Forest camping near Pretty Beach with swimming
Camp in the town that lives up to its name—Pretty Beach is full of epic shorelines to explore.
94% (1514 reviews)
- Pretty Beach
94% (1514 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Pretty Beach
Available this weekend
Star Hosts in Pretty Beach
12 top forest campgrounds near Pretty Beach with swimming
95%
(602)
NSW Ski Gardens
6 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Wisemans Ferry, NSW
NSW Ski Gardens is situated on the banks of the Hawkesbury River at Wisemans Ferry.
Every October - April is our peak time and its busy! Please be aware there is river noise during our busy times on weekends so may not suit those looking for tranquillity on weekends. During the week it's fine but weekends are busy and a bit noisy.
We are 1.2 km from the township along the River Road. There are powered and unpowered sites for caravans and campers set in a rustic location.
Amenities include hot showers, laundry, on-site kiosk and boat ramp (fee applicable).
BBQ and covered picnic area.
Dogs are welcome on leash.
Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$26
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(460)
La Cascina
3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Floraville, NSW
*****No toilet or shower available at this listing. You must bring your own. PLEASE BE AWARE ENTRY TO THE PROPERTY IS STEEP. Entry is not ideal for large caravans or campervans. *****
We do not allow fires at the campsite between the 1st of October and the 1st of March. We apologise for any inconvenience to this rule.
La Cascina is a small property on a hill surrounded by trees and bushland. There are two main camping areas which would suite tent and small to medium van/car camping. There is access to neighbouring bushland with nice short walks available in the area. Only 20 minutes by car to Newcastle CBD, 10 minutes by car to Redhead Beach and 5 minutes by car to Lake Macquarie.
La Cascina is a great spot to stop overnight on a road trip or to get away for the weekend to relax. We have no toilets so please bring your own. The access to the property is a steep sealed driveway.
Site 1 is an open site with plenty of shade. The area is flat. More suited to larger camping setups. This site is less private. There is vision of the neighbouring property and an overflow campsite 50 meters away.
Site 2 is a more uneven surface area which is better for smaller vans and tents.
Redhead Beach is the closest dog beach 10 minutes by car.
Croudace Bay is a dog park on the lake which is 5 minutes by car.
This is a family owned acreage that brings the best parts of environmental living with the benefits of being close to the coast and a city. A very long time ago it was the site of a quarry. The nature has returned and we are left with a beautiful forested acreage.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(731)
Wattle Valley Farm
33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Paynes Crossing, NSW
Wattle Valley Farm lies is a 100 acre property, bounded by the iconic Wollombi Brook, which many native wildlife call home. During your stay, you might even come across some of our friendly native residents like wombats, kangaroos, echidnas, goannas, kookaburras and black cockatoos. We also have a number of short walks you are welcome to take if you want to explore the property while you are here, including local Aboriginal cave art and our beautiful scenic river walk.Wattle Valley Farm is located in the heart of the Wollombi Valley and the Hunter Valley wine region, making it an ideal base while you explore everything the region has to offer. The historic village of Wollombi is only five minutes up the road, and has a lively cafe scene, unique experiences and the famous Wollombi Tavern. Meanwhile, the popular Broke and Pokolbin wine regions are a short 30-40 minute drive along the beautiful, meandering country roads.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(212)
Mistinthegumtrees BUDGET 2 GLAMPING
12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents106 acres · Cooranbong, NSW
Campsites are in our lovely small manicured bush garden setting. It's a level, grass/lawn shaded area. There are 5 x 15 amp powered sites. Suitable for small quiet groups/ families. Not suitable for loud partying. The state forest is a short 10min drive away for bush walking, mountain biking and 4 wheel driving. Beach is
40 min drive away. We are located close to the Central Coast and Newcastle. (In Cooranbong )
Our camp sites have access to three eco toilets and only one shared shower, rubbish facilities and drinking water. (Campfires) we have 5 fire pits on some of our sites , fires are permitted during the winter months.
We also have 2 x 4 star cabins which sleep 15 between them, they are listed separately on Hipcamp. However the guests from both the camp sites and the cabins have shared access to the pool and facilities. Which includes a large under cover patio area.
