camping tours sydney

Camping near Sydney

You’ll be surprised how many camping getaways you can find near Sydney, Australia ’s largest city.

• Australia —
• New South Wales —

Popular camping styles for Sydney

Available this weekend

Tucker’s rest

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Top camping destinations.

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12 top campgrounds near sydney.

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Camping near Sydney guide

Sydney Harbour needs no introduction, but few know it’s possible to camp practically beneath the Harbour Bridge or go glamping in the middle of a zoo with a harbour view. Go deeper in Sydney and you’ll find a wild heart, with camping areas and caravan parks just a short bus ride from the CBD. You can also jump on a train at Central Station and find yourself in the massive ridge of mountainous wilderness known as the Blue Mountains just two hours later, or head north or south to the beaches and national parks of the Central Coast and Illawarra. With so many great camping spots accessible by public transport, you don’t need a car to get away in Sydney—just a sense of adventure.

Where to Go

Royal national park.

Australia’s first national park, The Royal , is just 32 kilometres south of Sydney and features riverside picnic areas, surf beaches, clifftop bushwalking trails, and rainforest cycle tracks, plus beachfront camping spots

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

On the northern edge of Sydney’s suburban sprawl,  Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park  is where the Hawkesbury River seeps into the sea in a maze of winding waterways. The park's Basin Campground has 400 campsites and facilities such as barbecues, flush toilets, and cold showers.

Cockatoo Island

Glamp it up in the middle of Sydney Harbour on this World Heritage-listed island that was once a prison one of Australia's biggest shipyards. You’ll need a sleeping bag, but you can hire camping equipment on the island.

Sydney’s weather is fairly temperate year-round, although winter nights can be cool and summer can be humid and rainy, particularly in February and March. The surrounding area is busy with locals away on holiday in January, when the Sydney Festival is in full swing. The Blue Mountains are delightfully cool, and it sometimes even snows during winter.

Know before you go

• You’ll need an Opal card to use public transport in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast, Hunter Valley , and Illawarra. Buy one at a train station, convenience store, or newsagent and top them up online or at one of the machines at a train station or ferry wharf.
• Ferries are a great way to get around Sydney, and fun as well. Almost all ferries leave from Circular Quay. For ferry information, visit transportnsw.info
• All campsites in NSW national parks must be booked ahead online.
• Don’t be tempted to park your campervan overnight at Bondi Beach—or any of the city beaches. You can be fined AUD $1,000 if caught.

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Top parks near sydney, top cities near sydney, best camping near me, safety at hipcamp.

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The best places to go camping near Sydney

You don't need to travel far to find some seriously in-tents camping action

If getting out into nature is your jam, Sydney happens to be a world leader. Camping options near the city are not only plentiful, but they're also one of the most affordable ways to enjoy a mini-break. We've tried and tested some of our favourite campgrounds, located in New South Wales’ most breathtaking and secluded spots. Whether you're hoping to wake up next to the Harbour, to the sound of crashing ocean waves, deep within unspoilt national parkland, or not too far from some creature comforts, these picture-perfect camping spots have got you (quite literally) pegged.

RECOMMENDED: 

Find more great nature across new south wales with our guide to the best national parks ., visit these gorgeous natural wonders worth a day trip ., prefer something posher check out the best glamping experiences near sydney ..

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Best camping spots in and around Sydney

1.  The Basin, Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park

• Things to do

Distance from Sydney: 40km north/1hr drive. Price per night:  from $34.85.  Check camping fees with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Reach it by the public ferry from Palm Beach or by car (fair warning: it's a 2.8km walk from the West Head Road carpark). The Basin campsite is a pleasingly democratic contrast to the resort-wear brigade who long ago colonised the area. During school holidays, this Pittwater paradise becomes the United Nations of the camping world, with bronzed Anglo grandmas, and cricket-playing blokes happily jostling for space. The sites are unmarked and unpowered and it’s for tents only.

2.  Diamond Head Campground, Crowdy Bay National Park

Distance from Sydney: 350km/4h 15m drive   Price per night:  from $24.60 per night.  Check camping fees with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Can you imagine kangaroos hopping around at dusk, set against the backdrop of the ocean? At Diamond Head Campground, you’ll get to see this most days and sometimes these cuties even laze amongst the tents all day long. With 75 campsites to choose from, there are plenty of options for where to park your caravan or pitch your tent for the night. If you don’t mind a stroll, there’s a walk-in area (no cars allowed) with nine-secluded camp-sites, hidden amongst the bushes, with the beach just a few steps away. 

3.  Bouddi National Park, Killcare

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens

Distance from Sydney: 95km northeast/1hr 45m drive. Price per night: from  $24.60 at Tallow Beach campground and $34.85 at Putty Beach campground.   Check camping fees with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

If this campsite were any closer to the beach, you’d be sleeping on a waterbed. Stake out a spot here and you can keep busy for a week: hike the 8km Bouddi coastal walk to MacMasters Beach (views! rainforest! whales!), walk to Killcare for brunch at the Fat Goose , lie on the beach and perve at the surf lifesavers. The northern bit of beach, closest to the campsite, is heaven on a stick if you prefer calm, clear water.

4.  Cockatoo Island

Distance from Sydney: 30 minutes from Circular Quay. Price per night: Ranges from $50-$360. Check Cockatoo Island wesbite.

Did you know the largest island in Sydney’s harbour is also home to camping and glamping sites? Get over to Cockatoo Island and choose from four options: the premium waterfront package (which is more glamping than camping, from $300 a night); deluxe waterfront glamping (from $155 a night); a camping package (including a tent, sleeping mats and camping chairs, from $99); or BYO everything (from $50). Each have killer views of the harbour, by the way .

5.  Uloola Falls Campground, Royal National Park

• Royal National Park

Distance from Sydney: 50km south/40m drive . Price per night: from  $12.30.  Check camping fees with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

The rewards of hiking to this spot deep in the interior of Royal National Park (OK, 6km from Waterfall Station) include an intimate campsite by the creek and likely solitude. Round out the trip with a swim in Karloo Pool (another 2.3km), then finish up at Heathcote Station for a total hiking distance of just over 11km. Cycling option: bike along the fire trail from Waterfall Station, then return the same way (the last 200m are for walkers only).

6.  Booderee National Park, Jervis Bay

Distance from Sydney: 200km south/3hr drive. Price per night: from   $51 a night.  Check camping fees with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Booderee is the Canberra of national parks: generously funded and bureaucratically staffed. There’s even a roundabout at the entrance. But when the sun shines on the beach at Green Patch campsite, it feels more like the Caribbean than our nation’s capital. Booderee, in Jervis Bay Territory, is one of only three mainland national parks run by the federal government (along with Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta). Campsites offer privacy amid scribbly gums and banksias, and great facilities are made for comfort.

7.  Gillards Campground, Mimosa Rocks National Park

Distance from Sydney: 413km south/6hr drive. Price per night:  from $24.60.  Check camping fees with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

The perfect campground for those headed south towards Eden, Gillards Campground sits pretty between the beach and the bush of Mimosa Rocks National Park. Sites are unpowered so, yes, it’s perfect for that digital detox you’ve been planning. Swap scrolling for strolling along the beach and lazing about on sandy shores. Keep an eye out for potoroos who like to roam around after dark.

8.  Cattai campground, Cattai National Park

• Western Sydney

Distance from Sydney: 70km northwest/1hr 15m drive. Price per night:  from $24.60.  Check camping fees with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

You’re not full bushing it at Cattai – there are hot showers and flushing toilets – but you’ll still be surrounded by gloriously vibrant greenery and the Hawkesbury River which means fishing, canoeing and kayaking are on the menu. Bring your bike for a ride around the park and your binoculars if you like spotting rare native birds.

9.  Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp Campground, Wollemi National Park

Distance from Sydney: 260km northwest/4hrs drive. Price per night: from   $12.30 per night.  Check camping fees with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

The little-known Wollemi National Park is full of dramatic landscapes: big leafy ferns, big deep valleys, historic ruins, rocky pagodas and even a glow worm tunnel in the neighbouring town of Newnes. The campground is perfectly placed to explore it all – there’s no marked spots so just find a quiet corner to plant your pegs and enjoy. Keep your eyes peeled for passing wallabies, purple swamp hens and, if you’re very lucky, long-necked turtles and platypus who might pop up along the dam.

