The best dog-friendly campgrounds in Northern Rivers

Looking to go camping with your pet in Northern Rivers, Australia? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 4,165 camping options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry friend. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option starting at just $5 per night, or a more luxurious experience, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Crystal Creek Ranch (781 reviews), Misty Mountain - Kunghur (397 reviews), and The Sleepy Hollow Manor Estate (198 reviews). Enjoy popular facilities such as rubbish disposal, campfires, and toilets, and engage in exciting activities like snow sports, hiking, and wind sports. Start planning your pet-friendly camping adventure today!

96% (4.8K) • 208 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Northern Rivers

Looking to go camping with your pet in Northern Rivers, Australia? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 4,165 camping options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry friend. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option starting at just $5 per night, or a more luxurious experience, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Crystal Creek Ranch (781 reviews), Misty Mountain - Kunghur (397 reviews), and The Sleepy Hollow Manor Estate (198 reviews). Enjoy popular facilities such as rubbish disposal, campfires, and toilets, and engage in exciting activities like snow sports, hiking, and wind sports. Start planning your pet-friendly camping adventure today!

96% (4.8K) • 208 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Northern Rivers

1. River Views - Island Paradise

99%

(344)

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Ashby, NSW

You will see a well maintained property with lots of things for you to do canoeing bike riding walking around my sugar cane farm tasting the sugar cane juice from the stalk a quite place to rest and enjoy the view's

