by Dawn Teh
posted on January 12, 2024
Looking for the most picturesque and wallet-friendly free camping NSW spots? From stunning coastal escapes to rugged outback adventures, keep reading to discover popular sites and hidden gems that will make your next camping trip an unforgettable experience.
This guide covers all of your options for free camping in NSW:
- Top free camping NSW spots
- Best free camping options in the Blue Mountains
- Top options along the South Coast of NSW
- Free pet friendly campsites
- Free camping in Country NSW
- Free campsites on the North Coast of NSW
- Free camping sites near Sydney
- Top hidden campsites
- Honourable mentions
Free camping in NSW: Our top all rounder picks
To start off, here are the top all-rounder spots for free camping in NSW. You’ll find a mixture of remote and beginner-friendly sites with many located in NSW national parks.
Bretti Reserve
- Top features: Located next to Barnard River, large open space
- Distance from Sydney: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Accessibility: You’ll need to drive on gravel road off Thunderbolts Way at Bretti, 2WD accessible, RV friendly
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, wood barbecue, swimming holes, campfires, fishing spots
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Does not have: Water, power, showers, mobile reception
- Best suited for: Those that want a spacious site
Located by the tranquil Bernard River, this free camping ground offers the perfect setting for any nature lover. With plenty of space to pitch your tent or park your caravan, you can enjoy the great outdoors without feeling crowded.
The highlight of this reserve is its access to various water activities. Soak up the sun while you cast your line or take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters.
Rocky River (Wooldridge Recreation and Fossicking Reserve)
- Top features: Fossicking site, nearby river
- Distance from Sydney: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Accessibility: Unsealed road leading to site, 2WD accessible
- Facilities: Toilets (long drop), wood barbecues, mobile reception
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Does not have: Power, showers, water,
- Best suited for: History buffs
Relax and unwind at the serene Wooldridge Recreation and Fossicking Reserve camping ground by Rocky River and try your luck panning for gold in the river just like a prospector during the gold rush era.
Budds Mare, Long Point and Dangars Gorge Campgrounds (Oxley Wild Rivers National Park)
- Top features: Dramatic rainforests, flowing waterfalls
- Distance from Sydney: 5 hours 40 minutes
- Accessibility: Long Point and Dangers Gorge Campgrounds are accessible by 2WD; Budds Mare Campground has unsealed road and is only accessible by 4WD
- Facilities: Toilets, barbecue facilities, mobile reception, fishing
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Those who like dramatic rainforest scenery
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park by staying right on its grounds. Choose from a variety of sites for your set up, and when you’re ready to venture out, there’s plenty to do. Wander around its World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest, and marvel at the dramatic gorges as well as magnificent waterfalls along the way.
The Pines Campground (Coolah Tops National Park)
- Top features: Walking trails, mountain biking, bird watching
- Distance from Sydney: 5 hours
- Accessibility: Tent, camper trailer, caravan, unsealed roads, 2WD accessible but 4WD recommended
- Facilities: Barbecue, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Mountain bikers, hikers, large groups
Pack your mountain bike and hiking sticks for an action-packed camping trip at Coolah Tops National Park. You’ll be treated to magnificent views of towering pine trees and a large herb field as you wander around the grounds. This is a large site and would suit big groups.
Newnes Campground
- Top features: Sandstone cliffs, eucalyptus trees, Wolgan River, it’s also just a short drive from the famous Glow Worm Tunnel
- Distance from Sydney: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Accessibility: Tent only, no vehicle access, you’ll need to walk around 10km to reach the campgrounds
- Facilities: Barbecue facilities, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Remote camping
Get ready for a real adventure at this remote campsite that’s near the Wolgan River. Getting here is an accomplishment in itself as you’ll have to walk about 10km from Glen Davis. Once you’ve arrived, you can further explore the surrounding tracks, tunnels, and historic shale oil ruins.
The Blue Mountains
With its vast expanses of temperate forest, cascading waterfalls, towering peaks, and lush green valleys, The Blue Mountains region is the perfect setting to admire the breathtaking natural beauty of New South Wales.