10.  Euroka Campground, Blue Mountains

• Boutique hotels

Distance from Sydney: 66km west/1h 15m drive. Price per night:  from $24.60.  Check camping fees with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Everyone knows a trip to the Blue Mountains promises seclusion and serenity among the gum trees, and with such a wealth of great accommodation options to try in the area, camping means you get up close and personal with it all. Euroka Campground can get pretty crowded during peak times, but it’s popular for a reason. The campground is surrounded by tall gums, big picnic benches and the pièce de résistance two (two!) wild swimming holes, Jellybean Pool and Blue Pool.

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The best camping getaways near Sydney

Here’s where you’re going on your next weekend away.

These 7 camping spots are close enough to Sydney, so you can make the most of your time outdoors in NSW national parks.

The Basin campground, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

The Basin campground

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Tim Clark / DPE

So, you’re new to camping. Let’s start you off slowly, since you don’t want to forego your city luxuries like showers and hot meals. The Basin campground is a staple for Sydneysiders who love being near the beach and under the stars but without roughing it too hard. Just shy of two hours from the city, it’s super convenient, plus it’s got killer beaches and walking tracks that’ll shape up your pins in time for summer. Got a day up your sleeve and itching to make the most of your time up North? Hit up Barrenjoey Head across the pond for the lighthouse and the unbeatable views over Palm Beach. It’s a 45 minute ferry ride each way and you’ll want to leave plenty of time for exploring the lighthouse path. Summer Bay starlet spotting not guaranteed.

Did you know: The Basin is a walk-in campground (i.e. no cars). Take the easy option, and jump on the ferry from Palm Beach, or park on West Head Road, load up and walk or cycle the 2.8km track.

Euroka Campground, Blue Mountains National Park

Euroka campground, Nepean River walk

Blue Mountains National Park

Nick Cubbin/DPIE (2013)

-33.79893 , 150.61784

Possibly the best thing about Euroka campground in Blue Mountains National Park is its gang of adorable grey ’roos. They’re friendly, so you can even take a few snaps of them while you’re listening to kookaburras and cooking your snags in the late arvo. What’s more beautifully Aussie than that? The campground is walking distance to Nepean River, which you can swim in, and the nearby Tunnel View lookout offers unmissable views. No surprise, Euroka’s incredibly popular, so book your campsite in advance (you can book up to a year ahead).

Ranger Tip:  Resist the urge to pat and feed the native wildlife. We know they look cute but feeding them encourages scavenging behaviour. Read here  for more info on why we should keep wildlife wild #dontfeedit.

Kingfisher Pool Campground, Heathcote National Park

-34.1264 , 150.9775

Sometimes you get that email or text or notification that just pushes you over the edge. “I need to stop looking at my phone so much,” you say. A likely story, we say. But if you’re serious about unplugging, Kingfisher Pool campground feels about as far from civilisation as you can get but it’s actually close to Sydney and just a few kms from Waterfall station. There are limited facilities here, you’ll need to BYO water, ready-made cuisine and shelter, and be okay with going bush. The perk: your very own natural ‘pool’, fringed with Gymea lilies, tea trees and waxflowers.

Little Beach campground, Bouddi National Park

Little Beach campground

Bouddi National Park

Copyright Eduardo Martinez

-33.51049 , 151.41865

Beach, cliffs, forest – need we say more? The cove at Little Beach campground is an ideal base for trips along the gorgeous Bouddi Coastal walk , one of the most rugged headlands in the state. Do a beach-crawl from Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach, and bring your board to take advantage of that early swell.

Ranger Tip:  Beaches in this park are not patrolled, and can sometimes have strong rips and currents.  Read these  beach safety tips   to help you to stay safe in the water. 

Bents Basin Campground, Bents Basin State Conservation Area

A tent under star trails in the national park

Adrian Mascenon @adrianmascenon

-33.93282 , 150.64102

This campground’s so decked-out, even the most high-maintenance camper won’t whinge. Bents Basin, the primo watering hole that gives the park it’s name, is a safe and scenic pocket of the Nepean River, perfect for swimming, fishing, kayaking and bringing the fam. Take some food for the BBQ plus floaties and an inner tube, and snack and float the day away. Bliss.

Pro Tip:  To make your  water adventures safer and more enjoyable, check out these  paddling safety tips .

Cattai Campground, Cattai National Park

Cattai campground

Cattai National Park

Carly Picklum

-33.55457 , 150.89129

It’s not just the campground at Cattai National Park that’s impressive. Though it has everything you need for a camping getaway – think grassy open spaces for biking and badminton, essentials like BBQs and facilities blocks (there’s even mobile coverage!), inquisitive wildlife, and ribbons of beach. The major draw is the nearby historical site along the Hawkesbury River. Set up camp then go exploring the colonial buildings that have been there since the 19 th century, then have a swim or do some fishing.

Tandara, Lane Cove National Park

Tandara’s tent and deck in Lane Cove National Park.

Lane Cove National Park

-33.78946 , 151.14437

Is ‘glamping’ really camping? Who cares! Have you seen this place?! Tandara is one of the most luxurious camping options in the state: we’re talking an exclusive safari-style tent with your own deck (complete with lounge chairs and over-sized BBQ), king-size bed, plasma TV and DVD, and a slick bathroom with both bathtub and shower … so, it’s nicer than my own house. If you manage to leave the tent (it’s hard, we know), check out the water dragons, sugar gliders, tawny frogmouths and even endangered bandicoots scampering around outside your door. It’s only 10km from Chatswood, but it feels like the jungle.

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Best campgrounds near Sydney

Looking for a budget break close to Sydney? Camp by the shores of the Hawkesbury River at Cattai campground  or enjoy waterside fun and plenty of facilities at Bents Basin . Located near Sydney’s Northern Beaches, The Basin campground is just the place to pitch your tent surrounded by beach, lagoon, bushwalks and wildlife. Just a little further north are the picturesque beachside campgrounds of Bouddi National Park .

The Basin campground

The Basin campground in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is one of Sydney's most popular beach camping spots. 

Bonnie Vale campground

Bonnie Vale campground offers powered and unpowered sites suitable for tents, trailers, and caravans, making it a fantastic place for beach camping south of Sydney. 

Bents Basin campground

A great family camping spot in Sydney, Bents Basin campground offers sites for tents, trailer and caravans in a scenic location by the water – go fishing and kayaking.

Cattai campground

Enjoy a weekend away camping at Cattai National Park along the Hawkesbury River. Go walking, camping, canoeing and bike riding before cooking up a barbecue feast.

Euroka campground

Campsites at Euroka campground are a great spot to pitch a tent in Blue Mountains National Park. Just south of Glenbrook, it’s near to picnic areas and walking tracks.

North Era campground

Go camping at North Era campground overlooking North Era Beach in Royal National Park. North Era's bush campsites are perfectly located for an overnight stop while walking the Coast Track.

Uloola Falls campground

If you’re looking for things to do south of Sydney, Uloola Falls campground is a great getaway offering camping, walking and cycling in Royal National Park.

Kingfisher Pool campground

Discover some of Sydney's most secluded campsites at Kingfisher Pool campground in Heathcote National Park. As well as camping, it's great for swimming and hiking.

Putty Beach campground

Discover Putty Beach campground in Bouddi National Park for your next camping trip. This great central coast campground is a top spot to fish, swim or bushwalk.

Tallow Beach campground

Camp at Tallow Beach campground, near Killcare on the Central Coast. You’ll find swimming, surfing and fishing spots just steps from your tent, along with walking tracks.

Little Beach campground

Wake up with the waves at Little Beach campground, near Gosford on the NSW Central Coast. You can go surfing, bushwalking or fishing while camping right by the sand.

Lane Cove glamping

Lane Cove safari tent is Sydney's most luxurious camping experience. Located in Lane Cove National Park, it's a great place for glamping and a romantic weekend getaway.

Lane Cove caravan park

Lane Cove caravan park offers tent, campervan, motorhome or caravan camping with great facilities in Lane Cove National Park.

Top getaways near Sydney

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy a getaway at these cosy cottages right on Sydney’s doorstep.

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13 best camping spots near sydney 2024.

Amy Fairall

As the Editor, if you read WAE, you've more than likely read something Amy's written. Amy lives on Larrakia land in the NT and is frequently on the hunt for new bodies of freshwater to dunk herself into. She has a preference for adventures slightly off the beaten track, with a penchant for multi-day hikes and a new found love of paddling.

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Learn about We Are Explorers' Editorial Standards

Jess is a Content Editor at We Are Explorers. Her bucket list is long and her weekends are full. She’s an ultralight adventurer but will always sacrifice a few grams to bring a book. Endlessly curious, Jess loves nothing more than discovering new places (real & fictional!), and pushing her limits to the max.

