The Best Camping Spots in New South Wales
New South Wales offers everything from pristine beaches to rugged mountains and lush rainforests. Whether you're looking for a remote outback escape, an alpine adventure, or a beachfront paradise, NSW has the perfect spot for your next off-grid trip. Here’s our pick of the best camping spots in New South Wales.
1. Kosciuszko National Park – Alpine Camping & Snowy Mountain Views
📍 Location: Snowy Mountains, 2 hours from Canberra
⛺ Best for: Alpine scenery, hiking, and snow camping
Kosciuszko National Park is home to Australia’s highest peak and offers a unique alpine camping experience. Whether you’re hiking in summer or enjoying the snow in winter, this park has something for every adventurer.
Why it’s great:
- Stunning alpine scenery and diverse hiking trails
- Snow camping opportunities in winter
- Plenty of campgrounds with varied facilities
Camping info:
- Thredbo Diggings Campground – Riverside camping with basic facilities.
- Island Bend Campground – More remote, perfect for self-sufficient campers.
- Ngarigo Campground – Great for hiking access to Mount Kosciuszko.
2. Jervis Bay – Beachside Camping & Marine Wildlife
📍 Location: South Coast NSW, 3 hours from Sydney
⛺ Best for: White sandy beaches, swimming, and marine life
Jervis Bay is famous for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, making it a top camping destination. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, snorkelling, and spotting dolphins.
Why it’s great:
- Crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand beaches
- Excellent snorkelling, swimming, and kayaking
- Great for families and first-time campers
Camping info:
- Green Patch Campground – Popular spot with great facilities.
- Booderee National Park Campgrounds – Several options with stunning scenery.
- Honeymoon Bay Campground – Remote and peaceful.
3. Barrington Tops National Park – Rainforest & Mountain Camping
📍 Location: Hunter Region, 3.5 hours from Sydney
⛺ Best for: Cool-climate rainforest camping and 4WD tracks
Barrington Tops National Park is a World Heritage-listed site with lush rainforests, high-altitude camping, and plenty of adventure. It’s a fantastic getaway for those wanting to explore temperate forests and scenic rivers.
Why it’s great:
- Stunning high-altitude rainforests
- Great for 4WD and off-grid camping
- Plenty of waterfalls and rivers to explore
Camping info:
- Devils Hole Campground – Remote and peaceful, best for self-sufficient campers.
- Gloucester River Campground – Riverside camping with basic facilities.
- Polblue Campground – Higher-altitude site with stunning views.
4. Myall Lakes National Park – Lakeside & Beach Camping
📍 Location: Mid-North Coast, 3 hours from Sydney
⛺ Best for: Kayaking, fishing, and waterside camping
Myall Lakes National Park is a paradise for water lovers,
with calm lakes, sandy beaches, and lush forests. It’s the perfect spot for a
peaceful getaway filled with boating, fishing, and swimming.
Why it’s great:
- Beautiful lakes and coastal landscapes
- Great for kayaking, boating, and fishing
- Plenty of walking trails and wildlife spotting
Camping info:
- Boomeri Campground – Remote and quiet, best for self-sufficient campers.
- Mungo Brush Campground – Popular with families, right by the water.
- Violet Hill Campground – Great for boat access and fishing.
5. Warrumbungle National Park – The Ultimate Stargazing Spot
📍 Location: Central NSW, 6 hours from Sydney
⛺ Best for: Stargazing, hiking, and volcanic landscapes
Warrumbungle National Park is Australia’s first Dark Sky Park, meaning it has some of the clearest night skies for stargazing. The rugged volcanic formations and hiking trails make it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Why it’s great:
- Incredible stargazing opportunities
- Unique volcanic landscapes and hiking trails
- Plenty of wildlife, including kangaroos and echidnas
Camping info:
- Camp Blackman – Great facilities and close to walking trails.
- Gunneemooroo Campground – Remote and peaceful, best for off-grid campers.
- Balor Hut Campground – Perfect for hikers exploring the Breadknife trail.
6. Dunns Swamp (Ganguddy) – Hidden Gem in the Wollemi Wilderness
📍 Location: Wollemi National Park, 3.5 hours from Sydney
⛺ Best for: Peaceful kayaking, fishing, and bushwalking
Dunns Swamp, also known as Ganguddy, is a stunning waterway in Wollemi National Park. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of calm waters, sandstone cliffs, and lush bushland.
Why it’s great:
- Ideal for kayaking and canoeing
- Stunning sandstone formations and scenic walking trails
- Great for birdwatching and wildlife spotting
Camping info:
- Dunns Swamp Campground – Basic facilities, peaceful and remote.
Essential Gear for Off-Grid Camping in NSW
- 12V Battery System – Keep your campsite powered.
- Solar Panels – Harness the sun to run your fridge and lights.
- Fridge/Freezer – Keep food and drinks cold on long trips.
- LED Camping Lights – Essential for setting up camp after dark.
Final Thoughts
From alpine adventures to secluded beach retreats and breathtaking mountain escapes, New South Wales offers an incredible range of off-grid camping destinations. Whether you want to hike, fish, kayak, or simply relax in nature, there’s a perfect campsite waiting for you.
FAQ: The Best Camping Spots in New South Wales
Do I need a 4WD for these camping spots?
Some spots, like Barrington Tops and Dunns Swamp, may require a 4WD for access, but many campgrounds in NSW are 2WD accessible.
Are campfires allowed at these campsites?
Campfire rules vary by season and location. Always check local fire restrictions before lighting a campfire.
What’s the best time of year to camp in NSW?
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for camping in NSW, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is great for coastal camping, while winter is best for alpine areas like Kosciuszko National Park.