Ingar Campground
- Top features: Cycling, hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Accessibility: Tent only, not directly accessible by car, park on Queen Elizabeth Drive and walk or cycle around 9.5km to the site
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Water, power, showers
- Best suited for: Big tent camping, backpack camping, remote camping
If you’d like a secluded, quiet camp, don’t miss out on the Ingar Campground which requires a 9.5km walk or cycle to arrive at the site. Once you’re there, immerse yourself in the beauty of the mountains while enjoying various outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming in the creek, and picnicking.
Acacia Flat Campground
- Top features: Secluded spot, bird watching, hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Accessibility: Tent only, not directly accessible by car, enter through Perrys lookdown or Pierces Pass walking tracks (3 to 4-hour walk)
- Facilities: Toilet
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Water, campfire, power, showers
- Best suited for: Tent, remote camping, backpack camping
Surrounded by stunning blue gum forests, this campground offers a serene and peaceful setting for nature lovers. It is the perfect spot for avid hikers, with numerous trails waiting to be explored. Birdwatchers will also delight in the diverse array of bird species that call this area home.
Old Ford Reserve
- Top features: Megalong Creek
- Distance from Sydney: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Accessibility: Accessible by 2WD
- Facilities: Toilets, campfires, bins
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Does not have: Water, power, showers
- Best suited for: Easily accessible free camping, beginner campers
Located along the scenic banks of Megalong Creek, this campground offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for those looking for a well-maintained site and plenty of space for tents.
Murphys Glen campground
- Top features: Mountain biking, hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Accessibility: Unsealed roads, 4WD recommended but 2WD able to access, short walk to site, tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Barbecue facilities, toilets,
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Water, power, showers
- Best suited for: Forest camping, remote camping that doesn’t require a long walk to the site
Surround yourself with breathtaking forest scenery at Murphys Glen campground. You’ll find numerous hiking and mountain biking trails here, and after a long day of hiking, unwind and enjoy a delicious BBQ with your friends and family at one of the designated areas.
Reef Reserve (Lake Oberon)
- Top features: Fishing, kayaking in Lake Oberon
- Distance from Sydney: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Accessibility: Unsealed roads, 2WD accessible
- Facilities: Toilets, undercover picnic tables, BBQ, campfire, boat ramp
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Does not have: Swimming, power, water, showers
- Best suited for: Fishing enthusiasts, water activities
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stay by the lake or some fishing and kayaking, The Reef Reserve site is the perfect spot to set up camp. Trout, Murray Cod, Yellow Belly, and Redfin can be found in the waters.
The South Coast
You’ll be spoiled for choice in the South Coast NSW region as you’ll find a mix of beach, forest, and river camping in different parts. There are many free campgrounds in the area, and whichever you choose from, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the state’s natural beauty with plenty of activities to keep you busy.
Bendeela Camping and Picnic Area
- Top features: Swimming, canoeing, wildlife spotting, mountain views
- Distance from Sydney: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Accessibility: 2WD accessible, tent, camper trainer, caravan
- Facilities: Toilets, water, canoe launching point
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Campfire, power, showers
- Best suited for: Beginner campers
Located within Kangaroo Valley, this highly accessible free campground is perfect for beginner campers or families with kids. Once you’ve set up camp, gather together and enjoy a tasty picnic while taking in the picturesque wide-open spaces, lush grass, and rugged hills along the riverbank. The nearby Kangaroo River also offers an array of activities such as fishing, swimming, and canoeing if you’re seeking some adventure.
Sunburnt Beach campground
- Top features: Ocean views, swimming, fishing, birdwatching
- Distance from Sydney: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Accessibility: 4WD access only, 250m walk from the car park to the campground, tent only
- Facilities: Toilets, Picnic tables, campfires allowed
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, water, showers
- Best suited for: Experienced campers who enjoy bush camping near a beach
The campground offers minimal facilities, making it the perfect destination for experienced campers who enjoy the challenge of roughing it out in nature. With 4WD access only, this secluded spot provides a sense of adventure and exclusivity. Once you’ve set up camp, it’s time to enjoy yourself by lounging on the beach or cast your rod for some beach fishing.