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Whether you want to fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves, or wake to morning mountain mist, you’ll find nature bliss at these camping spots near Sydney.

We Are Explorers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Countries on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands and waters for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

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Let’s go camping sydney.

My friends and I have spent hundreds of nights roaming NSW’s mountains, coastlines, rivers, and lakes following our wanderlust and searching for those special camping sites and the promise of adventure in all sorts of weird and wonderful nooks and crannies.

We haven’t even touched the sides of all the great national parks and campgrounds out there, but we’ve found some stunners along the way.

The following camping sites are all tried and tested. They’re within 2-3 hours of Sydney , have varying facilities but are as far as possible from a caravan park! Sure you could hit up Lane Cove National Park, but so will every other Northern Sydney Explorer who can’t be bothered to escape the city.

These camping spots aren’t just the same old stomping grounds that appear when Googling ‘camping near Sydney’ (that means everyone’s going there, and the last thing I want when escaping hoards of people is hoards of people!). Let’s dive into the best camping near Sydney!

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

Camping Spots 1 Hour From Sydney

1. north era campground.

Location: Royal National Park, Sydney Distance from Sydney:  51km Cost: From $12.30 per night

Please Note!  North Era Campground is currently closed until further notice. For more info check out the NSW National Parks website .

It’s hard to believe that beach camping sites like this exist within 60 minutes of Sydney’s CBD! To get to North Era Campground , park at Garie Beach in the Royal National Park and walk over the headland with your supplies.

It’s a beaut beach campground, but expect to be wetter than an otter’s pocket on arrival – it’s a steep, sweaty climb and descent over the headland to get there. Don’t forget your surfboard!

This is the main camping ground on the Royal National Park Coast Track , so be prepared to book well in advance, it’s a popular hike!

Photo by James Tugwell

2. Kingfisher Pool Campground

Location: Heathcote National Park, Sydney Distance from Sydney: 44km Cost: From $12.30 per tent per night

To the south of Sydney, Kingfisher Pool Campground is a quaint walk-in campground situated right by the tranquil Kingfisher Pool and waterfall. It’s so peaceful here, you won’t believe you’re still in the city limits.

Don’t let the hike in deter you! From car to campground it’s max 25 minutes, even with some minor rock scrambling and packs on – but you may struggle to get a full esky in.

Facilities here aren’t vast, but there’s a toilet block and picnic tables available. Spend the day soaking in the pool and taking in the sounds of nature.

3. Bonnie Vale Campground

Location: Royal National Park, Sydney Distance from Sydney: 55km Cost: From $41 per night

Bonnie Vale Campground seems almost too good to be true. With access to all of the Royal National Park, as well as Simpsons Bay and Deeban Spit, this beach camping spot is ideal for a weekend getaway, without even leaving the city!

With space for tents, campervan, caravans, and camper trailers, as well as large groups, Bonnie Vale Campground can cater for just about anyone.

The campground’s just finished a bunch of renovations , so now there’s an updated amenities block (with hot showers) picnic areas, and BBQs.

It’s also conveniently close to Maianbar and Bundeena so if you forgot to pack the oil, breakfast won’t be ruined.

Camping Spots Under 2 Hours From Sydney

4. little beach campground.

Location: Bouddi National Park, Central Coast Distance from Sydney:  94km Cost: From $34.85 per night

If I could, I’d relocate here permanently. A small and intimate campground within  Bouddi National Park , there are only a few sites at Little Beach Campground so make sure you book in early during the summer months.

If you’re keen to hike the Bouddi Coastal Walk over a weekend, this is a great place to pitch up.

Complete with BBQ, toilets, sun, surf, and fishing , all you need to do is bring your friends.

@redheadinajeep

5. Dalys Clearing Campground

Location: Belanglo State Forest, Southern Highlands Distance from Sydney: 138km Cost: Free!

Don’t let the location turn you off this one because Dalys Clearing offers a unique kind of camping trip that’ll have you feeling like you’re in North America.

This FREE campground in Belanglo State Forest is entirely surrounded by a pine forest. And because it’s in a state forest, that means you can even bring your four-legged friend along.

The facilities are limited, but there are toilets and fire pits available, plus you don’t have to book in advance! Just rock up when you’re ready for adventure.

Read More: 13 Best Spots for an Adventure Picnic in Sydney

@mattiejgould

6. Shelly Beach Campground

Location: Myall Lakes National Park, Mid-North Coast Distance from Sydney:  254km Cost: From $17.43 per night

With the bragging rights of one of the state’s largest lake systems and with Pacific surf rolling in a few metres in the other direction, Myall Lakes  is nothing short of a honey-pot for escapee campers.

More than 20 campgrounds  are hidden away in the region, so you’re bound to find a secluded spot to stick your proverbial flag. However, Shelly Beach Campground , is our fave.

The catch is, the car will only get you so far. To reach this lakeside campground, you’re gonna have to get your legs strolling, pedalling, or even your arms paddling. But the utter peace and quiet you arrive to makes it all worth it.

Nearby Accommodation

Reflections Holidays – Jimmys Beach

Reflections Holidays – Seal Rocks

Reflections Holidays – Bonny Hills

7. mill creek campground.

Location: Dharug National Park, Central Coast Distance from Sydney: 812km Cost: From $24.60 per night

Not far from Wisemans Ferry on the northern side of the Hawkesbury River, Mill Creek Campground can be found nestled between the creek and the dramatic sandstone escarpment.

The flat, grassy, and sheltered area of the campground is a sanctuary for humans escaping the rat race and native fauna alike. Don’t be surprised to see wombats, goannas, lil Sugar gliders, and even lyrebirds.

Mill Creek Campground can host tents and camper trailers and provides BBQs and toilets.

8. Carrington Falls Campground

Location: Budderoo National Park, Southern Highlands Distance from Sydney: 151km Cost: From $12.30 per night

Not far from the town of Robertson and right by the stunning Kangaroo River, you’ll find Carrington Falls Campground .

This tents-only campground is a glorious bush escape, with ample walking and swimming opportunities just a tent-pole length away.

You won’t get much here except picnic tables and toilets, but with dramatic views of Carrington Falls and the chance to cool off at Nellies Glen, a weekend here is always well spent.

Read more: Southern Highlands Waterfall Weekend Road Trip

@jonharris_photography

Camping Spots Under 3 Hours From Sydney

9. dunphys campground.

Location: Blue Mountains National Park, Southern Blue Mountains Distance from Sydney: 135km Cost: $6 booking fee

Experience the iconic Blue Mountains without the crowds at Dunphys Campground . Around an hour from Katoomba at the end of Megalong Valley, this campground is open and grassy but doesn’t skimp on the good stuff, with views out to Mt Cloudmaker and the Wild Dog Mountains.

Bring your tent or camper trailer and enjoy the undercover BBQs, fire pits, and picnic tables. There are also toilets here, so don’t stress.

You’ve got close access to the Cox River, the Six Foot Walking Track , and even Kanangra Walls if you’re up for the hike. Plus there are a bunch of beginner-friendly hikes nearby too. Just don’t be surprised if some local kangaroos and wombats join in on the fun!

10. Bristol Point Campground

Location: Booderee National Park, Jervis Bay Distance from Sydney: 198km Cost: From $28 per night

Indulge in the complete and utter beauty of Jervis Bay at Bristol Point Campground . While its sister site, Green Patch Campground, might be a little closer to the perfect beach (and one of the most popular beach camping spots around), that leaves Bristol Point a bit quieter and less riddled with kids.

Nestled amongst gorgeous gum trees and on soft sandy ground, this campground is a delight, and the mind-bogglingly blue waters of Jervis Bay can be spied just through the trees.

Find hot showers, toilets, fire pits, and BBQs here and keep your peepers peeled for all types of wildlife – from echidnas crawling through the leaves, to dolphins playing in the water, and possums scrambling through the trees.

Read more: Booderee National Park is Worth a Winter Visit

Campgrounds Under 4 Hours From Sydney

11. ganguddy-dunns swamp campground.

Location: Wollemi National Park, Central West Distance from Sydney:  260km Cost: From $12.30 per night

You’ll be relieved to hear the location of this little gem is more fortunate than its name. Perhaps Mr. Dunn was trying to stop anyone else from supplanting his slice of paradise?

Nevertheless, tucked away in  Wollemi National Park is the perfect place to unwind and get back to nature – Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp Campground . Keep your eyes peeled for a platypus!

