There’s plenty of free and low-cost camping options in the Shoalhaven, from coastal campsites to riverfront locations and holiday parks. In peak periods like spring, summer and school holidays, you’ll need to plan well in advance!Â
Our popular south coast camp spots book out fast. If you’re stuck, our camping flyer will help you find alternative overnight stay options or browse all places to stay in Shoalhaven. Our environment is precious, be sure to tread lightly and leave only footprints on your stay. It’s important to only camp in designated areas to avoid damage to delicate areas and heavy fines, our rangers are patrolling regularly.Â
Find more camping inspiration here.Â
CampING by the River
Wake to the tranquil sounds of river life. The Shoalhaven and Kangaroo Rivers offer so much variety, with more options at the southern end of the Shoalhaven on the Clyde River too. Coolendel has beautiful grassy grounds and stunning Shoalhaven River frontage. Grady’s Riverside Retreat also offers great pet friendly options or stay at North Nowra Riverfront Caravan Park. In Kangaroo Valley, Holiday Haven have a park just a stones throw from Kangaroo River or try Glenmack Park just a little down the road.
Be a conscious traveller
Our advice to campers is to plan and book your stay well ahead, so you’re not camping where you’re not allowed as heavy fines apply. It is essential that you follow the NSW Health Guidelines, to keep everyone safe. Summer time is fun time but please obey the fire restrictions when you camp. Call our Visitor Information Service to speak with a local who has the expert knowledge on free and low-cost camping. They can also advise you if you get caught out and need an emergency overnight stay at one of the rest areas.
Camping by the Beach
Everyone wants to camp by the beach but spots are very limited. We’ve got well-priced holiday parks all along our coastline, from Shoalhaven Heads to North Durras. While this is more expensive than our free and low-cost camping options, it won’t break the bank and you get beachfront access and fabulous facilities. Our beach carparks are quaint and it’s part of our charm, but they’re not places for overnight stays. Please don’t park on our beaches, our rangers are out and about and we don’t want you to get a fine!
Camping in National Parks
Bookings are now required for all National Park campgrounds and cabins, even the free areas. Before your visit, check the web page for your chosen area or call NPWS on 1300 072 757. You can also check the alerts page for closures of nearby walks and picnic areas. The iconic Pretty Beach, Pebbly Beach and Depot Beach in Murramarang National Park are stunning options. Meroo Head, Sunburnt Beach and Termeil Point in Meroo National Park also have beachside campsites to pitch a tent. Many of our National Park camp grounds book out months in advance and may require a ballot draw to get a spot so it is not a last minute option. Check out the booking details for popular areas like Honeymoon Bay and Booderee National Park to help you plan well ahead.
Showground Stopovers
Berry Showground is one of the best around and is close to Berry’s beautiful Queen Street and the train station. It is also a short drive to the beaches at Shoalhaven Heads. Nowra Showground has easy access to Ben’s Walk and the forests that surround the Shoalhaven River. Nowra Showground is for caravans, campers and motorhomes only. Milton Showground Camping Area is a short walk to the delights of Milton plus it is close to the beaches and townships of Ulladulla and Mollymook. All of our Showgrounds are pet friendly and have showers, toilets and dump points. Call the Bookings Team on 02 4428 7206 or Customer Experience Team on 1300 293 111 or click the direct links above to book a low-cost camping site.
CAMPING IN STATE FOREST AND RECREATION AREAS
Although we have many State Forests, Yadboro is the only one set up for camping, that is free and requires no pre-bookings but is often packed to the rafters. It is closed at times, so check with Forests Corporation NSW before you leave on your trip. Nestled by the Clyde River, Yadboro Flat is a popular dog friendly camp, so get in early to secure a spot. If you want remote, then Long Gully in Budawang National Park is open for online bookings. Blue Gum Flat Campground and Shallow Crossing Campground by the Clyde River are also great options. Close by, Bendeela Recreation Area now requires online bookings. The popular Yalwal fishing and recreation area is open for day visits only!