North Head campground
- Top features: Fishing, swimming, hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 4 hours
- Accessibility: 2WD accessible, short walk from carpark to site, tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, water, showers
- Best suited for: Experienced campers, camping near a beach, remote camping
At North Head Campground, you’ll be waking up to the sound of crashing waves and enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the water. While the facilities here are minimal, this adds to the rustic charm of the campground and you’ll be allowed to truly disconnect from city life. Situated near Nother Head and Honeysuckle Beach, you’ll have a few locations to spend your days lounging on the sandy shore or taking a dip in the ocean. Batemans Bay and Oakley Beach are also just a short drive away.
Bittangabee campground
- Top features: Fishing, swimming, snorkelling, diving, spotting Lyrebirds
- Distance from Sydney: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Accessibility: Unsealed roads, 2WD accessible, tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, car park, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, water, showers
- Best suited for: Camping near a beach
With its prime location right by the beach, you can fill your days with water activities like fishing, swimming, diving, and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. To relax, stroll along the coast or spot some local Lyrebirds that call the area home.
Saltwater Creek campground
- Top features: Swimming, fishing, surfing, paddling, hikes in Beowa National Park
- Distance from Sydney: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Accessibility: Unsealed roads, 2WD accessible, tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, car park, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, water, showers
- Best suited for: Camping near a beach, remote camping
Located near Saltwater Creek beach, this remote campground offers a variety of activities such as fishing, swimming, and paddling. The shallow lagoons in the area are also great for paddling or giving little ones a chance to splash. Venture out on foot in the area and you’ll be able to observe resident wildlife like possums, bandicoots, and more.
Pet friendly camping sites
Why leave your best friend at home while you’re camping? Choose any of these pet-friendly free campsites and share all your outdoor adventures with your furkid.
Burning Mountain Reserve, NSW
- Top features: Natural burning coal seams, hiking trails
- Distance from Sydney: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Accessibility: 2WD accessible, tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Facilities: Toilets, non-potable water, picnic tables, mobile coverage
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Does not have: Barbecue facilities, showers, power
- Best suited for: Hikers
This spacious campsite has a large grassy area for your pet to explore. It’s also great for hikers who want to have a look at the naturally burning coal seams in the area.
Kyffins Reserve, Lake Mulwala
- Top features: Lake Mulwala, fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Accessibility: Unsealed roads, 2WD accessible, tents, camper trailers, caravans
- Facilities: Mobile coverage
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Does not have: Power, water, showers, toilets
- Best suited for: Lakeside camping
Camp by the banks of Lake Mulwala and enjoy the peace and quiet that this site offers. Fishing enthusiasts will also enjoy this place as you can find Murray Cod, Golden Perch, and Murray Crayfish here. You’ll need to come well-prepared as there are no facilities at this campground.
Ponto Falls, NSW
- Top features: Swimming, fishing, or canoeing in the Macquarie River
- Distance from Sydney: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Accessibility: 7km of gravel road leading to the site, 2WD accessible but 4WD recommended, tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Facilities: Toilet (long drop), mobile reception, campfire
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Does not have: Power, showers, water, barbecues, picnic tables
- Best suited for: Relaxing camp
Head to Ponto Falls for a tranquil and serene escape by the Macquarie River. The lush green surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for relaxing, swimming, fishing, and other water activities.
Turpentine Campground (Olney State Forest)
- Top features: Hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Accessibility: Unsealed, 2WD accessible, tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Toilets, campfire
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Hikers, small groups
This heavily shaded camping site is set amidst forest oaks and you’ll find a myriad of hiking trails around the area for you and your furkid to explore together.
Country NSW
Ready for a change from the usual ocean views of coastal NSW? Head inland for a secluded retreat amongst the rugged mountain ranges and bushland of Country NSW.
