Discover the best forest campgrounds near Newcastle, New South Wales with campfires

Whether you’re a beach lover, adrenaline junkie, or just want to get outside, Newcastle makes a strategic base for discovering central NSW, just a two-hour drive north of Sydney. Head beachside for surfing and water sports, venture inland to hike through rocky gorges and kayak around alpine lakes, or go wine tasting in the Hunter Valley. Camping options abound—seek out remote camping grounds in the heart of the hinterlands, enjoy a glamping experience complete with a traditional campfire BBQ, or park your campervan or camper trailer at a holiday park with a swimming pool.

Lake Macquarie

Just a short drive south, camping spots around Lake Macquarie afford easy access to the town and Stockton Beach. A popular getaway for Sydney-siders, there’s plenty to do, from boat cruises around the lake and bushwalking in the mountains to dining at lakeside restaurants or lounging on sandy beaches.

Great Lakes

North of Newcastle, the road to Port Macquarie passes through one of the most scenic stretches of New South Wales coastline. Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and water sports in the Great Lakes region, where the Myall, Smiths, and Wallis Lakes are bordered by both beaches and rainforest. Pitch your tent in Myall Lakes National Park, or check into one of the camping sites or caravan parks around Forster and Bulahdelah.

Greater Blue Mountains

Extending north of Sydney all the way to Newcastle, the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area encompasses the Yengo, Wollemi, and Blue Mountains national parks. Adventurous campers can sleep beneath the mountain stars in wooded camping grounds or trek to remote campsites accessible only by 4WD. Get set for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

When to go

Newcastle’s balmy summers (December through February) are the ideal time for coastal road trips or mountain getaways, escaping into the hills or cooling off at the region's lakes and beaches. Spring and autumn are the best times for hiking in the national parks, with spring flowers and autumnal leaves brightening the landscapes. Crowds dwindle in winter, but many campsites remain open and the weather is still mild enough for caravanning.

Know before you go

Regular buses run between Sydney and Newcastle, as well as to other destinations along the Central Coast, but having your own transport is preferable for exploring the region’s national parks and state forests.
Newcastle has a number of grocery stores and camping gear shops, where you can stock up on supplies before heading out.
Fire bans are common in New South Wales during summer and dry periods, so be sure to check local recommendations before lighting your campfire or using designated firepits.
A National Parks pass is required to visit, hike, or camp in Australia’s national parks

Nearby attractions

The best surfing beach in the Pacific Palms precinct, Boomerang Beach's unique shape, and rock formations give consistent and powerful waves.
An exciting adventure for anyone camping near Port Macquarie, Caves Beach is home to much more than just stunning ocean views.
Clean sands and rolling green hills are dotted with remnants of the once bustling coal mining operation at Catherine Hill Bay.
Perfect for surfers, offroaders, and nudists alike, Samurai Beach is a hidden gem that has nothing to hide.
Small and secluded, the 400-metre shoreline at Frazer Beach lies in a serene protected cove. Perfect for groups with younger campers, the calmer waters inside the cove are great for cooling down after a long day of exploring.
A lengthy stretch of golden sands against the backdrop of Belmont Wetlands State Park, Nine Mile Beach is known for its natural beauty and immersive 4WDriving experiences.