Wine lovers unite! The Hunter Valley is home to Australia’s best wines and innovative, family-owned wineries. Treat yourself to wine tastings, vivid landscapes, hiking, and scenic sandy shores. Only two hours away from Sydney, this region is a famous getaway destination. There are plenty of resorts, hotels, and campgrounds for each budget range. Let’s see where you can camp for free and save some bucks for the delicious wines!
- Samurai Beach Camping Ground 4WD
- Little Mountain Campground
- Scolioli Campground
- Tattersalls Campground Kizraptor, Karuah National
- Branxton Park
- Walleroo State Forest Park
- Ted Woolford Park Rest Area
- Stratford Rest Area
- Water Gaude Camp Area
- Manning River Campground
- Dobbie Rim Camping Area
- Aberdeen Abercairney Terrace
- Royal Hotel Denman
- Merriwa RSL Campground
- Bulga Recreation Ground
- Wombat Creek Walk-In Camp
- Warkworth Recreation Ground
- White Rock Walk-In Camp
- Battery Rock Rest Area
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Samurai Beach Camping Ground 4WD
Samurai Beach camp is a fantastic waterfront campground near the pristine One Mile Beach. It’s located in Tomaree National Park, accessible via 4WD and for self-contained vehicles only. Twenty camp spots are available for camp trailers, tents, and cars. Keep in mind the beach and campground are clothing optional.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 4WD; Off-road caravans.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: Yes, book online or call 1300 072 757. Camping is free but a $6 booking fee is required.
Other Amenities: Nudist Site; Service Animals Permitted; Non-drinking Water; Beach; Swimming; Fishing; 4WD Tracks.
Time Limit: 7 nights per booking.
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Little Mountain Campground
If you’re looking for a remarkably secluded campsite that is a genuine challenge to access, Little Mountain is the one. Beautiful spot on the river with no amenities but calm nature and breathtaking views. Don’t try to access it when wet or if you’re an amateurish 4WD driver.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 4WD; Off-road caravans.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Picnic Tables; Open Fire Pits.
Time Limit: None.
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Scolioli Campground
Serene, private campground with two spots only, located in Karuah National Park. Both camp spots are on the river banks of Karuah River, a fabulous point for fishing or just savoring the sunsets over the water. A 4WD is a must, and the drive is a tad challenging.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 4WD; Off-road caravans.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: Yes, book online or call 1300 072 757. Camping is free, but a $6 booking fee is required.
Other Amenities: Generators Permitted; 4WD Tracks; Wildlife; Swimming; Fishing.
Time Limit: 7 nights per booking.
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Tattersalls Campground Kizraptor, Karuah National
Tattersalls is a popular campground in Karuah National Park, a short drive off the Pacific Highway. Since it can get packed on weekends, consider staying during the week. The camp is populated by stunning birdlife, provides ten flat spots at the riverbank and a couple of uphill sites. Some mosquitoes can drop you a visit in the evening so bring a repellent.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 4WD; Off-road caravans.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: Yes, book online or call 1300 072 757. Camping is free, but a $6 booking fee is required.
Other Amenities: Walking Tracks; Open Fire Pits; BBQ Area; Swimming; Fishing; Boat Ramp Nearby; Wildlife.
Time Limit: 7 nights per booking.
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Branxton Park
Branxton Park offers free three-day camping for fully self-contained vehicles. Camping in tents and cars is not allowed. The camp is very close to the local wineries for those keen on wine tasting. Campsites are flat, grassy, and well spread out, suitable for large vans. The township where you can find anything you need is just a short walk from the camp.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Drinking and Non-drinking Water; Picnic Tables; TV Reception; Dump Spot.
Time Limit: 72 hours in 14 days.
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Walleroo State Forest Park
A secluded bush camp on the border of Wallaroo State Forest and Wallaroo National Park. Adrenaline spiking road, suitable for high clearance 4WD. Settle down for the night among the trees and wake up to a stunning sunrise.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 4WD; Off-road caravans.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Generators Permitted; 4WD Tracks; Wildlife.
Time Limit: None.
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Ted Woolford Park Rest Area
This is an excellent spot right out of town with vibrant birdlife to keep you relaxed and no traffic noise. Lots of room so you can have privacy even with other vehicles around. Take the Bucketts Scenic walk that takes you to a great lookout, or hit the golf course across the road.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; RVs.
Phone Service: Yes
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Picnic Tables; TV Reception; Walking Tracks.
Time Limit: None.
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Stratford Rest Area
Large, quiet, and relaxing rest area, surrounded by various trees habituated with kookaburras and magpies. Managed by the Stratford community, this camp provides all basic amenities. This rest area is conveniently located close to a servo and right off Bucketts Way.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Non-drinking Water; Picnic Tables; Open Fire Pits; BBQ Area; Playground; TV Reception.