Make it a road trip! Hartley to Hill End – A Road Trip Through Historic NSW

12. Pebbly Beach Campground

Location: Murramarang National Park, South Coast Distance from Sydney:  273km Cost: From $24.60 per night

Probably the best-designed campground of all that I’ve seen in NSW, not only is Pebbly Beach Campground difficult to beat for watching the sunrise (alongside a pack of sand-loving kangaroos if you’re lucky) you’ll also get your own private allotment to set up a base for the night.

Murramarang National Park , with its surf, epic cliffs, and mountains is an absolutely magnificent weekend getaway.

13. Wombeyan Caves Campground

Location: Wombeyan Karst Conservation Reserve, Southern Highlands Distance from Sydney: 180km Cost: From $24.60 a night

Note!  This campground is currently closed! Please check the NSW National Parks website for the latest information.

Whether you rock up with a tent, caravan or camper trailer, there’s a place for you at Wombeyan Caves Campground .

With more facilities onsite than you can poke a marshmallow stick at, this is an excellent campground for large groups of all shapes and sizes. There are BBQs, showers, toilets, drinking water, heck there’s even a cafe and public phones!

Consider this your launchpad for getting deep into the Wombeyan Caves themselves, plus the surrounding waterfall and forest hikes too.

The campground has lots of open grass space and is hemmed in on all sides by beautiful temperate forests.

@tim_ashelford

Essential Gear for Camping Near Sydney

• Tent (some campgrounds have space for campervans and caravans, but if you’ve got a tent you’ll be set!)
• Sleeping mat or blow up mattress
• Sleeping bag
• Camp kitchen – camping stove, bowls & plates, cutlery & utensils
• Camp chairs
• Water for drinking & cooking
• All your own food

Camping Sydney FAQs

Where can i camp for free in sydney.

Within Sydney itself, there’s not really anywhere that provides legal and free camping. There are a bunch of campgrounds close to the city that cost a small fee and the further out of Sydney you go, the more choice you have.

Check out this list of NSW’s best free campsites  to find one close to you.

Can you camp anywhere in Sydney?

There’s no wild camping in Sydney, or in Australia for that matter. If you don’t want to be camping illegally, you need to be pitched up at an official campground or on private property.

Is wild camping illegal in NSW?

Wild camping i.e pitching a tent anywhere in the wilderness that you please, is not legal in NSW or anywhere in Australia. Camping has to be within a designated camping ground or on private property.

Do I have to book my campsite before I go?

If you’re camping at a NSW National Parks campground, then yes, you have to use the national parks booking system to secure your spot before you go. Each campground cost is different. Some campgrounds don’t cost anything to stay at, but you’ll have to pay a $6 booking fee to secure your spot.

If you’re camping at a state forest campground, these are often free and don’t need to be booked ahead of time, but it’s best to check the NSW Forestry Corporation website before you go.

Read more: What’s The Difference Between National Parks & State Forests?

What beaches can you camp on in Sydney?

Pitching a tent directly on any beach within Sydney is not allowed. However there are plenty of beachside campgrounds around NSW with a bunch less than a two hour drive from Sydney.

Read more: The 10 Best Beach Camping Spots in NSW

Want more things to do near Sydney?

• Best Mountain Bike Trails in Sydney
• Best Overnight Hikes Near Sydney
• Best Walks in Sydney
• Child Friendly Hikes Near Sydney
• Best Picnic Spots in Sydney
• Lookouts Near Sydney
• 12 Best Multi-Day Hikes in NSW 2024

We’ve shared these recommendations because we genuinely rate them and want you to enjoy them too. Our writers use a mix of personal experience and research to compile these lists, and they’re also encouraged to be honest when things aren’t up to scratch. For more information on our approach, check out our  Editorial Standards .

Our Editorial Standards determine which brands we partner with and our approach to the content we produce. 'In partnership' means we work together with a company to create content our readers will genuinely enjoy that also promotes their product or service. You’ll always know when you’re reading sponsored content, as we’re proud to promote the brands we’ve chosen to work with.

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Camping in Sydney – 10 Campsites Near the City

Camping in Sydney is pretty limited. While there are many campsites outside the city and suburbs, campsites close to the town are few and far between. There are a couple of campgrounds in the Sydney suburbs but no camping in the CBD. This list of campsites are all within 2 hour’s drive of Sydney and they will have you feeling worlds away without spending too long behind the wheel. 

Last updated: 31/10/2023

Frequently asked questions about camping in Sydney

Campgrounds and sites in the city and suburbs, national parks camp sites near sydney, camp sites south of sydney, campsites north of sydney.

This page contains affiliate links. You can find our full disclosure policy here .

I often get asked questions by backpackers and budget travellers about camping availability in Sydney.

• Is it is easy to get a campsite close to the city?
• Is it a good way to save money on accommodation?
• Are there any free places to camp near the city?

Where can I go glamping in Sydney?

• Are there any free camping sites in Sydney?
• Is beach camping illegal?

It’s important to know that you can’t just put up your tent anywhere you like in Sydney and even other parts of NSW.

I have spent considerable time researching this and thought I would share my findings with you all here. If you are keen to camp or need somewhere to park your campervan during your visit, read on. If you are only thinking about camping to save money, you will find it is almost always cheaper to stay in a hostel than to pay for a campsite and commute to town for your sightseeing.

Are there any free places to camp near Sydney city?

The short answer is no, but the good news is that there are over 4,000 free and low-cost camping areas around the country. One of the closest spots to Sydney is in Richmond, in the city’s west, near the beautiful Hawkesbury River .

Can you camp on the beach?

Camping on beaches and in car parks is illegal in Australia, and you can be fined up to $1000 if you are unlucky. Often you will be issued a warning and asked to move on. There are some beach camping sites on the Central Coast , including Putty Beach and Era Beach, both listed below.

Can I camp for free in the Blue Mountains?

Finally, a yes! There is quite a lot of free camping in the Blue Mountains . Some of the best bets are Ingar Campground, which has 6 sites, and Murphy’s Glen, which has five sites.

There are lots of places both inside and outside the city. Cockatoo Island offers a basic glamping package and Lane Cove National Parks Glamping about as flash as they come.

For something completely different, Taronga Zoo’s Roar and Snore program is a great family or animal lovers’ choice.

There are two only caravan parks/campgrounds that are within a comfortable travelling distance of the city and the major attractions that I would recommend. While there are other parks in Sydney, most are run down, have little access to public transport or have multiple poor reviews.

Cockatoo Island – Sydney Harbour

If you would like to camp but don’t have your own tent or fancy camping on a harbour island, then you will love Cockatoo Island, a national heritage-listed island in the western end of Sydney Harbour.

If you have never tried camping before. This is a great introduction. Both basic sites and deluxe tents are available. There are also hot showers, flush toilets and communal fridges, a BBQ area, and ample covered seating shed. The facilities are wheelchair accessible, which is excellent; however, the tents are not, and have a small step to access.

Booking : Book on their website – a ballot is held for NYE camping sites. Cost:  BYO tent (site only) $50 per site, camping packages with all equipment start at $99. Getting there : Access is by ferry or water taxi – just 15 minutes by ferry from Circular Quay.

NRMA Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park – Narrabeen

A great place on  Narrabeen Lakes and close to Narrabeen Beach, this is the best choice for beach-loving campers. The park has camp kitchens, free wireless, TV and games room and activities in the holidays.

Booking : book on their website Cost : powered campsites are $68 a night. Unpowered sites $44 a night Getting there : There are excellent public transport connections to the city, probably the best of all the caravan parks in Sydney.

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – The Basin

The campground at the Basin is the only camping spot in Kur-Ring-Gai National Park and one of the most popular beach camping sites near Sydney. This extensive site can accommodate 400 guests, so it’s unlikely you will find solitude here unless you arrive in mid-winter; however, it does not feel overcrowded, even in high season. 

The camp ground looks out over Pittwater and is well set up with BBQs, shower and toilet block and even a public phone. There are spots to charge your phones and other devices if you can’t leave them behind for your visit. You will also find a laundry and handy vending machines for midnight feasts.

There is plenty to do here with a beach and lagoon for swimming, tons of great bush walks, and lots of wildlife. You are bound to see goanna, kookaburras and cockatoos. While wallabies, bush turkeys and ducks are also commonly spotted. Hopefully, you won’t discover too many snakes or spiders, but there is a chance 😉

The campsite is well monitored by rangers who keep a lid on noise and anti-social behaviour, so the site is more suited to families and couples rather than groups looking to party.