FRIENDLY PETS welcome. Small kitchen with microwave dishwasher and cook top and fridge may be used . Please just clean up any mess you make. For the next guest All cleaning products under sink. WE HAVE 2 DOGS that are people friendly., who love to meet new fury friends , they do have the run of our property .
As our property has a lot of maintenance lawns /gardens ; we may use mowers blowers etc , we will possibly maintain between 10 am to 2 pm If needed.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
89%
(19)
Congewai Valley Estate
10 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Congewai, NSW
Backing on to the Watagans National Park, we have a gorgeous flat creek paddock tucked away behind a beautiful mountain on our essential oil farm.
The location is perfect for those wanting to explore the Watagans on two or four wheels. We’re also just down the road from the Great North Walk.
The camping area is surrounded by untouched rainforest, perfect for wandering and exploring the rock pools. Whether you’re into the excitement of off-roading or just want a place to escape, this little slice of paradise has something for everyone.
All campers need to be self-contained, so please ensure you bring along your camp toilet, and take all waste when you go.
Well-behaved four-legged friends welcome also!
With the nearest country villages of Paxton and Ellalong just 15 minutes up the road, with their cafes, local pub and general store, you can grab supplies nearby. Or, head into Cessnock, 20km up the dirt road for more essential services.
**Please note that the creek and waterhole pictured are reliant on the weather. During drought or extended dry periods the water level may be lower than pictured. Please message for the latest updates.
UPDATE 18TH SEPTEMBER 2024: JUST A HEADS UP THE THE MAIN WATERHOLE IS CURRENTLY FULL, BUT WATER IS NOW RUNNING UNDER THE CREEK BED. IF THERE IS NO RAIN IN THE NEXT 2 WEEKS IT IS POSSIBLE THE LEVEL COULD START DROPPING. THE LONG AND SHORT IS THERE WILL BE WATER IN THE WATERHOLE, BUT IT MIGHT NOT BE BRIMING FULL.
CONGEWAI CREEK (AT THE START OF OUR PROPERY) IS CURRENTLY FLOWING WELL AT THE MOMENT.
Pets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(139)
Mountain Lagoon Camping & Glamping
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Mountain Lagoon, NSW
Located at Bilpin, this beautiful campsite is nestled at the foot of the majestic Blue Mountains and backs onto Wollemi National Park. This magical 16 acres is abundant with wildlife and where you camp is the mouth to the beginning of some great hiking tracks in the National Park!
There are a few great campsites to choose from- one at the top of the property (good for families/large groups up to approx 20) with good flat ground and surrounded by a lush forest. It's close to the road so it is easy access in and out, another two at the back with water views and one in the forest (If you have 4wd and portable loo we can give you an exclusive spot in the bottom of the golden gorge).
Enjoy the sounds of the bubbling stream and see the sunset at the waterhole. Sit back and relax around the campfire whilst toasting a marshmallow or some damper.
This campsite offers a unique heptagonal toilet (no shower yet but its on the way). Please ensure you're fully self sufficient with all other supplies (including water).
From here you can explore the amazing Blue Mountain views, marvel at a magical glow worm dell, check out the 2 apple cider breweries and taste some of the region's delicious produce.
Colo River is 30 mins away, a clear waterhole is 10 min drive ( 4wd only- hosts can transport if available), the mouth of a hiking trail to the National Park is on the property, the main township of Bilpin is close by with the baker, fruit and vege picking, Mountain Bells Cafe (host recommendation), apple pies galore and the restaurant , the markets are on Saturday morning 10-12 noon at the local hall and there is a free meditation group 9am Sunday at the monastery.
With so much to do you will need more than one night or plan a return visit to the amazing Mountain Lagoon Hideaway at Bilpin!
We can also offer massage and reiki treatments on site as a 'nature immersion' experience or if you prefer it can be in the privacy of a massage
studio (10 mins away), guided nature and wildlife walks/sunset walks or longer hikes, professional ecology tours, fire twirling lessons or performance and African drumming lessons, games for the kids, local produce hampers, eggs and BBQS (with notice and if hosts are available). Please discuss with your hosts for further details and availability :)
PLEASE ensure you read rules and safety as well as directions, because GPS will take you to the wrong property.
The land is a nature retreat and developing animal rescue sanctuary so we love to share the space with respectful nature loving people :) Our motto is leave no trace.
