The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Diamond Beach, New South Wales

Diamond Beach delivers if you’re after pet-friendly camping. Over 1,300 sites welcome your furry mates, and you can snag a spot for as little as $10 a night—average is $50, so there’s flexibility for any budget. You’ll find dog-friendly sites along the Manning River, tucked into eucalyptus bush, and a short walk from the sand. Many camps offer toilets and showers, so you won’t be roughing it unless you want to. Swimming, wildlife-watching, and surfing are the big draws here. For camps with strong reputations, check out The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (669 reviews), Spirit of the Forest (439 reviews), and The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah (436 reviews). Bring your lead, grab some treats, and get ready for a stretch of coast where you and your pet both get to run wild.

97% (6.6K) • 361 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach delivers if you’re after pet-friendly camping. Over 1,300 sites welcome your furry mates, and you can snag a spot for as little as $10 a night—average is $50, so there’s flexibility for any budget. You’ll find dog-friendly sites along the Manning River, tucked into eucalyptus bush, and a short walk from the sand. Many camps offer toilets and showers, so you won’t be roughing it unless you want to. Swimming, wildlife-watching, and surfing are the big draws here. For camps with strong reputations, check out The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (669 reviews), Spirit of the Forest (439 reviews), and The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah (436 reviews). Bring your lead, grab some treats, and get ready for a stretch of coast where you and your pet both get to run wild.

97% (6.6K) • 361 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Diamond Beach

1. The Riverbank

99%

(58)

73km from Diamond Beach · 4 sites · RVs

"The Riverbank" is only 7.5 kilometres and an easy 8 minute drive off the M1. The rich green land supports a small beef raising enterprise and the cattle graze in surrounding paddocks. YOU MUST ARRIVE BEFORE SUNSET We are pet friendly however only for those pets that live in harmony with our farm animals. We offer 2 powered sites with water hookup and 2 unpowered drive through sites without water connection; our brand new magnificently appointed camp kitchen and bathroom ammenities are available to all who stay. We are caravan, campervan and motorhome friendly but do not offer swag only or tent sites. Campfires can be enjoyed through the cooler months and when permitted by the Rural Fire Service Unfortunately our 3 metre cliff face river frontage prevents access to the river for activities such as boating or kayaking; nor do we offer farm style adventures. "The Riverbank" as a destination for a relaxing time to unwind or a base from which to explore the beautiful Hastings area. The Abundance Nursery and Cafe with it's splendid lily pond view is a great spot to enjoy a meal or a coffee and only 3 kms back along Rawdon Island road. The pretty country town of Wauchope is only a 12 minute drive and is home to Timbertown, a theme park boasting steam train rides and a glimpse of the timber getting industry of a bygone era. Drop into the Vibe Coffee House, pick up "the best" coffee and a sensational meal before perusing the many treasures of Wauchope's specialty shops. A day trip to the Comboyne plateu is a rewarding experience and enhanced by enjoying a meal at the magnificant Byabarra Cafe on your way through. Whilst the meals equall those of any capital city restaurant, the view of the valley will take your breath away. And then; there's Port Macquarie (20 mins) and sorrounds! one of the most scenic and attraction packed areas of Australia's eastern seaboard. Stunning beaches, amazing walks, top class restaurants, the list goes on. The nearest Dump Points are locacted in Wauchope (12 minutes) or Port Macquarie (20 minutes)

2. Platypus Pools

100%

(544)

