5 Beautiful Secret Camping Grounds Less Than Two Hours Away From Sydney
Aussies have always loved a camping trip, but since 2020 there’s been a rise in escaping the grind for a weekend (or longer) and getting into nature. The thing is, no matter how keen you are on camping, there’s always more places to explore.
While we do have a long weekend approaching, and yes there are still places available, NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service are currently running a special offer for mid-week camping. Basically, if you stay from Monday to Thursday between April 21 and September 16, you’ll get 50 percent off your camping pass. Just follow the links below to book online.
We’ve rounded up five campgrounds inside beautiful nationals parks that are just a short drive from Sydney that we bet you haven’t even heard of.
#1 Bungonia Campground, Bungonia National Park
Price: $24.60 p/night
Book here.
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If you love adventure, but don’t want to give up your creature comforts, Bungonia is a great choice. Nestled into beautiful bushland, you can go hiking through Bungonia or Jerrara Creek canyons or go bouldering through limestone cliffs at Bungonia Slot Canyon. At the end of the day, there’ll still be a hot shower and gas heating in an enclosed camp kitchen.
The best news? There are still available places for this June long weekend, so get in quick.
#2 Gambells Rest Campground, Morton National Park
Price: $17.43
Book here.
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Heading to the Southern Highlands is always a good bet for finding natural beauty, and Gambells Rest campground is no exception. There are heaps of walking tracks and stunning lookouts right by your tent, plus there are hot showers and barbeques. Not to mention you’re only a two-minute drive to the town of Bundanoon where you can enjoy shops and cafes.
#3 Mill Creek Campground, Dharug National Park
Price: $24.60
Book here.
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Dharug National Park is along the Hawkesbury River, so you know Pretty Mill Creek campground is going to be a stunner. Blend into the eucalyptus trees and dramatic sandstone cliffs while keeping an eye out for wombats, wallaroos and even tiny sugar gliders. There’s a heap of walking tracks to explore for views over the park.
#4 The Basin Campground, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Price: $34.85
Book here.
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Ok, so locals definitely know Ku-ring-gai Chase, and The Basin is even one of the most popular beachside campgrounds — and yet, there are still vacancies for this June long weekend.
Overlooking Pittwater, you can sprawl out on a large grassy field with BBQs and showers to use. You’re right next to a sheltered beach and inland lagoon — you can even get there via ferry from Palm Beach — or go explore the surrounding walking tracks. You might even spot a whale or two, in season.
#5 Mogo Campground, Yengo National Park
Price: $24.60
Book here.
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Mogo campground is no ordinary camping experience. Explore the convict-built Old Great North Road, local walking tracks, or head nearby to Wollombi Valley to enjoy the vineyards. There’s also nearby Kooland Observatory for a little star-gazing free from light pollution.
(Lead image: Instagram / @antnbn)
