Free camping is available in numerous beautiful spots in New South Wales. From the bush to the ocean, you will some of the best free camping locations on this list. They are an excellent method for discovering the state, evading crowds, and making the money you spend on vacation go further.

The list contains not just places to camp for free or at a cheap cost, but also any fees, area attractions, and the facilities that are offered at such spots. The sites that have been included include a variety of wonderful areas in which one can unwind, an excellent home base from which to discover the surrounding area, and an excellent pit stop for when one is travelling a long distance by car.

If you are aware of any more excellent free camping places in NSW, please let us know about them in the comments below, or get in touch with us if you would like to be featured in the post!

Ellenborough Reserve Campground – Near Port Macquarie

A very popular free camping NSW site, just a stone’s throw inland from Port Macquarie. Due to its location can get super busy during holiday periods.

The campsite is quite a large and level site. It is definitely suitable for all types of camping including bigger caravans. There are also some really cool spots away from caravans for people using tents and wanting some seclusion from the crowd.

There is an area which has come covered from potential rain which has some picnic tables and some barbecues. These are fueled by fire, so be sure to bring some of your own wood to get your bbq going.

This is a great spot for swimming as it is at the intersection of the Ellenborough and Hastings Rivers. Apparently, it is also a good spot for fishing, so anglers be prepared for a day of fishing.

The main attractions to this area would be the amazing waterfalls that can form part of a hike from the campsite or a short drive. The two main waterfalls to check out are Ellenborough Falls and Rawson Falls.

For some extra nature love, you can also check out Biriwal Bulga National Park. If you are travelling with kids, you can visit Bago Maze and Timbertown Wauchope. 

Also, note that it can be prone to flooding so be sure to check the forecast if you’re planning this cute little spot on your free camping NSW travels around Australia. The wet periods also make for fairly boggy ground, so be warned.

Details about Ellenborough Reserve camping site

  • Location on Google Maps from Sydney
  • Distance from Sydney: 4 Hours 34 mins – 408 kms
  • Narrawong Forest, Mount Clay MTB Trail, off Boyers Rd, Narrawong
  • Close to Forest and rivers
  • Access: sealed roads
  • Suitable for: Tents, caravans, camper trailers, big rigs
  • Facilities: Toilets, BBQ, firepits, picnic tables, shaded
  • Pet-Friendly: Yes
  • Tips: Make sure to treat water before drinking.

Ngarigo Campground – Thredbo

A super picturesque spot in the alpine region on the banks of the Thredbo River. What does this mean? Well with such a high elevation, it can get super cold, during the winter months it’s common to get snow.

An amazing spot and perfect for large groups as it’s quite a large camping ground. If you are into outdoor activities this is the perfect spot for you, where you will enjoy mountain biking, fishing and of course hiking through the alpine plains through Kosciuszko National Park.

For fishing enthusiasts, you can go fly fishing for brown and rainbow trout. They are the common catch along this river region. There is also plenty of wildlife in the area and if you’re lucky, during morning fishing one day you might get a glimpse of some platypus.

For the less enthusiastic, you can always jump into your car and drive to the top of the alpine area, to experience the amazing scenery and views on offer from the national park.

As stated earlier, it can snow in the region and makes a great base camp for those looking to get some skiing in as well. So for the avid skier for free camping NSW, it makes for the perfect spot.

Details about Ngarigo camping site

  • Location on Google Maps from Sydney
  • Distance from Sydney: 5 Hours 14 mins – 485 kms
  • Alpine Way, Kosciuszko National Park NSW 2627
  • Close to Forest and alpine region.
  • Access: sealed roads, snow chains just in case of snow
  • Suitable for: Tents, caravans, camper trailers, big rigs
  • Facilities: Toilets, BBQ, firepits, picnic tables, shaded
  • Pet-Friendly: No

Mann River – Glen Innes

This is another on the list which provides everything that nature has to provide. It features super close riverside camping in a traditional Aussie bush setting. It is the perfect spot to keep the whole family entertained and busy.