2. Pacific Peak - Byron Views for 4x4s

100%

(42)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Brunswick Heads, NSW

🌴🌿 4x4 Camping - On top of the world 🌲⛺ Pacific Peak is a unique 4x4 park, great for camping and mountain-biking atop the beautiful Byron Shire overlooking Byron Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Immersed in a timeless Daintree-like rainforest, it’s an ideal spot for lovers of fresh mountain air and the sub-tropical jungle. This elevated setting makes you feel like you’re on top of the world, and offers a profound sense of tranquillity, while still enjoying easy access to all the wonders of the shire and surrounds. Whether by 4x4, mountain bike or motor bike, enjoy the wildly windy, undulating and often watery thick subtropical rainforest trail to and from the campsite and wake to the sun casting its golden light over Byron Bay, the most easterly point of Australia. Immerse yourself in the wild, untamed beauty and lifestyle of the Northern Rivers. 🌴🌿 Close to Everything 🌲⛺ A must-visit for 4x4 enthusiasts, hikers and bikers alike of all levels, who love mountain camping with a spectacular view, Pacific Peak is central to it all! Perfect for day trips exploring the countless parks, hidden walking tracks, waterfalls, and thrilling mountain biking trails, it's also just 20 mins to the beach, and 30 to Byron for those looking to spend time on the coast. Here’s what’s waiting for you: 🌴🌿 Falls & Walking Trails 🌲⛺ Nightcap National Park & Surrounds • Minyon Falls – A 100m-high waterfall with breathtaking views over ancient Gondwana rainforest. Hike to the base for an immersive experience. • Protesters Falls – A sacred site for the Widjabul Wia-bal people, this hidden waterfall within Nightcap National Park is a serene retreat. • Whian Whian Falls – A tranquil swimming hole surrounded by lush rainforest. • Hell Hole Falls – A hidden gem in Mount Jerusalem National Park with rock pools and scenic bushwalks. • Terania Creek – A peaceful forest stream with crystal-clear water and a picnic area. Border Ranges National Park • The Pinnacle Lookout – A must-see, offering sweeping views of Wollumbin (Mount Warning) and the surrounding valleys. • Blackbutt Lookout – Overlooks the Tweed Valley and the Pacific Ocean, a quiet spot for stunning sunrises. • Bar Mountain Circuit – A scenic rainforest trail leading through ancient Antarctic beech trees. Springbrook National Park • Purling Brook Falls – A spectacular waterfall dropping 100m into a lush valley, accessible via a scenic circuit walk. • Natural Bridge – A magical rock archway with a waterfall flowing through it, home to glow worms at night. • Best of All Lookout – As the name suggests, this lookout offers jaw-dropping views across the Tweed Valley and out to the Pacific. • Twin Falls Circuit – A moderate hike through rainforest leading to two stunning waterfalls. Lamington National Park • Moran Falls – A breathtaking waterfall with panoramic views, best enjoyed at sunset. • Box Forest Circuit – A lush rainforest walk featuring multiple waterfalls and ancient trees. • Elabana Falls – One of the most picturesque waterfalls in the park, surrounded by mossy boulders. • O’Reilly’s Treetop Walk – A canopy walk through towering rainforest, offering a unique perspective on this ancient landscape. Mount Tamborine • Curtis Falls – A charming waterfall set in a dense eucalypt forest, with an easy walk to the base. • Witches Falls – The oldest national park in Queensland, featuring a stunning seasonal waterfall. • Knoll Lookout – A lesser-known viewpoint with panoramic views of the Scenic Rim. 🌴🌿 Scenic Walks & Hiking Trails 🌲⛺ • Nightcap National Park – Ancient rainforest trails leading to waterfalls, rock pools, and lookouts. • Mount Jerusalem National Park – Rugged bush trails with panoramic valley views. • Three Sisters Walking Track – A coastal walk at Broken Head leading to a stunning headland lookout. • Cape Byron Walking Track – A must-do circuit passing rainforest, beaches, and the iconic Byron Bay Lighthouse. • Box Forest Circuit (Lamington NP) – A lush track featuring multiple waterfalls and serene forest views. • Palm Grove Circuit (Mount Tamborine) – A peaceful walk through subtropical rainforest, home to rare wildlife. 🌴🌿 Rivers, Swimming Holes & Coastal Beauty 🌲⛺ • The Brunswick River – Swim at high tide in crystal-clear waters, kayak through mangroves, or enjoy a riverside picnic. • Rocky Creek Dam – A peaceful reservoir with walking trails and a picturesque swimming area. • Cedar Creek Swimming Hole – A secret paradise with clear water and ancient fig trees. • Broken Head – A stunning beach backed by rainforest, offering scenic headland walks. • Seven Mile Beach (Lennox Head) – A breathtaking stretch of coastline, perfect for long walks, dolphin spotting, and surfing. • Whites Beach – A hidden cove south of Broken Head, accessible via a short but steep rainforest trail. 🌴🌿 Historic Hinterland Towns & Villages 🌲⛺ The Northern Rivers is home to a fascinating mix of historic villages, each with its own character and charm. • Nimbin – Famous for its counterculture history, street murals, and alternative lifestyle scene. • Mullumbimby – Known as the “biggest little town in Australia,” it boasts an eclectic mix of markets, cafes, and music venues. • Bangalow – A charming heritage town with boutique shops, excellent coffee, and a vibrant market scene. • Uki – A tiny village with an artsy vibe, serving as a gateway to Mount Warning and the Tweed Valley. • Dunoon – The macadamia capital of Australia, surrounded by rolling green hills and farmland. • Rosebank – A small community nestled in the hinterland, with beautiful rainforest and hidden waterfalls. • Tyalgum – A picturesque village at the foothills of the Border Ranges, known for its historic buildings and artistic community. • Federal – A laid-back town with a thriving arts scene and a popular café, Doma, offering some of the best Japanese food in the region. 🌴🌿 Markets, Music & Local Gems 🌲⛺ Byron Shire is famous for its market culture—every weekend, there’s a market somewhere, whether it’s in Byron Bay, Bangalow, Mullumbimby, or Brunswick Heads. For live music, check out The Rails or The Northern in Byron Bay, or one of the smaller venues in Mullumbimby or Bangalow. For an authentic Aussie experience, visit a local RSL or surf club, where you can enjoy affordable meals and a friendly atmosphere. 🌴🌿 Mountain Biking & Cycling Trails 🌲⛺ The Northern Rivers and surrounding hinterland offer incredible cycling and mountain biking experiences, from scenic coastal paths and old railway corridors to fast-paced downhill tracks and technical cross-country courses. Northern Rivers Rail Trail One of the most exciting recent additions to the region, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail follows the historic railway corridor, offering a smooth, scenic ride through lush countryside, heritage bridges, tunnels, and charming rural villages. Currently open sections include: • Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek (24km) – A stunning ride through rolling farmland and rainforest pockets, with historical railway stations and tunnels along the way • Future planned sections will extend through Byron Shire, Lismore, and Casino, creating a major cycle tourism attraction for all ages and fitness levels. National Parks & Forest Trails • Nightcap National Park – While primarily a hiking destination, some sections feature fire trails suitable for off-road cycling, with stunning scenery and creek crossings. • Border Ranges National Park – Remote fire trails with breathtaking views, winding through ancient rainforests and open escarpments. • Whian Whian State Conservation Area – A mix of gravel tracks and forestry trails through eucalypt and subtropical rainforest. Dedicated Mountain Bike Parks & Competition Tracks • Uki Mountain Bike Park – A well-kept secret in Northern NSW, this park features well-maintained XC and gravity trails, jumps, berms, and technical descents. It hosts regular club events and social rides. • Northern Rivers Rail Trail (Off-Road Sections) – Some areas feature optional off-road detours, perfect for gravel or adventure riders. • New Italy Mountain Bike Park – Located south of Ballina, this trail network features fast descents, technical climbs, and well-maintained loops for cross-country riders. It occasionally hosts local races. • Duck Creek Mountain Bike Park (Alstonville) – A hidden gem offering flowy singletrack, jumps, and technical sections for all levels. • Goonellabah Mountain Bike Park – A great spot for beginners and intermediate riders, with a mix of technical trails and family-friendly tracks. • Kooralbyn Valley MTB Trails – A mix of technical and fast-flowing trails set in the stunning Scenic Rim region, frequently hosting endurance and downhill events. • Old Tambo Downhill (Mount Tamborine) – A thrilling downhill track with sharp turns, rock gardens, and fast flow sections. • Nerang National Park (Gold Coast) – A major mountain biking hub in SE QLD, featuring an extensive network of trails for cross-country and downhill riders. It regularly hosts national-level MTB events. • Toowoomba Jubilee MTB Park – One of the top gravity and XC competition venues in Queensland, with technical features, rock gardens, and smooth flow sections. • Mt Joyce Mountain Bike Park (Wyaralong Dam) – A premier competition venue for endurance and downhill racing, featuring long technical descents and challenging climbs. • Kooralbyn Enduro & XC Race Track – This dedicated MTB facility in the Scenic Rim hosts frequent enduro and cross-country races. Coastal Rides & Easy Scenic Tracks • Byron Bay to Suffolk Park Cycleway – A smooth, scenic ride perfect for families or those looking for a relaxed ride along the coast. • Brunswick Heads to Mullumbimby – A mix of quiet back roads and scenic routes through cane fields and river flats. • Ballina Coastline Cycleway – A stunning coastal ride with ocean views, boardwalk sections, and beachside cafes along the way. YOUR STAY MATTERS Pacific Peak is a conservation project first and foremost with numerous vegetation restoration efforts afoot. A unique slice of paradise thriving with an abundance of wildlife and native vegetation, every stay will greatly enhance our efforts to replace invasive species with native regrowth, and help us care for this especially unique ecosystem, ensuring it remains pristine for future generations of all its inhabitants.