We look forward to welcoming you to our unique and magical slice of paradise!
🪵 IMPORTANT : Only use rock circles for fire. Fire must be put out if you 1) Leave the site each day 2) Each night before bed and 3) When you leave completely. IF THIS IS NOT DONE AND THE FIRE BRIGADE IS CALLED 'YOU ARE' RESPONSIBLE FOR THE 10K PLUS FINE. Neighbours have and will call the fire brigade if they see smoke. This is a strict policy due to being in a National Park and to protect the precious nature and wildlife. Two buckets of water are supplied for this purpose. Sticks in the buckets for animals to safely exit if they fall in. Whats App us with plenty of notice if you need more water. If it is hot weather or windy there may be a TOTAL FIRE ban. We will keep you posted and please be proactive and check online.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$56
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(40)
The Freedom Farm River Paradise
3 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Lower Mangrove, NSW
The Freedom Farm has been in our family for nearly 50 years and we know it has a much longer history as a place of gathering, healing, learning and celebration. The spirits are strong here. We have been working the last few years on Rewilding the land and it is the healthiest it has been in my lifetime. Encompassing salt marsh, casuarina forests, open grassland and gumtree groves there is an incredible diversity of species to be found on this relatively small property. Bordered by Mangrove Creek it is protected on all sides by sandstone mountains yet remains sunny and open. A lush and powerful place.
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$80
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(197)
Mandalong Manor
10 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · NSW
Mandalong Manor is set in a small valley partly cleared with lots of trees , creek and dam , peaceful setting , wildlife , wallabies , kangaroos , kookaburras cockatoos , occasional koala and wombat , goanna , deer can also be seen . There are a few nice spots for camping .
The property is just near Jimbo’s Industrial Art Emporium .
You may notice a collection of interesting vehicles , machinery and building materials on your way to the gate .
Please come in the main gate and contact me when you arrive ,
I will meet you there .
The camp sites are on the other side of the paddock .
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$60
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(1)
Behesht Retreat
6 sites · Tents14 acres · Wrights Creek, NSW
14 acre bush block backing on to Yengo National Park. Wrights Creek is a small suburb between Wiseman’s Ferry and St. Albans in the Hawkesbury, 1.5-2hrs from Sydney. Enjoy a quiet escape in nature with plenty of bush walking opportunities and river access for swimming just a 5 min drive away. Markets are on once a month at St Albans and there is a quaint pub and cafe there open on weekends. Enjoy our infinity edge swimming pool and sit back around the outdoor campfire of an evening (unless total fire bans apply). There are composting toilets and cold showers available, however we are on tank water so keep them under 3 min please! Drinking water also available and BBQ facilities.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(54)
Brightwater
1 site · RV, Tent50 acres · Kulnura, NSW
Brightwater sits beside Olney State Forest and Kuluwan Flora Reserve. It is a 50-acre farm with a lovely spring-fed dam, with our nearby campsite. The site contains van parking, an open pavilion, an open deck by the stream, a fire pit, and a dunny. It is private and secluded, and with just one group staying at a time, you are guaranteed the space to yourselves.
There are many beautiful walking and bike trails in the area. Lots of wildlife to meet, including water dragons, wild ducks, and pythons, to name a few. There is also nearby evidence of the original occupants, the Darkinjung people.
You are also welcome to bring a couple of horses! There's a safe paddock with a trough and nice trails in the area to explore.