It is located just east of Glen Innes, not too far from the Great Dividing Range. Judging by the review profile it seems an amazing spot for the perfect camping bush holiday or just a stop on your road trip around Australia.

For lovers of wildlife, this is a great spot as you are definitely going to spot eastern grey kangaroos, wallabies, and possibly wallaroos. It is also quite a haven for reptiles and you are most likely to spot a blue tongue lizard, lace monitors and eastern water dragons in the surrounding areas.

A perfect spot for the summertime as you can go for a dip in the refreshing banks of the river. There is also an impressive hike up to Tommy’s Rock lookout. The views are definitely worth the effort.

Details about Mann River Camp Site

  • Location on Google Maps from Sydney
  • Distance from Sydney: 7 Hours 33 mins – 684 kms
  • Broadwater Bridge (Mann River), Hanging Rock Rd, Coombadjha NSW 2460
  • Close to bush and rivers.
  • Access: sealed roads.
  • Suitable for: Tents, caravans, camper trailers, big rigs
  • Facilities: Toilets, BBQ, firepits, picnic tables, shaded
  • Pet-Friendly: Yes with conditions

Bendella Recreation Area

Bendella is a very popular camping area that is not too far from Sydney, just 150 km’s south of Sydney. It is a very big camping ground and area and makes the perfect spot for large groups of people.

It is based right near the banks of the Kangaroo River. It is ideal for people looking for a relaxing time in an environment that provides beautiful scenery and the relaxation of the river. Get your dose of nature here!

As for thing’s to do. It’s a great spot for recreational activities. For the avid canoeist, you can do your thing on this river. Obviously, there is the swimming you can do in the river. It is also known for its particularly good fishing.

This campsite has a special group of friends that live in the area. It is very common to find a group of bare-nosed wombats. So it’s best to take special care when driving in the area of the furry friends that also inhabit the zone.

As noted, it is a very popular spot, so on holidays and long weekends, be sure to arrive early to get an ideal spot.

Note: This picnic area may be closed during flooding or access to Lake Yarrunga is restricted when Tallowa Dam is spilling. Check their official website for any notifications on this.

Details about Bendella Recreation Area Free camping site

Tooloom Falls Free Camp Grounds

Tooloom Falls is quite a magical spot and a super-easy campground to find when using Google maps. If travelling from up north, the drive from the Gold Coast area along the Mount Lindsay Highway is quite spectacular as well.

This spot has quite an amazing view, the campground itself has a direct view of Tooloom Falls itself. There is somewhat of a majestic feel to falling asleep to the sounds of a waterfall.

Each campsite has make-do fire pits, with some of the campsites having actual legitimate open fires with BBQ plates to cook on.

In the dry season, it can become a little dusty as there can be a lack of grass in the area. It is recommended to bring extra tarps to cover floor areas.

The campsite and surrounding areas are a boon for wildlife. Expect to see wildlife such as possums, cockatoos, and echidnas. With that said also be cautious of snakes in the area as well, especially around the banks of the creek.

It is the perfect spot during winter as it doesn’t get too cold at night and in the summertime makes for a great spot to cool down in the water hole. There are plenty of opportunities to do hiking in the area also.

Details about Tooloom Falls Free camping NSW site

Meroo Head Free Camp Grounds

RATED 4.6/5 – Check Google Reviews

Truth be told I was struggling to find a free campsite which was near the beach in NSW. Well after some time here I have found what looks to be an amazing spot on the south coast of the NSW, just 240kms out of Sydney.

Meroo Head is a knockout spot for views and to be a stone’s throw from the beach is amazing. The only drawback, in this case, buy the sounds of it, this does not seem to be suitable for anyone with a caravan or trailer. Alas if you have a tent handy you can set up at this super cool spot.

Meroo head with a combination of forest and beach makes for a perfect spot for those who like the outdoors with a combination of beach activities and going out for a swim on a hot day. The beach is also a great spot to get some snorkelling and even surfing. For the less enthusiastic, a calm and relaxing walk down the beach is an option. Check out the rock pools and you might just spot a crab or two.

