8 Port Macquarie camping spots for epic waterfront activity

Campers will rejoice at the multitude of camping options on offer around Port Macquarie.

From sites next to the ocean to riverside campgrounds where you can rough it while remaining close to the town, located on the Mid North Coast of NSW. Come for the chance to unwind, stay for the scenery and friendly campsite vibes.

Here’s our guide to the best Port Macquarie camping spots, which we’ve narrowed down to eight.

1. Camp Jordan at Jordan’s

Craving fresh Instagram fodder? Camp Jordan at Jordan’s, which encompasses Port Macquarie camping and a water sports retailer, is a photo-perfect stay right in the heart of the coastal town. Riffing on perky 1950s Palm Springs-inspired design, the grounds house spacious bell tents, two vintage Airstreams named Betty and Burt (the interiors are magazine cover-delicious), three converted shipping containers and self-contained riverfront cabins. It’s a breeze blocked, cruiser bike-laden, cactus-dotted, festoon light-drenched holiday haven for families, groups and couples.

You’ll find further Kodak moments on Maggie Beach, right at the foot of this fabulous stay, which the team has splashed with timber deck chairs and retro Pagoda umbrellas to extend the fun right to the water’s edge.

Price: Cabins start from $320 per night, the Airstreams start from $200 per night, the shipping containers start from $235 per night and glamping tents start from $165 per night.

Facilities: Camp kitchen with a coffee machine, amenities block, games room, mini golf, lawn games, swimming pool with cabanas, table tennis, bike and water sport equipment hire, giant chess, barbecues and food delivery thanks to their affiliation with a nearby burger joint.

Accessibility: There are no ramps, but you’ll find an accessible bathroom within the amenities block and the grounds are quite flat.

Dog-friendly?: Yes, but you’ll incur an additional cleaning fee.

Address: 11 Mcinherney Cl, Port Macquarie

2. Diamond Waters Caravan Park

Tucked away in native bushland on the shores of the Camden Haven River, this leafy campground and caravan park is sandwiched between the river and the sea. Diamond Waters Caravan Park has its own frontage and boat access to the waterway, which makes it easy to escape the throngs and explore the Camden Haven waterways by boat or kayak, which you can hire from the Dunbogan Boatshed & Marina .

The Port Macquarie camping spot is near to the mouth of the Camden Haven River, which connects with various lakes and lagoons, making it a popular spot for fishos who converge here to try and catch estuarine species such as bream and flathead. The caravan park has en-suite cabins, powered sites and non-powered sites. It is also located within walking distance of a pet-friendly beach.

Price: Tent sites start from $38 per night and cabins start from $145 per night.

Facilities: Undercover barbecues, picnic tables, boat ramp, games room with a TV, off-leash dog area, amenities block, laundry, dump point.

Accessibility: Campsites and cabins are set on flat, grassed land, however, there are no designated access-friendly facilities.

Dog-friendly?: Yes, across campsites and selected cabins as long as they’re registered prior to your arrival

Address: 152 Diamond Head Rd, Dunbogan  

3. Diamond Head Campground at Crowdy Bay National Park

If you’re looking for true coastal connection, it doesn’t get much better than Diamond Head Campground , a National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) spot near Diamond Head in Crowdy Bay National Park. After a day spent photographing Split Rock and lounging around the picnic area at this Port Macquarie camping destination, you can gaze at the stars while listening to the snap, crackles and pop of the campfire (hire a brazier and access firewood from the onsite office).

Less than an hour’s drive from Port Macquarie, this beachside campground is suitable for caravans, camper trailers and tents. Hike to the top of Diamond Head on the 4.8-kilometre loop track to enjoy panoramic views of the glittering sea. A little too strenuous? There’s the equally rewarding, and shorter, Mermaid Lookout track, too.

Price: Free, but you’ll need park entry, which is $8 per vehicle, per day.

Facilities: Amenities block, outdoor showers, picnic shelters with tables, a carpark for day trippers and gas barbecues.

Accessibility: Yes — the campground is flat with barely any steps, so it rates as medium according to NPWS. Even better, there are accessible flush toilets in two spots, however, it should be noted that the showers are not accessible.

Dog-friendly?: No

Address: 763 Diamond Head Rd, Diamond Head

4. Cobrabald — Wild Bull Camping Area

If you’re a seasoned camper looking for a shady, serene spot to unwind, plug Mount Boss State Forest into your GPS. Only a short drive from Wauchope, Mount Boss State Forest is a bit of a hidden secret (not anymore!) for locals who like to free camp. What this Port Macquarie camping spot lacks in amenities, it makes up for in rugged beauty.

Walk through the tangle of jungle near the Cobrabald — Wild Bull recreation area and you will find the perfect waterhole for a dip, if you don’t mind sharing the pool with catfish that is. Although Cobrabald — Wild Bull sounds like it could be in coyote country, in the US, it’s actually a lovely, secluded spot just a short drive from Wauchope and one of the best camping spots on the Mid-North Coast of NSW.

