The best camping near Barrington Tops National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Barrington Tops National Park adventure.

Escape into World Heritage sub-alpine wilderness, less than a half-day’s drive from Sydney.  

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Community favorites near Barrington Tops National Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Barrington Tops National Park

99%
(326)

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)
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AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(72)

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 and 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. Long Flat's access is through a gravelled lane and is usually fine to access with either 2wd or 4wd vehicles. The Rapids and Riverview sites are accessed via a laneway through the property. These sites are for 4WD VEHICLES ONLY with tents, camper trailers or small off road caravans. 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 a large site and 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 also numerous birds, wallabies, possums, water dragons and various other creatures that 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 you and your pet has adequate tick protection. We do have TV and 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. There is also a great gin distillery and restaurant, The Farmer's Wife, located at Allworth around 20 mins drive away. Dungog is located 25 minutes away and also has many historic buildings, boutique shops and cafes etc. Gloucester is 40 minutes away and offers similar attractions 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.
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AU$35
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(445)

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
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from 
AU$20
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(91)

Dungog Horseshoe Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Fosterton, NSW
We are located in the Dungog Shire, in the Hunter Region of NSW. This area is renowned for its forests, mountains and picturesque river villages. Please note we do not have toilet facilities at the moment. Our pump is out of action. We will delete this message when toilet back in operation. Before booking ensure you have your own toilet. Horseshoe camp is a perfect location for couples or families to get away for a short or extended stay. The Barrington Tops National Park, State Forests, Chichester Dam, river systems as well as the historic and scenic character of the area provide for a stunning experience. There's plenty of sightseeing and exploring awaiting visitors to this area. The seclusion and privacy of Horseshoe camp allows for total relaxation in a beautiful rural setting providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of work and city life. We are a quiet camp and cater for like minded guests who enjoy nature and their own space. Horseshoe was originally a small dairy farm with a history going back to the 1800's. The land comprises fertile river flats surrounded by the Williams River. The higher land comprises mainly forested areas with some sites offering good views over the countryside. There are several campsites to choose from including some situated on the banks of the Williams River. Your choice and subject to weather conditions. Allowing only four sites to be occupied ensures privacy for our guests, Horseshoe camp is only 10 minutes drive, (7km) from Dungog township. Please note, our river sites may not always be available-subject to flooding or boggy access track.
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from 
AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(465)

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 lovely Spring rain 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. Public waste dump points are at Stroud, Dungog and Gloucester. 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 campgrounds. We do have some limited bags of firewood for sale at $20 a bag most of the year. These are heavy bags of very dry local Hardwood. You can also collect firewood along the riverbanks 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.
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AU$100
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(269)

Bucketts Way Camp n Stay

20 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Twelve Mile Creek, NSW
PLEASE NOTE : Reception for the winter months close at 5pm. If you would like to make arrangements to arrive later you must contact Brad on 0402859669 prior to closing hours. Upon arrival please call numbers located at the boom gate to arrange entry. Being only 2 hours from Sydney and 470 metres off the Pacific Highway, Nth of Newcastle & a 40 drive to Port Stephens, we are set on 25 acres, with lge sites, most drive through (dry weather only) for your convenience. Hot showers are available ($1 coin for 2 min hot water), toilets and a disability accessible bathroom. The camp kitchen is large and well equipped with tables, chairs, a lounge area & tv for you to enjoy. The kitchen has cooking facilities, a kettle, toaster, microwave, prepping areas & more making it a comfortable space to prepare and eat meals under cover. Campers have reception to 4G. We have a turning lane entrance with boom gate security. When you arrive and set up, you will be able to ramble around our property and enjoy the ambience of the beautiful tree studded campground. Sit back in the afternoon and enjoy nature at its best and then a beautiful warm campfire, perfect!! ​Whether you're camping in a tent or vehicle, there's plenty of space to set up. The campsite is grassy and level, and 2WD accessible. We offer water hookup for caravans fill then disconnect $2, and there is a dump point for your camping toilet. Generators are permitted from 8am till 5pm (extreme heat on the day consideration). Pets welcome.
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AU$36
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(24)

River Front Campsites

6 sites · RVs, Tents262 acres · Invergordon, NSW
We wish to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the Worimi, Gringai and Biripi people the custodians, spiritual and cultural owners of these lands on which the Gloucester River runs. River Front Campsites is a picturesque camping area on the eastern edge of the Barrington Tops National Park (Gloucester Tops) and nestled on the banks of the crystal clear Gloucester River. A great spot for families and groups of all ages who love wide open natural spaces. A place to relax and enjoy the amazing mountain scenery, fabulous sunsets and bird life local to the area, from Wedge-tailed Eagles, Blue Wrens, an array of Parrots, along with other wildlife that graze the land. If you want to indulge in the natural wonders of the area, there are numerous walking trails in the nearby Gloucester Tops National Park, swim in the crystal clear water of the Gloucester River. Do some Bird watching. Other things to do around the area, Gloucester Farmers Market (monthly), Local Wineries, Cafes, Art Gallery and Museum. We are an active beef cattle farm. We run approximately 80 head of cattle. You will see our herd of cattle across the paddocks, which includes pregnant cows, younger cows, calves, and Brutus our bull. We also have 3 horses that love a pat, carrots and apples. We will endeavor to run our cattle outside of the paddocks containing the campsites. For this reason, we ONLY allow dogs to stay if they remain on a lead or are well controlled. There are 6 sites to choose from beside the flowing river to set up your campsite, with shady areas, spacious grassy areas for the kids to run around or just relax and enjoy the surroundings. All of our campsites are perfect for having a campfire (fire season dependent). NO rubbish can be burnt in any campfires at all. Each Site will have a fire pit. BYO wood. These are sites only and NO toilet or shower facilities are provided, or freshwater. You will need to bring your own camping toilet or self contained caravan/ camper. (There are dump points located in Gloucester and Stroud townships, both approximately 40 min away). Access to River Front Campsites is partially by 12kms of gravel council managed road with 6 water crossings. Campsites are easily accessible by 4WD and 2WD vehicles. (Weather conditions permitting) Flood detour road available if needed. There is no rubbish collection on the campsites. You will be required to take all rubbish off the property when you leave. THERE IS NO MOBILE RECEPTION. We look forward to you visiting our farm!
Pets
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AU$35
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(128)

