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

Planning a camping trip near Forster, New South Wales, and want to bring your furry friend along? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 2700 options available in the area, you'll find the perfect pet-friendly campsite to suit your preferences. From Bunyip's Camp with 577 reviews to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie with 361 reviews and Spirit of the Forest with 326 reviews, you can trust the opinions of fellow campers. Plus, facilities like pet-friendly areas, toilets, and potable water will ensure a comfortable stay. And with activities like horseback riding, fall fun, and off-roading (OHV) nearby, you'll have plenty of adventures to enjoy. So, pack your camping gear and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

97% (6.3K) • 325 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Forster

Planning a camping trip near Forster, New South Wales, and want to bring your furry friend along? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 2700 options available in the area, you'll find the perfect pet-friendly campsite to suit your preferences. From Bunyip's Camp with 577 reviews to The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie with 361 reviews and Spirit of the Forest with 326 reviews, you can trust the opinions of fellow campers. Plus, facilities like pet-friendly areas, toilets, and potable water will ensure a comfortable stay. And with activities like horseback riding, fall fun, and off-roading (OHV) nearby, you'll have plenty of adventures to enjoy. So, pack your camping gear and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

97% (6.3K) • 325 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Forster

1. One Mile Paradise

98%

(53)

76km from Forster · 1 site · Tent, RV

Our property is located at One Mile Beach in Port Stephens, we are on 1 acre of land and are only offering 1 site so you will have plenty of privacy. Our property is child friendly with access to our large cubby house and trampoline available. We have two friendly, placid dogs on the property and we welcome other friendly pets to the property. We are close to plenty of wonderful attractions, activities including, Quad Biking, Koala Sanctuary, Camel Rides, Sting Ray Centre and 4WD on Birubi Beach (permit required). We are a 10 minute drive from Tomaree National Park which has plenty of beautiful walks including the summit of Mt Tomaree walk. One Mile Beach is a stunning beach which is perfect for families and surfing enthusiasts. It is bordered by a large park with BBQ and playground facilities. You can also access Bennett's Head lookout from here and enjoy the stunning views.. The area is surrounded by plenty of stunning beaches which offer amazing swimming and snorkeling opportunities. Port Stephens has a number of great cafes and restaurants you can enjoy. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

2. Platypus Pools

100%

(543)

61km from Forster · 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)

78km from Forster · 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. Off-Grid Camping in the Forest

78km from Forster · 1 site · Tent, RV

Escape the noise and reconnect with nature on our private off-grid bush block, nestled between state forest and national parkland near Elands, NSW. Just 20 minutes past the breathtaking Ellenborough Falls, this secluded property is a haven for 4WD enthusiasts, mountain and dirt bikers, nature lovers, and anyone craving a quiet retreat in the wild. The land is shared with local wildlife and the occasional wandering neighbour’s cows, offering an authentic Aussie bush experience. Surrounded by untouched native forest, the area is dotted with seasonal creeks, koalas, kangaroos, curious goannas, and the occasional late-night chorus of geckos. We offer one cleared private campsite tucked away for peace and privacy. Sites are unpowered and have signage, and shade, but NO basic amenities are available and campers are required to bring in and remove ALL essentials (water, cooking equipment and toileting supplies). 🛻 Getting Around: Access to the property is suitable for most cars and campervans. However, internal access beyond the main entry is limited to walking or 4WD only, as the terrain follows old cow trails and bush tracks. Adventurous spirits will love exploring the many local 4WD trails and fire trails winding through the surrounding forests. 🔥 Fires & Camp; Facilities: Campfires are permitted (check local conditions and restrictions). The site has its own cleared space and signage. We ask that guests respect the land, local wildlife, and leave no trace. 💤 What You’ll Love: Total digital detox. Crystalline night skies and star-gazing Birdsong, bush silence, and no mobile reception to interrupt it A base to explore the spectacular hinterland of the Mid North Coast Whether you’re escaping the city, chasing trails, or just craving some time under the trees, our wild block offers rustic, raw beauty – with you bringing in as much comfort as you need to keep you grounded.

5. Critterland - Cabin & Camping

100%

(82)

31km from Forster · 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

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.

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.

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.

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.

R

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.

R

Robyn

November 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to One Mile Paradise

Peaceful very clean and only one camp-site so very private. Host was very accessible and friendly

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

S

Sylvain

November 2025

7 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to One Mile Paradise

Great place, very quiet, the kids playground is amazing. Field is flat, great comfy grass. Great location too. Field is huge, so doesn’t really feel like being in someone backyard. No toilet so need to be self-contained

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!

B

Belinda

October 2025

10 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Front Campsites

We had the best long weekend at Riverfront. Perfect weather and a beautiful river along with the peace and quiet. Both humans and dogs had a very relaxing stay. Not to mention Denise taking us to hand feed Lucy the cow. We couldn’t have asked for anything more. We will definitely be back!

L

Lilian

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Platypus Pools

Our second time camping at Chris’ place and we’ll definitely come back again! Private, beautiful river with rapids and a deep swimming hole. Perfect spot!

S

Sarah

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

With kids

4 nights at Platypus Pools

We loved our stay at The Dell. What a great spot. We had a blast paddling up the river, swimming and playing at the little rapids at the site. There was great birdlife, friendly cows, and we even saw a platypus up the river! There was plenty of room at the site, Chris the host is fantastic, and we hardly saw any other campers all weekend. Will hopefully stay again!