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The best camping near Freshwater Beach Manly, NSW

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100% (1)

Discover the serene Freshwater Beach, a haven for surfers and families alike.  

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Top-rated campgrounds near Freshwater Beach Manly

  • Sleeping mats and outdoor chairs provided.
  • Incredible location.
  • Sleeping mats and outdoor chairs provided.

Cockatoo Island

100%
(13)
13km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 135 sites · Tents, Lodging
UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sydney’s best kept secret. Waterfront camping and heritage accommodation in the heart of Sydney Harbour! Ferries to the Island run regularly from Circular Quay and other harbour locations (approx. every 30 mins). CAMPSITES We cater for all budgets, group sizes and occasions. Want a hassle-free stay with your kids? Reserve our basic camping package and check into a pre-erected tent. Desire a little luxury? Book a deluxe package and unwind in a premium tent furnished with creature comforts. Prefer an authentic, DIY experience? Select our low-cost 'BYO tent' option. All campers have access to flushing toilets, hot showers and a communal kitchen with sheltered facilities. The campground kitchen is equipped with 10 barbeques, instant boiling water, 2 fridges, microwaves, sink with hot and cold water, a vending machine and seating for 50 people. The campground also features a fire pit and campground cinema where movies screen at designated times every night. HERITAGE ACCOMMODATION Not a fan of camping? Our holiday houses and apartments combine authentic heritage character with modern amenities. Additionally, they offer epic harbour views, framed by lush gardens. WATERFRONT CAFES Cockatoo Island features 2 family-friendly cafes (Cockatoo Overboard and Marina Cafe and Bar), both of which are licensed to serve alcohol and operate 7 days a week. BBQ packs are also available for pre-purchase from Cockatoo Overboard. ACCESSING THE ISLAND The easiest way to get to Cockatoo Island is by public ferry. The F3 and F8 services operate to Cockatoo Island daily, departing from Circular Quay and Barangaroo as well as from wharves along Parramatta River. Note: There is no vehicle access to or on the island. CATERING There are two cafes on the island, great for breakfast, coffee and lunch. For dinner you can BYO and use the camp kitchen with BBQs, toaster, microwave, instant hot water, fridges, or order pre-order BBQ packs from one of the cafes. Allow at least 24hrs notice for BBQ pack orders.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
AU$72
 / night
  • Calabash Haven
  • Calabash Haven
  • Calabash Haven

Calabash Haven

93%
(23)
29km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome! Lovely to see you here. Our property is located in Arcadia, just 45 minutes from Sydney CBD. The campsite is located on the high side of the property that looks over into the valley & has stunning views of the Berowra National Park. There is a multitude of walking, hiking and mountain bike trails. There are also many nearby horse riding trails. The property backs on to Calabash Creek which is like a rain Forrest once you get down to the valley floor. Berowra waters is near by, whereby many fishing, canoeing, boating activities are available, coupled with some great cafes/restaurants. Campfires are allowed as long as there are no restrictions in place and they are supervised. Pets are welcome and can be off leash, however are the responsibility of their human parents. The property has ample room to accommodate larger groups that might want to hold milestone celebrations such as Birthday parties, whereby all sites will be closed to accommodate such events. Recently Calabash Haven hosted a party of 50 people for 50th Bday celebration. Feel free to inquire to see if we can accommodate your needs. Campers must be self contained with their own camping toilet and take all waste with them on departure.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
AU$303
 / night
  • Picturesque Semirural Parking
  • Picturesque Semirural Parking
  • Picturesque Semirural Parking

Picturesque Semirural Parking

97%
(16)
31km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 2 sites · RVs
Overnight parking for caravan/RV with easy access. The property is based approx 35 kms from the Sydney CBD, 20 minutes from the M1 north. Set in a semi rural location, close to shops, medical centre(s) and other services. Quiet location, overlooking bush canopy. Suit couples travelling that need a safe, quiet overnight stay on route to their next destination. Two Woolworths, two Aldi’s and local shops within 5-10 minutes drive at Galston, Glenorie and Dural Round Corner. Access to water and power can be arranged at a small charge but must have and use own toilet. Parking on former tennis court at the rear of the property, overlooking the bush. During wet weather, if ground to soft we may move guests up to the driveway near the house.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
AU$46
 / night
  • looking from orchard to the campsite
  • looking from orchard to the campsite
  • looking from orchard to the campsite

