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Maclean Showground

The best camping near Maclean Showground, NSW

Discover the serene Maclean Showground, nestled by the Clarence River.

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Stories from the community

Brayden

5 days ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Groundswell Guest Camp

Really beautiful site with plenty of flat grassed spots for a tent. My toddler daughter and I loved walking the trails, looking at all the plants and listening to the many different birds. Recent rain probably meant a surge in mozzies, come prepared. Wish we could have stayed longer.

Sam

2 weeks ago

5 m Class B

With pets

3 nights at Groundswell Guest Camp

Amazing set up, amazing private place. And extremely will presented and well kept . Best hipcamp I have stayed at

Anna

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Riverside Rest

Beautiful, peaceful riverside setting. We stayed on Site 2 for three nights with our 21-ft van and had plenty of space. We loved being able to simply relax by the river — the kids were busy swimming, fishing, crab hunting, and tree climbing … made it a great place to stay.

Lawrence

2 weeks ago

9 m travel trailer

1 night at The Bulbin

A peaceful and beautiful spot, private and with heaps of space for big rigs.

Vicki

2 weeks ago

9 m travel trailer

1 night at Riverside Rest

Awesome spot. Stayed on site 4. Great private site. Only stayed 1 nite but will definetely be back

Scott

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

2 nights at Riverside Rest

Fantastic camp site, thanks for sharing this little piece of paradise

Lynda

2 weeks ago

6 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wideriverwater

A lovely relaxed place to stay right near the water with well-maintained sites. Sites are a good size and there is plenty of shade.

Poppy

2 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Gulmarrad Farmstay

Tracey is such a lovely host super accommodating and recommended lots of local places to explore! Such a nice place to stay, quiet and peaceful and the view of the stars on the night is amazing, especially after city living! She has the friendliest dog that comes over to play and some lovely horses, one of which also came over to say hi. Lots of native wildlife visit including kangaroos, kookaburras and galas which was mesmerising to see as someone that isn't from Australia. I'd recommend anyone to stay here and thank you so much for hosting us Tracey ☺️

Helen

2 weeks ago

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Riverside Rest

Great campsite in a wonderful, peaceful waterfront location. Firepit provided on each campsite and fishing at your front door. Each site has beautifully manicured lawns. Saw heaps of wildlife including all the different seabirds, kookaburras, kangaroos and even dolphins. All just a short drive to Yamba township if needed. We would definately stay again and would highly recommend.

Andrew

3 weeks ago

9 m travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at River Views - Island Paradise

Fantastic location for off grid stays. Hoast "Squiggles" was a great chat and very informative of the local area. Great fishing from site, 2 very welcoming dogs that got on fine with my 10yo JR. Even the dolphins came to say hello during my morning coffee.. We'll be back.

Tam

3 weeks ago

6 m Class B

1 night at Nature’s Retreat

Awesome spot. Quiet, fire pit provided, and dogs could run around off leash. Luke was also an absolute legend. Highly recommend. We’ll be back.

Fiona

3 weeks ago

5 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Riverside Rest

Great spot right on the river! Glenn and Zoe were so accommodating and answered any questions.

Brett

3 weeks ago

4 m Class B

4 nights at Riverside Rest

This was our second stay at river side rest we really enjoyed the propertt on our first visit so we decided to return. The property is very green and well kept. There is an abundance of wildlife on the river and on the property with kangaroos visiting every afternoon pelicans on the water and fishing in front of your camp. Fire pits ate provided and well priced firewood and ice available at the house. In all a very piecefull and relaxing atomsphere.

Katrina

3 weeks ago

5 m car

With pets

1 night at Groundswell Guest Camp

Great spot - we stayed an extra night. Very well thought out set up, friendly owner, and very quiet and private. Plus the site is surrounded by the unique Grass trees. I would definitely recommend this site.

Ozen

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at River terrace camping Cowper 2460

Nice camping by the river with fire pits.. Bob was a great host showing us around. A little bit of highway noise but that is to be expected.

Reshenda

3 weeks ago

3 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Riverside Rest

Absolutely loved staying at Riverside rest. What a beautiful spot to spend some time relaxing and catching fish. Yamba is just down the road if you need anything. Will definitely be back again. The sites are a great size and enough space between them. Glen and Zoe have done a great job. Highly recommend.