Altamira Along Bakers Creek

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents250 acres · Bundook, NSW
Altamira Along Bakers Creek is a country escape on a working farm in the heart of the beautiful Mid North Coast. Our property is located just 30 minutes from Gloucester, 50 minutes from the Pacific Highway, 2 hours from Newcastle and 4 hours from Sydney. There are plenty of activities including bush walking, swimming in the pool, relaxing in the spa, strolling to the creek or sitting by the bar. We have unpowered campsites along and within walking distance of the creek. Caravans, tents and roof top tents all welcome on 250 acres of private rural property set in the majestic Wako Mountain Ranges. There is an animal petting farm for the kids to enjoy and a bar for the adults to have an afternoon drink. Enjoy access to a communal pool, tennis court, commercial kitchen, shower and toilet. There is a BBQ entertaining area, outdoor communal fireplace and sitting area for your comfort. Please note our drinking water is fed from the creek, you are welcome to purify it or bring your own drinking water. We have free range animals on our farm and ask that you keep your pets on leash when not at your campsite. Come enjoy a farm stay on our working farm, Altamira.
Pets
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from 
AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

The best camping near Barrington Tops National Park guide

Overview

About

One of the few places in Australia where you can see snow in the rainforest, Barrington Tops National Park features some of the last remaining cool temperate rainforest in the country and is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage area. The park is made up of two linked plateaux: Barrington Tops in the north and Gloucester Tops to the east. The rocky escarpments, alpine meadows, snowgum forests, cliff-top lookouts, waterfalls, and fern-filled riverside valleys are magnets for bushwalkers, mountain bikers, and four-wheel drive, although you don’t need a 4WD to get to popular picnic areas and riverside camping spots. A haven for wildlife, expect to see kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, platypus, and lyrebirds. 

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for families: Gloucester River Campground has lots of open space and kids love splashing about in the shallow river and watching the wallabies graze the grassy flats. 
  • Best for 4WD: Junction Pools is only accessible by the rocky 4WD-only Barrington Trail, but getting there is all part of the fun.
  • Best for camper trailers: Polblue Campground is on top of the range, 1450 metres above sea level. The walking track is a good place to see wildflowers and wildlife, although it sometimes snows up here.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Not all campsites charge a camping fee, but all campsites in NSW national parks, even the free campsites and remote walk-in camping areas, must be pre-booked online before you arrive.
  2. The Gloucester River and Polblue camping areas are the most popular, but apart from Christmas and Easter, you can usually secure a campsite booking just a few days out.
  3. Check the national park’s website or ask at the Gloucester or Scone visitor information centres for any road closures and alerts before arriving.

When to go

The high peaks and rainforest gullies of the Barrington Tops are great for escaping summer humidity on the coast, but weather conditions can change quickly, so always be prepared with warm clothes and good wet weather gear. Dustings of snow are not uncommon in winter, and nights are cold. Spring is a good time to see ground orchids, carpets of everlasting daisies, and other wildflowers, particularly around Polblue camping area and on the Barrington Trail.

Know before you go

  • Barrington Tops is about 320 kilometres northwest of Sydney—37 kilometres from Dungog and 42 kilometres from Gloucester. To get to the Barrington Tops Plateau area, use the very scenic (but unsealed) Barrington Tops Forest Road between Gloucester and Scone.
  • Wet weather can sometimes close the unsealed access roads, which involve several causeway crossings subject to flash flooding.
  • The 4WD Barrington Trail is closed each year between 1 June and 30 September. You can still access the camping grounds, but only by foot or mountain bike.
  • Campfires are permitted in most camping areas, but only on low-fire danger days. Bring your own firewood, as you are not allowed to collect it in the park.

Nearby attractions

  • Well worth the visit for those camping near the Peel Valley, Chaffey Dam is an engineering marvel surrounded by pristine parkland.
  • A lakeside getaway in the Barrington Coast region, Smiths Lake is a great alternative to the often bustling, nearby beaches.
  • The calm waters behind Lostock Dam are perfect for campers looking to get out for a paddle or swim.
  • A doorway into another era, Gloucester Tops is an ancient snow gum forest segmented by picturesque creeks.
  • An historic venue and an interesting tale in revival, the Tamworth Showgrounds have evolved over the last century to be the impressive event space that it is today.
  • Chichester Dam is a popular destination for camping and outdoor recreation. With ample space for tents and campers, it offers a scenic setting for nature enthusiasts. The area provides opportunities for fishing, hiking, and exploring the surrounding beauty.

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