Not so far is Meroo Lake and you can also go for a hike up to Meroo Head lookout which has amazing coastal views of the area. Also, a great sport to get some wildlife action in as well, with plenty of bird watching. Also, a great spot to get somewhat watching, not far from the shore it is common to see a pod of whales.

For flora lovers, there is also plenty to look at in the area. Apparently, in the springtime, the wildflowers are spectacular. You will also find pink-flowered blueberry ash as well as rare orchids. For some contrast, you will also find the huge eucalyptus trees as part of the forest, which are also breathtaking.

What an amazing opportunity this is, to camp for free and take in the sounds of the forest and the crashing waves as you go to your slumber. Get up in the morning for the sunrise over the ocean and take it all that nature has to offer.

Details about Meroo Head Free camping NSW site

Brou Lake campground

Free beach camping in NSW must be a thing of the past as there are few to no locations to do this. Thankfully, I found another camping ground that is super close to the beach at Brou Lake campground.

As the name suggests, Brou Lake Campground is nestled between Lake Brou and the ocean, specifically Jemisons Beach. It is located in Bodalla, which is on the far south coast of NSW. In a forest location, there are plenty of outdoor activities to get on. Hiking and checking out the area are two of those.

It is also ideal for swimming, with the lake positioned on one side and the ocean on the other. It’s a great spot for the family as the kids will love a swim and, for the adults, it’s an ideal spot for fishing in the lake or ocean. Other activities you can have a crack at include surfing, canoeing, or kayaking.

Go for a sunset walk along the sandy stretch and sometimes, if you are lucky enough, you might just get to see some dolphins on your stroll. Other wildlife in the area includes potaroos.

For supplies in the area, you are not too far from both Narooma and Bodalla town centres. Thankfully, the site itself is also friendly to both caravans, camper trailers and, of course, tents.

Details about Brou Lake Free camping NSW site

  • Location on Google Maps from Sydney
  • Distance from Sydney: 4 Hours 33 mins – 339 kms
  • Brou Lake Rd, Bodalla NSW 2545
  • Close to beach, bush and lake.
  • Access: unsealed roads.
  • Suitable for: caravans, camper trailers, Tents
  • Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables
  • Pet-Friendly: No

Not Free but Super Cheap Camping in NSW

Mystery Bay, South of Narooma

On the south coast of New South Wales, there is a cheap beach campground called Mystery Bay. Narooma, which is around 4.5 hours from Sydney, is located 15 minutes to the south. This location is ideal for campers who enjoy being close to the ocean. From any of the campgrounds, it is just a short stroll down to the ocean. The campsites are tucked amongst the towering trees that back onto the beach.

There are no powered sites. Pit toilets and cold showers are available. Narooma is the closest large town if you need supplies, though you can also buy a few goods close to Central Tilba. Here, we felt at home. Like many other beaches in the region, Mystery Bay has gorgeous white sand, and when the sun is out, the sea is turquoise. It’s a fantastic location for swimming, boogie boarding, and fishing.

A wonderful starting point for local exploration is this. One of our favourite towns on the NSW south coast is Narooma. It’s fun to visit the Mill Bay Boardwalk, take a trip to Montague Island, or interact with the local seals and stingrays. It’s also a lot of pleasure to stroll down the main street of ancient Greater Tilba. And don’t forget to stop by the Bodalla Dairy for some delicious cheese and ice cream.

Prices start at about $12 per adult per night, with discounts for longer stays. Peak season rates are in effect in January, over the long weekend in October, and over Easter, but there is still plenty of time for some lovely and inexpensive beachside camping.

Dry Tank Campground, Gundabooka National Park

The Gundabooka National Park, which is about 50 kilometres south of Bourke, is centred on the impressive Mt. Gunderbooka, which rises 500 metres above the nearby lowlands. It has three main campgrounds and two locations where lodging is offered in historic station structures. Make sure to confirm availability before leaving because there are seasonal closures, limited water supply, and limited lodging.

The park’s attractions include hikes that explore native sites and remains from the time when it was a sheep station. These range from quick strolls around the camping grounds and a location of indigenous rock art to a challenging hike known as the Valley of Eagles route that leads to the peak of Mt. Gunderabooka.