3. Common Grounds

99%

(153)

10 sites · Tents, RVs · Pillar Valley, NSW

Welcome to Common Grounds, where nature feels like home. (previously 'Oceans Reach') Our conservation property is a registered Land for Wildlife sanctuary, and we’ve created a space where native animals and humans alike can feel safe, welcome, and at home. Whether you’re stopping overnight just off the highway or planning a longer escape, Common Grounds is an easy and grounded place to rest, reconnect, and explore. We’re centrally located to some of the best the Clarence Valley has to offer with uncrowded surf beaches, national parks, rivers, and historic towns, all within a short drive. Or a perfect spot over spot between Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay, just off the motorway. Nearby to explore: 🦘 Glenugie State Forest: Right next door! Great for hiking, mountain biking, 4WD trails, wildlife spotting, and peaceful bush walks. 🌊 Brooms Head: A stunning coastal village with tidal pools, a quiet beach, and scenic headland walks 🏖️ Yuraygir National Park: Sprawling coastal park with epic hikes, secluded beaches, and vibrant wildlife 🌿 Wooli & Minnie Water: Pristine beaches, estuary kayaking, snorkelling, and quiet village charm 🏞️ Clarence River towns: Explore Ulmarra, Maclean, or Grafton for riverfront cafes, historic pubs, and local arts. 🐦 Birdwatcher’s paradise: The whole area is alive with native birds and seasonal visitors (black cockatoos, friendly king parrots, kookaburras, and more). Bring binoculars! Wander our own native bushland, rich with flora and fauna, or just sit back and watch the wildlife come to you. We live on-site and are slowly restoring this special land, including the old Grafton Racecourse Beer Pavilion. The composting toilets and clever camp showers were thoughtfully built using recycled materials and offered for campers to use. At night, light a fire, enjoy a cold drink, and take in the stars. We’re easy-going and happy to give you your space. Camp fires must be contained Sept-April. Large fire pits provided and firewood for sale on site. The sites are listed for vehicles under 9m, but if your setup is larger, feel free to contact me and we can usually work something out ☺️ We’d love to welcome you to Common Grounds - a place to land, to breathe, and to feel a little more connected.

