River, stream, or creek camping near Shoal Bay
Discover and reserve the best campgrounds, cabins, caravan parks, and more.
97% (3222 reviews)
- Shoal Bay
97% (3222 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Shoal Bay
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12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Shoal Bay
99%
(303)
The Riverside Farm Escape Minimbah
30 sites · RVs, Tents103 acres · Minimbah, NSW
The Riverside Farm Escape is a family owned cattle farm situated on the Wang Wauk River in Minimbah on the Mid North Coast of NSW.
Our property has very well maintained, grassy camping ground and RV stop that overlooks the picturesque Wang Wauk River that feeds the magnificent Wallis Lakes.
The Riverside property is 103 acres of rich farmland and has over 500 meters of river frontage, ideal for kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing, with water access to Forster / Tuncurry.
The property also boasts a beautiful dam, full of flowering lillies, great for the kids to kayak and swim in. We have lots of natural bush and wildlife including wallabies, kangaroos, lizards and native birds.
Camp grounds are accessible via 2wd/4wd (Non-powered and powered sites)
Family friendly
Pets welcome (on leash)
Fire Pits provided for all sites
Firewood available for purchase from host
Local Attractions:
NABIAC VILLAGE (7MINS AWAY) - Supermarket, cafes, chemist, Hotel/pub, Post office, Dump point, potable water, Artisan Farmer - paddock to plate.
Tuncurry/Forster (25 MINS AWAY) - Beaches, restaurants, entertainment, shopping
Barrington Tops (25 Mins)
Blueys Beach (50 mins)
Port Macquarie (60mins)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(1171)
Bunyip's Camp
19 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Martinsville, NSW
At the foot of the Watagan mountains, close to the Watagan 4WD tracks, picnic areas, and bike tracks. Also close to Lake Macquarie where you will find fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing etc. About a 20 - 40 min drive to beautiful beaches.
Ideal for those wanting to be surrounded by birds, nature and a couple of friendly doggos. Also great for people wanting to try out their new camper, van or tent for the 1st time as we are an easy 1 hour drive north of Sydney on the M1 and close enough to shops for those forgotten items.
Also we have unfenced dams, if you are camping with young children please consider carefully and let me know before booking.
We have very basic bathroom facilities of 1 flushing toilet in the shed and an outdoor warm shower.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$18
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(61)
Camp on Hunter (Elderslie)
15 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Branxton, NSW
Riverside camping at Elderslie near Branxton. Located on 6 hectares. Camp kitchen in shed. Bbq and wood heater in shed.
Well water. Port-a loo available.
Fishing, swimming, kayaks or just relax and watch bird life.
Dogs on lead. Level places for vans.
Fires must be contained, when fires are permitted.
Also a fire bunker for camp ovens - pending fire restrictions.
Gas hot shower available.
On the river means keep eye out for snakes in the warmer months.
Camping under gum trees is not permitted- see photo.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Cooking equipment
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(441)
Glenmoore
6 sites · RVs, Tents250 acres · Chichester, NSW
We have 250 acres in the Chichester Valley, we grow chemical-free vegetables and farm cattle. We have campsites on the Chichester River and we are in the water catchment area for the Chichester Dam. Suitable for caravans, camper trailers, tents, motor-homes etc. Good access, 4WD not required & plenty of site options.
There is no mobile reception here (unless you climb the hills!). Dogs are not permitted due to livestock. Campfires permitted when restrictions aren't in place, Firewood not available at the moment. Tank water available at the house if required. No amenities so campers must be self-contained and leave no trace. There is a dump site in Dungog Showground, bring a CHEMICAL TOILET !
All campsites are by the river, you can bring your own fire wood.
Camping firewood can be bought in Dungog, Jo and Roger sell bagged wood $20.00 per bag and kindling, Phone 0412488982, 7 Hooke St. , look for round- a- bout with monument in the middle of it.
Price is per person.
Kids under 12 stay free!
