Camping near Sydney with swimming
You’ll be surprised how many camping getaways you can find near Sydney, Australia’s largest city.
93% (3517 reviews)
- Sydney
93% (3517 reviews)
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12 top campgrounds near Sydney with swimming
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
95%
(570)
NSW Ski Gardens
6 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Wisemans Ferry, NSW
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
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from
AU$26
/ 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..
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Trash
from
AU$50
/ 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
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Toilets
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from
AU$85
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(283)
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
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
100%
(196)
Buxton Getaway
3 sites · RVs, Tents19 acres · Buxton, NSW
Located just one hour from Sydney, our property features 19 acres of pure serenity with two dams and one large enough to kayak on (kayaks supplied). The back of the property is perfect for camping and suitable for a small to medium caravan/camper.
The larger dam has a picnic area and kayaks available to paddle on.
Adjoining our property is Nattai National Park with a lovely 20 minute walk down to Little River. The Aqua Pool Trail in the National Park is just gorgeous.
If you wish to try and catch some yabbies from the dams the only allowable and fun way is by a long stick and sausage. Hooks, fishing lines and traps are not allowed as we have people, dogs and horses swimming in the dams.
We welcome self-contained campers who bring their shower/toilet set up. We do have two drop pit toilets available and each campsite has a pit fire provided. We are getting low on firewood so you will need to bring some along with you. There is access to drinking water.
Our property is 2WD accessible and can accommodate small caravans and camper trailers.
Not far from Buxton is Thirlmere where the Steam Train Museum is and train rides are available on the weekends, a great activity for the kids. Thirlmere Lakes National Park is perfect for a relaxing picnic, walk, birdwatching, and glimpse into locomotive history. Mittagong and Bowral have great wineries with restaurant/bistro.
Pets are welcome.
There's a range of different bushwalking trails in the region, including Starlights trail, a scenic bushwalk suited to experienced hikers, which forms part the Greater Blue Mountains trail network between Mittagong and Katoomba.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$45
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(342)
Otford Park nr Royal National Park
3 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Otford, NSW
Otford is a historic village in a valley between Sydney and Wollongong, and bounded by the Pacific ocean. Our private acreage backs onto the southern tip of the Royal National Park, so the outlook from the campsite is all leafy trees. Walk to lookouts over the ocean, hike down to the beach or a few minutes drive to dog friendly beaches. Our bathroom and kitchen facilities make it an easy experience for first time campers. We are well-behaved-dog-friendly BUT you must let us know in advance.
Our access track to the camping sites has been repaired with a deep layer of asphalt but still best suited to 4WD. . There is also the option of parking roadside, and walking in approx 400m to the sites. Please message us if unsure about your vehicle.
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ
1. Please let us know if you are bringing a dog/dogs - we have horses, house dogs, chickens and; wildlife plus likely other campers close by, so need to be forewarned. Dogs must be on lead or contained at all times.
2. If you need to camp out of your 4WD RV (such as a roof top tent), please contact me before booking to ensure those two particular vehicle sites are still available :) and that your vehicle is suitable for our track. Maximum length is approx 5m. Please scroll through the photos to see our amenities and camping sites.
3. We limit the number of people staying at any one time, so weekends book up quickly. That said, due to Covid and weather, people often cancel at the last minute too, so if we are currently booked out, it's always worthile checking again closer to the date for any availability.
We are on acreage (approx 7 acres) in Otford, surrounded by forest, backing onto the very southern end of the Royal National Park Sydney/Wollongong. Sleep under the stars, and to the hoot of our local owls, and yips of the gorgeous feather-tail gliders. Lovely, peaceful and private in a bushland backdrop but so close & just a walk to famous sites, beaches, cafes and bushwalking - so the perfect spot to stop, unpack and then go exploring.
