Beach and dog-friendly camping near Iluka

Immerse yourself in World Heritage-listed rainforest on the NSW north coast.

92% (507 reviews)
92% (507 reviews)

Dog-friendly getaways

11 top beach and dog-friendly campgrounds near Iluka

76%
(60)

Woombah Woods Caravan park

32 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Woombah, NSW
This is a caravan park with a large grassy camping area. Close to highway (M1) and beach. It is an ideal place for families to stay for a few days to explore the beach, national park and a lot more. For travelers who want to stop overnight, this park is conveniently located to get on & off the highway with ease. We are dog-friendly for friendly dogs. We are upgrading the infrastructure (water, sewer, stormwater and electricity) of the park. Due to capital requirement and for the convenience of existing residents, the upgrade will be undertaken in multiple stages. The road will be concreted after all infrastructure are installed. During the process of upgrading, there will be some trenching and digging. The trench may be not filled property. The swimming pool is not available for maintenance until further notice.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from 
AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
88%
(88)

MICALO E.CO

30 sites · RVs, Tents115 acres · Yamba, NSW
Enjoy wide country spaces surrounded by coastal wetlands on Micalo Island. We provide a secluded sanctuary located 10 minutes from the town centre of Yamba. Yamba is known to have some of Australia's best beaches Ideal for surfing, fishing and all of your water sports needs. Other main attractions of Yamba include; Yamba Golf and Country Club, Yamba Bowling Club, the Pacific Hotel and Yamba Shores Tavern. Just a short drive further south lies the beautiful village of Angourie and the Yuraygir National Park. Coles shopping centre is only a 2 minute drive making stocking up on essentials quick and easy. Our riverfront site is ideal for smaller set-ups wanting a more private setting with kayak access and fishing at your front door. Larger caravans and RVs are more suited around the freshwater dam with gravel road access and there is plenty of room on the open grassy spots for tents and small vans. New Shelter and BBQ area has now been completed next to the dam with a picnic table, seating and potable water available. A wide variety of flora and fauna call these sensitive mangrove wetlands home. Ideal for birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts wanting to explore this special area. Instagram - @micaloe.co
Potable water
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from 
AU$66
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(34)

Higher Ground Coastal Bush Retreat & Permaculture

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents146 acres · Shark Creek, NSW
Your coastal bush oasis awaits! Higher Ground Retreat is 146 acres of coastal bushland at Shark Creek behind the coastal range of Yuragir National Park. Enjoy all the Clarence valley has to offer with the laid back lifestyle in the many rural and coastal villages. Enjoy the uncrowded surfing, fishing, kayaking, boating, bushwalking all along this pristine coastline. or take a day trip to explore the wilderness of the upper reaches of the Clarence River. Higher Ground is an off-grid property that feels a world away, but is only 15 minutes drive from Maclean, 25 minutes from the stunning beaches at Brooms Head, Angourie and Yamba, and less than 2 hours from the Gold Coast. Visit our organic permaculture farm and experience the self-sufficient life you’ve been yearning for, with off-grid solar, tank-water and a waterhole for swimming. Vegies, fruit trees, heritage breed chickens with babies hatching, a shade house for seedlings – this garden is designed to minimise effort and inputs and maximize productivity. Learn about animal integration into the system, new ways of composting and food forest systems. We have a homestead for rent, Glamping Belle tents and also a variety of camping options, Each site is relatively flat and has enough shade in the hottest part of the day. Whether you are in the house or camping, you will have privacy both from your fellow campers with each site being at least 30m apart, separated by trees yet still open enough to enjoy the views of the land and each aspect of the sun throughout the day. We have a screened in camp kitchen for you to enjoy with fridge, tank water and solar power. Each site has a metal fire pit and plenty of space for 2-3 tents or caravan /motorhome with good access during the dry season. The composting toilet and hot shower are close by. We are dog friendly as long as your pet is quiet and well managed. Off-lead can be decided depending on the dog and the interaction with our passive 10 year old Koolie who is very relaxed around other dogs. They must be controlled as sheep are nearby and we have an abundance of wildlife. We have a slackline, a rope swing and badmitten for anyone looking to include more play in their stay! Responsible campfires are permitted in the metal fire pits in designated area when restrictions aren't in place. Firewood can be purchased for $15 P bag Full Mobile reception for Telstra and Optus although we encourage you to minimise screen time during your stay and immerse yourself in the off-grid lifestyle 😉. The road in is also suitable for a 2WD but more comfortable in a 4WD. Drinking water is provided. Please bring your own water for cooking and washing up. We hope you enjoy your stay at Higher Ground 🙂
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Cooking equipment
from 
AU$22
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(194)

