Mountainous barns near Yarramalong

Yarramalong’s proximity to beaches and natural sites makes it a must-see stop on a camping trip in New South Wales. Spend the night at a caravan park in town before looking for challenging hikes along serene surroundings in Dharug National Park. Explore the bushland and take a walk along Old Great North Road, then pitch a tent at a nearby campground with firepits. Take a break in the water at Brisbane Water National Park and go fishing or kayaking before viewing some of the best Aboriginal heritage art in the region. Or spend a few nights at campsites in Bouddi National Park to experience a beautiful mix of beaches, rainforests, and a real-life shipwreck.

Dharug National Park

Dharug National Park encompasses bushland north of Hawkesbury River, comprising dense forests, sloping mountains, and steep sandstone cliffs. The diverse landscape gives way to walking and biking tracks that lead to historic sites and opportunities to glimpse indigenous wildlife, including cockatoos and yellow-bellied gliders. Old Great North Road, a historic site that is part of the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage property, consists of a 9-km loop built by 720 convicts from 1826 to 1836. Campers can explore the Aboriginal heritage and stay a few days in the natural wonder at nearby tent and caravan campsites that provide potable water, bathroom facilities, and firepits, or try bush camping for a more immersive experience.

Brisbane Water National Park

Brisbane Water National Park stays true to its name with easy access to coastal waters for kayaking, fishing, and beachside picnics. Spend some time out of the water too on cycling and walking routes that lead to flowering fields and ancient wonders. The area is also known for its Aboriginal heritage sites and is home to hundreds of rock engravings, rock paintings, and foreshore middens. Visit the Bulgandry Aboriginal site at Kariong to get a prime example of the beautiful rock art the park offers. Pet-friendly campsites in the area offer access to off-leash areas, garbage bins, and hot showers to provide extra comfort for extended stays.

Bouddi National Park

Bouddi National Park sits along the coast, rainforest, heathland, and cliffs. Camp at Putty Beach, Tallow Beach, or Little Beach for swimming, fishing, and whale watching. Tent and caravan camping areas are available with water views as well as access to potable water, restrooms, and gas BBQs. Then head out on the 8-km Bouddi coastal walk, a trail considered one of the most beautiful in the area with a mix of wildflowers, scenic outlooks, and the shipwreck of the PS Maitland.

Yarramalong and its surrounding area see a peak in temperature in the warmer spring and summer months. January is typically the warmest month with an average high of 27°C. Spring brings blooming wildflowers to the area, attracting campers from far and wide. July is the coldest month of the year with an average high of about 16.5°C. However, August campers avoid the harsher humidity of the hotter months while still enjoying plenty of sun. Humpback whales also make their annual migration from May to July.