Max of 3 camp sites booked at a time. Each camp site is within shouting distance of each other, so if looking for absolute privacy, please talk to me first. As bookings come through, I assess the number of people booked for a site, and adjust availability on the others accordingly (such as blocking the rest of the day/s to prevent over-crowding) We usually only have two unconnected groups/families at a time.
Our site is the perfect place to camp in comfort and safety, when taking an overnight rest after the long backpacking trek from Bundeena.
We have firewood available for our cosy camp firepits (one firepit available for each site) We buy in reclaimed hardwood to reduce the impact of logging of native forest, but also often have seasoned firewood from our own fallen trees. $20 for approx 20kg. Heaps of kindling sticks are around on the forest floor. Please leave large and rotting logs alone for wildlife.
Water - Connected to Sydney Catchment drinking water, so supply isn't an issue, but we conserve where we can.
Kitchenette We have a tiny house mobile kitchenette with sink, basic table wear, microwave, kettle, toaster, LÓr Nespresso compatible Pod machine (BYO pods) single hot plates, mini bar fridge ,and; USB ports. You can also use the facility to recharge your mobile phone and; torches. We also provide a billy kettle, cast iron fry pan and camp fire hot plate.
You'll also find 6 comfy directors chairs stored within the kitchenette, and a deck of cards, jigsaw puzzles, boardgames etc. Cricket bat, Bocce ball game, and Finish Kubbs set are stored within the timber box under the gazebo.
"Nature Calls" We have a new long drop compost toilet - only human waste and; toilet paper please. A small bin is provided for sanitary products etc. Please leave the bushland surrounds free of solid waste.
Gazebo
Weatherproof /insect meshed gazebo and outdoor furniture. Absolutely no fires under the gazebo, otherwise it will melt and catch fire.
Quiet Hours
Quiet hours between 10pm and 7am
Outdoor and Indoor Showers
Warm water is heated by LPG gas bottles - please help conserve water and gas
QUIET HOURS:
To respect other campers who may be staying, and our amazing nocturnal wildlife, our quiet hours are 10pm to 7am, when noise is asked to be kept minimal. Such an exception would be event times like New Years Eve.
We have found that camping is a great way to reset your Circadian rhythm - waking and sleeping according to the natural light & darkness , and a drink around a crackling camp fire super relaxing :)
CONTACT:
If you want me to send you more photographs of the camping sites/facilities , you can look up Otford Park or OtfordParkCamping on Facebook and contact me through there (can't send photos etc via HipCamp messages yet)
WHAT TO EXPECT:
We have horses, poultry, dogs and abundant wildlife so visiting pets must be either caged or leashed at all times. We have two waterproof dog beds available - just need to bring their blanket etc for softness
As its a sanctuary for wildlife - absolutely No Hunting is permitted. Wildlife can be loud at times - morning and night, from the wild deer that wander through, to domestic roosters that like to visit. Its a bit 'farm country and wild bushland' tucked between Sydney and Wollongong
Caravans/large motorhomes cannot access the rear of our property, due the narrowness of the track, but no problem for the many 4wd style camper vehicles.
Necessities/consumables
We have a supply of toilet paper, hand wash, hand sanitiser, insect repellent , fire lighters, mossie coils, matches, dish soap, paper towels and spray disinfectant. Its an honour system for use just while you're here, so please don't take them home with you. If you need to buy toilet paper for your next journey, just ask me.
WHAT'S NEARBY:
- easy walk to Otford railway station
- easy walk to our free local tennis court just down the road
-road walk up to Bald Hill lookout (famous for its hang-gliding and view of the Seacliff Bridge) or hike up the fire trail and around the Stony Batter headland
- walk to Otford Lookout and the start of the many trails through the Royal National Park or the hike down (about 20 to 30min) to Bulgo beach to swim, fish or snorkel. Be sure to take water and wear comfy shoes
- quick walk to the hidden entrance of the historic abandoned Otford railway tunnel entrance -its also an interesting and fun way to walk to Stanwell Park beach!