Warrumbungle National Park
With minimal light pollution and clear skies, Warrumbungle National Park has the official designation of being a Dark Sky Park, making it the perfect destination for stargazing at its campsites. It also boasts an extensive network of hiking tracks, leading to hidden waterfalls, lush forests, and panoramic views from dramatic cliffs. national park camping
Burbie Camp
- Top features: Natural spring, stargazing
- Distance from Sydney: 6 hours
- Accessibility: Not directly accessible by car, it’s a 3km walk from Burbie Canyon carpark, tent only
- Facilities: Barbecue facilities
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water, barbecues, picnic tables, toilets
- Best suited for: Remote camping
Spend your days exploring the numerous hiking tracks that wind through the rugged mountain ranges, or simply relax and soak in the peacefulness of the park. As night falls, you’ll be mesmerised by an unforgettable stargazing experience, as Warrumbungle National Park is recognized as one of Australia’s best locations for viewing the speckled night sky.
Gunneemooroo campground
- Top features: Mountain biking, hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 6 hours
- Accessibility: 4WD access only, tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water, barbecues, picnic tables, toilets
- Best suited for: Remote camping
At Gunneemooroo Campground, you’ll find a truly authentic camping experience with minimal facilities available. It’s perfect if you’re looking to disconnect from city life and immerse yourself in nature and solitude. You’ll also find endless opportunities for hiking and biking in the area. As night falls, be prepared for a dazzling display of stars in the clear night sky.
Coxs Creek Campground (Coolah Tops National Park)
- Top features: Peaceful, hiking, bird-watching
- Distance from Sydney: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Accessibility: 2WD accessible, tent only
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Hikers, Mountain biking, bird-watching
With tall snow gum trees surrounding the campground, campers can immerse themselves in nature and observe a variety of bird species (including sulphur-crested cockatoos and red wattlebirds) in their natural habitat. You’ll also find plenty of hiking trails in the area, allowing you to explore the stunning landscape of the park.
The Snowy Mountains
Step into a different world away from the usual coastal or bushland scenery of NSW. In the Snowy Mountains region, you’ll find gorgeous alpine scenery consisting of rivers, snow-capped mountains, ski fields, caves, and glacial lakes.
Cooinbil Hut Campground
- Top features: Horse riding, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, birdwatching
- Distance from Sydney: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Accessibility: 2WD accessible (roads closed in winter), tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Barbecue facilities, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Adventure seekers
Cooinbil Hut Campground is the perfect playground for adventure seekers and history buffs. Spend your days fishing or riding your horse on the grounds and learn more about the past by visiting the local heritage sites including Cooinbil Hut itself.
Geehi Flats Campground
- Top features: Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, 4 wheeling,
- Distance from Sydney: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Accessibility: Unsealed roads, 2WD accessible but 4WD recommended, 2WDs need to carry snow chains in winter, tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Adventure seekers
With stunning views of the surrounding Snowy Mountain peaks, this campground is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. From hiking and fishing to mountain biking and horseback riding, there is no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. Don’t miss the historic stone huts at the nearby Geehi Huts trail.
Island Bend Campground
- Top features: Snowy River, hiking, biking, fishing and kayaking
- Distance from Sydney: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Accessibility: Most roads 2WD accessible (chains required), tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Adventure seekers, groups (large camping space)
This peaceful campground is an idyllic spot for relaxing in nature or getting your blood pumping with some outdoor activities. Swim, fish, and kayak in the adjacent Snowy River, or explore the surrounding trails by foot or bike. Nearby attractions include Perisher Valley and the Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk.
Ngarigo Campground
- Top features: Thredbo River, touring Alpine Way, biking, fishing, hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Accessibility: 2WD (carry snow chains in winter), tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Adventure seekers, groups (large camping space)
The large, grassy flat terrain of this campground offers plenty of space for camping and allows for a comfortable stay amidst nature. You’ll find a range of things to do here, including biking, fishing at Thredbo River, and hiking, making it the perfect base for adventure seekers. With attractions like Thredbo Alpine Village, Thredbo Valley track, and Kosciuszko Walk nearby, this makes Ngarigo Campground a convenient base to explore the area.
Humes Crossing campground
- Top features: Large space, fishing and swimming at Blowering Dam, hiking, boating
- Distance from Sydney: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Accessibility: 2WD accessible, tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, boat ramp, car park, toilets, rubbish bin
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Groups and families, Beginner campers
This site’s large, flat ground makes it perfect for families and groups to spread out and relax. From kicking a footy ball to fishing for cod or redfin in the adjacent Blowernig Dam, there’s plenty to do for everyone here. You’ll also have access to several hiking trails nearby attractions like the limestone Yarrangobilly Caves.