The Kulnura General Store and bottleshop is just 9km down the road for basic supplies.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$90
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(52)
The Birdhouse @ Wollombi
1 site · Lodging10 acres · Wollombi, NSW
A spiral staircase leads guests high up a stringy bark tree, in the middle of a stunning piece of land in the Wollombi Village. The Birdhouse is a simply beautiful and unique, 12sqm retreat.Within the little space is a heater/cooler, refrigerator, kettle, TV/DVD player and comfortable pull-out sofa bed. The dining table can be folded down. The custom kitchen vanity holds the fridge, sink and a couple of drawers containing cutlery, crockery and a great DVD collection. Power sockets for charging devices, running water and a composting loo are all housed within the Birdhouse. The view from above is best enjoyed when perched on the directors chairs on the deck.Complimentary drinking water, tea/coffee, breakfast bars, fruit and chocolates are all provided.Wander 200m down the road to enjoy a number of local dining options, the renowned Wollombi Tavern and the shops and galleries within the historic Village.Guests will need to do without a shower for a night or two, or bring their own camping shower.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$195
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
87%
(42)
Gondwana Retreat
5 sites · Tents4 acres · Green Point, NSW
My name is Jason and I am responsible for caring and creating this space.Gondwana Retreat is sacred land. It is sacred to the original people as two rivers meet here which was auspicious, and sacred to me and all that visit. The Aboriginal people used to live and commune here. And now it seems a place where people like to be, and Rest and Rejuvenation - even healing happens here.Since moving here myself in 2014 it has been a place of transformation and change. The land itself was abandoned with rubbish and weeds everywhere when I arrived and with a bit of hard work, some patience and care it has become a place of beauty. It has been returned to much more of its natural and native state. This process of positive change has created a healing in the environment and for myself, and visitors express this magic in the air.Nowadays we are offering meditation, yoga, and therapeutic types of practices in the main home that the land and campsite is a part of. Campers are welcome to join and this really makes staying here an opportunity for exploring these practices if you choose.Be good to share the land and we welcome all to Gondwana retreat!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$49.50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Dog-friendly getaways
Under $50
Forest camping near Pretty Beach with swimming guide
Overview
A suburb in the central coast area of New South Wales, Pretty Beach lives up to its name with pristine shorelines that face Brisbane Water. Stay in town at waterfront caravan parks, or venture outside of Pretty Beach campgrounds for more opportunities in nature. Bouddi National Park is a unique combination of beaches, bushland, Aboriginal heritage sites, and tent pitches with private firepits. Or head to Brisbane Water National Park—it’s an ancient landscape of wildflower fields and rainforest with winding walking tracks, including part of the Great North walk. Across Broken Bay, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park offers a look into more Aboriginal culture, as well as walking tracks, creeks, an old lighthouse, and cabin rentals with terraces along the shoreline.
Where to go
Bouddi National Park
Comprising the area immediately surrounding Pretty Beach, Bouddi National Park is made up of a diverse landscape of beaches, heathlands, cliffsides, and rainforest. Go swimming, fishing, or kayaking along the beaches. Or take walking tracks and biking trails through the park to significant Aboriginal heritage sites, wildflower fields, and even an old shipwreck. Bouddi Coastal Walk is renowned as one of the most beautiful walking tracks in the region, measuring 8 kilometres from Macmasters Beach to Putty Beach. Spend the night at tent campsites nearby, providing amenities like potable water, composting toilets, picnic tables, private firepits, and rubbish bins.
Brisbane Water National Park
Northwest of Pretty Beach, Brisbane Water National Park’s walking and cycling tracks take campers through scenic views and hundreds of Aboriginal rock engraving sites. Hiking trails throughout the park range from short loops to overnight treks. The park even hosts part of the Great North walk, from Wondabyne to Patonga and Patonga to Pearl Beach. Over 270 animal species make their habitats in the park as well, including rare and threatened birds like the glossy black cockatoo and spotted tail quoll. Caravan, camper trailer, and tent camping are available nearby and provide amenities such as flush toilets, potable water, hot showers, and dog-friendly campsites.
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Across Broken Bay, Ku-ring-gai National Park is the second oldest national park in Australia. It combines scenic views, natural beauty, and important historical sites. Bushwalking tracks and mountain-biking trails lead through the creeks, rainforests, eucalypts, and mangroves of the park. Or explore Aboriginal heritage through engravings and rock art at Red Hands Cave. Visit Barrenjoey Lighthouse to learn about the area’s maritime history as well. Campsites near the park provide all the amenities necessary for an adventure, including flush toilets, potable water, hot showers, and shared cooking equipment. Along with tent pitches, terraces and cabins are available for peaceful, private, beachfront escapes.
When to go
Summer is the most popular time to visit Pretty Beach with the sun, sand, and surf setting a scene for swimming and snorkelling. Spring is also ideal as it brings a wealth of vibrant wildflowers and blooming fields in the area. Winters in Pretty Beach are mild, with July temperatures averaging about 16°C. However, winters are also particularly popular for whale watching as humpback whales make their way northward from May to July, making Pretty Beach a great year-round camping destination.
Safety at Hipcamp
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.