Otherwise its just few minutes drive to Stanwell Park beach and Coalcliff Beach - all clean and beautiful
or go further north to the many stunning beaches of the Royal National Park such as Garie, Burning Palms, Wattamolla
- Darkes Forest - for trail horse riding, and the Glenbernie Orchard, for fresh apple and stone fruit produce and apple picking tours
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Off Leash Beaches
- If you have a dog , it will probably love the northern end of Stanwell Park beach its been designated an off-leash area, north of the creek. - park your carpark of Park Parade.
Sharkey's Beach, Coledale. A dedicated off-leash beach for dogs and surfers alike, all year round. Approx 10 min drive south.
* * * * * * * * * *
Others Sights & Activities
- Four km to Symbio Wildlike Park - a lovely day out to see both exotic animals such as cheetahs or more local cuddly koalas and opportunities to hand feed kangaroos and wallabies. A water theme park will keep the kiddies entertained and cool too
- On the way to Symbio is the beautiful Kelly's Falls - part of the Garrawarra State Conservation area & historic Princess Marina Cliff Walk.
- Seacliff Bridge - Not to be missed and part of the Grand Pacific Drive along the South East Coast, Seacliff Bridge is now an iconic Australian landmark. It beautifully hugs the huge sandstone cliffs around the ocean, and is popular to tourist and film makers alike.
- Cafes - yum! Walk to the Otford Pantry on the corner of Domville Rd and Lady Wakehurst Drive, open weekends for great coffee and pastries, overlooking the ocean. Then many other cafes in nearby Stanwell Park and Helensburgh
- We are situated in a valley, with the Illawarra train line about 500m to 1km away, so occasionally you might here a coal train passing, or more interesting on many weekends the historic Cockatoo Run steam train comes through around 10am and on its return approx 6pm. If children are at the station waiting to see it, the drivers usually oblige with a friendly toot of the steam horn.
- Horse Riding - Book ahead for trail rides at either the local Otford Farm in Lloyd Place, or can drive to Darkes Forest Riding Ranch
- Wodi Wodi track at Stanwell Tops - if you're fit and love a challenging hike, the Wodi Wodi track can take you from the Hanging swamp around and down to Coalcliff. Water, comfortable shoes and insect repellent (for the odd leach) etc is essential, but the spectacular views at the top and destination make it worth it
FOOD and PROVISIONS
Helensburgh shopping centre is just 4km drive away. But if you're hiking on foot from the Royal National Park and would like basic provisions such as milk and bread available on your arrival, please let us know in advance, and we'll do our best to have them here. We have a generator run mini-fridge in the kitchenette to keep such items cold, if needed.
TINY HOUSE
If you'd like to sleep in a bit of luxury, check out our new tiny house listing here
SYDNEY, WOLLONGONG &; BEYOND
Otford is 9km by car to Waterfall, Sutherland Shire, 43 km to George St, Sydney CBD, 25km to Wollongong CBD. 44km to Bondi Beach, and 53km to Kiama. All can be accessed by train too. So the perfect area to set up base camp, whilst exploring greater Sydney, as well as the many beautiful spots within walking distance.
HIP CAMP REVIEWS
When reading and leaving reviews , please have a heart towards your camp hosts. The way the rating % works, it takes about 111 positive reviews out 112 reviews, to over-ride that 1 negative. So for the average Hipcamp, it takes a looong time, to get back to 99 or 100% positive feedback. If you have an issue onsite, please raise it immediately. I know the majority of hosts will try and rectify it for you.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$60
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(98)
Down by the Hawkesbury
1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Pitt Town Bottoms, NSW
Originally settled in 1889 "Bobs Grant" this lovely property and the surrounding land was originally used for farming but is now mostly turf farms.
Enjoy our little getaway down by the Hawkesbury River only 10 minutes from historic Windsor. A beautiful river shack for your use exclusively, including fire pit with direct access to the Hawkesbury river.