4. Villa Verde Organic Seed Farm

75%

(6)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Wollongbar, NSW

On the plateau of Alstonville, we have a nice quiet camping spot for rv’s vans and caravans. Contractors with heavy trucks and trailers plenty of room. There are two camping spots, one for caravans, RV’s and another for motorcycles, tents. Easy access from Ballina, Lismore, and Alstonville on the Bruxner highway Property is near highway but away from the traffic

5. On the Clarence Camping

99%

(660)

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Tabulam, NSW

On the Clarence Camping Escape to a natural paradise where the Clarence River meets the wilderness. Immerse yourself in nature with bushwalking, bird watching, Swimming, canoeing, star gazing, and 4WDriving. Enjoy the outdoor relaxation areas for BBQs with family and friends, and explore the tracks around the 1300 acre property. On The Clarence Camping offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages.—just a 20-minute drive from Tabulam, NSW. Why You’ll Love It Here Escape the crowds in a vast open-field campground nestled between the winding Clarence River and rugged, rocky terrain. With no assigned sites, you’re free to choose your perfect spot under the gum trees or beside the riverbank. Tariffs; Booking * $30.00 Adult per night — 13yrs + * $12.00 Kids per night - Under 12yrs * Kids under 4yrs stay FREE (simply don’t add a child when booking) * A 4WD is not required to access the campground. However, if you plan to explore the property beyond the campground, a 4WD will be necessary. *Amenities & Facilities *Two fully-equipped, wheelchair-accessible flushing toilet & shower blocks *On-site dump point for caravans and camper trailers *Scattered fire pits—collect fallen wood around the property or purchase onsite (please no tree-cutting) *No drinking water supplied — BYO all potable water Activities * Fishing in the Clarence River (a short walk from camp) *Bushwalking & wildlife spotting along the tracks *Bird watching – keep an eye out for eagles, kingfishers and parrots *Star gazing in an unpolluted night sky *Canoeing/kayaking (bring your own craft) *BBQs & riverside picnics Pet & Generator Policy *Sociable dogs welcome, on-leash at all times—remember, this is a working cattle property and wild dogs roam the area *Quiet generators permitted 8 am – 6 pm. Overnight use by request only Follow us for updates and special offers: Facebook & Instagram — @on_the_clarence_camping Book your off-grid cattle-station adventure today!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

M

Max

3 days ago

Tent

1 night at Pacific Peak - Byron Views for 4x4s

Lovely view till Byron lighthouse, a bit hard to reach but Mike was very helpful and called us immediately when we had problems finding it. Clean and spacey campground with a nature that leaves you stunned by their beauty.

H

Hudd

1 week ago

5 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to On the Clarence Camping

Big open camp, nice and quiet. Good kayaking and fishing on the river.

M

Matt

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to On the Clarence Camping

Great place to camp. Hosts were very friendly and with a large number of sites to choose from. Shower and toilet facilities were also great. The river itself is picturesque and kid friendly if you are with them with lots to explore.

J

Jane

1 week ago

6 m Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to On the Clarence Camping

We loved staying at On The Clarence. So beautiful and peaceful and the river was beautiful. Great hosts.

Hayden

1 week ago

12 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to On the Clarence Camping

Hands down best place we have stayed. Camping here was sensational, very spaced out from other campers so the privacy was great, amenities are spot on and now with the potable water makes it even better as you have drinking water on tap! The slide Ben and Grace have set up for the kids is fantastic, they had a tonne of fun. We explored some of the 4wd tracks around the property which was awesome and also took advantage of the pristine Clarence River water to have a swim and a fish. Overall rating is 15/10 we will definitely be returning in the future. To top ot all off the hosts Ben and Grace were fantastic, friendly and super easy going making our stay even more welcome. 100% will recommend.

