The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Sawtell, New South Wales

Camping with your pet in Sawtell means waking up to the sound of birds, not traffic. With over 770 pet-friendly spots, you can pitch a tent or roll up in your caravan just minutes from the coast or tucked behind gum trees. Many sites welcome campfires, so you and your dog can settle in by the flames after a day spent surfing, fishing, or watching kangaroos graze at dusk. Prices start at $8 a night, with most sites averaging $40. Favourites like Dodona (419 reviews), Footprints in Style (418 reviews), and Valley View Escape (344 reviews) make it easy to find a spot with toilets and room for your four-legged mate. This is real camping—simple, relaxed, and built for travellers who’d rather have sand on their shoes than city dust in their lungs.

96% (7.2K) • 255 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sawtell

Camping with your pet in Sawtell means waking up to the sound of birds, not traffic. With over 770 pet-friendly spots, you can pitch a tent or roll up in your caravan just minutes from the coast or tucked behind gum trees. Many sites welcome campfires, so you and your dog can settle in by the flames after a day spent surfing, fishing, or watching kangaroos graze at dusk. Prices start at $8 a night, with most sites averaging $40. Favourites like Dodona (419 reviews), Footprints in Style (418 reviews), and Valley View Escape (344 reviews) make it easy to find a spot with toilets and room for your four-legged mate. This is real camping—simple, relaxed, and built for travellers who’d rather have sand on their shoes than city dust in their lungs.

96% (7.2K) • 255 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sawtell

1. Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

100%

(21)

52km from Sawtell · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

*Recently renovated! Hot showers, new composting toilets & shared undercover space at Yagaari - Suitable for private camping, group bookings, workshops and small gatherings* Note: We are a 4WD/AWD property 🛻 Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary borders the Western side of Yarriabini National Park on the traditional lands of the Ngambaa people. The creeks and dams here are all spring fed and provide a sanctuary for an abundance of wildlife and native bushland, as well as a few beautiful places for a refreshing swim! The property is private and quiet and has stunning sunrise and sunset views as well as multiple camping sites fit for various needs and group sizes. We have recently built a large shared communcal space for campers to enjoy and there are also clean, odourless composting toilets and hot showers available for use on site. There is lots of space to walk and explore with tracks leading up into the heart of the National Park. Nearby are many gorgeous rivers, beaches and other national parks to explore. We are convieniently located only 10 minutes from Macksville for shopping and cafes and only 15 minutes from Scotts Head, a great beach for families and surfers.

2. Solitary Islands Farm

98%

(22)

33km from Sawtell · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Solitary Islands Farm is a wonderful place for nature enthusiasts and campers to experience the beauty of the Mid-North Coast region. Here's a summary of the key information provided: Location: The retreat is conveniently located just a five-minute drive from the Mid-North Coast's stunning beaches and is surrounded by mountains. Property: Solitary Islands Farm Retreat spans 88 acres of natural beauty. The land features iconic historic trees, abundant birdlife, and a developing Permaculture farm. Campsites are spread across the property, offering campers seclusion within the natural surroundings. Nature Reserve: The property boasts its own untouched nature reserve with walking and bike paths for guests to explore. There is a large dam in the middle of the property, and Darkum Creek on the southern border, providing opportunities for fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking through the natural beauty of the land. Activities: The retreat offers a variety of nature-driven activities, including surfing, diving, golf, nature walks, mountain biking in Bells rainforest, and tree-top climbing 20 min drive. These activities allow guests to immerse themselves in the local attractions. Amenities: Currently, there are no amenities on site. Campers are expected to be fully self-sufficient during their stay, so be sure to come prepared with all the necessary camping gear and supplies. Sustainability: Solitary Islands Farm is committed to sustainability and aims to share its beautiful farm with others. They have plans to develop facilities that can accommodate both small and large groups in the future. Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed on the property, but campers are required to notify the owner. There are designated pet-friendly areas to ensure the safety of wildlife and the farm. When walking around the property, pets must be kept on a lead to protect the local wildlife. Overall, Solitary Islands Farm appears to be a serene and environmentally conscious camping destination where guests can connect with nature and enjoy a range of outdoor activities in a beautiful natural setting. PLEASE MINDFUL OF RESIDENTS LIVING ON THE ENTRANCE TO THE PROPERTY THEY HAVE FREE RANGING ANIMALS CROSSING THE ROADS. PLEASE DRIVE AS SLOW AS POSSIBLE! I don't live onsite but please call me for queries