Destroyed in the March and July 2022 floods, we have now re-built and are looking forward to welcoming back our guests.
Bring your caravans, tent or swag - all are welcome! Unfortunately, boats are not.
Relax and enjoy the serenity whilst being only 1 hour from Sydney.
We offer the site to one group only, a maximum of 20 guests. However note, we are not a place for rowdy groups and parties. Groups are welcome here to enjoy the time with their family and friends, play a little music and relax by the river. The river can get busy (which is great after the floods as it has been dead for so long) and so can the road across the river but if you are enjoying your family and friends you won't even notice!
We have one basic toilet, and one river water shower available too! Please bring your own drinking water.
Fires are only permitted when allowed, in the designated areas only.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Cooking equipment
from
AU$85
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(35)
The Freedom Farm River Paradise
3 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Lower Mangrove, NSW
The Freedom Farm has been in our family for nearly 50 years and we know it has a much longer history as a place of gathering, healing, learning and celebration. The spirits are strong here. We have been working the last few years on Rewilding the land and it is the healthiest it has been in my lifetime. Encompassing salt marsh, casuarina forests, open grassland and gumtree groves there is an incredible diversity of species to be found on this relatively small property. Bordered by Mangrove Creek it is protected on all sides by sandstone mountains yet remains sunny and open. A lush and powerful place.
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$80
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(41)
Brightwater
1 site · RV, Tent50 acres · Kulnura, NSW
Brightwater sits beside Olney State Forest and Kuluwan Flora Reserve. It is a 50-acre farm with a lovely spring-fed dam, with our nearby campsite. The site contains van parking, an open pavilion, an open deck by the stream, a fire pit, and a dunny. It is private and secluded, and with just one group staying at a time, you are guaranteed the space to yourselves.
There are many beautiful walking and bike trails in the area. Lots of wildlife to meet, including water dragons, wild ducks, and pythons, to name a few. There is also nearby evidence of the original occupants, the Darkinjung people.
You are also welcome to bring a couple of horses! There's a safe paddock with a trough and nice trails in the area to explore.
The Kulnura General Store and bottleshop is just 9km down the road for basic supplies.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$90
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(111)
Dharawal Camp
1 site · RV, Tent25 acres · Wedderburn, NSW
Dharawal Camp offers all the benefits of glamping. Enjoy a peaceful night's rest in your tent/vehicle, then hop out of bed and enjoy the peaceful surrounds of the cabin with access to a kitchen area supplying fresh rainwater. With the secluded bush surroundings and the quiet, it's hard to believe you're only an hour away from Sydney.
You might even see a Koala
There is strictly no accomodation in the Cabin.
The camp features a camping toilet and bathing facilities, a kitchen washing area, a recreation space and dining table when the weather is bad. All you need to do is roll out your swag.
Campers are encouraged to take their rubbish with them.
There is access to power for campervans/caravans.
Warm your toes at the outdoor fireplace whilst you chat with friends. (Please bring own firewood).
You will be a 10 minute drive from the beautiful Dharawal National Park which has wonderful swimming holes and bush walks.
The site is 15 minutes drive from Campbelltown, which offers all amenities of a large metropolitan city.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$95
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Dog-friendly getaways
Available this weekend
Camping near Sydney with swimming guide
Overview
Looking to go camping near Sydney, New South Wales and want to swim? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 1600 options in the area that offer swimming, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Whether you're looking for a riverside retreat like Rivers Run Colo River with 389 reviews, or a farm stay like Farm Stay, Ben Bullen with 384 reviews, or even a peaceful spot like Wattle Valley Farm with 339 reviews, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Enjoy popular facilities like toilets, campfires, and the option to bring your pets. And if you're up for some adventure, there are activities like wind sports, fall fun, and off-roading (OHV) to keep you entertained. So pack your swim gear and get ready for a memorable camping experience!
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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.