Canoelands Orchard Camping

98%
(323)
38km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Canoelands Orchard Camping and Fruit Picking, is located just 1 hour from Sydney's CBD. The property is 81 acres in total with a small shop and cafe onsite. We offer pick your own fruit so are open to the public daily (closed on occasion). Trading hours can be viewed at www.bookingscanoeladns.com. We are surrounded by the stunning valley views of Marra Marra National Park. Guests can enjoy hiking, wandering the orchard picking fresh produce, taking a tractor ride, feeding the animals and relaxing. Please note we are a working farm so sometimes tractors and vehicles can be heard working from 7am. There will be foot traffic and possibly tractor rides operating near some of the sites although we will do our best to respect your privacy while you are here. We also have a quarry surrounding most of the property, so they sometimes operate machinery early. This is not generally too disruptive though. We are just 15 minutes' drive from the beautiful historical Wiseman's Ferry and the Hawkesbury River. There are multiple hiking tracks located close by. We have several sites to offer around the property. We have a beautiful huge dam just 350m down the gully. It’s super peaceful although a steep walk down the driveway to access, it's definitely worth it, so pack your walking shoes and some swimmers.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$53
 / night
  • Views over the valley
  • Enjoying a book in the hammock with wildlife sounds in the background
  • Views over the valley

Canoelands Valley Camping

98%
(364)
38km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Canoelands Valley Camping is an easy-to-access camping area with magnificent views through the National Park Valley. With only two allocated camping/van zones enjoy the privacy and access to walk around the 40 acres. Located 1.15 hrs from Sydney CBD this is an ideal place for a quick weekend getaway for keen hikers, mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by the Marramarra National Park you have a short drive to access the Canoelands Ridge Trail (17kms), Duckponds Ridge Trail, Marrarra Ridge to Smugglers Point Ridge Trail. We are a short drive to dine at Wiseman Ferry, and only 11 minutes from the local Woolworths. Or enjoy a beautiful walk at Fagan Park in Galston. Your camping/van area is supplied with red/bins. 2 Portaloos available or camping toilets. Dogs allowed but please let me know first. They will need to be on leash all the time and well behaved. Please pick up after them ANYWHERE they go toilet and also they must be vaccinated. No cats allowed. A campfire during permitted times is allowed but only in the fire pits. There is loads of dried kindling and small logs around the property otherwise please bring your own. All Sites have fire pits. CHILDREN are to be accompanied by an adult at all times if walking around the property. Beautiful spot to relax, with loads of wildlife and bird watching. Please use bins supplied and leave no trace. * There are 4 allocated camp sites. Two are easy(2WD & Vans/trailers) access and have the direct view through the valley. Two require high wheel clearance vehicles (just small hill to drive up with some rocks), these are more private sites(cannot see the other campers) still with lovely views. Please mention what car you have when booking. **Now offering access on weekdays but ONLY Site 1 & 2 (weekend access to Sites 1-4)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$48
 / night
  • morning fog at the camp
  • camp from above
  • morning fog at the camp

“Wywurri 2”

97%
(130)
41km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Come and set up camp in an open paddock (14 acres) with 3 dams up on Mangrove Mountain of the hinterland of Gosford, a stones throw from all the Central Coast has to offer. SADDLES restaurant, GLENWORTH Valley. Mooney Mooney Club has great food dine on the verandah at sunset. Walkabout Wildlife Park is almost diagonally opposite the Jones Road entrance. Sommersby Waterfalls. The block is 14 acres adjoining Brisbane Water National Park there are bush trails to Weeney Creek out the back gate. Situated a few minutes off the expressway close to East Gosford shopping, (12 minutes drive) Kariong Shops and service station 9 minutes away Somersby Falls, Woy Woy Falls and Glenworth Valley. Sydney CBD is 67kms south with Newcastle an hour to the North. Just 30 minutes from Hornsby, Minutes from Hornsby. There are no Amenities here, campers will need to be self contained and leave no trace. Early check-in and late check-out available by arrangement. Additional vehicle access are allowed upon request.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
  • Learn about the local flora…
  • The beautiful Belongaia campsite.
  • Learn about the local flora…