Potable water
Campfires
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
93%
(20)
Kintelliko
4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Newcastle, NSW
A beautiful flat grassy bed for your Rv, caravan, campertrailer or tent awaits you at Kintelliko. Kintelliko means “to laugh” in the local Awabakal language and we hope to share our joy of living on this beautiful acreage nestled into 100 acres of bushland - yet only 5 minutes to the beach, lake and shops.
Your fully powered site has everything you could need. An environmentally friendly compost toilet (The brush tail possum sometimes decides it’s nice there), a quaint outdoor hot shower made from a huge sculpture, a rustic outdoor kitchen with BBQ and stainless steel benches (it’s out in the open - water from the tap goes into the garden). We try to make our spaces consistently inviting for birds and wildlife as well as humans.
Here's a list of nearby things to do!
- Redhead Beach (~5 mins)
- Lake Macquarie (~5 mins)
-Naru lagoon swimming (~15 mins)
-Fernleigh track (~5 mins)
- Green Point Walking track (~7 mins)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
AU$60
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(62)
Willowbank
5 sites · RVs, Tents252 acres · Stroud Road, NSW
"Willowbank" is a stunning 252 acre property located in the picturesque Karuah River valley with 1km of river frontage. The property has been in our family for 4 generations! Being bought by Ian's great grandfather in the 1920's.
We cater for guests that are looking to get back to nature. Enjoy the great outdoors without feeling overcrowded! We want our guests to be happy and have the best experience possible.
Located only 8 minutes drive from the historical town of Stroud which was settled by the AA Company in the 1820's as a food growing area. There are still many beautiful buildings from that period to explore.
A dairy farm for many years, we switched over to beef around 15 years ago. Currently we run around 120 head of Angus and mixed breed cattle.
Within 3 hours drive of Sydney and around an hour from the Barrington National Parks, Newcastle, Maitland, Forster and Nelson Bay, it makes it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway!
We are offering four beautiful, partly shaded, camping sites along the pristine Upper Karuah River. All sites are separated for privacy and are all right on the edge of the river.
All sites are site only and no toilet or shower facilities are provided. You will need to bring your own camping toilet or self contained caravan/ camper (which can be emptied at the dump point located in Stroud township 8 minutes drive away).
Access to The Paperbarks site is provided by the unsealed council road right to the sites. The sites themselves are subject to wet weather so 4wd vehicles are preferred though 2wd vehicles may be parked just off the road if it gets a bit wet. Please note, we do have a house up the hill from these sites. It does face away from the area though. The Rapids and Riverview sites are accessed via a laneway through the property. These sites are for 4WD VEHICLES ONLY with tents or camper trailers.
As sites are located along the riverbank, at times they are subject to flooding. This may mean that camping there may not be suitable at all times and you may need to move to higher ground in this event. The whole property is also cut off from road access during times of flood.
Site 1 (The Paperbarks) is the larger of the sites is suited to camper trailers, caravans, camper vans or tents. It has some flat areas and also some slightly sloping with river access. Bring your cricket bat and enjoy a game or put up your hammock between the trees and just relax.
Site 2 (The Rapids) and Site 3 (Riverview) are both private, flat sites with 4WD ACCESS ONLY. Bring your tent, swag, camper trailer or small off road van and enjoy the river rapids.
Site 4 (Long Flat) private large flat site for 4WD vehicles with caravans. Perfect for larger groups.
The river bank is a little steep in places and access is via a track so please be mindful when walking. River shoes are also encouraged as the rocks in the river can be slippery.
Perfect for a relaxing stay in summer with swimming, canoeing or floating on your raft down the river. Bring your fishing gear for some relaxing bass or mullet fishing during the summer months (catch and release is encouraged).
The pristine river is also home to platypus which can be seen early in the morning or late afternoon from the campsites. Please do not try and interact with these beautiful animals, photography is encouraged though!
There are numerous birds, water dragons and wallabies that also inhabit the area around the campsites.
Sit around the camp fire (restrictions permitting) and watch the stars with family and friends. Firepits are provided for use, subject to fire restriction periods. Remember to bring wood with you!
