Escape the city lights and surround yourself in Australian nature. Whether you’re heading out for the night or have a full week excursion planned, our local insiders have the goods on where to go camping near Sydney.
When your camping spot comes with a picnic area, a sheltered beach and an inland lagoon, you know you’re onto a winner. This beautiful waterfront campground overlooking Pittwater is the only place to camp in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, so come early to grab a spot. It’s also car-free, meaning adventurers must hike or catch a ride on a water taxi. It’s a calm spot, thus making it a haven for local fauna – don’t be surprised if you’re greeted by a wallaby at breakfast! Recommended by local insider Angharad Jones
A few days spent at Bouddi National Park will rejuvenate the soul. The Park is a lesson in Australian nature with beach, bush and rainforest to be adventured through. Three campgrounds can be found near Little, Putty and Tallow Beaches; they’re basic, so bring enough food and drink to keep you going. Dolphins and whales swim just off the shore, a real treat. Recommended by local insider Angharad Jones
The expansive Royal National Park is a must for any Sydneyite, or anyone in the area for that matter. Thousands of acres of pristine bushland await trekkers, swimmers, picnickers and cyclists alike. Trek the National Park and tick off the incredible sights, from the Wedding Cake Rock to the Figure Eight Rock Pools. Campers can pitch their tent right next to the waterfall for a very picturesque start to the day. Recommended by local insider Angharad Jones
Patonga Beach is beautifully sandwiched between the idyllic locations of Broken Bay, Patonga Creek and the Brisbane Water National Park. Spend the day kayaking in the creek, hiking up to the stunning viewpoint at Waratah Lookout or kicking back on the golden sands. Views of the Pacific Ocean will delight all, and the campsite feels well maintained and looked after. Recommended by local insider Susanna Smith
If you like your campsites complete with friendly kangaroos, then the Euroka Campground is the place for you. Camping and glamping can be found amongst the eucalyptus trees, and most spots come with neighbouring parrots and cockatoos. Families will love the Jellybean Pool and the scenic trails surrounding it. Hearty trekkers can take the 8km (5mi) Red Hands Cave track to discover Aboriginal stencil art, or head up to the Tunnel View Lookout for a stunning vista over the Nepean River. The whole family will be happy at this authentic Australian experience. Recommended by local insider Susanna Smith
Get to know the great outdoors a little better at this remote camping experience in southern Sydney. Make sure you bring along everything you need, as the campsites are small and come with no facilities. The Heathcote National Park is vehicle-free, so lace up those hiking boots and breathe in that fresh air. The Mirang Pool is the perfect spot to cool off after a day on the trails. Recommended by local insider Susanna Smith