Booking : If you plan to visit between October and March, I suggest you call and check availability before setting out. Contact the National Parks and Wildlife office via email or phone. Cost: Basic sites $34 per tent. Eco Treasures also offer all gear set up ready to go from $369 for two nights for up to 6 guests. Extra nights are $999. Getting there : The site is not fully accessible by car – you need to walk in from West Head lookout – just under 3km. Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Palm Beach .

Lane Cove National Park

Lane Cove is an award-winning park in a bushland setting about 10km northwest of the city. There are sites for tents, campervans and motorhomes. This is a 5-star park and probably your best bet if you want to camp with a level of comfort in Sydney. Also on site are glamping tents , Sydney’s most luxurious camping experience.

There are two campsites within the park. A powered area – the area that was used by Home and Away as the Summer Bay Caravan Park and a non-powered area. Gum trees and the river surround the park.

Lane Cove offers everything from wi-fi and camp kitchens to swimming pools, bike and boat hire and often regular guest activities during holiday periods. There are power outlets available for recharging phones and other devices in the camp kitchen.

Booking: You can telephone directly on +61 2 98889133. Cost: Campsites start at $37, and glamping will set you back $200-400 per night. Getting there : less than 30 minutes from the centre of the city. If you do not have a car, the campsite is just under 1km or 15 minutes walk from North Ryde train station, where it is 7 stops or 30 mins to CBD.

Royal National Park – Era and Uloola Falls

The Royal , the second oldest national park in the world, has three camping sites. Bonnie Vale, the most popular spot has recently reopened after a huge renovation. That leaves North Era and Uloola Falls Campgrounds, both walk in with very basic facilities; there is no running water, no BBQs and no flushing toilets.

What you will get for your money is peace and quiet in stunning natural surroundings and very few other tents on the site. North Era is a beach site, and Uloola has a lovely swimming hole.

Booking : Uloola Falls has only 6 sites, and Era has 10. Both can book out in summer and holiday periods. Cost : from $28 per night (for first 2 guests) Getting there : Train to Heathcote or Waterfall and walk in – approximately 2.5 hours.

Bouddi National Park – Putty Beach

An almost undiscovered National Park on the NSW Central Coast with direct beach access Bouddi is a beach lovers dream. The views over the ocean from the walking tracks and the amazing sunrises will have you planning a return visit on your first night.

While there are a couple of camping sites on the edge of the park, Bouddi’s best-known camping spot is Putty Beach . Great for bushwalking, swimming and fishing and a short drive from civilisation at Killcare or Gosford.

If you plan on fishing, you need a current licence .

There are 20 unpowered sites with basic facilities, including BBQ and picnic tables, freshwater, one cold shower and toilets.

Tip : Tallow Beach campground is much more secluded and has amazing views and six sites right on the waterfront at Little Beach .

Booking : Via the National Parks website  Cost : $34 for first 2 then $17 each. Getting there : Train to Woy Woy, then the Wagstaff bus and a 15 min walk.

Blue Mountains National Park – Euroka

Euroka campground in the Blue Mountains National Park Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, toilets. Wildlife spotting is the order of the day here, with plenty of birds, especially cockatoos and parrots, along with a mob of Kangaroos. You can also walk to the well known Red Hands Cave track to view indigenous art and the beautiful Jellybean pool.

Facilities include fire pits, pit toilets, BYO water and firewood. Limited phone reception.

Booking : 40 unpowered sites can be booked via the National Parks website Cost : $24 a night Getting there : Car is best; however, you can take the train to Glenbrook railway station and then walk 5.4km to the site. Note : the gates close as early as 7 pm, so you need to be in before them to access your site.

Outside of the National Park campgrounds, there are lots of private and council campsites to consider.

Coledale Beach Campsite – Illawarra

Located just 1 hour south of Sydney and directly on the beach with both powered and unpowered sites available. The camp offers Electric BBQ’s, hot showers, a kitchen and laundry. The beach is patrolled most of the year and suits families and surfers. No animals are allowed at Coledale camp site.

Booking : Check availability on the website – book via phone (02) 4267 4302 or email [email protected] Cost : $25-40 per site (2 ppl) Getting there : Train from Sydney to Coledale – a short walk to the campground.

Glenworth Valley

Glenworth Valley is 3,000 acres of gorgeous natural bushland less than 90 minutes from Sydney. This is the perfect spot for an action and adventure weekend with horse-riding, kayaking, abseiling and quad biking.

Glenworth offers a whole range of options from basic tent sites to rental tents for up to 3 adults, glamping and even 2 tiwis. You can even rent an air mattress if roughing it on hard soil is not your thing.

Booking : Book on their website Cost : from $12.50 if booking any other activities at the site. Otherwise, from $40 Getting there : Best by car. Train to Gosford and a 19km taxi ride.

Patonga Beach Camp Site – Central Coast

Just over 1 hour north of Sydney, Patonga on the NSW Central Coast is a quiet coastal village with a pretty beach. It is surrounded by Brisbane Water National Park with lots of great bushwalking tracks.

The Palm Beach ferry stops here, making it a great choice for exploring more of the area.

The campground features electric barbecues, laundry, kids playground. Tennis courts and a couple of shops are nearby.

Booking : 36 powered and 45 unpowered sites can be booked by phoning the camp on 4379 1287 or emailing [email protected] Cost : from $39 off-peak to $59 peak Getting there : Train to Woy Woy station and local bus to Patonga.

Check out my article on more Unusual Places to stay in Sydney for information. You can also find more campsite information on Findacamp .

Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney? Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help

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Use the form below to contact tour Deluxe Camping Experience Sydney at The Basin Campground directly.

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Deluxe camping experience at the basin campground, ku-ring-gai, discover deluxe camping bliss at the basin campground.

Important update – All the camping gear is for sale

We will no longer be offering our campsite service at the Basin after Easter to focus on our manly snorkel tour and day tours. We are selling all the camping gear. If you want you can book in a stay April/May and pay $1000 and take all the gear home that is included in the list below.  We will meet you at the Basin and show to how to set it up, you stay as long as you like and then take all the gear home. No charge for the stay. Just pay the NPWS campsite fee. Or just pick up from Newport.

We only have 3 x packages left as 2 have been sold.

Please email [email protected] or call 0415121648 if you want to get the last remaining camping packages.

Experience Ultimate Camping Comfort with Ecotreasures Camping Experience

Elevate your camping experience to unparalleled heights with Ecotreasures’ Deluxe Camping at The Basin Campground. We’ve thought of every detail to ensure your stay is not only comfortable but also truly memorable. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park while we take care of the setup and logistics. Here’s what our all-inclusive package brings to the table:

Your Inclusions:

• Spacious, comfortable tents that accommodate up to 5 people
• Hassle-free campsite setup and take-down service, allowing you to simply arrive and enjoy
• Plush self-inflating sleeping mats with a cover sheet per person for a restful sleep
• A cozy camping chair for each person
• Essential camping table for your convenience
• Protective gazebo shelter to unwind in shade or rain
• Thoughtfully provided plates, bowls, cutlery, and cups for your meals
• BBQ cooking utensils to indulge in outdoor culinary adventures
• Solar lights and a torch to keep your nights illuminated
• A trusty Esky to keep your refreshments cool
• Access to NPWS flat top BBQs for delicious outdoor cooking
• An array of equipment to ensure your comfort and convenience

Costs for an Unforgettable Experience:

• 2 nights: $475
• 3 nights: $575
• 4 nights: $650
• 5 nights: $750
• 6 nights: $800
• 7 nights: $850

Please note NPWS Basin campground fee is not included in our service. You must book your Basin campsite directly with NPWS via this link

Important check in and check out information for Christmas/NYE period:

Please note check in and check out on the following dates is not available. Please check in before or after the listed dates.

Dates: 24th Dec, 25th Dec, 26th Dec, 31st Dec and 1st Jan

Special Mid-Week 4-Night Deal Experience tranquility at its best from Monday to Friday with our exclusive $500 Mid-Week Deal. A serene escape, away from the weekend rush (not available during summer school holidays).

Additional Information:

• Accommodates up to 5 people per tent (max 6 recommended)
• BYO sleeping bags and pillow (or purchase our sleeping bags by request)
• NPWS campsite fees not included (book separately)
• Long-term stays over 1 week enjoy special rates (call to inquire)
• Additional people above 5 per tent: $50/person for 2 nights+
• Check out our paddle board hire for campers, with an exclusive discount $60 per day min 2 days.
• NPWS check-in: 2pm, check-out: 10am
• Fire pit booking and ice available on-site
• No car access to the Basin; ferry or water taxi from Palm Beach

Experience Convenience, Embrace Nature:

Let Ecotreasures redefine your camping journey. Our Deluxe Camping Experience is designed for those who want to enjoy the beauty of nature without the hassles. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned adventurer, our service is tailored to enhance your experience.