There are opportunities for bush walking, bird watching and mountain bike riding over the back of the property. It is a bit of a hike to get to the access but well worth it with beautiful views from the top of the mountain as well.
Our farm is a working beef cattle property. Please be mindful that cattle and horses have free range of the property, which includes the road, so take care when driving. There will also be at times motorbikes, chainsaws and vehicles operating around the farm as well as on neighbouring properties. We will endeavour to keep the noise away from campers where possible. There will also be the odd cow/horse poo and mooing at night in case anyone has an issue.
Small to medium dogs are allowed but must be on a leash at all times. This is due to there being working dogs and cattle in the area. Sorry, NO LARGE DOGS allowed due to past issues. Please also be aware that we are in a tick prone area so make sure your pet has adequate tick protection.
We do have mobile phone reception with Telstra and Optus on the property.
Historic Stroud township has a supermarket, butcher, chemist, cafes, a club and pub along with swimming pool, playground and skate park. Dungog is located 25 minutes drive away and also has many historic buildings and cafes etc.
Gloucester is 40 minutes drive and offers similar as well as access to the World renowned wilderness of the Barrington Tops National Park.
We hope to make your stay a pleasurable one with many happy memories made. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
***sorry no parties allowed***
Your hosts, Jo and Ian.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$35
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(534)
Spirit of the Forest
19 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Boolambayte, NSW
Spirit of the Forest is one of the oldest properties in the area. Many years ago it was an old dairy farm, but it has been through many transitions since then.... uniquely situated only a few kms. from the majestic "Grandis" tree it has an abundance of wildlife close by, wallabies come out to feed on the pasture at dusk and dawn, mighty eagles soar overhead and beautiful Arabian horses run free in the paddocks.Trevor and Maya moved here from Berry NSW 17 years ago. Trevor is an internationally acclaimed entertainer and horse whisperer and Maya is an artist, author and lecturer. Both found the property a haven from their busy schedule of performing overseas.A unique 70 acre Arabian horse property, surrounded by Myall Lakes National Park 4 kms from "The Grandis" the tallest tree in NSW and 10 kms from Bulahdelah Town also near to beautiful North Coast beaches. There are many beautiful areas to choose from to camp, as well as a cabin.A portable 240v generator (1) is available for hire $10.00 a day, fuel included, advance booking.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$45
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(458)
Platypus Pools
5 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Monkerai, NSW
Premium and exclusive natural camping at its best.
Our farm is located on the beautiful Karuah River in the picturesque Monkerai valley. The river is a fresh mountain river running from the foothills of Barrington Tops.
We only offer 5 sites which are all well spaced out across our 300 acre property giving you absolute privacy and a sense of serenity.
We were very pleased to have been recognised by Hipcamp as being one of the top 20 Hipcamp locations in NSW for 2022.
Most of the year the river is lovely and clear and ideal for swimming canoeing floating on airbeds fishing photography or just enjoying. There is also some really nice bike riding and walking opportunities around the valley although you will be on gravel roads and we are only 25 min drive from the popular Dungog mountain bike park.
You are likely to see a variety of birdlife other wildlife including black and white cockatoos ducks some lizards, occasionally wallabies, echidnas and if you are lucky a Platypus or two. We are fortunate to see platypus in the river frequently which is a sign of just how pristine the water running down from the mountains really is.
You will have your campsite completely to yourself with no other camper near you . Privacy, tranquillity, relaxation and just enjoying nature is waiting for you. Be sure to bring your telescope as you’ll be amazed at the stargazing at night with no light pollution.
With some Winter rains the river is running beautifully and is great for a swim, fish or canoe. Swimming, canoeing and running the rapids on surf mats is always popular at our property and as long as the river is it normal levels and a lot of fun. However, we always highly recommend people wear some form of footwear in the river such as rafting sandals or old joggers or similar as the rocks are very hard on your feet and there’s a particular nasty little fish called a “Bullrout” that whilst rare can infect a nasty sting if you tread on one. No need to be overly concerned but be mindful.