Graham

3 weeks ago

7 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Riverside Rest

Great location on the river and close to town if you wanted to explore. The 4 sites were well spread out and well maintained. We would definitely stay here again

3 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at River terrace camping Cowper 2460

We booked site 7 but stayed on site 8 as better for us with our 2 pups Definitely will go back Owner was very nice Checking each day everything was good Great river view

Jen

November 2025

5 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to River Views - Island Paradise

Beautiful property to stay, even in rainy weather. Well signed and very tidy. Stayed in our van right on the water. Fish were on the bite. Lots of things to do and the beach not too far. Squiggles was the nicest host you'll ever meet. His pet chooks would visit for happy hour and his dogs were super friendly.

Ed & Jen

November 2025

5 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to River Views - Island Paradise

Awesome spot.. Squiggles has thought of everything for all us hip campers to enjoy. We have been to many hip camps over the last 3 years and this has to be one of our favourites. Squiggle s was friendly and welcoming and so were his dogs and chooks. The perfect spot to just kick back and relax and watch the dolphins swim past or get as busy as you like with kayaks and fishing. Thanks for letting us camp on your little spot of paradise.

Top-rated campgrounds

Nature’s Retreat

95%

(10)

3.3km from Maclean Showground · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Ashby, NSW

Located, just 25 minutes from the pristine beaches of Yamba and Iluka. Across the river and just 15 minutes from the Scottish town of Maclean, nestled high in the Yamba hinterland. You will not hear traffic, you will not see headlights. Pure peace and tranquility for you to relax, chill and enjoy. The sites are surrounded by rugged mountainous bush land with views, trails, cliffs, 3 creeks to explore and includes a private lake ‘Lake Arid’ with its own island, ‘Dead Dog Island’. Swim, paddle, fish, play. Metres away is another private swimming hole ‘Pants Off Pond’ stocked with Silver Perch and Bass. So whether you indulge in pants off, or leave them on and just fish it’s up to you. Explore a little further and you’ll find ‘The Abyss’ a former micro quarry, 9m deep waterhole. The creeks have waterfalls, swimming holes, pure and clean, though are a rugged unmarked hike. The sites are site only. You’ll need to take care of your waste, water, rubbish and power. Generator is ok, we’re out of earshot, so is everyone else. Each site has a picnic table and a fire pit and an abundance of ‘cut your own’ firewood upon the ground. Remember, fires this time of year are for ‘cooking only’, so be sure to bring those marshmallows… Pet Friendly, 4WD friendly with a bunch of serious challenges too… Horse friendly too, yep, there’s a yard to keep them too, up by the house. Accessible by 2WD with sites with enough space for any size caravan or motor home. While exploring, if you find a spot you’d rather camp, simply ask. We live on the property so help is nearby for any issues and the access road is shared. Peace, quiet and nature abounds.

River Views - Island Paradise

99%

(337)

5.5km from Maclean Showground · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Ashby, NSW

You will see a well maintained property with lots of things for you to do canoeing bike riding walking around my sugar cane farm tasting the sugar cane juice from the stalk a quite place to rest and enjoy the view's

Island Acres

94%

(16)

5.8km from Maclean Showground · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Woodford Island, NSW

Island Acres is a Plant Nursery and Macadamia Farm, situated on the far north coast of NSW. The camping area's have uninterrupted western views of multiple mountain ranges with amazing sunsets. The property is only a short 5min drive to Maclean township and other great coastal towns Yamba and Brooms Head. The 100 acre property adjoins a 3000ha Woodford Island National Park if you enjoy a nature walk or If you enjoy playing Golf. It's located on the drive in to Island Acres. Maclean Golf Club is 18 hole course and is regarded as the 'hidden gem' and is one of the best regional courses in the Northern Rivers on the same road. The island is very accessible - two bridges and a free ferry. Only 10 Klm from the Pacific Hwy

Gulmarrad Farmstay

100%

(14)

6km from Maclean Showground · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gulmarrad, NSW

Private Property housing owners horses, enjoy a peaceful location away from the hustle and bussell. Property has dressage arena 40 x 20 mtrs and 20 mtr round yard. Horse area available with prior arrangements if needed. Property 10 mins to Brooms Head and 20 mins to Yamba beaches. Hiking Clarence Peak

On The Channel

97%

(97)

6.8km from Maclean Showground · 2 sites · RVs · Maclean, NSW

Nice and grassy 3acres of land located right on the channel . Plenty of fishing spots and can launch a kayak straight from your campsite . You can cycle around cane fields and Macadamia farms . Only a 10 minute drive to popular surfing beaches in Yamba and Angourie . We supply fire pits and timber when in stock is available to buy.