The North Coast
From remote and tranquil national parks with lush forests to campgrounds with action-packed activities nearby, you’ll find a range of places to suit different types of camping in NSW’s North Coast.
Brushy Mountain Campground (Werrikimbe National Park)
- Top features: Ribbon gum and blackbutt forest, hiking, birdwatching
- Distance from Sydney: 5 hours 45 minutes
- Accessibility: 2WD accessible, tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Remote camping, Bird watching
Set amidst a majestic ribbon gum and blackbutt forest, the Brushy Mountain Campground is the ideal site for those seeking peace and tranquillity. Tread quietly around the nearby Brushy Mountain loop walk, and you might be able to spot a rare spotted-tailed quoll.
Nymboida River Campground
- Top features: 4 wheeling, Nymboida River, swimming, canoeing
- Distance from Sydney: 7 hours 45 minutes
- Accessibility: 4WD access only, tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Remote camping, 4 wheeling, adventure seekers
Nymboida River Campground is an adventure seeker’s dream. Quiet and remote, you might have the place all to yourself as you swim and paddle through the Nymboida River or go 4WD touring around the park.
Lake Macquarie/Olney State Forest
The Olney State Forest is a popular, family-friendly location that’s set in the Watagan Mountains region, just west of Lake Macquarie. Less than two hours away from Sydney, it’s also a great choice if you’re looking for a destination that isn’t too far from the city.
Casuarina Camping Area
- Top features: Hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Accessibility: Unsealed, 2WD accessible, tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Toilets, campfire, picnic tables
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Hikers
Just five minutes by foot from the Pines Forest Park and walking tracks, the Casuarina Camping Area is a great base for hiking around the area. You can’t book this campground, so be sure to get in early to secure your spot.
Olney Forest HQ
- Top features: Hiking, 4 wheeling
- Distance from Sydney: 2 hours
- Accessibility: Unsealed, 2WD accessible, tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Facilities: Toilets, campfire, sheltered picnic tables
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Hikers, groups (large site)
This large, levelled site amidst a lush forest backdrop is great for groups travelling together. You’ll also find plenty of off-road areas for 4-wheeling.
The Pines Campground
- Top features: Hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 2 hours 18 minutes
- Accessibility: Unsealed, 2WD accessible, tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Facilities: Toilets, campfire, sheltered picnic tables
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Does not have: Power, showers, water
- Best suited for: Hikers, groups (large site)
Set up camp at the serene Pines Campground and get ready for some hiking at the Pines and Abbotts Falls walking trails, 4WD touring around the park, or simply enjoying the spacious site.
Woody Head Campground
- Top features: Beach camping, fishing, swimming, surfing, hiking, ocean views
- Distance from Sydney: 7 hours 28 minutes
- Accessibility: 2WD, tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, boat ramp, cafe/kiosk, car park, drinking water, public phone, showers, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power
- Best suited for: Beginner campers, luxury camping, big groups
If you feel like spending time in nature while still having some creature comforts, you’ll need to visit Woody Head Campground. With plenty of facilities at this site, you won’t have to worry about drinking water or portable showers! There are also endless activities to enjoy here, from swimming and surfing in the crystal-clear waters to exploring lush rainforests on foot. Early booking is a must for this site!
Diamond Head campground
- Top features: Swimming, hiking, Split Rock, wildlife spotting
- Distance from Sydney: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Accessibility: 2WD accessible, tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Facilities: Amenities block, picnic tables, barbecue facilities, car park, showers, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, water
- Best suited for: Beginner campers
Wake up to the sound of crashing waves and take in breathtaking ocean views from your tent or camper at the Diamond Head campground. This site isn’t just wonderful because of the scenery, you’ll also find plenty to do here. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or venture out into the nearby hiking trails. The Diamond Head loop walk is not to be missed, as you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views of the coast along the way.