To book or inquire, click the link or reach out to us at 0415121648 Remember, your tent booking doesn’t guarantee an NPWS campsite spot; reserve your campsite directly with NPWS and ensure our tent availability aligns with your plans.

Reconnect with nature, create lasting memories, and unwind like never before with Ecotreasures’ Deluxe Camping Experience.

Discover a new level of camping luxury with Ecotreasures’ premium camping products. We’ve meticulously curated a selection of essentials to transform your outdoor adventures into unforgettable experiences. From serene nights under the stars to hassle-free meal prep, we’ve got you covered.

The Ecotreasures Camping Products Advantage:

Luxurious Accommodation Solutions: Indulge in spacious tents designed to accommodate up to 5 individuals. Our tents offer generous space and comfort, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep.

Effortless Setup and Takedown: Say goodbye to the complexities of camping setup. With our expert team handling the complete setup and takedown, your only task is to arrive and relish the experience.

Restful Sleep Guaranteed: Experience comfort like never before with our self-inflating sleeping mats, complemented by cover sheets for a rejuvenating slumber.

Relax in Style: Our camping chairs are the perfect companions for unwinding after a day of adventure. Enjoy comfort while soaking in nature’s beauty.

Convenience in Every Bite: Seamlessly prepare your meals with our camping table and BBQ cooking utensils. Embrace outdoor culinary experiences without compromise.

Stay Sheltered: Protect yourself from the elements with our gazebo shelter. Whether it’s sunshine or rain, you can enjoy the outdoors with peace of mind.

Dine with Elegance: Savor your meals using our thoughtfully provided plates, bowls, cutlery, and cups. Elevate your camping meals to a delightful experience.

Light Up the Night: Our solar lights and torch ensure your evenings are brilliantly illuminated, allowing you to fully embrace the night’s tranquility.

Chill in Style: Keep your refreshments cool with our trusty Esky, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout your camping adventure.

BBQ Delights Await: Access NPWS flat top BBQs for an authentic outdoor cooking experience, enhancing your connection with the natural world.

Elevate Your Camping Experience:

Immerse yourself in nature without compromising comfort and convenience. Our camping products are designed to provide an unparalleled camping experience, whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer.

Explore our array of options for different durations, accommodating various needs:

• 2 to 7-Night Options: Choose from a range of durations, each tailored to your desired camping experience.
• Special Mid-Week 4-Night Deal: Unwind and escape the weekend hustle with our exclusive mid-week deal, offering tranquility from Monday to Friday.

Your Path to Unforgettable Adventures:

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Waterfront campground.

• From $50 to $375 p/n
• Varies on chosen accommodation
• Between 2 and 6 guests
• Campground includes toilets and hot showers.
• Accessible toilet and shower available.

Northern Apron, Cockatoo Island, Sydney Harbour, NSW

• Stay brochure (pdf)
• Accommodation T&Cs (pdf)
• Online booking tips (pdf)
• Campground map (pdf)

Our campground caters for all budgets, group sizes and occasions, including romantic getaways and family vacations. 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 to pitch your own shelter? Select our 'BYO tent' option for an authentic, DIY camping experience. 

* Cockatoo Island received a Recognition of Excellence Award from HotelsCombined in 2018 – a testament to the popularity and quality of our accommodation offering. 

Photo Gallery

Take a sneak peak at our award-winning campground.

Campground guests setting up their BYO tent

Guests relaxing in deluxe waterfront tent

Campground guests relaxing on the waterfront

Campground guests watching the sun set on Sydney Harbour

Cockatoo Island Campground at sunset

Cockatoo Island campground shower and bathroom facilities

Campground firepit

Deluxe Camping Package, view towards Woolwich

Deluxe Camping Package, Interior of tent

Basic Camping Package, Campground guests relaxing

Campground guests relaxing on the waterfront 

Premium waterfront package, guests relaxing on deck

Premium waterfront package, interior of tent

Rates and extras

Rates vary depending on your preferred choice of accommodation and the day of the week. Details, including extras, below.

Sundry food items, toiletries, ear plugs, camper packs and sleeping bags can be purchased from our Visitor Centre. The following items are also available for hire:

• Sleeping mats – $15 each
• Raised camp bed – $15 each
• Lanterns – $15 each
• Pillows – $5 each
• Towels – $5 each
• Chairs - $15 each

If you’re a seasoned camper, or on a budget, this option is for you. It includes an unpowered 4m x 4m site, minus a tent, for a maximum of 4 guests. Up to 2 additional guests can be accommodated at an extra cost.

• Monday to Thursday – From $50 per night
• Friday to Sunday – From $60 per night
• Additional guest – From $15 per night 

Our basic camping package features a pre-erected tent for up to 3 adults OR 2 adults and 2 small children. Sleeping mats for 2 guests are included; however, additional bedding is available for hire. 

• Monday to Thursday – From $99 per night
• Friday to Sunday – From $109 per night

View package inclusions

Click image to enlarge sleeping configuration details

Choose from 3 different deluxe camping packages:

1) Deluxe package

This packages includes a pre-furnished tent for 2 guests plus luxury toiletries, making it ideal for a romantic getaway.  

• Monday to Thursday – From $135 per night
• Friday to Sunday – From $160 per night

2) Deluxe waterfront package

This package includes a pre-furnish tent for 2 guests directly on the waterfront plus luxury toiletries. Bedding for an additional guest is available for hire; however, they will need to supply their own sleeping bag. 

• Monday to Thursday – From $155 per night
• Friday to Sunday – From $180 per night
• Additional person (max. one person) – From $30 per night

3) Two-bedroom deluxe waterfront package

This package includes 2 pre-furnished tents with a covered communal area plus luxury toiletries. Comfortably sleeps 4 guests. Bedding for up to 2 additional guests is available for hire; however, they will need to supply their own sleeping bag. 

• Monday to Thursday – From $320 per night
• Friday to Sunday – From $375 per night
• Additional person (max. two people) – From $30 per night

Here’s a deal that is guaranteed to make you a happy camper! Stay 2 or more nights in our waterfront campground and receive 10% off your stay! PLUS, you’ll be able to redeem 2 Audio Tour tickets (including a map) for the price of one. To take advantage of this offer, select the ‘Stay longer and Save’ rate when making an online booking.

Looking for a glamping getaway for 2? Our new premium waterfront package is perfect for those looking for a bit of luxury.

This package includes a 4m x 4m dome tent, double bed, deck, dedicated power source (for charging phones and night lighting), welcome pack  (non-alcoholic drinks and cocktails, cookies and other nibbles) and an exclusive cockatoo plush to take home.

Only 2 premium waterfront packages are available, so book today.

• Monday to Thursday - From $300 per night
• Friday to Sunday - From $320 per night

Before you book

Before you book a stay with us, please be aware of the following alerts and disruptions, which may affect your experience on the island.

Affected date: 12 October 2024

On Saturday 12 October, a music event will be held on Cockatoo Island. There will be amplified noise from 2pm until 10:30pm. 

Planning to stay on 12 October 2024? Apply the promo code LIVEMUSIC at the start of your booking when choosing your arrival and departure dates to receive 5% off camping.

In proceeding with an accommodation booking on this date, you accept our T&Cs . 

What’s included

Inclusions vary depending on your preferred choice of accommodation. Details below.

*BYO tent option includes an unpowered 4m x 4m site.

Additional info

View details about campground meal options and amenities and read our pre-trip advice, including what to pack and how to get here.

Campground kitchen

All campers have access to toilets, hot showers and a communal kitchen with sheltered facilities. The campground kitchen is equipped with 10 barbeques, boiling water, 2 fridges, microwaves, a vending machine and seating for 50 people

The campground also feature a fire pit, located towards the slipways. It is weather dependant.

Campground cinema

Th campground cinema is located in the convict precinct on the upper island. Movies screen at designated time every night for campers of all ages. 

The campground is wheelchair accessible, with an accessible shower and toilet available. Please note: tents have a step to enter, which is not suitable for wheelchair access. To discuss accessibility, contact [email protected] .

Check-in/check-out

Check-in is from 2pm and check-out is by 10am.