I

Ian

1 week ago

10 m travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at On the Clarence Camping

Ben’s campsite at OTCC is excellent! There are many spots with elevated views of the beautiful Clarence river and additional very spacious sites in the fields back from the river. The amenities are great - clean, functional and well maintained. We understand some upgrades are due early in 2026 too so that is exciting. We spent our time swimming in the river, collecting firewood for our evening campfire, 4x4 driving including a trip to stunning Finger Rocks and having a blast on the Bush slide when it was running! Thanks so much Ben for your hospitality and making OTCC such an amazing destination. We are already looking for a time to come back and we will be bringing friends!

Sean

1 week ago

5 m pop-up camper

4 nights at On the Clarence Camping

Bloody loved it. We’ll be back for sure!! Ben put on a slip n slide for the kids(young and old). Good old school fun. Camp ground was not overpacked for a new years, which is exactly what we where after. Ripper property! Legend hosts.👌🏽

T

Trevor

2 weeks ago

12 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to On the Clarence Camping

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Camping on Clarence is exceptional. From the moment I arrived, the hosts were incredibly welcoming, and the location, cleanliness, and presentation of the facilities were nothing short of outstanding—truly to the highest standard. The site sizes are generous, allowing plenty of space and privacy between campers, which adds to the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. I stayed for three days but came away feeling like I’d been there for a full week—it was that relaxing and rejuvenating. The location is beautifully secluded, offering total privacy and tranquillity. Whether you’re travelling solo or with family, I highly recommend this site. It is well worth the three-hour drive from the Gold Coast, and I will absolutely be returning. Kind regards, Trevor Smith

G

Geoff

2 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

5 nights at River Views - Island Paradise

Great well grassed area with river views. Great fire place. Squiggles definitely makes you welcome with a story or two. Easy spots to fish. Close to Maclean and Yamba.

L

Lachlan

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Common Grounds

Awesome family run camp ground & great people , very spacious you have your own area , very close to nice beaches highly recommend

L

Lee

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Common Grounds

This being our first time camping in some years, it was wonderful to find common grounds and to stay at bush camp. On arrival Ben greeted us and assisted to the site. We had the option of 2 sites and opted for bush camp 2 as this was more secluded. Even though people were close by, we couldn't hear anything and it felt like a real deep in the bush away from civilisation experience. It was lovely listening to all the birds and bugs chirping through out the night. We were in a Toyota Yaris Cross and managed to get in okay, though if it had rained we may not have been so lucky without a 4WD. If we had stayed longer, certainly would have explored the property more. But for an overnight camp we could not have asked for a better experience.

K

Kirsten

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Common Grounds

We enjoyed our stay, it was very peaceful and private. The kids loved exploring the bush and spotting some beautiful wildlife. Only 20 minutes away from the beach aswell. We would definitely stay there again.

G

Georgia

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at River Views - Island Paradise

Amazing spot. Late notice and still so easy to book and find. One of a kind place and easy as 😊 so much to do and so many way to relax

E

Eric

2 weeks ago

8 m Class A

Group trip

1 night at Common Grounds

The spot at Mer & Ben’s place was as lovely, peaceful and welcoming as the hosts themselves. We were self-contained in our camper but the outhouse and power hook up on the property was a great plus. We were there Dec 23/24 and were welcomed into a festive ambiance at the dinner hour.

M

Manolo

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at River Views - Island Paradise

Absolutely amazing place! Super quiet, peaceful, and surrounded by nature. Very dog-friendly, which we loved, and having a canoe available for the river was a huge bonus. Squiggles is friendly and went out of his way to help us set up the fire. Such a relaxing, special spot — we can’t wait to come back! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A

Aaron

2 weeks ago

7 m travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Common Grounds

Great spot, easy access and plenty of room. See you again soon.

C

Christian

3 weeks ago

7 m Class A

With kids

1 night at Common Grounds

Fantastic, everything was perfect. thank you so much Mel!

B

Britt

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Pacific Peak - Byron Views for 4x4s

Wow, this camp spot was amazing! The drive up there was fun! (Def 4wd needed!) Once finally arrived, you’ll have the best view. It feels like you’re in a different world. The sunrise was magical✨🧡 Thanks Mike for having us! :)

Jessyk

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Views - Island Paradise

Super accomodating, excellent spot along the rivers. Good fishing just off the bank. Squiggles is a great host and helped us with everything we needed. Highly recoommend.

A

Amber

December 2025

12 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Views - Island Paradise

Beautiful place, Squiggles is a top bloke accommodating and friendly. Would love to had more time to have a beer with him. Would recommend to anyone.