Best Places to Camp with your Partner in NSW
There is nothing better than the freedom of getting outdoors, being by the sea or in the Australian bush, you are guaranteed to be surrounded by beauty. It’s the time of the year when the sun is shining, and I am ready to take my loved one around the beautiful state of NSW to some of their best camping spots.
While camping in a tent isn’t for everyone, we have discovered the range of options available that can make for a romantic weekend away while still being able to enjoy all that NSW beaches and parks offer. Come with us as we explore the best places to treat ourselves to an adventure at any time of the year.
Honeymoon Bay – Jervis Bay
NSW has some of the most amazing sports to camp in the world, and Honeymoon Bay could become a favourite for many couples. There is so much to love about this spectacular spot and is close to the best there is. This secluded bay is everything that you and your loved one want when traveling together because there are multiple beaches moments away from the camping site.
The water is pristine, and there is a lot to do other than enjoying relaxation. At this magical spot, you can fish, snorkel and swim, and it’s made for lazy days. One of the local features includes Point Perpendicular lighthouse and lookout where you can spend a day exploring its surrounds.
Fun Fact: A ballot system is held each August for the summer holiday period.
Essential information:
- No need to book – first-come, first-served basis;
- BYO drinking water and gas cooking equipment;
- No pets allowed, and
- Facilities limited to portaloos (bring own loo paper) and rubbish bins.
Address: Lighthouse Rd & Currarong Roads, Currarong NSW 2540
Phone: +61 2 4448 3411
Little Beach – Bouddi National Park
If you and your partner want a secluded weekend together or with a few friends, Little Beach is the perfect location because you and 5 friends can claim the entire campsite to yourselves. There are only 6 pictures in this tiny campground where the view is spectacular. This hidden oasis is in a cove within the Bouddi National Park and is backed by stunning coastal rainforest, cliffs and beach. It makes the perfect location for a couples weekend.
Whether you want to rest, take a coastal walk or head to one of the lookouts, you can be guaranteed that with the right company of loved ones and friends, this makes the perfect getaway.
Fun Fact: If you visit Little Beach in winter, grab your camera and see if you can spot humpback whales as they’re migrating.
Essential Information:
- Picnic tables, BBQs and toilet facilities for your convenience;
- Bring your own drinking and cooking water;
- No campfires, gathering of wood, pets or smoking;
- Bookings are essential; and
- The campground is remote, so you need to be prepared.
Address: Maitland Bay Track, Bouddi NSW 2251
Phone: 1300 072 757
Diamond Head – Crowdy Bay National Park
When travelling across NSW with your partner, one thing you can be sure of is that there is never a lack of National Parks. The Diamond Head camping spot is at one of many of these and sits right on the edge of the ocean – nothing beats this enticing view. This campground has 75 pitches for tents, and caravans and motorhomes are also welcome.
If you like activity, there is a lot to keep you busy at this spot. There are plenty of nearby trails for walks which take in the beautiful paperbark forests as well as being able to admire the coastal surrounds. You can also enjoy fishing and as much swimming as you have time for.
Fun Fact: You can discover local wildflowers and birds with an identification brochure while taking a trek on the surrounding walks.
Essential Information:
- Need to bring own drinking and cooking water;
- Has amenities block, picnic tables and BBQ Facilities;
- Showers and toilets available onsite; and
- Fires only permitted in off-ground braziers.
Address: Crowdy Bay National Park, Diamond Head Rd, Laurieton NSW 2443
Phone: 1300 072 757
Glenworth Valley – Central Coast
If you want to take your partner on a spectacular camping trip away, then you cannot go past Glenworth Valley. These unspoiled surroundings will give you both an unforgettable experience. The great thing about this location is that you can build a campfire and take in the stars while only being a stone’s throw from the beach.
There is so much to do together at Glenworth Valley and make memories as a couple. You can go horseback riding, abseiling, quad biking, kayaking and even laser skirmish. Glenworth is made up of lush rainforest, open pastures and dramatic rock formations.
Fun Fact: Don’t fancy ‘roughing’ it and prefer something a little more romantic? Glenworth Valley has glamping options!
Essential Information:
- A considerable amount of options – tent hire, tipi hire, cabin accommodation, camping spots and glamping;
- Family-friendly;
- No pets allowed;
- Showers, toilets, wood-fired BBQ’s and picnic tables available for use, and
- Noise curfew at 10pm.
Address: 69 Cooks Road, Peats Ridge NSW 2250
Phone: (02) 4375 1222
Mystery Bay Camping Area – Tilba
There aren’t many camping spots left like this that you can take your partner to. Mystery Bay offers an ‘off-the-grid’ experience in NSW that mean roughing it a little. The surrounds are stunning where you can sleep right near the beach, among spotted gums and banksias and is the perfect location for fishing.
For such a remote location there is plenty to do whether it’s hanging at the beach or exploring Eurobodalla National park where you can visit other beaches, go on bushwalks, visit lookouts and picnic spots.
Fun Fact: If you enjoy surfing, there are great surf beaches that will give you a really gnarly experience.
Essential Information:
- Cold showers only;
- Pit toilets;
- Fire pits for cooking; and
- It’s pet-friendly!
Address: 190 Mystery Bay Rd, Mystery Bay NSW 2546
Phone: 0428 622 357
There are many opportunities for you and your partner to explore across Australia and right here in NSW. Whether you like ‘roughing’ it or glamping is your thing, there is something for everyone at a price that suits. While the summer season is upon us and it is a fantastic time to enjoy the outdoors, camping can happen at any time of the year. We hope that you enjoy exploring this excellent state and all that the pristine beaches and bushland have to offer.
Questions
- Do I need specialised gear to go camping?
It will depend on the location and how remote it is. If you are heading to somewhere like Little Beach where it is relatively isolated, it would be best to have warm clothing, first aid kits, gas cooker and other essential items on hand.
- How do I know a spot is right for my partner and I?
First, you need to consider what vibe you are going for. Is it a romantic, secluded weekend? Then Little Beach might be the choice for you, however, if you want lots of activity and others around you, then Diamond Head has everything you need. If you are looking for adventure, then you cannot go past Glenworth Valley where you can make memories together as a couple.
- Do I need to book a camping spot?
It very much depends on the camping site, however generally they either require you to book, or it is a matter of first there gets the spot.
- What do I do if I don’t like lying on the hard ground in a tent?
Many camping options are available, even for those that don’t like sleeping in a tent. Not all campsites cater to these experiences, but glamping is available at some sites such as Glenworth Valley. Others have provisions for caravans, campervans and cabins that feel like a home away from home. This means you can enjoy all that nature has to offer without actually spending time in a tent.
- How much does it cost at camping sites?
There are some free camping spots in NSW, including Toorooroo, The diggings and Little Mountain campground. However, at other camping grounds and national parks, it can cost you anywhere between $6 and up to $50. The best course of action is to contact the grounds that you wish to stay at and enquire about their prices because these can vary during peak and off-peak seasons.
- Can my dog come camping with us?
Many camping sites have a strict no pets rules, especially places like Glenworth Valley which is a working horse farm, or remote spots where they could be a pest to the native wildlife. The best course of action is to check in with your desired site first before making a booking. If taking your beloved best mate with you is essential, then you may need to find a spot that allows you to take your pets.