3. Valla Beach Holiday Park

100%

(4)

28km from Sawtell · 144 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

**Please note that our office is closed on Christmas Day (25 December), and we do not accept arrivals or departures on this date. Any bookings made with a check-in or check-out on 25 December will be cancelled. Thank you for your understanding.** Valla Beach Holiday Park is the perfect place to unwind, rejuvenate and embrace the Nambucca Valley’s rich diversity and beauty. Go for a swim, kayak up the tranquil Deep Creek River, or enjoy a lovely leisurely walk through native bushland to the sparkling, blue ocean at South Valla Beach. Here is a little pocket of paradise you'll find yourself wanting to revisit year after year. Valla Beach Holiday Park is located halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, only 30 minutes south of Coffs Harbour and 10 minutes north of Nambucca Heads with Urunga, Bellingen and Dorrigo close by. The park sits majestically alongside The Deep Creek River mouth, adjacent to South Valla Beach and has some of the best surf and fishing spots on the Mid North Coast. Nambucca Heads – 10 minutes Urunga – 15 minutes Bellingen – 30 minutes Coffs Harbour – 33 minutes Dorrigo – 1 hour Valla Beach Holiday Park offers a range of affordable and comfortable cabin accommodations, as well as beautiful surroundings for camping, caravan or motorhome stays. There are many campsites available, some in shady spots including slab sites. Choose a site close to all of our fabulous amenities – or away from it all! The choice is yours.

4. The Blueberry Farm

74km from Sawtell · 1 site · Tent, RV

Perfect little stopover spot between Sydney and Brisbane. We are about 30mins to Grafton, 30 mins to wooli and Minnie waters (beautiful beaches) and only 5 mins from the local tucabia general store where you can purchase everything you might need. Easy access 2wd road all year round. Flat sites for rv self contained vehicles.

5. "Dodona"

99%

(623)

20km from Sawtell · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Dodona - ancient Greek meaning "God's Gift". Here you can camp by a permanent flowing creek in our beautiful green valley. Sites are accessible by all types of vehicles such as RVs, caravans, motorhomes, big rigs, camper trailers or basic tent camping. Campfires are permitted when restrictions aren't in place, firewood is available at $15 per bag and bonus inclusion of a lovely swimming pool and BBQ area! Shower & toilet available. There is 350 km of dirt trails in the very large Orara State Forest behind our property which is great for mountain bike riding, or horse riding (no horse riding permitted on the property). Pet friendly. Stay with a local, friendly host.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Sarah

2 weeks ago

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Solitary Islands Farm

Great quiet, private stay with different sites. Easy to get to.

A

Alexandra

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

Thank you for such a magical stay! The location is so peaceful and beautifully cared for by Alex and Georgia. They were such welcoming hosts, gave us great recommendations for places to visit locally, and even left out plenty of firewood for us. Thank you for a very special and memorable Christmas!

Julie

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

3 nights at "Dodona"

Very relaxing and not to far away from Coffs Harbour. Highly recommend

H

Heath

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

We camped at Yagaari with our 2 dogs and were incredibly impressed with the property! We were greeted by Alex on arrival who gave us the run down and provided recommendations on where to visit in the area. Georgia was incredibly responsive online and checked on us during our stay. What really stood out to us was how well maintained the sites and amenities were. All sites were flat, well signposted and freshly mown. The toilets and showers were a luxury and so clean! We enjoyed our walk up to the lookout which offered amazing views of the property and distant ranges. We cooled off in the swimming hole and our pups enjoyed wading in the creek. If you’re looking for a base to explore the wider region - this place is centrally located to multiple tourist destinations; Scott’s Head, Trial Bay Gaol, Hat Head Nat. Park, Nambucca Heads, South West Rocks, Smoky Cape Lighthouse just to name a few. All located within a half hour drive of Yagaari. We were able to visit all of these locations in one day while also having time to sample local seafood, cherries and stop for a swim. Will be recommending this place to family and friends!