Getting here

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. For further information, see: Visit us .

What to bring

Depending on your choice of campground accommodation, we recommend you bring the following:

• Camping Site Only (BYO tent) – A tent, sleeping bags, pillows, torch, food, non-alcoholic beverages, cooking utensils, cutlery, plates and personal items. 
• Camping Package – Sleeping bags, pillows, a torch, food, non-alcoholic beverages, cooking utensils, cutlery, plates and personal items.
• Deluxe Camping Package – Food, non-alcoholic beverages, cooking utensils, cutlery, plates, personal items and a torch. 
• Deluxe Waterfront Camping Package – Food, non-alcoholic beverages, cooking utensils, cutlery, plates and personal items. 
• Deluxe Waterfront 2-Bedroom Camping Package – Food, non-alcoholic beverages, cooking utensils, cutlery, plates and personal items. 
• Premium Waterfront Package –  Food, non-alcoholic beverages, cooking utensils, cutlery, plates and personal items. 

Terms and conditions

Ahead of your stay, please familiarise yourself with our accommodation T&Cs .

Booking platform

Need some pointers for using our online booking platform? Check out our useful 'How to' guide .  

Family-friendly cafés

Cockatoo Overboard is located near the Visitor Centre on the Eastern Apron while Marina Café & Bar is situated in the historic Docks Precinct. See: Eat and drink

Campers can bring their own food to the island to store and prepare in the campground kitchen. Don’t forget to bring BBQ supplies, cooking utensils, plates, cutlery, washing up liquid, and tea towels. Campers are not permitted to bring barbeques or gas cookers to the island.

BBQ packs are available for campers to pre-purchase from Cockatoo Overboard and prepare using the campground kitchen. The café requires at least 48 hours’ notice to prepare BBQ pack orders, so order well in advance. To order a BBQ pack, please   click here . 

• BBQ pack menu (pdf)

[Note: Cockatoo Overboard is not affiliated with the Cockatoo Island Accommodation. If you have to amend your campground booking or rain check, we cannot guarantee you will be able to amend your BBQ pack order.]

Alcohol consumption:

• BYO Alcohol is not permitted – Bag checks apply before check-in and rangers/security will confiscate BYO alcohol. Penalties may apply.
• Licensed cafés – Marina Café & Bar and Cockatoo Overboard are both licensed to serve campers alcohol. Additionally, Cockatoo Overboard serves takeaway alcohol for consumption in 1 of 3 designated areas – within your tent, within the campground kitchen, and at the campground firepit. There is an hourly limit, per campground booking, of one bottle of takeaway wine (opened) and 4 takeaway cups of beer due to NSW Liquor Licensing laws.

Helpful links

Looking to visit, stay at or tour Cockatoo Island? Here are some useful links.

Guided tours

Self-guided tours, island history, school camping trips, events and attractions, accommodation vouchers, accommodation terms and conditions, meal options for campers, conference and meeting spaces, accommodation gift voucher, new year's eve accommodation, australian convict sites.

Cockatoo Island is one of 11 historic sites that together form the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property.

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• What's On

Cockatoo Island / Wareamah and the other extraordinary places managed by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust have significance on a national and international scale. Located in First Nations Countries at the entrance to Sydney Harbour, they are places of natural beauty, and feature heritage structures and remnants from different eras.

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Take time out to discover your real self with a journey to the Heartlands of Australia with Spirit Safaris. Spirit Safaris connects you to your deeper power and creativity, travelling some of the most awe inspiring landscapes and experiences this planet has to offer.

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Yes – we are Ecotourism Certified and have the Green Tick –  Hi, I am Richard O’Neill, creator of Spirit Safaris and a 5th generation Aussie explorer, bushman, adventurer and songman. Our family and professional team have a deep love and connection to the land of Oz, and have journeyed Australia’s songlines with the wisdom keepers for many generations. We have worked with Australian Aboriginal elders and communities in the Kimberley and across Australia for more than 20 years, supporting communities to re-establish on traditional lands and helping share their knowledge of the country through Bush University and other initiatives. Join us for some inspirational fun and adventure …

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What's it like to flee your homeland? A 'refugee camp' in Sydney shows you

"You have one minute to leave your home. What five things will you bring?"

Common sense goes out the window, as I quickly calculate my list: husband, passport, family photos, medications, mobile phone and charger.

Before I can second-guess myself, we're ushered from the room.

Outside, a towering figure awaits. He stands in front of a metal fence — the sole passage to safety.

"Yallah! Yallah!" the man yells, wielding a piece of wood as though it is a weapon.

None of us speak his language but, instinctively, we form a line and offer up our possessions.

There are murmurs, gasps and tiny squeals as he makes his way down the queue.

The lucky ones pass through the border crossing, the others are sent to the back.

The border guard looks at me — cashless, useless — before pointing at my engagement and wedding rings. I don't want to remove them, but what choice do I have?

This is the price for the promise of a better life.

Walking in their shoes

I wasn't standing in a war zone, but rather Western Sydney, as part of Refugee Camp In My Neighbourhood (RCIMN).

It's an interactive tour that's led by refugees and asylum seekers who want Australians to walk in their shoes.

They transform into tour guides and assume roles like 'border guard', sharing their own experiences along the way.

Hundreds of visitors take the tour each year. The majority are school students, health professionals, and people who work with refugees.

In the simulated journey, you experience what it's like to flee your homeland, take a life-threatening boat trip, and be thrust into a detention centre where names are replaced by numbers.

There's also a taste of refugee camp life: squat toilets, scant food provisions, and a hospital tent with barely any medical supplies.

Project coordinator Adama Kamara dreamed up the project more than a decade ago, when she was working at Auburn City Council. The area had one of the highest populations of asylum seekers in Australia.

It was a time, Adama says, when the portrayal of refugees "was not very positive".

"It was getting worse and worse," she recalls. "In our community, people were really angry about that, to the point where [some] people didn't want to be identified as a refugee.

"To me, it's a sign of resilience, that [refugee] experience, but people were worried about how they would be treated."

For Adama, the community's story was akin to her own.

She was born in Sierra Leone, but moved with her family to Australia for her father's university study.

In 1991, civil war broke out in her homeland. It lasted over a decade, and forced more than 450,000 Sierra Leonean refugees to leave the country.

"It also meant that my family wasn't able to return home," Adama explains. "We sought safety here in Australia."

Waking up to war

War is what brought many of the tour guides to Australia's shores.

They've fled different lands — Afghanistan, Iraq, Ukraine, Sudan and Sri Lanka are among them — and found different ways to get here.

Some spent years in refugee camps, others were detained in immigration detention for equally long stretches of time.

Ukrainian refugee Oleksandra's story was different.

On February 23, 2022, she had a magical night at the ballet.

"Me and my friends went to the state opera house [in Odesa]," she recalls. "[There] was an amazing performance of the Nutcracker.

"I remember all these costumes, decorations, everything so bright, a lot of diamonds. [It was] so beautiful."

The next morning, the Ukrainian woke up to war.

"The first four days I was in shock," Oleksandra recalls.

"I thought that our presidents will talk with each other and then tomorrow, or maybe a few hours later … I will see news on the TV, [saying] 'That was just an accident, sorry. Everything is over.'"

But there wasn't a retraction or a military backdown. Instead, the fighting escalated.

After those four days, Oleksandra says it sunk in.

"Life stopped. Everything became dull, grey," she says.

"You don't know what to do."

The realities of a refugee camp

There's no rule book for being a refugee.

I went on a RCIMN tour twice — first with a group of year 5 and 6 students, then with teens in year 9 and 10.

Both days, I was struck by the impossible decisions asylum seekers must make.

For instance, sheltering in a refugee camp might seem like the safe option.

But as an Iraqi-born guide named Kathreen tells our group, people without proper identification or money to pay for translators can spend years waiting to be processed.

And the facilities within camps are often hotbeds of disease.

On the tour with the primary school kids, a Sri Lankan guide named Neeraja shows us what a pit toilet looks like.

"Imagine 600 people line up, and going again and again," she says. "How the smell is terrible."

All of our noses wrinkle on cue.

The stench isn't the worst part, of course.

Neeraja, who herself lived in an Indian refugee camp, explains that malaria and diarrhoeal diseases often spread from shared toilets.

According to UNHCR, these diseases along with measles, acute respiratory infections and malnutrition are major causes of morbidity and mortality among refugees.

After our toilet stop, we're led into the medical tent and introduced to Ahmed, a Sudanese man who spent 7.5 years at a refugee camp in Egypt.