Broughton Island campground (Harks Nest/Myall Lakes)
- Top features: Secluded, fishing, swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving
- Distance from Sydney: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Accessibility: Access is by vessel only
- Facilities: Toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, water, showers, campfires
- Best suited for: Remote camping, bird watching
This beautiful free camping spot is the only place where you can camp amidst an active seabird colony (wedge-tailed shearwaters breed here) in NSW. Spend your days boating, swimming, snorkelling, and exploring the sandy beaches of Esmerelda Cove while you’re here.
Camping sites near Sydney
Looking for free camping sites that aren’t too far from the city? These spots are close to Sydney so you can set out on your own outdoor adventure within a few hours.
Bonnie Vale Campground (Sydney South)
- Top features: Fishing, kayaking, hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Accessibility: 2WD accessible, tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, drinking water, showers, toilets, power
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: NIL
- Best suited for: Riverside camping, beginner campers, families
This picturesque campground offers many facilities, making it the perfect choice if you want to experience nature without sacrificing comfort. No need to rough it out here, as you’ll have access to clean bathrooms and hot showers. There are also plenty of water activities, from swimming and fishing to kayaking and paddleboarding. Don’t forget to head to Royal National Park for some scenic hikes.
North Era campground
- Top features: North Era Beach, surfing, swimming
- Distance from Sydney: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Accessibility: By foot only, tent
- Facilities: Toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, water, showers, campfires
- Best suited for: Remote camping
With its remote location and access by foot only, this secluded site boasts breathtaking views of the ocean and North Era beach. While you’re here, take a dip in the crystal clear waters or tackle some waves on your surfboard. With minimal facilities, this is the ultimate destination for those who want to rough it out and truly connect with nature.
Colo Meroo campground (Wollemi National Park, Hawkesbury region)
- Top features: Colo River, sandstone cliffs, hiking, wildlife watching
- Distance from Sydney: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Accessibility: Only accessible by foot (between 2.5km to 8km walk, depending on where you enter from), tent
- Facilities: Barbecue facilities, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, water, showers
- Best suited for: Remote camping, experienced campers
Enjoy a secluded camping experience by the Colo River with majestic sandstone cliffs as your site backdrop. There are many nearby hiking tracks waiting to be explored with opportunities for spotting wildlife.
Free hidden camping sites in NSW
If you want to truly connect with nature in a serene setting with minimal disturbance from other campers, check out these hidden camping sites. You’ll have plenty of opportunities for quiet solitude and reflection.
Bendethera Valley Campground
- Top features: Caving at Bendethera Cave, Deua River, swimming, wildlife spotting
- Distance from Sydney: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Accessibility: 4WD access only, tent
- Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, toilets
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, water, showers
- Best suited for: Remote camping
The campground offers something for everyone, from the adventurous thrill-seekers to those who prefer a more relaxed and leisurely trip. Try caving at Bendethera Cave and swimming at the nearby Deua River and end off the day with a sumptuous BBQ on the grassy flats.
Long Gully Campground
- Top features: Yadboro River, hiking
- Distance from Sydney: 4 hours
- Accessibility: 4WD access only (no long vehicle access), tent, camper trailer
- Facilities: Toilets, Picnic tables
- Pet Friendly: No
- Does not have: Power, water, showers, campfires
- Best suited for: Remote camping, experienced campers, river camping
Surrounded by remote wilderness, this campground offers a sense of solitude that’s perfect for those looking to disconnect and unwind. There is a rugged charm to this campground, and it is best suited for experienced campers who are equipped to handle minimal amenities. You’ll have plenty to do if you love hiking, with various trails to choose from that offer breathtaking views of the forest and river.