M

Marco

3 weeks ago

7 m Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to "Dodona"

Staying with Richard was a wonderful experience for us and the children. Richard is a wonderfully warm person who makes you feel right at home. A beautiful property, surrounded by nature. A barbecue with wood is available, as are bathroom facilities, electricity, and water. There's even a swimming pool for the kids. We recommend staying with Richard to everyone.

Andre

3 weeks ago

7 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Valla Beach Holiday Park

Great location, sites were spacious so as not to feel like you were encroaching on people next yo you. Well manicured sites, very tidy and a great atmosphere whether camping by yourself, with friends or family.

J

Jake

3 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at "Dodona"

Great spot. Great owner. Easy access with power water and a swimming pool

A

Andrei

December 2025

8 m Class A

With kids

1 night at "Dodona"

Richard's farm is a massive piece of land and we were allowed to pick any spot. Richard is a gracious host who proved all the necessities for the travelers - fresh water and power. There is plenty of wood on site and Richard can lend you an axe if you feel up to it. Bring some carrots and apples to feed the neighbours horses - kids will love it. The site itself is reasonably leveled and we had no issues in parking our motorhome. Overall our stay was fun and enjoyable.

W

Wade

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Solitary Islands Farm

Great quiet spot with a close drive to the surf. Lots of space per site and great we could have a fire.

R

Rhii

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

My friends and I stayed for the weekend and absolutely loved it! The whole place was spotless and beautifully maintained — you can really tell how much care goes into keeping it that way. The swimming hole and facilities are a short walk from the campsites, and if you head up the hill, you’ll get stunning sunset views. Alex was incredibly welcoming, helpful and made sure we had everything we needed (even supplied us with loads of firewood!). Can’t wait to come back!

S

Stefanie

October 2025

6 m Class B

1 night at "Dodona"

Lovely open space in a clover filled field & freshly mowed! Use of Richards bathroom inside the house - offered me a morning brew & had a chit chat, but he left me to my own devices otherwise! Really peaceful place to stay and smelled like honeysuckle too!

H

Hannah

July 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at "Dodona"

This is a beautiful property - Richard is lovely and made sure I felt welcome to come into the house for warmth, to make tea, etc. I absolutely recommend this property to anyone wanting a peaceful camp out, with a friendly and helpful host.

E

Elsie

June 2025

Tent

3 nights at "Dodona"

I loved camping at Dodona. Richard, the host, was very welcoming and interesting to talk to. The property is picturesque and a very close drive to Coffs Harbour. 10/10.

A

Abbie N

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to "Dodona"

Dodona was the most magical experience. We have just had a winter retreat and from the glorious maples in fiery red to the running creek singing in the night to the abundance of delicious fruit trees this stay was hands down the best we’ve had. Richard is a charming and knowledgeable host only too happy to accommodate anyone and anything. Could not be happier and we are always planning our next visit. Your stay with Richard goes towards a wonderful charity too, make sure you ask about the great things charity:water are doing!

L

Lucy

June 2025

5 m car

1 night at "Dodona"

Such a lovely, quiet location and very flat. Richard was so lovely and let us use his shower and kitchen. Would 100% return :)

M

Marianella

June 2025

6 m Class B

2 nights at "Dodona"

Hidden gem. Had a great time. If you are looking for peace and tranquility, this is the spot. Dogs had a great time exploring.

E

Emily

June 2025

3 m Class A

1 night at "Dodona"

We only spent one night here but had an amazing stay! Richard was the most welcoming and lovely host and let us use his washer, kitchen and invited us in to keep warm at his fire place. A gorgeous place and super friendly host. Highly recommend :)

G

Gerard

June 2025

Tent

1 night at "Dodona"

Fantastic spot and phenomenal host. Expect to be surprised.

I

Izzy

June 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to "Dodona"

Absolutely loved staying here! i felt so welcomed by Richard and loved getting to spend time with the fellow campers and Richard in the evening by the fire. Richard was so accommodating and friendly, felt like a home away from home. Thank you Richard! 🩷

C

Clement

June 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to "Dodona"

It was a nice camping and Richard was a lovely host