Time Limit: None.
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Water Gaude Camp Area
Picturesque, secluded camp next to the water accesses by a fun 4WD track. The water hole is perfect for a refreshing swim or you can try to catch some trout! The area offers a lot to be explored, just be sure to have a high clearance 4WD.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 4WD; Off-road caravans.
Phone Service: No.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Wildlife; 4WD Tracks; Swimming; Fishing.
Time Limit: None.
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Manning River Campground
This is a stunning campground located on the Manning River banks, surrounded by highland forests. It’s a fantastic mountain getaway for Big Lappers and locals. Experience freshwater fishing, exciting 4WD tracks, and beautiful walks, all available at this place. Nights can get chilly, so bring firewood and get cozy by the fire pits.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: No.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Non-drinking Water; Picnic Tables; Open Fire Pits; Fishing; 4WD Tracks; Wildlife.
Time Limit: None.
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Dobbie Rim Camping Area
A small grassed picnic area in the Chichester State Forest nearby Ladies Well and Spring Creek. It’s a clean area with flat campsites, very popular spot for weekend getaways so try to visit midweek. Supplied with all basic amenities and calm, wild nature.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: Yes
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Walking Tracks; Open Fire Pits; Swimming; Wildlife.
Time Limit: None.
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Aberdeen Abercairney Terrace
Small campground for up to four caravans, next to Taylor Park. A good overnight stop off the road with limited road noise. Walking distance to town for entertainment and groceries, close to a pub and a bowling club.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Drinking Water; Picnic Tables; TV Reception; Dump Spot.
Time Limit: 24 hours.
Read Next: 7 Incredible Hunter Valley Experiences To Have On Your Big Lap
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Royal Hotel Denman
Six clean and safe campsites next to Royal Hotel in Denman, run by an amicable couple. Patronage to the pub is welcomed, the food is excellent, and the staff is very hospitable. It’s close to town, the Denman Memorial Park, and a servo.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets and showers.
Access: 4WD; Off-road caravans.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Generators Allowed; Playground; TV Reception; Pub; On-site Accommodation.
Time Limit: 7 days.
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Merriwa RSL Campground
Wonderful spot for an overnight stay, welcoming approximately five caravans. You can use the hot showers and toilets at the RSL during operating hours or get some delicious meals to support the club. It is located within walking distance from local shops and bakeries.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets and showers available during operating hours.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Wheelchair Accessible; Dog-friendly; TV Reception; Fuel and Gas Available;
Time Limit: 48 hours.
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Bulga Recreation Ground
Great spot managed by the town council of Bulga, providing a pleasant, relaxing stay. A large open grassy area with a beautiful mountain backdrop and heaps of entertainment for all ages. You can hit the nearby pub for some delicious meals or go downtown for some local produce.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Wheelchair Accessible; Non-drinking Water; Picnic Tables; Camp Kitchen; Open Fire Pits; BBQ Area; Playground; TV Reception; Fuel and Gas Available; Tennis Court.
Time Limit: None.
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Wombat Creek Walk-In Camp
Unique small camp accessible by a 1km walking track. You need to leave your vehicle at Upper Allyn Park and take your tent with you. This is the place for all hiking enthusiasts and lovers of untouched nature.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets
Access: Walk-in Only.
Phone Service: Telstra.
Booking Required: Yes, book online or call 1300 072 757. Camping is free, but a $6 booking fee is required.
Other Amenities: Walking and Cycling Tracks; Wildlife.
Time Limit: 7 days per booking.
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Warkworth Recreation Ground
Flat, large camping area with loads of amenities and close to the highway. Lovely nature, birdlife, shady and sunny grassy areas around. Good for an overnight stop to recuperate before hitting the road again.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big Rigs.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Wheelchair Accessible; Dog-friendly; Non-drinking Water; Picnic Tables; Playground; TV Reception; Pull-through Bays.
Time Limit: None.
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White Rock Walk-In Camp
White Rock camp is located in Chichester State Forest with parking adjacent to it. It’s a walk-in camp, so park your vehicle, take your tent, and cross the road. Loads of space, scenic landscape, and tranquility. It is shaded and cool, with a flowing river nearby, perfect for the hot summer days.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Walk-in only.
Phone Service: No.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Swimming; Open Fire Pits.
Time Limit: None.
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Battery Rock Rest Area
Located on the Golden Highway only 15km from Merriwa, this rest area is accessible from the both directions of the road. This is not a typical rest area, there’s some unique views around. You’ll find polygonal basalt columns formed by cooling lava and a nice flowing creek.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Dog-friendly; Non-drinking Water; Picnic Tables; Oppen Fire Pits.
Time Limit: 24 hours.
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