67km from Diamond Beach · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Premium and exclusive natural camping at its best. Our farm is located on the beautiful Karuah River in the picturesque Monkerai valley. The river is a fresh mountain river running from the foothills of Barrington Tops. We only offer 5 sites across our 300 acre property giving you absolute privacy and a sense of serenity We were very pleased to have been recognised by Hipcamp as being one of the top 20 Hipcamp locations in NSW for 2022. Most of the year the river is lovely and clear and ideal for swimming canoeing floating on airbeds fishing photography or just enjoying. There is also some really nice bike riding and walking opportunities around the valley although you will be on gravel roads and we are only 25 min drive from the popular Dungog mountain bike park. You are likely to see a variety of birdlife other wildlife including black and white cockatoos ducks some lizards, occasionally wallabies, echidnas and if you are lucky a Platypus or two. We are fortunate to see platypus in the river frequently which is a sign of just how pristine the water running down from the mountains really is. You will have your campsite completely to yourself with no other camper near you. Privacy, tranquillity, relaxation and just enjoying nature is waiting for you. Be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution. With some lovely Spring rain the river is running beautifully and is great for a swim, fish or canoe. Swimming, canoeing and running the rapids on surf mats is always popular at our property and as long as the river is it normal levels and a lot of fun. However, we always highly recommend people wear some form of footwear in the river such as rafting sandals or old joggers or similar as the rocks are very hard on your feet and there’s a particular nasty little fish called a “Bullrout” that whilst rare can infect a nasty sting if you tread on one. No need to be overly concerned but be mindful. Our property is ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, it’s up to you. There are no toilets so only suitable if you have your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All toilet waste, leaving our property is very important and an absolutely essential requirement for all visitors. Public waste dump points are at Stroud, Dungog and Gloucester. Gloucester Dungog and historic Stroud village are nearby as well as Barrington Tops World Heritage wilderness area and national park. This is an operating farm and therefore farming activities such as cattle droving, fencing, grass cutting or hay making may occasionally be occurring somewhere near your site but we would always let you know. We are sure you will enjoy our farm far more than a crowded traditional caravan park or campgrounds. We do have some limited bags of firewood for sale at $20 a bag most of the year. These are heavy bags of very dry local Hardwood. You can also collect firewood along the riverbanks yourself or bring your own firewood for a campfire (subject to any fire restrictions) if that is easier and more convenient for you. When you make a reservation at the property we will always endeavour to put you in your preferred location as best we can. However if we are impacted by adverse weather or need to run cattle on certain parts of the farm then we may need to make a change to the actual site you are in and trust you understand. We look forward to you visiting our farm.

3. River Front Campsites

99%

(73)

79km from Diamond Beach · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

We wish to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the Worimi, Gringai and Biripi people the custodians, spiritual and cultural owners of these lands on which the Gloucester River runs. River Front Campsites is a picturesque camping area on the eastern edge of the Barrington Tops National Park (Gloucester Tops) and nestled on the banks of the crystal clear Gloucester River. A great spot for families and groups of all ages who love wide open natural spaces. A place to relax and enjoy the amazing mountain scenery, fabulous sunsets and bird life local to the area, along with other wildlife that graze the land. If you want to indulge in the natural wonders of the area, there are numerous walking trails in the nearby Gloucester Tops National Park, swim in the crystal clear water of the Gloucester River. Do some Bird watching. We are an active beef cattle farm. We run approximately 80 head of cattle. You will see our herd of cattle across the paddocks, which includes pregnant cows, younger cows, calves, and Brutus our bull. We will endeavor to run our cattle outside of the paddocks containing the campsites. For this reason, we ONLY allow dogs to stay if they remain on a lead or are well controlled. There are 6 sites to choose from beside the flowing river to set up your campsite, with shady areas, spacious grassy areas for the kids to run around or just relax and enjoy the surroundings. All of our campsites are perfect for having a campfire (fire season dependent). NO rubbish can be burnt in any campfires at all. Each Site will have a fire pit. BYO wood. These are sites only and NO toilet or shower facilities are provided, or freshwater. YOU MUST HAVE YOUR OWN CAMPING TOILET OR ONE IN YOUR CARAVAN/CAMPER. (There are dump points located in Gloucester and Stroud townships, both approximately 40 min away). Access to River Front Campsites is partially by 12kms of gravel council managed road with 6 water crossings. Campsites are easily accessible by 4WD and 2WD vehicles. (Weather conditions permitting) Flood detour road available if needed. There is no rubbish collection on the campsites. You will be required to take all rubbish off the property when you leave. THERE IS NO MOBILE RECEPTION.