Our property is ideal for self-contained vans, camper trailers, medium motor homes, tents or swags, it’s up to you. There are no toilets so only suitable if you have your own toilet facilities and take away all waste when you leave. All toilet waste, leaving our property is very important and an absolutely essential requirement for all visitors.
Gloucester Dungog and historic Stroud village are nearby as well as Barrington Tops World Heritage wilderness area and national park.
This is an operating farm and therefore farming activities such as cattle droving, fencing, grass cutting or hay making may occasionally be occurring somewhere near your site but we would always let you know. We are sure you will enjoy our farm far more than a crowded traditional caravan park or campground.
All campers need to be able to manage and remove their own toilet waste from our property without exception.
We do have some limited bags of firewood for sale at $20 a bag. These are heavy bags of very dry local Hardwood. You can also collect firewood along the river banks yourself or bring your own firewood for a campfire (subject to any fire restrictions) if that is easier and more convenient for you.
When you make a reservation at the property we will always endeavour to put you in your preferred location as best we can. However if we are impacted by adverse weather or need to run cattle on certain parts of the farm then we may need to make a change to the actual site you are in and trust you understand.
We look forward to you visiting our farm.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from
AU$100
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(217)
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
88%
(40)
SeaForest Sanctuary
21 sites · RVs, Tents65 acres · Charlotte Bay, NSW
NOT SUITABLE FOR VANS OVER 18ft.
65 acres of pristine forest excites the senses with its diversity of environments; meandering creek tributaries, a huge natural billabong, rich array of birdlife & wildlife. The property’s rainforest walk leads you through a subtropical tree forest by the banks of Duck creek, past the 'Dingo' large sculpture then to the ultimate viewing of the gigantic ancient trees that are 300 years old.
The property is close to 4 beaches - Blueys, Boomerang, Elizabeth & Cellito/Sandbar ( 3 of those beaches are dog friendly and Sandbar even allows Horse riding as well as 4WD). The property borders the southern boundary of the Wallingat National Park - which offers days and days of adventures and has the best look-out over the whole coastal region called the Whoota Whoota lookout.
Wallis Lake is literally across the road from the front gate and can be accessed by boat launch just up the Coomba road or at the Pacific Palms recreational club ( Recky) which is a short 5 minutes down the road. Smiths Lake is only 5 minutes drive away in the other direction and has catamaran and boat hire services close to the Frothy Coffee Cafe, located right on the Smiths Lake waters edge. The new water sport called Fliteboard, also known as e-foiling ( it’s a new technology giving the beginner to advanced rider an experience of surfing without needing to catch a wave - sort of SUP and standing on a large stable board but propelled by a battery operated propeller ) is also located here to try out and have lessons on..The stable board GLIDES above the water on a keel like structure that is motorised by battery and is controlled by a hand held bluetooth device. You literally fly above the serene water silently ! ( exclusive deals given to SeaForest Sanctuary visitors - see extras - loading information shortly )
SeaForest Sanctuary sites are 4WD and AWD due to the tracks- some 2WD as long as they have a high ground clearance & depending if we have dry weather. ( I have a small 2WD SUV and it gets around perfectly in the dry weather but I need the 4WD in the wet ).
No amenities so campers need to BYO everything they need and leave no trace. Campers MUST bring their own camping toilet... This property is a wildlife/bush sanctuary and thus everyone is asked to please do their part to keeping it that way.
The waterways and forests in this area are mind blowing. If you have the opportunity, hire a boat/ houseboat or kayak etc and explore the Myall, Smiths and Wallis Lakes.. Bushwalking trails are everywhere through the many National Parks that surround us here.
The property is Dog friendly and owners must be respectful of others and keep animals quiet and contained at night. Goes without saying - please clean up doggie dung and take with your rubbish.
Campfires are permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place, plenty of wood to gather your own. Please be mindful that there could be fire bans on certain days during the summer. Farm manager will keep you informed and if the worst scenario happens being a fire warning of catastrophic conditions, please follow the farm managers instructions to evacuate the premises and enjoy some shopping in Forster or go to the movies for the day until the warning has lifted.