Waterfalls & More

11 sites · RVs, Tents104 acres · Sherwood, NSW
HIDING IN THE MIDDLE OF EVERYWHERE! Pure. Unadulterated. WILD. 104 very private acres, securely sandwiched between a National Park Nature Reserve and State Forest. On a dead end road. No agriculture or farms upstream, only one other like-minded property owner. Secluded, but hiding smack bang in the middle of everywhere! From vertiginous sandstone cliffs on which epipetrics cling tight, right through to palm-filled rainforests, and with two quite different creek systems (including a monster waterfall), you'll be spoiled for things to do and places to explore - without even leaving the property! HISTORY This land is Gumbaynggirr land. Please be particularly mindful of our First Nation's long presence on this land. In the 1800's, white men came seeking Red Cedar, closely followed by settlers having a go at dairying; though logging has remained this area's mainstay. This special property, despite last being selectively logged about 50 years ago, hosts many huge old-growth trees remaining steadfast for your discovery and wonder. And many more are continuing to grow out too. About 35 years ago about nine of this property's eastern-most 104 acres became part of a far larger nashi pear orchard which filled much of the flats of this top end of the valley that you see today. Ultimately they failed to set good commercial fruit, and the rootstocks took over. You can see remnant rows of these trees just south of the property, from along the road. (Beware though - they have spikes that could puncture Caterpillar tracks!) MORE RECENTLY extensive lantana control efforts have been undertaken as we now move into revegetating with native species and implementing a permaculture plan. Today the property is registered with Land For Wildlife and hosts a very wide mix of native vegetation communities. ACTIVITIES Bird watch. Climb. Abseil. Photograph wildflowers. Paint. Swim. In the next valley there's even gold to be found. Explore trails by mountain bike. Whale watch. Surf. Learn SCUBA. Go beach-combing. Catch a mudcrab. Go whitewater river rafting. Ask your host about where to find all the local waterfalls, the best walking, how to find gold, the gnarliest off-road tracks, Anything is possible here in this magnificent part of the world, except perhaps snow and ice.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from 
AU$29
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(144)

Near and Far Yamba

11 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Micalo Island, NSW
Near and Far Yamba is on an exclusive riverside private property, located 10 mins drive from Yamba NSW. If you like the quiet and being away from the mob in a rural area, you will enjoy this out of the ordinary property. If you’re an early riser you will see wonderful sunrises over the river, plenty of kangaroos, birds, jumping mullet, maybe a dolphin or sea eagle. The owners large homestead is visible, they are happy to share their property and surrounds as offered. CAMPSITES: 2 Exclusive spacious separate camp sites near the river - Cubby Waterfront site, space for group 1-3 Caravans, tents, campers, coasters etc . Mango Tree River View Site space for group 1- 2 Caravans, campers. SKIPPY Bush Camp 2 open field - short Stay for self contained ensuite caravans only. Not riverfront, tap water only, no other facilities. All sites - Leave no trace, means take your rubbish away. 3km all weather private road. A secluded private property with open spaces, unfenced river and canals, farm animals and wildlife close by. Kangaroos are regularly around the buildings, in the yard and can be grazing up to the door at night. Town water, grid power, Telstra WIFI is available in the area but not provided. Dog friendly, secure available if required.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from 
AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Morinokoe - 'Voice of the Forest'