4. Balyngara downs

75km from Diamond Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV

Flat, peaceful campground located 20 minutes from Port Macquarie and 15 minutes from Wauchope. A private jetty, boat ramp, and open pasture are available to play and camp. Crab pots, a kayak, and a fire pit are provided, with plenty of firewood available throughout the bush for collection. Enjoy great fishing and plenty of mud crabs. A large undercover area is available if required.

from

AU$49

/ night

5. Critterland - Cabin & Camping

100%

(84)

25km from Diamond Beach · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Choose the cabin or camping. We have a kiwifruit plantation, and a MUST for all visitors is a meeting with Sarge, our bull!CampingA very beautifully maintained grassy campground beside the creek. Sit back and enjoy the wildlife or have a sit in the seasonal creek. We have an operational kiwifruit plantation as well as an established fruit orchard.Pet friendly with a communal fire pit. $25 per head per night.There is a communal camp kitchen with all the basics. Make sure you get to meet Sarge, the bull!CabinSit back and enjoy the wildlife or have a sit in the seasonal creek. Cabin can sleep 4 people, bring your own linen - with one king bed , one king single and two other singles.We have an operational kiwifruit plantation as well as an established fruit orchard.Pet friendly (off leash is fine) with a communal fire pit. There is a communal camp kitchen with all the basics. Make sure you get to meet sarge, the bull.Everything is run via solar which makes the camp eco-friendly as well. We used the cabin as well as camping, and the cabin was a nice and tidy set up, Flushing toilet and shower facilities are provided on tank water for all guests, and the creek that runs through the property.STRA:Exempt

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jade

2 weeks ago

7 m pop-up camper

1 night at Critterland - Cabin & Camping

Awesome place to stay, so peaceful and quiet, would definitely recommend a stop there!

T

Tiana

2 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Platypus Pools

Cedar Glade was absolutely divine. The property is peaceful, beautifully maintained, and feels like a little pocket of calm away from the world. The campsite itself was private, spacious, and thoughtfully set up, making it easy to truly relax and settle in. The other campsites could be seen when leaving the site or when exploring the property, but were all far enough and tucked away that I never heard any of them, everyone had privacy and could enjoy their own slices of heaven Chris was incredibly welcoming, with great communication from start to finish. You can tell a lot of care has gone into creating this place — it felt safe, grounding, and restorative. Chris gave perfect thorough directions to the property and to the site that made it genuinely impossible to get lost. It was such a genuinely dog-friendly stay. With my pup enjoying exploring, relaxing, and soaking up the calm as much as we did. It’s always special finding a place where your dog is not just “allowed” but truly welcomed. Waking up to the sounds of nature and ending the days under the stars was exactly what we needed. The water holes and small rapids along the river were so fun to explore and swim in, with lots of fish and other little creatures around. Even a goanna popped by the site to say gday! We left feeling refreshed and grateful, and would absolutely recommend this spot to anyone looking for a quiet, special place to unwind. We can’t wait to return

J

Jade

2 weeks ago

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Platypus Pools

Beautiful, secluded little spot. Perfect for us and our old dog.

If star gazing is what you're into then bring your camera!

a

abe

2 weeks ago

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Platypus Pools

Such a peaceful spot, great to set up a tent or swag or park up the 4wd with a rooftop tent. The river is so beautiful. Couldn’t recommend it higher.

Samantha

2 weeks ago

7 m Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Riverbank

Great spot. Beautiful camp kitchen and facilities. Fabulous host!

P

Phil

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Platypus Pools

Our stay at Cedar Glade on Chris’s property was fantastic. Loads of flat space, afternoon shade, river was so nice to float about in. Our dogs loved the freedom to roam and fossick and chase the magpies (never got within cooee of them). Thanks for keeping the cows well clear Chris. Our area was also very private. Chris’s instructions to our site were very clear and it was nice to meet him later that day. Plenty of firewood of varying size for collection if you want a fire. No need to bring any. Thanks for hosting us Chris. We’ll be back for sure.

