drive away).
Toilets
Campfires
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Cooking equipment
from
AU$70
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Star Hosts in Newcastle
Dog-friendly getaways
River, stream, or creek and dog-friendly camping near Newcastle 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.
Top cities near Newcastle
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.