Schlaraffenland

95%

(10)

7.3km from Maclean Showground · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Maclean, NSW

Peaceful, private, bush land, close to all the coastal and hinterland attractions, set amongst the coastal cane fields. Yamba, Maclean and Iluka and the National Parks of the Clarence River Valley Region are close by. Camping amongst bush land and native animals, Alpacas and Greyhounds (friendly and can be met and petted ). Quick access to recreational activities including fishing, kayaking, surfing and bush/coastal/beach walking 348 Bee Eater Lane Ashby Heights NSW 2463 Pets allowed, fire pit available, eggs from own chooks We have room for several campsites spread across a large cleared bush area still allowing for enough privacy even when it’s busy.

Cardiff Alpacas

99%

(176)

8.1km from Maclean Showground · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Harwood, NSW

IMPORTANT: Please read this and our site descriptions/rules before booking! N.B. We do not accept children under 8 years of age. Our check-in period is 2 PM to 5.30 PM. We also require guests to provide us with an ETA, preferably at the time of booking and no later than 24 hours prior to arrival. We expect you to arrive within 30 minutes of the time you specify. If you are unable to comply with these conditions, then you should not book with us. We do not have staff available to deal with early, late or unannounced arrivals. Our campsite facilities are basic and best suited to self-contained campers. We DO NOT provide general toilet or ablution facilities. However, we do have portable toilet and shower units available for hire (see under Extras). We are a 55 hectare alpaca & llama stud & sugar cane farm, just off the Pacific Hwy, on Harwood Island, in the Clarence River. Our extensive and carefully-maintained pastures offer a wide selection of peaceful, private campsites. There are also numerous small stands of natural vegetation providing shade and shelter. In close proximity to us are shopping centres, surfing beaches and areas of outstanding natural beauty. We operate as a cottage industry, processing alpaca fleece & manufacturing products from it. We regularly conduct tours & maintain a small farm shop. We also offer a full range of home-cooked meals. NOTE: If you book Extras or Meals you choice of campsites will be limited.

Cambridge Park Macca's

100%

(20)

8.3km from Maclean Showground · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · South Arm, NSW

66 acres of undulating Macadamia Orchard. Located on an inland island. Views of the South Arm of the Clarence River and Woodford National Park. Set in a private location, surrounded by an abundance of wild life. Relaxation central, collect your own macca's. Located 30 mins from Grafton, 10 minutes to the Scottish town of Maclean, 20 minutes to the world class beaches of Yamba.

Shark Creek Retreat

92%

(12)

9.1km from Maclean Showground · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Shark Creek, NSW

Shark Creek Retreat is an ongoing conservation project, where I call myself the caretaker of these beautiful wetlands. I have dedicated 77 acres of it as a wildlife sanctuary, it is a member of the Wildlife Land Trust and has joined the Land for Wildlife environmental community. To date there is a property bird list worthy of a small National Park for all you keen birders out there. To date I have been busy regenerating previously cleared land from farming and the 2019 bush fire with native plants local to this area in the 100's. My aim is to surround most of the property in wildlife friendly fencing, regenerate the flora and create a fauna corridor as a wildlife safety zone from the wetlands to the road and to create a tranquil little space for nature appreciative people to stop and a take a rest. Shark Creek Retreat is a conservation area, no amenities, no bins etc. so you would need to be self sufficient and responsible for own waste. What you bring, you must take. So if camping out in a conservation area appeals to you then head out to Shark Creek Retreat, stay for a night or stay for a week 💚🌳

Wideriverwater

100%

(47)

10km from Maclean Showground · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Tyndale, NSW

Waterfront camping beside the beautiful Clarence river. Boat ramp and pontoon. Town water available and flush toilets on site. Firepits and bagged firewood for sale . Water skiing, fishing, go by boat or drive to close by ocean beaches. Great access to Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Ballina and the mountains. Also easily found off the Pacific highway. Fuel , general store 2km, Maclean 12 km by road or boat. Lots of space , easily accomodate large rigs, not crowded. Flat smooth, mowed paddock right beside river. Address 4161 Big River Way , Tyndale NSW.