D

Daniel

2 weeks ago

8 m Class A

9 nights at The Riverbank

Matt & his wife have a great Hipcamp. Easy to follow directions, Matt met us on arrival and gave us the lay of the land and told us about local attractions. Our spot was huge and it was great having power & water hookup. We also got to use the new ensuite just for ourselves for a small extra cost and that was amazing (the main bathroom is included). The camp kitchen & area was immaculate & bbq was awesome. In terms of location, it was a short drive to Port Macquarie (20ish mins) and less to Wauchope. So great location if you want to be away from the crowds but be able to easily go to the beach or out to eat. Overall, great spot & friendly hosts so most definitely recommend and we will be back.

R

Ruth

3 weeks ago

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

5 nights at Platypus Pools

Been here 8 or 9 times and it never disappoints. The camps are spaced out so you have your own little section of river. The area is flat with both morning and afternoon sun available, with a move of the folding chair 😄 Had 2 days, in our 5 day stay, over 40 degrees but being right on a shady stretch of river it was very manageable. The swimming hole is just lovely with shade, deep and shallow sections plus rapids for the kids as well. Platypus can be seen at dusk and dawn upstream but one of my favourite aspects is the bird life. Too many types to list. My dog loves it as well. The hosts are terrific with communication and work so hard to keep the sites just lovely. It is a privilege to be able to come to the property and we, as always, are extremely grateful. We will be back soon

J

Jo-Anne

3 weeks ago

7 m pop-up camper

With pets

5 nights at Platypus Pools

Such a beautiful little spot with a lovely view of the rapids and river. Although it was quite hot, the river provided a peaceful and relaxing place to cool down. Chris was a great host. Would definitely recommend and hope to be back again soon.

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Rosie

December 2025

7 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Riverbank

Absolutely beautiful location and well appointed site. Peaceful and quiet- exactly what we wanted after a long day on the road. Lovely landscaping and we were able to feel the grass under foot. Matt was helpful and friendly. Multiple families would be very happy here.

I

Ian

November 2025

10 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Platypus Pools

2nd time staying at plateaus pools. Beautiful as always. Nice and private. Chris the host is always friendly and accomodating. Can’t wait for our next visit.

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Rebecca

November 2025

11 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Platypus Pools

Absolutely beautiful spot. Perfect for relaxing, swimming and exploring. The platypus sightings were an extra bonus. Easy access and large private site.

T

Todd

November 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Platypus Pools

Had an amazing time at the rapids. The site had great views over the river top little swimming hole below the rapids and floating down the river. If you are looking for a relaxing break I highly recommend Chris’s farm. We will definitely be back in the near future. Thanks Chris we Loved our stay.

Celeste

November 2025

8 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Platypus Pools

What a location! Pulling our van up alongside the river was magical. We had the best time and most certainly will be back. Chris is also a great host and made finding our spot extremely easy. A huge bonus was getting to see all the baby calves with their mums.

B

Brad

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Platypus Pools

Beautiful location and heaps of privacy We will definitely come back here for another trip

A

Alfredo

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Platypus Pools

We loved camping at Platypus Pools! We ended up camping in the Rockpool site. We loved swimming and fishing in the river. The site was very private and Chris and his son made sure we were comfortable and checked on us each day. The farm is 25 mins away from Stroud or Gloucester in case anything is needed from shops. We forgot marshmallows so got that from Gloucester. We will be back!

KATRINA

October 2025

8 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Platypus Pools

Platypus pools was incredible. Site : The Dell. So much space right on the river. The dogs loved the freedom to be off leash, the kids had a ball swimming, catching fish & spotting the platypus. The cows came to say hello too so many cute little bubbas this time of year too. Perfect area, easy to find. Cannot fault at all and we will certainly be back.

I

Iain

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Platypus Pools

Peaceful, peaceful peaceful. This place is heaven on earth. Chris makes check so easy and the sites or well kept.

J

Jemma

October 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Platypus Pools

This was our second time camping at The Dell. Beautiful spot by the river with shady spots throughout the day. We had lots of fun swimming and kayaking. Thanks for having us Chris!

Z

Zac

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

4 nights at River Front Campsites

This private piece of paradise was an absolute delight. A well managed paddock with 6 fire pits spaced out about 30m apart all facing the river. I attended during school holidays/public holiday and we didn’t even hit capacity! The sound of the flowing river and birds of warning was so calming for the soul. Will definitely be back!