The Freedom Farm River Paradise

95%
(72)
45km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Picnic table
from 
AU$97
 / night
  • Warm Corner
  • camp
  • Warm Corner

Warm Corner

97%
(118)
46km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
25 acres of rural land next to the Windsor Downs Nature Reserve. Town water available and all service road to pad . Next to treatment plant and subject to major floods. Abundant wild kangaroos ,birds and wildlife including the occasional snake and fox. Backs on to South Creek not suited to swimming. Fishing allowed if the DPI Fisheries rules and regulations, licences are followed. Shared ammenities if needed. Bathroom, small kitchen and sink, microwave, kettle and toaster and fridge freezer with water and ice dispenser . Washing machine. Table and eight chairs. Table tennis and small air hockey table. Garbage bin provided and we will dispose of rubbish. Recycle bin red to put in recycle bottles and empty gas cyclinders. Not far from M7 , Historic towns of the Hawkesbury.
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups
from 
AU$61
 / night
  • Peppertree Pony Camp
  • Peppertree Pony Camp
  • Peppertree Pony Camp

Peppertree Pony Camp

90%
(62)
46km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful horse farm on 21 acres, come and holiday or just relax with your horse or just for a farm escape. Plenty of room to walk, run or just watch the wildlife as you sit by the water by the dam. Camping by the fire under the stars. Pony rides are available for kids. We have horse facilities available also if you want to camp and ride your horse. Fantastic facilities for families wanting to get away with the kids.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$127
 / night
  • Top of the Paleesade Falls with picnic table
  • Unwind with your exclusive fire pit & supply of chopped firewood.
  • Top of the Paleesade Falls with picnic table

Fern Valley Ranch

99%
(1224)
47km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
**WE ARE NOT TAKING CHECK-INS ON CHRISTMAS DAY, but you can stay over Christmas Day** ----- Are you looking for a retreat to get away from the city, or a refreshing alternative to a caravan park along your journey? We have CAMPSITES nestled in our Orchard or in the Pine Trees paddock, (with nearby amenities); or for more of a comfortable and unique stay, try our CHARMING, CONVERTED SCHOOL BUS! Fern Valley Ranch has it all- waterfall viewing, bush walks, animal feeding. Unwind; relax by the campfire with quiet cup of tea (or a beer). Leave the city behind and tune back in to the birdlife and whistle of the breeze among the tall trees. CAMPSITES- Max 5 campers (see Campsite Listing for number and type of dwellings allowed per site.) SCHOOL BUS- Max 4 guests (no pets)- can book separate bus campsites after booking Bus. SCHOOL BUS CAMPING- Get friends to camp next to you in the Bus. *** NO ENTERING ANY WATER ON THE PROPERTY, YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE IMMEDIATELY IF YOU DO NOT RESPECT OUR RULES *** If you want to swim, there are beaches within half an hour from our farm. - We are just an hour between Sydney and Newcastle; and 15 minutes to Gosford. THINGS TO DO IN THE CENTRAL COAST: - Australian Reptile Park - Great North Walk - Fire Creek Botanical Winery - Mount Penang Farmers Market - Mangrove Creek Dam - Many Cafes & chocolate shop -BEACHES: The Entrance, Toowoon Bay, Shelley, Terrigal - Gosford Regional Gallery - Edogawo Commemorative Gardens - Take a drive to the small village of Spencer - Golf clubs are all nearby.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$72
 / night
  • Down by the Hawkesbury - Exclusive
  • Down by the Hawkesbury - Exclusive
  • Down by the Hawkesbury - Exclusive

