The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Port Macquarie, New South Wales

Looking to experience the great outdoors with your furry friend near Port Macquarie, New South Wales? Look no further than The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (361 reviews), the tranquility of Spirit of the Forest (326 reviews), or the comfort of Footprints in Style (276 reviews), there's something for everyone. Plus, you'll have access to popular facilities like toilets, campfires, and potable water. And with activities like climbing, historic sites, and biking nearby, you'll never have a dull moment. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the great outdoors with your furry friend by your side!

96% (7.6K) • 336 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Port Macquarie

Looking to experience the great outdoors with your furry friend near Port Macquarie, New South Wales? Look no further than The Hatch Farm - Port Macquarie (361 reviews), the tranquility of Spirit of the Forest (326 reviews), or the comfort of Footprints in Style (276 reviews), there's something for everyone. Plus, you'll have access to popular facilities like toilets, campfires, and potable water. And with activities like climbing, historic sites, and biking nearby, you'll never have a dull moment. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the great outdoors with your furry friend by your side!

96% (7.6K) • 336 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Port Macquarie

1. Macleay River private Retreat

94%

(26)

47km from Port Macquarie · 5 sites · RVs

A beautiful little gem on the river bank just on the outskirts of Gladstone. Gladstone has many beautiful little stores and cafes as well as the amazing Heritage Hotel if you would like a pub meal for lunch or dinner. It is only a 20 minute drive to South West Rocks or Hat head and 25mins to Crescent Head. You can sit back on the bank and fish, go for a swim, canoe or enjoy some water skiing and put your boat in the river from the property itself.

from

AU$46

/ night

2. The Riverbank

99%

(58)

13km from Port Macquarie · 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)

3. The Old Butter Factory

98%

(79)

16km from Port Macquarie · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Built in 1933, currently a function centre with five pristine acres of direct river frontage to the Wilson River, suitable for fishing, water skiing, kayaking etc. Pub and Club, 5 minutes away. Twenty minutes to Port Macquarie, 30 minutes to Crescent head, surrounded by State Forest. Mountain Bike riding and hiking available in the State forest, central location for day trips to South West Rocks, Harrington and all the amazing places in between.

4. Youngster’s Paddock

100%

(1)

53km from Port Macquarie · 1 site · RV

This level 15acres is surrounded by nature…very private as trees line the whole parameter with a creek on one side, a river (that meanders to the sea at Harrington) on the other, a farm and then a quiet Rd into Coopernook village a few minutes drive away. Great for grabbing supplies, petrol, a beer &/or a meal at the famous Coopernook pub with great views over the river and boat ramp. Close by: *5-10min drive to the Beautiful hinterland of the three brother mountains! *10mins to the east side is the lovely Harrington with it’s gorgeous area where the river meets the ocean, plus great beaches. Harrington has a variety of venues providing great food (fish & chips are 👏👌) and service with an IGA for supplies. *10mins on from Harrington is the beautiful Crowdyhead with it’s long beach that is 4wd friendly! Suitable for self contained RV’s &/or campers.

from

AU$55

/ night

5. Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

100%

(23)

70km from Port Macquarie · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

*Recently renovated! Hot showers, new composting toilets & shared undercover space at Yagaari - Suitable for private camping, group bookings, workshops and small gatherings* Note: We are a 4WD/AWD property 🛻 Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary borders the Western side of Yarriabini National Park on the traditional lands of the Ngambaa people. The creeks and dams here are all spring fed and provide a sanctuary for an abundance of wildlife and native bushland, as well as a few beautiful places for a refreshing swim! The property is private and quiet and has stunning sunrise and sunset views as well as multiple camping sites fit for various needs and group sizes. We have recently built a large shared communcal space for campers to enjoy and there are also clean, odourless composting toilets and hot showers available for use on site. There is lots of space to walk and explore with tracks leading up into the heart of the National Park. Nearby are many gorgeous rivers, beaches and other national parks to explore. We are convieniently located only 10 minutes from Macksville for shopping and cafes and only 15 minutes from Scotts Head, a great beach for families and surfers.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Natalie

1 week ago

6 m Class B

With pets

4 nights at Youngster’s Paddock

I wanted to press ‘no we wouldn’t recommend’ but couldn’t due to how nice it was there! You can hear the highway, but the tranquillity is next level - it completely overrides it. We will be back again!!

S

Serge

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Old Butter Factory

It was a great camping spot with clean facilities and plenty of space.