Instead of beds, there are camp-style stretchers with mosquito nets overhead.

One stretcher has a hole cut through it and a bucket underneath. This is for patients with diarrhoea, Ahmed explains.

Despite its shortcomings, Ahmed says this medical centre is "much better" than the one he had access to.

"Too many people [are] honestly dying in a refugee camps," he says. "Especially the kids, especially when the mum is delivering the baby."

Unfortunately for Ahmed, these harsh realities can't simply be forgotten.

In 2023, war broke out in Sudan, forcing 8.6 million people, according to the UNHCR, to leave their homes. Among them, were Ahmed's wife, daughter, father and siblings.

"They're in a refugee camp right now," he told me .

"It's not safe to be there, but we don't have any options in our country."

Ahmed is an Australian citizen and hopes his family can be brought here. For now, all he can do is wait.

Living in limbo

Waiting is an experience that Asad knows well.

After fleeing his home in Afghanistan and travelling to Australia by boat, he spent nearly 2,000 days in immigration detention.

When he tells the school children that number, they're wide-eyed, mouths agog.

He paints a picture of life in detention: being woken at six o'clock for room searches, eating the same food day after day, and trying to learn English when your mental health is crumbling.

He tells us how 500 people would gather around the one TV, cheering for the Australian soccer team, only for the match to be switched off mid-way by a guard.

But Asad says the uncertainty affected him the most.

"You don't know what will happen and you don't know when you [will be] released," he says.

"Living in limbo is the hardest thing."

Asad doesn't find it easy sharing his story. It takes him back to "dark days".

But it's his goal to educate people, particularly the next generation.

"Maybe among these young kids, in the future there [will] be a politician," he says. "Maybe they're going to run the country."

"They have to know what's going on with asylum seekers and refugees."

Like Asad, Oleksandra hopes to break the stigma around refugees.

"Some people may be afraid," she says. "They think that we are not educated, we are lazy. [That] we came here and want to seek some support, [and] don't want to do anything."

But that, she points out, is not the case.

Among the guides I spoke to, Oleksandra trained as a psychologist, Ahmed is an engineer, and Asad studied law.

"Desperate people leave their family behind, their homeland and their memories," says Asad. "They have no option."

Oleksandra agrees: "To be a refugee, it's not a choice, it just happens.

"And it could happen to anyone."

Watch Compass tonight at 6:30pm on ABC TV or stream any time on ABC iview . 

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Sunset Blue Mountains Wilderness & Wildlife Tour from Sydney

2. Blue Mountains Wildlife Full-Day Sights and Hiking from Sydney

3. PRIVATE Blue Mountains & Scenic World tour in a Luxury Car

4. Guided Walking Tour in the Blue Mountains - Hidden Treasures

5. Sydney Uncovered Full-Day Private Tour

6. Adventurous Blue Mountains hike up the iconic Three Sisters

7. Private Tour: Blue Mountains Hiking & Nature

8. Royal National Park Hike, Swim and Wildlife Tour

9. Private Full Day Blue Mountains Tour by Vehicle & Boat

10. Beach and Brew - Hike and Brewery (Men and Women)

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What travellers are saying.

• Sunset Blue Mountains Wilderness & Wildlife Tour from Sydney
• PRIVATE Blue Mountains & Scenic World tour in a Luxury Car
• Blue Mountains Wildlife Full-Day Sights and Hiking from Sydney
• Sydney Uncovered Full-Day Private Tour
• Private Tour: Blue Mountains Hiking & Nature
• Eagle Rock Adventures
• Wildscape Adventures
• Country Trails Private Tours
• WizeTrips - Luxury Tours Australia
• The Australian Adventure Company
• Emu Trekkers
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• Preplanned tours
• Daytrips out of Moscow
• Themed tours
• Customized tours
• St. Petersburg

Moscow Metro 2019

Will it be easy to find my way in the Moscow Metro? It is a question many visitors ask themselves before hitting the streets of the Russian capital. As metro is the main means of transport in Moscow – fast, reliable and safe – having some skills in using it will help make your visit more successful and smooth. On top of this, it is the most beautiful metro in the world !

. There are over 220 stations and 15 lines in the Moscow Metro. It is open from 6 am to 1 am. Trains come very frequently: during the rush hour you won't wait for more than 90 seconds! Distances between stations are quite long – 1,5 to 2 or even 3 kilometers. Metro runs inside the city borders only. To get to the airport you will need to take an onground train - Aeroexpress.

RATES AND TICKETS

Paper ticket A fee is fixed and does not depend on how far you go. There are tickets for a number of trips: 1, 2 or 60 trips; or for a number of days: 1, 3 days or a month. Your trips are recorded on a paper ticket. Ifyou buy a ticket for several trips you can share it with your traveling partner passing it from one to the other at the turnstile.

On every station there is cashier and machines (you can switch it to English). Cards and cash are accepted. 1 trip - 55 RUB 2 trips - 110 RUB

Tickets for 60 trips and day passes are available only at the cashier's.

60 rides - 1900 RUB

1 day - 230 RUB 3 days - 438 RUB 30 days - 2170 RUB.

The cheapest way to travel is buying Troyka card . It is a plastic card you can top up for any amount at the machine or at the ticket office. With it every trip costs 38 RUB in the metro and 21 RUB in a bus. You can get the card in any ticket office. Be prepared to leave a deposit of 50 RUB. You can get it back returning the card to the cashier.

SamsungPay, ApplePay and PayPass cards.

One turnstile at every station accept PayPass and payments with phones. It has a sticker with the logos and located next to the security's cabin.

GETTING ORIENTED

At the platfrom you will see one of these signs.

It indicates the line you are at now (line 6), shows the direction train run and the final stations. Numbers below there are of those lines you can change from this line.

In trains, stations are announced in Russian and English. In newer trains there are also visual indication of there you are on the line.

To change lines look for these signs. This one shows the way to line 2.

There are also signs on the platfrom. They will help you to havigate yourself. (To the lines 3 and 5 in this case). 

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Hiking & camping tours in sydney.

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• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
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• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Sunset Blue Mountains Wilderness & Wildlife Tour from Sydney

2. Blue Mountains Wildlife Full-Day Sights and Hiking from Sydney

3. PRIVATE Blue Mountains & Scenic World tour in a Luxury Car

4. Guided Walking Tour in the Blue Mountains - Hidden Treasures

5. Sydney Uncovered Full-Day Private Tour

6. Adventurous Blue Mountains hike up the iconic Three Sisters

7. Private Tour: Blue Mountains Hiking & Nature

8. Royal National Park Hike, Swim and Wildlife Tour

9. Private Full Day Blue Mountains Tour by Vehicle & Boat

10. Beach and Brew - Hike and Brewery (Men and Women)

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Learn to Surf at Sydney's Maroubra Beach

Stargazing with an Astronomer in the Blue Mountains

Wollongong Tandem Skydiving 15,000ft

Full-Day Canyoning Experience at Stunning Empress Canyon

Private Waterfront Camping Sydney for 2 days

Hang gliding with HangglideOz

Pony Walking Adventure

Blue Labyrinth PRIVATE Tour: Sydney Blue Mountains by E-Bike

Beekeeping. Honey and Hive.

Half-Day Deep Sea Fishing in Wollongong

sydney underwater scooter tours

Beautiful Middle Harbour Sunriser / Guided Kayaking Private Tour

Army Truck Adventures - 3 Hour Guided Tour

Blue Mountains Full Day Guided Tour

E-bike (electric) - Blue Mountains - Hanging Rock - SELF-GUIDED Hire Service

Beachside Skydive Sydney-Shellharbour

Skydive Sydney-Newcastle up to 15,000ft Tandem Skydive

4-Hour Freediving Taster Experience at Shelly Beach, Manly

Lamborghini Huracan Luxury Car Hire Sydney Supercar Rental

Pittwater Discovery Kayaking Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Sunset Blue Mountains Wilderness & Wildlife Tour from Sydney
• PRIVATE Blue Mountains & Scenic World tour in a Luxury Car
• Blue Mountains Wildlife Full-Day Sights and Hiking from Sydney
• Sydney Uncovered Full-Day Private Tour
• Private Tour: Blue Mountains Hiking & Nature
• Eagle Rock Adventures
• Wildscape Adventures
• Country Trails Private Tours
• WizeTrips - Luxury Tours Australia
• The Australian Adventure Company
• Emu Trekkers
• Sydney Wildlife Tours - Day Tours
• Stray Australia