Cabins near Wisemans Ferry with campfires

With its prime location along the banks of the Hawkesbury River and surrounded by national parks, Wisemans Ferry is the gateway to central New South Wales. Ride the historic cable ferry across the river, uncover Australia’s convict history along the Old Great North Road, or take to the water for a boat cruise or kayak excursion. Campsites and caravan parks dot the riverside, and the neighboring Dharug National Park is also a favourite for campers. Pitch your tent at Mill Creek and enjoy direct access to the park’s hiking and mountain biking trails. 

Hunter Valley

The Macdonald River winds its way north from Wisemans Ferry all the way into the Hunter Valley wine region. Stop to visit the colonial town of St Albans—lunch at the riverside pub is a must—before exploring the wild landscapes of the Yengo National Park. There’s a wide range of bushland hikes, 4WD excursions, and mountain bike trails in the park, plus several camping grounds and picnic areas to choose from.  

Blue Mountains

Southwest of Wiseman’s Ferry, the Blue Mountains National Park is the outdoor getaway of choice for day-trippers from Sydney. Ride the Scenic Railway or Cableway to admire dramatic gorges and waterfalls, spot kangaroos and koalas as you hike through lush eucalyptus forests, and see the famous Three Sisters rocks. Tourist parks provide camping near all the main attractions, while tranquil farm stays and bush campgrounds offer a back-to-nature experience.

Central Coast

If you tire of riverside activities, the beaches of NSW’s Central Coast are less than a 2-hour drive from Wiseman’s Ferry. Broken Bay is a water sports hotspot at the mouth of the Hawkesbury River, while popular destinations such as Avoca, Shelly, and Pelican lie just to the north.  Enjoy swimming, surfing, and boat cruises along the coast, play a game at an oceanside golf course, then check into a beachside campsite.

Summer (December through February) is peak season in Wiseman’s Ferry, and it’s best to book campsites in advance if visiting at this time. Spring and autumn provide the ideal weather for bushwalking and camping in the national parks, and the natural landscapes are at their most colorful, scattered with spring wildflowers or fall foliage. The town falls quiet in winter, but most campsites remain open year-round, and rates are often lower. 

• There are buses to Wisemans Ferry from Sydney, but you will need your own transport to explore the surrounding national parks.

• Wisemans ferry has a number of general stores but for specialist camping gear you might need to go to Sydney, about a 1-hour drive away.
• Fire bans are common in New South Wales during summer and dry periods, so check local recommendations before heading out.