Near and Far Yamba

98%

(179)

12km from Maclean Showground · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Micalo Island, NSW

Near and Far Yamba is on an exclusive riverside private property, located 10 mins drive from Yamba NSW. If you like the quiet and being away from the mob in a rural area, you will enjoy this out of the ordinary property. If you’re an early riser you will see wonderful sunrises over the river, plenty of kangaroos, birds, jumping mullet, maybe a dolphin or sea eagle. The owners large homestead is visible, they are happy to share their property and surrounds as offered. CAMPSITES: 2 Exclusive spacious separate camp sites near the river - Cubby Waterfront site, space for group 1-3 Caravans, tents, campers, coasters etc . Mango Tree River View Site space for group 1- 2 Caravans, campers. SKIPPY Bush Camp 2 open field - short Stay for self contained ensuite caravans only. Not riverfront, tap water only, no other facilities. All sites - Leave no trace, means take your rubbish away. 3km all weather private road. A secluded private property with open spaces, unfenced river and canals, farm animals and wildlife close by. Kangaroos are regularly around the buildings, in the yard and can be grazing up to the door at night. Town water, grid power, Telstra WIFI is available in the area but not provided. Dog friendly, secure available if required.

Groundswell Guest Camp

99%

(90)

12km from Maclean Showground · 1 site · Tent, RV · Taloumbi, NSW

The Groundswell Guest Camp would love to welcome you to enjoy an exclusive camp in a tranquil native bush setting. The camp is located on 100 acres of unique grasstree forest in Taloumbi, NSW. We are just 10 minutes off the Pacific Highway, between Maclean and Brooms Head. The camp is currently set up for private use for one booking. Please contact the host first for group bookings (up to 15 persons). There is a sink with filtered rain water on the deck, an instant gas hot water shower behind the main deck and also a compost toilet. There is a small solar power set up to run the sink and shower pump. The site in OFF-GRID on tank water only, so it is important to be mindful of water use and make sure taps are off when not in use. Bring your own cooker, lights and chairs. Mosquitos come and go depending on weather or season. It is good to be prepared with coils/sprays just in case. Pets are welcome, but must be on a leash if they are a threat to wildlife. You can swim in the dam when full. Enjoy a meditation or sunset drink over looking the dam and admiring the wildlife that also use the watering hole. Please relax and enjoy your time at Groundswell. We are currently working on a network of trails inside of the 100 acres. There is a "TRAIL" sign at the start of the trail behind the orchard. The Spa at Groundswell is now open at the owners home. Please contact the host for massage. Limited times are available. Our nearest beaches are just 5-10 minutes at the Yuraygir National Park Campground entrance and the beautiful quiet beach town of Brooms Head. Brooms Head has a general store and a snack shack, coffee and convenient essentials. Fishing, boating, spear fishing, surfing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, kite surfing, motor bike trails (Candole State Forest), coastal walks, and beach walks. Yamba is a 30 minutes drive and has great surfing beaches, plenty of café options, shopping, a lighthouse, breakwall walk and fishing. By completing a booking through Hipcamp, you understand and accept that Groundswell Guest Camp’s owners and directors hold no liability for any injury, property damage or wrongful death caused that may arise from your presence or activities on the property.

The best camping near Maclean Showground, NSW guide

Overview

About

A picturesque spot located in the beautiful Clarence Valley region of New South Wales, the Maclean Showground is a must-see for those camping nearby. Located on the banks of the Clarence River, it offers stunning views of lush green fields and rolling hills that stretch as far as the eye can see. The grounds are well maintained and feature a variety of attractions such as an indoor arena, picnic areas, walking trails, go-karts, a petting zoo, and more! There is also plenty to do outside, with fishing spots nearby and plenty of wildlife to explore. With its tranquil atmosphere and spectacular scenery, camping near Maclean Showground will give you endless opportunities for outdoor fun.

Notable campgrounds

Riverside Retreat: Enjoy the serene views of the Clarence River from your tent at this picturesque spot.
Main Ring Respite: Set up camp around the main ring for easy access to local events and gatherings.
Grassy Knoll: Choose a flat, grass-covered site for a comfortable and spacious camping experience.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Arrive early to secure a spot, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Plan for a midweek stay to increase your chances of finding an available site.
Keep your visit within the three-night maximum to adhere to campground policies.
Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan during peak times.

When to go

The best time to visit Maclean Showground is during the milder months of spring and autumn, offering pleasant weather for camping and exploration. Summer brings warmth perfect for riverside activities, though it can be busy. Winter may be less crowded but prepare for cooler temperatures.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, as the region can experience varied conditions.
Accessibility is catered for; contact the operator for specific details before your visit.
Remember, facilities are minimal, so come prepared with essentials like water and food.
Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times within the campground.
Be mindful of the natural environment and local wildlife during your stay.

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