Price: Free

Facilities: Barbecues, firepits and toilets.

Accessibility: No

Dog-friendly?: Yes

Address: Cobrabald Rd, Kippara

5. NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park

It’s no wonder the NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park is one of the most sought-after Port Macquarie camping hot spots. Park your van or pitch a tent and take in the sunrise close to the boulder-strewn breakwall along the coastline. Popular for its outstanding waterfront views, beautifully manicured gardens and friendly staff, the holiday park is located near the 9.1-kilometre coastal walk along the Hastings River, which stretches from Westport Park to the iconic Tacking Point Lighthouse.

If you’re more of a wimper (wimpy camper) than a hard-core outdoorsy type you will be stoked by the park’s convenient location right by the beach and city centre, where you will find a plethora of great places to eat. What makes this holiday park so loved by campers and caravanners is the fact you can be lulled to sleep by the sound of ocean waves and the smell of salty sea air. Check into a Breakwall or Riverside cabin if you fancy a waterfront upgrade.

Price: From $58 per night for unpowered sites to studio cabins from $228 per night.

Facilities: Undercover barbecues, laundry, playgrounds, camp kitchen, library, swimming pool, school holiday activity programs, dump point, dog wash, e-bike hire and electronic car charging stations.

Accessibility: Some accommodation is suitable for visitors with access needs but there is no dedicated wheelchair access.

Dog-friendly?: Yes, excluding the cabins.

Address: 1 Munster St, Port Macquarie

6. Swans Crossing Campground

String up your hammock and kick back near your campsite at Swans Crossing Campground in Kerewong State Forest, a popular Port Macquarie camping destination revered by families who return year after year.

The camping spot, about a 40-minute drive from Port Macquarie (between Taree and Kempsey), is located on former farmland that was owned by the Swan family. Surrounded by regenerated native forest and hardwood plantations it’s a lush backdrop to a beautiful expansive area. The nearby shallows of Upcalls Creek provide a cool, quiet swimming spot.

Take a hike along the historical Longworth’s Tramway Heritage Walk, which is only a short drive away, or tackle one of many bushwalking trails that crisscross Kerewong State Forest. Fancy a dip? Skip the crowds and unwind at nearby Upsalls Creek, a tranquil swimming spot.

Price: Free

Facilities: Drop toilets, fire pits and picnic tables

Accessibility: No

Dog-friendly?: Yes

Address: Swans Crossing, Kerewong State Forest

7. Bonny Hills Holiday & Caravan Park

Bonny Hills Holiday and Caravan Park — There are premium AstroTurf-powered sites that are perfect for all setups. (Image: Supplied)

Forget rolling out your swag in the middle of the NSW outback, although that option does have merit. If you want to take a break from your busy life and reconnect with nature then why not do it in style at one of the glamping options on offer at Bonny Hills Holiday & Caravan Park ?

Camping here does not equate to roughing it. Conveniently located between Port Macquarie and the waterways of Camden Haven near picturesque Lake Cathie and overlooking Rainbow Beach, the Reflections property offers a range of stays, from camping and glamping to cabins and powered caravan sites. You are still technically sleeping under the stars when glamping in a luxury tent, it’s just that you’re doing so with a fully equipped kitchen and comfy bed, TV and private bathroom. So there.

Price: Standard powered sites start from around $59 per night, glamping starts from around $123 per night and cabins start from around $203 per night.

Facilities: Barbecue area, amenity blocks, laundry, dump point, camp kitchen, school holiday activity program and a dog wash.

Accessibility: Yes, they offer both accessible stays and amenities.

Dog-friendly?: Yes, across some of the campsites.

Address: 920 Ocean Drive, Bonny Hills

8. Flynns Beach Caravan Park

A fuss-free Port Macquarie camping spot set against a beautifully wild stretch of coastline, Flynns Beach Caravan Park offers chilled out digs right on the water. The vibe is low-key (no extravagant splash zones and school holiday programs here), making for a tranquil destination if soaking up serious R&R tops your priority list. Pitch a tent, wheel in your trailer, small campervan, caravan or motorhome, or drop and flop in a clean and comfortable cabin — there’s ample space to recharge those batteries no matter how you’re travelling.

If it’s the latter option, the cabins range from studios that sleep up to two guests to family picks that house up to six, and all feature ensuite bathrooms, lounge rooms with TVs and full kitchens. 

Price: Unpowered sites start from $40 per night and cabins start from $135 per night.

Facilities: Swimming pool, amenities block, camp kitchen with gas barbecues, laundry and free wi-fi.

Accessibility: Guests with access needs are welcome as the grounds are mainly flat but be mindful that the roads are unsealed and there are no ramps. An accessible bathroom, however, is on site.

Dog-friendly?: Yes, across the campsites.

Address: 22 Ocean St, Port Macquarie

Originally written by Carla Grossetti with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

Discover the best things to do in Port Macquarie

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.