J

Jack

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Old Butter Factory

Lovely spot right by the river, looks well taken care of. No hassle finding it, thanks Tracy

Samantha

2 weeks ago

7 m Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Riverbank

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

A

Alexandra

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

Thank you for such a magical stay! The location is so peaceful and beautifully cared for by Alex and Georgia. They were such welcoming hosts, gave us great recommendations for places to visit locally, and even left out plenty of firewood for us. Thank you for a very special and memorable Christmas!

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

Rhiannon

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

5 nights at The Old Butter Factory

Tracy's property is a beautiful place to stay- the green grass and river views 😍 It was great to have access to flushing toilets and the cold outdoor shower was so good on the hot days! Tracy and her partner were super friendly and helpful too. We had been enjoying swimming in the river, but just so everyone is aware, some guys in a boat came and told us that we should get out because there are bull sharks around. Obviously that's always a risk when swimming in coastal rivers, but they seemed to think it was high risk. Apart from the potential swimming risk, it was one of the nicest and prettiest places we've stayed!

H

Heath

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

We camped at Yagaari with our 2 dogs and were incredibly impressed with the property! We were greeted by Alex on arrival who gave us the run down and provided recommendations on where to visit in the area. Georgia was incredibly responsive online and checked on us during our stay. What really stood out to us was how well maintained the sites and amenities were. All sites were flat, well signposted and freshly mown. The toilets and showers were a luxury and so clean! We enjoyed our walk up to the lookout which offered amazing views of the property and distant ranges. We cooled off in the swimming hole and our pups enjoyed wading in the creek. If you’re looking for a base to explore the wider region - this place is centrally located to multiple tourist destinations; Scott’s Head, Trial Bay Gaol, Hat Head Nat. Park, Nambucca Heads, South West Rocks, Smoky Cape Lighthouse just to name a few. All located within a half hour drive of Yagaari. We were able to visit all of these locations in one day while also having time to sample local seafood, cherries and stop for a swim. Will be recommending this place to family and friends!

E

Edward

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at The Old Butter Factory

Amazing spot. Peaceful, easy to find, and well kept. Hosts were very welcoming. Whoever is responsible for maintaining the grass is a true artist!

R

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.

Kate

December 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at The Old Butter Factory

Tracy and Carl were awesome, so welcoming and the spot was beautiful. Definitely will be back

D

Dannielle

December 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Old Butter Factory

Tracy place is stunning very relaxing and peaceful so much room and a great place to switch off and relax bonus there is toilets. And she was very accommodating so thank you

J

Jo

November 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at The Old Butter Factory

Tracy’s site was a good stopover place close to the river with kayaks available

D

David

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Old Butter Factory

Great campsite. We were the only ones there on our visit. Tracey was excellent.

R

Rhii

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Yagaari Mountainside Sanctuary

My friends and I stayed for the weekend and absolutely loved it! The whole place was spotless and beautifully maintained — you can really tell how much care goes into keeping it that way. The swimming hole and facilities are a short walk from the campsites, and if you head up the hill, you’ll get stunning sunset views. Alex was incredibly welcoming, helpful and made sure we had everything we needed (even supplied us with loads of firewood!). Can’t wait to come back!

K

Katrina

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Old Butter Factory

Another great stay with some awesome host. Was our third stay and had a wicked time again.

D

Darren

October 2025

5 m travel trailer

With pets

1 night at The Old Butter Factory

Beautiful peaceful space with plenty of room to spread out between campers. Friendly hosts only too willing to make your stay enjoyable. Wishes we could have stayed longer - but will definitely be back.

Z

Zuzana

October 2025

5 m travel trailer

5 nights at The Old Butter Factory

5 great days right on the banks of Maria river with amazing water views. The whole camping area immaculately maintained, grassy, easy to navigate, turn, park. Probably another 2 -3 direct spots on the river, many other options on a massive grassy area with either open spaces great for solar or sheltered by trees. Felt very private with only 2 other vans in the distance. All spots close to water edge. Water access via a water ramp/tree clearing where we also lodged our tinny and from where it’s possible to cast a line. Unfortunately, no luck catching decent size fish for us this time. Clean flush toilets within the grounds. Drinking water, rubbish bin, recycling bins and firewood, all kindly provided at the entrance to the grounds. Walking distance to a local pub for classic beers and meals. Our host, Tracy, was very welcoming and cheerful, happy to answer all our questions and also given us some local tips and hints. Highly recommend for the privacy, nature’s feel and close distance to many attractions.

J

Jason

October 2025

4 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to The Old Butter Factory

Lovely grassed flat site for our caravan. Tracy was a wonderful host. Beautiful spot to unwind and throw a line in, sit back in the hammock and relax 😌