Down by the Hawkesbury - Exclusive

98%
(155)
47km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 1 site · Tent, RV
Originally settled in 1889 "Bobs Grant" this lovely property and the surrounding land was originally used for farming but is now mostly turf farms. Enjoy our little getaway down by the Hawkesbury River only 10 minutes from historic Windsor. A beautiful river shack for your use exclusively, including fire pit with direct access to the Hawkesbury river. Destroyed in the March and July 2022 floods, we have now re-built and are loving welcoming back our guests. Bring your caravans, tent or swag - all are welcome! Unfortunately, boats are not. Relax and enjoy the serenity whilst being only 1 hour from Sydney. We offer the site to one group only, a maximum of 20 guests. However note, we are not a place for rowdy groups and parties. Groups are welcome here to enjoy the time with their family and friends, play a little music and relax by the river. The river can get busy (which is great after the floods as it has been dead for so long) and so can the road across the river but if you are enjoying your family and friends you won't even notice! We have one basic toilet, and one river water shower available too! Please bring your own drinking water. You can bring your dogs, but they must be on a leash at all times. We have three little puppies that love to roam their property. We lock them up sometimes but most of the time they are just running around having fun. Minimum of 2 dogs per booking and they must be noted on the booking. ​Fires are only permitted when allowed, in the designated areas only.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$103
 / night
  • Blue Lagoon Beach Resort
  • Blue Lagoon Beach Resort
  • Blue Lagoon Beach Resort

Blue Lagoon Beach Resort

94%
(16)
48km from Freshwater Beach Manly · 138 sites · Tents, RVs
With the sand between your toes and the ocean to play in, let all your worries disappear at our perfectly located holiday park. Blue Lagoon Beach Resort is the only holiday park on the Central Coast with an absolute beachfront location. Wake up every morning to the incredible sounds and views of Shelly Beach, inhale the fresh ocean aroma and enjoy everything nature’s playground has to offer. With a range of different cabins to choose from and perfectly positioned caravan and tent sites, we have accommodation to suit everyone. Our amenities and facilities; including our outdoor heated pool and spa complex, will leave you spoiled for choice when it comes to recreation around the park. The private location also makes the resort a safe place for kids to play and families to reconnect with each other. Set away from all main roads, it’s safe for kids to ride their bikes and scooters, play with new friends and have fun.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$66
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

“Wywurri 2”
M
Michelle
6 days ago
9 m travel trailer
4 nights at “Wywurri 2”
We camped at the top of site 5 as it was overcast and needed more sun than what was at the bottom of site. Very pretty & great to have the option. Site numbers aren’t in order. You can see other campers but spread out well.
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“Wywurri 2”
C
Craig
6 days ago
11 m travel trailer
Weekend Trip to “Wywurri 2”
We stayed for two nights so we could catch up with family who live on the coast. Jennifer had no issue with 5 extra bodies turning up for a couple of hours so we could have a belated Christmas get-together. The site is clean, conveniently located, and easy to find. Best of all, it's quiet. Excellent value for money.
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“Wywurri 2”
N
Neil
1 week ago
5 m car
Weekend Trip to “Wywurri 2”
Convenient location, good mobile reception on campsite 9. Slightly uneven site.
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“Wywurri 2”
S
Shreeyani
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
Weekend Trip to “Wywurri 2”
Great farm! Very peaceful, would definitely recommend it.
See more
“Wywurri 2”
N
Nick
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
2 nights at “Wywurri 2”
Perfect little camping spot getaway for the weekend!
See more
“Wywurri 2”
G
Grace
1 week ago
5 m car
With kids
3 nights at “Wywurri 2”
Beautiful area, nice and quiet. Could really unwind and relax. Great communication with the host
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“Wywurri 2”
R
Robert and
1 week ago
5 m car
1 night at “Wywurri 2”
Exactly as it said on the tin. Easy to find. Simple instructions.
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“Wywurri 2”
H
Hari
1 week ago
9 m travel trailer
With pets
2 nights at “Wywurri 2”
This site provides a serene bush setting. The owner has thoughtfully established the property, and we enjoyed a peaceful two-night camping experience.
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“Wywurri 2”
S
Sonya
2 weeks ago
7 m travel trailer
With pets
Weekend Trip to “Wywurri 2”
Serenity and relaxation. Those were the things that came to mind while visiting WYWURRI 2. Site 4 is secluded and looks over a pond with Lilly pads. Very quiet. Needed to level the caravan a little but the trip was to test out our off grid capabilities. Early checkin was a great bonus . Easy access. Thank you Jennifer .
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Beautiful dam to camp next to ducks came to visit as well
T
Travis
2 weeks ago
10 m travel trailer
Weekend Trip to “Wywurri 2”
Nice easy spot to camp. Great site beautiful surroundings and atmosphere. Very peaceful stop over
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A quick 5 minute walk or 10 minute drive to facilities, amenities, shop and cafe.
L
Lucy
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
1 night at Canoelands Orchard Camping
Such a great spot! There’s something special about camping in the orchard. Super quiet and lovely hosts
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Fern Valley Ranch
J
John
2 weeks ago
6 m Class B
4 nights at Fern Valley Ranch
Nice spot withheaps of site space, nice drive to the beach, and close to sydney
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Myrtle Ridge Farm
g
george
2 weeks ago
4 m pop-up camper
1 night at Myrtle Ridge Farm
Camped in trailer for the night was great, heaps to room, very lush and beautiful, clean bathrooms, super clear directions into site and a lovely host so accommodating :)
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Fern Valley Ranch
K
Kate
2 weeks ago
Tent
1 night at Fern Valley Ranch
Amazing piece of land, lots of space and little trails and waterfall to explore. Though there were other campers our spot felt quite private. The orchards were beautiful. Showers and bathrooms were so nice to have as we camp in a tent.
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Wet farm morning foot wear advised
R
Rebekah
2 weeks ago
4 m pop-up camper
With pets
1 night at Canoelands Orchard Camping
Very quiet spot which was good for me as it was the first time camping with dogs. Sites are very well sign posted with plenty of space.
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Evening light at the campground
D
Darren
2 weeks ago
7 m travel trailer
2 nights at Canoelands Valley Camping
Quiet location, and a great place to relax. Views across the valley from the site were brilliant. Instructions were clear on arrival. Close to shops if needed.
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Hawkesbury Hideaway
S
Steve
2 weeks ago
9 m pop-up camper
Weekend Trip to Hawkesbury Hideaway
wonderful spot, we had a corner spot looking overlooking the river, lots of space so feels like you are on your own. We were met by Jim who recommended to best spot. on site flush toilet and shower simple and clean We come back
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The Freedom Farm River Paradise
M
Max
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Weekend Trip to The Freedom Farm River Paradise
Great little farm, secluded and nature filled. Was a great stay
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Myrtle Ridge Farm
A
Aileen
2 weeks ago
Tent
Weekend Trip to Myrtle Ridge Farm
Great campsite, clean toilets and showers, bins provided, would recommend 😊
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Warm Corner
Avatar
Sean
2 weeks ago
5 m car
With kids
1 night at Warm Corner
Super helpful and accomidating hosts, definitely staying with again.
See more