Honourable mentions
Here are some other free camping spots worth checking out:
- Willows campground
- Great for fishing and birdwatching
- Tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Barbecue facilities, toilets
- 8 hours 30 minutes from Sydney
- Woolshed Flat campground
- 4WD access only
- Tent only
- Turon River, hiking, birdwatching
- Picnic tables, barbecue facilities
- 2 hours 45 minutes from Sydney
- Culgoa River campground
- Culgoa River
- Tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Picnic tables, car park, toilets
- 2 hours 20 minutes from Sydney
- Jounama Creek campground
- Good for families (open, grassy site)
- Boating, fishing and swimming at Blowering and Talbingo reservoirs
- Tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, toilets
- 4 hours 45 minutes from Sydney
- Red Gum campground
- Riverside camping
- Requires 4WD access
- Tent, camper trailer
- Boating, kayaking, hiking, fishing
- Barbecue facilities, toilets
- 3 hours 45 minutes from Sydney
- Mann River campground
- Riverside camping by the Mann River
- Tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Swimming, hiking, wildlife watching (eastern greys, wallabies, lace monitors, eastern water dragon)
- Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, car park, toilets
- 7 hours 30 minutes from Sydney
- Gwydir Riverside camps:
- Gwydir River, wildlife spotting
- Self-contained vehicles only
- No facilities
- Pet friendly, campfires permitted
- 6 hours 30 minutes from Sydney
- Kevin Walsh Oval Free Camp, Jamberoo
- Only free camping option in the area
- Public toilets, free showers (cold), drinking water, and dump point
- 6 hours 30 minutes from Sydney
- Terramungamine Reserve Free Camping
- 24-hour free camp near Dubbo
- Terramungamine Rock Grooves has Aboriginal rock carvings
- Toilets
- 5 hours from Sydney
- Company Dam Free Camp, Grenfell
- Just 5 minutes north of Grenfell
- Tent, camper trailer, caravan
- Good stopover if you’re travelling between Adelaide and Sydney
- Nature walks and wildlife spotting
- Toilets
- 5 hours 30 minutes from Sydney
- Brou Lake Campground, Eurobodalla National Park
- Next to Brou Lake and beside Jemisons Beach
- Picnic tables, toilets
- Tents, small caravans, and camper trailers
- Remote camping, unpowered sites
- 4 hours 30 minutes from Sydney
- Allyn River – Chichester State Forest (Central Coast)
- Allyn River, near Barrington Tops National Park
- Fishing, swimming, mountain bike
- Toilets
- Dog friendly
- Gets crowded during peak season
- 3 hours 15 minutes from Sydney
- Wingello State Forest
- Horse riding, mountain biking
- Enclosed space surrounded by radiata pine forest
- Toilets, barbecue facilities, campfires
- 2 hours from Sydney
- Swans Crossing (Kerewong State Forest)
- Large flat grass areas (good for groups), Upsalls Creek
- Swimming, hiking
- Tent, caravan, campers
- Toilets, campfires
- Pet friendly (conditions apply)
- 4 hours 30 minutes from Sydney
- Ellenborough Reserve
- Levelled grass sites, Hastings River
- Swimming, hiking, fishing
- Tents, campers, caravans
- Toilets that flush, water, sheltered picnic tables, wood barbecues
- Pet friendly
- 4.5 hours from Sydney
- Bummaroo Ford Campground (Abercrombie River)
- Abercrombie River
- Swimming, hiking, wildlife spotting, canoeing
- Tent, camper, caravan
- 3 hours from Sydney
- Gentlemans Halt, Marramarra National Park
- Hawkesbury River
- Swimming, kayaking, hiking
- Remote, access by foot (10km hike along the Canelands Ridge Track, or kayak/boat access).
- Toilets, picnic tables, barbecue facilities
- 1 hour 30 minutes from Sydney
Hire a car on Turo for your next NSW camping trip
Choose from a range of SUVs, 4WDs, and campervans on Turo for your next camping trip in NSW. With many possible customisations, you can find your perfect vehicle to tackle any adventure, whether you are booking a car in Sydney, Wollongong, Newcastle or elsewhere in Australia. Select short- or long-term hire, pick up from different convenient locations near you, and even add on extras like surfboards or tents. Hire your dream camping vehicle and venture out to the great outdoors today!
Dawn Teh
Dawn, an ex-psychologist and avid travel writer, blends her expertise in human behaviour with her passion for adventure. Her writing reflects a unique perspective on personal growth, wanderlust and what it is that helps humans thrive. Her current mission is to live the van life and tour the Australian outback with her family.