2 sites · Lodging5 acres · Woombah, NSW
Morinokoe is a 5 acre 'one planet' lifestyle vision, set in the peaceful, secure, rural residential community of Woombah, bordering the Bundjalung National Park and just 5 minutes drive from famous 'Woody Head' camp ground and Iluka's surf beaches. For paddling and fishing, it's a few hundred metres from a public jetty to the Clarence River and just a few minutes drive to the Esk river (a unique waterway that tracks through the national park). The land itself is 2/3 natural forest, with fruit trees and permaculture inspired garden design and cleared areas with space for parking, playing and camping. The property includes two separate bases for holiday stays: 1) Retro Caravan (morinokoe-ko) The (two room) caravan is basic, but newly renovated with a covered roof allowing for a large outdoor patio area, covered back deck, camp toilet. basic kitchen equipment (cooking on your campfire). There is one power outlet supplied to the caravan, but lighting is provided by solar lights around the site. Access to power is provided at the main house. There's access to a toilet, shower (cold water) and drinking water supply. There is a Jamie Oliver grill for cooking at the table, and a fire pit on hand as well. There are basic cooking implements, cutlery and crockery as well as a large green water tank for washing and drinking. 2) Modern 'eco' house A large (486 m2) open area with an upstairs, fully fly-screened, mezzanine area (lockable) with 3 bedrooms (queen, king single and single). Downstairs there is a dining table, a kitchenette with kettle, toaster, induction cooker (and cookware), a deep bath tub, outside shower area and composting toilet. Drive in to undercover parking and enjoy the (covered) outdoor lounge area around the fire pit. There's easy access to the large veggie garden to pick fresh herbs and greens for your culinary creations! Morinokoe is a place of peace and privacy that provides a balance between convenience, security (friendly neighbourhood) and accessibility and the peace and quiet of being deep in the forest (where you can walk or ride your bike straight into the national park). We have rubbish and composting facilities. Pets on leashes welcome.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from 
AU$64
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(2)

Solitary Islands Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Woolgoolga, NSW
Location: Just five minutes from the stunning beaches of the Mid-North Coast, where the mountains meet the sea. Overview: Solitary Islands Farm is a Permaculture farm focused on organic farming methods to rejuvenate soil to grow market garden produce with a variety of flowers, edible flowers, mixed salads, root veggies, fruits and citrus. Welcome to Solitary Islands Farm, a permaculture-designed retreat established in 2024. Spanning 88 acres of pristine countryside, our farm features a private nature reserve abundant with native wildlife, perfect for exploring by bike or on foot. Experience the magic of this region with a variety of nature-driven adventures. Campsite Features Scenic Campsites: Nestled among 100-year-old gum trees, our landscaped camp zones provide guests with private spaces for tranquility and safety. Self-Sufficient Camping: Campers should come fully prepared, as there are currently no amenities on-site. We provide 15L water tanks upon arrival. Local Activities Water Sports: Surfing and diving at nearby beaches. Adventure: Mountain biking in Bells Rainforest, tree-top climbing, and scenic nature walks. Leisure: Golfing at local courses and exploring the beautiful landscapes. Important Information Pet Policy: Pets are welcome but must be kept on a lead to protect the local wildlife. Check-In: Flexible check-in available. Please message the host upon arrival. Safety Notice: Drive slowly upon entering the property to avoid free-range chickens and respect the privacy of nearby residents. Keep noise to a minimum. Future Developments We are committed to sustainability and plan to enhance our facilities in the future to accommodate small and large groups. Please check for availability as the campground is open to the public only at certain times of the year. Contact For inquiries or to confirm campervan suitability, please message us before arrival. The host is not on-site, but you can reach out via message or call with any questions. We look forward to welcoming you to Solitary Islands Farm for a memorable camping experience!
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
AU$49.50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Beach and dog-friendly camping near Iluka guide

Overview

Iluka means “near the sea” in the Yaegl language, and this village certainly is—right at the mouth of the Clarence River, the largest of NSW’s east coast rivers. But it’s what’s on land that makes Iluka so special. Iluka Bluff is the best whale watching spot, while the Iluka Nature Reserve, part of the Gondwana Rainforest of Australia, is the largest remaining littoral rainforest in New South Wales. It’s easily explored on foot, as the trail starts where the ferry from Yamba docks on the other side of the Clarence River. When it comes to camping getaways, caravan parks dot the area and the neighbouring Bundjalung National Park has several great beachfront camping areas.

When to go

The NSW north coast gets very busy during summer school holidays, but February and March are pretty crowd-free with many accommodation options. Even in winter—when you’ve got a good chance of seeing migrating whales from the many headland vantage points—the weather is usually very kind. Swimming is best from October to May, while autumn is ideal for beach fishing.  

Know before you go

  • Road rules are the same on beaches as they are on bitumen roads, except that the maximum speed limit allowed on beaches is 40 kilometres per hour. Also keep an eye out for nesting seabirds…and sunbathers.
  • Iluka tour operators offer kayak tours, snorkelling, bikes, standup paddle boarding, and kayak hires.
  • Recreational fishing licenses are mandatory in New South Wales. Find them online or at most fishing bait-and-tackle shops.

Safety partners

Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.