The well-maintained dirt road leading to Dry Tank Campground is 20 kilometres from the park’s entrance, and unless it has just rained, it is doable in a 2WD vehicle. Long-drop toilets with non-potable handwashing sinks are available. Tents, camper trailers, and caravans can all camp there; some sites also have fire pits. Bring your own firewood because harvesting firewood is not allowed.

The cost is $12.30 per site. There is an interesting short (5 km round trip) hike to an overlook that offers a panoramic view of the mountain and fantastic sunset viewing. To return to camp, don’t forget your torch! An ideal starting point for exploring Mulgowan’s indigenous art site is this campground (Yappa).

Honeymoon Bay Camping, Beecroft Peninsula

Located on the Beecroft Peninsula on the northern side of Jervis Bay, this inexpensive campground is 2.5 hours south of Sydney. If you didn’t know, the Australian Navy’s Beecroft Weapons Range includes the Beecroft Peninsula. This implies that occasionally the campground is inaccessible because of live shooting drills! Don’t allow the idea of a naval bombardment delay you from doing this. This location is just as picturesque as the other beaches that line Jervis Bay.

A stunning tiny bay with white sand that is encircled by a rocky headland and vegetation is called Honeymoon Bay. A few hundred metres away, at Bindijine Beach, you’ll find a gorgeous beach that’s also often quieter. Jervis Bay offers stunning beaches, strolls, and lighthouses to discover. The Jervis Bay sea kayak tour is a fantastic chance to observe some of the local marine species, and we highly suggest it.

On weekends, federal holidays, and during school breaks, the campground is open. It operates on a first come, first served basis all other times excluding the January holidays. A voting process is in place in January. The amenities are minimal. You will need to carry everything else, including water and toilet paper, even though there are restrooms and picnic places. For two individuals, the cost is roughly $15 each night, and each additional person is $5 per night. Even better, minors under 16 are free!

Bendeela Recreation Area, Kangaroo Valley

This inexpensive campsite is within a few minutes from Kangaroo Valley, a charming hamlet in the Southern Highlands, which is two hours from Sydney. The campground is ideally located to launch a kayak and explore neighbouring Morton National Park because it is situated along the banks of the Kangaroo River. You must reserve a site through WaterNSW’s website because it oversees the campground.

In contrast to the background of the neighbouring valley, Bendeela is a sizable campground with lots of grass and shady trees. These are all unpowered sites. There are restrooms, drinking water, and a dump station, but no showers or campfires are available. The large, open reserve draws a variety of wildlife, so at some point during your visit, you’ll probably see kangaroos and wombats together!

Bendeela is an excellent starting point for visiting the sights in Kangaroo Valley, such as Cambewarra and Manning Lookouts, Fitzroy Falls, and the gastronomic town of Berry, even if you don’t get a chance to paddle a kayak. When making an online reservation, be sure to check any restrictions on the number of sites you can book and the length of your stay. There is a $6 booking fee per spot. Bendeela is still open for day usage for picnics, walks, and kayaking if you aren’t able to camp here.

Penrose Park, Silverton

We had a great time sleeping at Penrose Park, which isn’t a free campsite but is quite inexpensive. In fact, we would have paid more than the family rate of $15 a night and still thought it was a terrific deal.

Ample shade, picnic spots, wood and gas BBQs, and amenity blocks are available. A tennis court and a course for playing bush golf are also there. In addition to the local fauna, Penrose Park serves as a shelter for a variety of farm animals.

For us, the open fire, which was made from a portion of a 44-gallon drum, was the park’s best feature.

The ideal starting point for touring Silverton’s old town is Penrose Park. Silverton, which was once a mining community, is now possibly better recognised for its connection to the Mad Max films. There is a lot to see, whether your interests are in the movies or the colonial history of the town.

There are many historical and natural routes to discover, and Mundi Mundi Lookout has a breathtaking view. No matter how skilled you are with a camera, this remote village is full with beautiful pictures.

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