The best camping near Freshwater Beach Manly, NSW guide

Overview

About

Nestled between two headlands, Freshwater Beach offers a tranquil escape with its consistent waves and historic surfing roots. Visitors can bask in the sun, swim in the clear waters, or take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Curl Curl. The beach's northern headland is home to a life-size statue of Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing, commemorating his influence on Australian surf culture.

When to go

The best time to visit Freshwater Beach is during the summer months when the nor'easter provides excellent swimming conditions. However, it's also the busiest time, so plan for crowds. Off-season visits offer a more peaceful experience, with mild weather ideal for coastal walks and exploring the area's natural beauty.

Know before you go

  • Check the surf conditions before heading out, as they can change rapidly.
  • Disabled access is available; contact the operator for specific details.
  • Remember to swim between the flags for safety, as currents can be strong.
  • Facilities such as a high-end restaurant and cafes are available nearby.
  • The beach is part of the Manly-Freshwater National and World Surfing Reserve, highlighting its cultural significance.

100%
1 Ratings · 1 review
Recommends
· May 2025
Very Good experience
The campsite is small but very beautiful. We felt very comfortable. It has a beautiful walk through the forest and the facilities are good.
I
Iris G.
3 reviews

Top points of interest near Freshwater Beach Manly

Blue Lagoon
Cataract Falls
Norah Head
Patonga Beach
Mungo Beach
Berry Showground
Milton Showground
Glow Worm Tunnel

Top parks near Freshwater Beach Manly

Popran National Park
Marramarra National Park
Botany Bay National Park
Brisbane Water National Park
Columbey National Park
Seven Mile Beach National Park
Gir-um-bit National Park
Tarlo River National Park

Top cities near Freshwater Beach Manly

Sydney
Wollongong
Katoomba
The Entrance
Kangaroo Valley
Kiama
Seal Rocks
Nelson Bay

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