Horse agistment available.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$35
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(181)
Bonneydoon
21 sites · RVs, Tents640 acres · Main Creek, NSW
With over 600 acres of private natural forest, valleys, and mountain top look outs, there's more room to explore than you could possibly cover in one visit.Bordering world heritage listed Barrington Tops national park, the views seem to go on forever, and natural beauty that truly takes your breath away.Previously owned by Yoga australia for 20yrs, upon entering this hilltop getaway, it's easy to understand why this beautiful location has been a highly sought after retreat to relax and unwind.Close to so many wonderful locations and activities in the local Dungog area, there's many options to enjoy.Or just sit back and enjoy the serenity.At Bonneydoon you can visit Sunset Rock, The Big Fig that's hundred's of years old, walk the majestic flatbed rock creeks, etched out over a millennia, adorned with unique flora and fauna, or relax atop the camping grounds and see the mountain tops that seem to stretch on forever.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Cooking equipment
from
AU$65
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(64)
The Branch River Retreat
6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents108 acres · The Branch, NSW
Our property is private and we ask you to contact us first to ensure we can provide the facilities suitable for you. The property has limited facilities, but is the perfect setting for birdwatchers and native animal lovers. Just a 2-3 hour trip north of Sydney take the Bucketts Way to stay on sealed roads. A tributary river to Nelson Bay there is a rare offering in diversity as estuary dolphins gently make their way past the riverside sites at least once a day. The Branch River Retreat offers 110 acres with a range of sites beside a wide river, a fish-filled dam and other scattered paddock sites among trees and dams. This will suit off-road independent hybrid caravaners and tent dwellers. The river is lined with mangroves and branches off the Karuah River and the Port Stephens system.
The extraordinary array of birdlife includes the quintessentially Australian Wedge-tailed eagle and sea eagles, hawks, and Tawny Frogmouths, water waders and even a regular visit from a Jabiroo and pelicans.
Be lulled asleep under starry nights and be woken by Magpies and Kookaburras, and be dazzled by the colourful parrots and smaller shyer birds. You may even be visited by curious Kangaroos, Wallabies, or Echidnas. For the lucky few, you may espy a Koala along the foreshore. For this reason, while we accept dogs, they must be on a leash (if not just for their own safety).
The rest of the property enjoys aspects of undulating landscapes with small mountains and valleys. The night sky puts on its own stellar show between setting suns and rising moons.
The boat ramp offers easy access for kayaks and canoes (no motor vessels please). Or just sit on a camper chair and dangle your feet in the water while watching the mud crabs go about their social business.
Riverside sites are not powered and do not have water or sewerage. They are situated within 10m to 25m of each other and if this is too close, we recommend booking two sites. (For this reason we have kept the price lower.) Generally, we prefer campers to be 100% self-contained, with their own toilet. A toilet is however accessible, but some 300m to 400m distance from the dams and rivers. There is cold potable running water here for topping up.
There are sealed roads to the front gate to access the property from north and south.
All-weather gravel road access is available, although paddock sites can only be accessed by vehicle during dry periods. Weather willing, we can provide more secluded sites by some lovely dams.
If touring around the area is your aspiration, the property lies central to Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest, the Great Lakes district, Stroud Valley, Dungog, Gloucester/Barrington Tops, Nelson Bay, and Newcastle. Local groceries can be sourced from Karuah and Stroud.
Activities include:
- Bird/nature watching
- Paddling/canoeing
- Fishing
- Bike riding
(No motor vessels please)
- Surface type: grass or paddock leveled areas and others with slight slopes and accessed with the essential 4WD (of course subject to weather).
- Generally fair to good Mobile phone access.
- It will be necessary to BYO or Preorder firewood for applicable sites out of fire season, (where facilities are provided).
- No electrical connections unless by arrangement (for longer term Hipcampers)
- We treat our own sewerage.
- No generators please.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
Trash
from
AU$40.50
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Under $50
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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.