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

Aussies might think they know what Port Stephens is all about – but it’s time to take another look.

You might’ve driven through this NSW coast town. Maybe even stopped for fish and chips or a quick dip. But spend a long weekend in the new Port Stephens , and you’ll seriously regret not doing it sooner. We’re talking treks across beaches, reef dives and up-close time with rescued koalas.

All in all? It only takes a day before you see Port Stephens in a whole new light, and not much longer until it’s locked in as your favourite family destination.

1. Stockton Sand Dunes

Port Stephens incredible Stockton Sand Dunes are the largest moving sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere. They shift like an endless magic trick across the Worimi Conservation Lands , a 4200-hectare coastal co-managed by the Traditional Owners.

Tear over them in a 4WD. Rev through valleys soft as melting ice cream on a quad. Carve down 30-metre slopes on a sandboard. However you choose to cross them, you’re guaranteed a seriously wild ride.

Four rugged 4WDs kick up trails of golden dust as they charge across the sweeping desert landscape. — Chase thrills across shifting sands. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Scale Tomaree Head Summit Walk

A short climb through bushland opens up to the coastal drama of Tomaree Head . Spot Zenith, Wreck and Box Beaches. See the Fingal Island lighthouse and offshore rookeries where Australia’s rarest seabird, the Gould’s petrel, nests.

History buffs can’t miss the WWII gun emplacements. And if you’re hiking between May and November, bring binoculars. Travelling whales might just be breaching below.

Friends enjoying a scenic walk along the Tomaree Head Summit Walk in Tomaree National Park, Port Stephens. — Climb Tomaree Head for jaw-dropping coastal views. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Watch out for whales

You’ve seen the spouts of migrating humpbacks and southern right whales from shore. Set sail from Nelson Bay to see them up close. Cruise straight into the action, with tail-slaps, barrel rolls and all.

And they’ve got competition from the local show-offs. Port Stephens bottlenose dolphins leap and play. Some tours even spot pudgy fur seals, spending lazy days soaking up the sun on Cabbage Tree Island.

A whale’s tail on the sea’s surface. — Watch for ocean tails. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary

Pop into the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary to learn about the rescued koalas who climb, nap, snack and heal in this natural patch of bushland. Wander the immersive Sanctuary Story Walk to discover more about their habits, then head to the SKYwalk – a treetop platform constructed for spotting these eucalyptus-loving locals. Peek into the hospital’s viewing window, where sick or injured koalas may be resting in their recovery enclosures.

Not enough time around these adorable marsupials? Stay overnight in silk-lined glamping tents.

Koala sleeping in a tree at Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, One Mile — See koalas in their natural habitat. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Diving Port Stephens

Port Stephens has some of NSW’s best dive spots. At Fly Point, float through sponge gardens and coral castles thick with nudibranchs (AKA sea slugs). Halifax Park has blue gropers and crimson-banded wrasse, while Shoal Bay’s seagrass meadows hide pipefish, cuttlefish and octopus.

Accessible only by boat, Broughton Island is home to a vast array of marine (and bird) life. Snorkel with blue devilfish and stingrays at sites like The Looking Glass and North Rock. More experienced divers can head out with one of the many PADI-certified operators.

At nearby Cabbage Tree Island, expect to see shaggy-faced wobbegongs cruising along.

A couple suited up and ready to dive into adventure. — Suit up and dive into Port Stephens’ vibrant marine life. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters

Not quite ready to dive in? Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters is the perfect way to spot local marine life without getting too deep. But there’s no obnoxious glass tank tapping here. Instead, this interactive aquarium allows guests to wade into natural-style lagoons that mimic the real thing.

Gently pat Port Jackson and bamboo sharks, hand-feed rays, and feel their sandpapery skin with your fingertips. It is all under expert guidance. If you want to go deeper, pop on a wetsuit and swim alongside tawny nurse sharks, white-tipped reef sharks and zebra sharks in the lagoon.

Family enjoying an animal feeding experience at Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters, Anna Bay. — Meet the ocean’s friendliest faces at Irukandji. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Fish the estuaries

Fishing fanatics will fall for Port Stephens hook, line and sinker. Here, one of the largest estuary systems in the whole state sees tidal rivers and mangrove ecosystems. Waterfronts are thick with oysters, and residential fish that might include anything from bream, whiting and flathead, to blue swimmer crabs, kingfish and longtail tuna.

If you prefer to choose your own adventure and fish offshore, you can hire a boat from one of the marinas and set your own course.

three men fishing on a boat in port stephens — Join a tour or chart your own fishing trip. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Taste new Port Stephens flavours

With plenty of activity to fill your days, refuelling on delectable cuisine becomes equally important. And Port Stephens answers the call.

Pop into Holbert’s Oyster Farm for fresh-farmed Port Stephens rock oysters and Pacific oysters, Australian king and tiger prawns, as well as a variety of tasty sauces to try them with.

Take a group to Atmos for an authentic Greek experience over large shared dishes and Greek-inspired cocktails. Or feast on sea-to-plate, modern Australian dishes at the pet-friendly Restaurant 2317.

A plate of fresh oysters. — Slurp your way through the region’s best oysters. (Image: Destination NSW)

Start planning your Port Stephens getaway at portstephens.org.au .