× Search

 

New South Wales

Welcome to the vibrant and expansive New South Wales (NSW), a premier destination for families and adventurers looking to explore the wonders of Australia in the unique comfort of a campervan. Nestled on the east coast, NSW is bordered by tropical Queensland to the north, verdant Victoria to the south, and azure waters of South Australia to the west, making it a perfect central starting point for any Australia campervan holiday on the mainland.

Exploring NSW in a campervan is the perfect way to experience the sheer diversity of Australia’s landscapes and NSW attractions—from the pristine beaches of Kiama and the rugged peaks of the Blue Mountains to the dynamic urban centres, remote bushland, and coastal retreats of Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Whether you're looking to surf the waves at Bondi Beach, enjoy a serene hike in the national parks, or indulge in the culture at the Sydney Art Gallery, there is an unparalleled variety of things to do in NSW!

 

Why explore NSW by campervan

Travelling through NSW on an Australia campervan holiday offers an unmatched sense of freedom and adventure. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the ocean at a beachside campsite near Batemans Bay or enjoying your breakfast amidst the lush greenery of a secluded forest. Campervans provide not only flexibility in your travel plans but also the opportunity to connect deeply with the Aussie landscapes. 

What’s more, an Australia campervan holiday through NSW lets you discover hidden gems that are often off the beaten path and not easily accessible by traditional means of travel. From the wine regions of the Hunter Valley, where you can taste some of the best wines in the world, to the heritage towns of the New England hinterland area, a campervan can take you to places that would otherwise require extensive planning or expensive tours.

 

Things to do in New South Wales

NSW is bursting with activities. For beach lovers, the coast offers endless opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing at famous spots like Bondi, Coffs Harbour, and Port Macquarie. Beyond the usual tourist attractions, NSW also offers unique experiences like whale watching in Nelson Bay, marvelling at contemporary art at the Sydney Art Gallery, or hiking through the ancient rainforests of the Blue Mountains. No matter what your interests are, NSW has something spectacular to explore. For information on what to do in NSW, check out our guides to exploring NSW. 

RSS
12

Popular NSW road trips & itineraries

New South Wales, located on the southeastern coast of Australia, is bordered by Queensland to the north, Victoria to the south, and South Australia to the west. Accessible internationally via the Sydney International Airport and an achievable drive away from major cities like Brisbane (approximately 10 hours) and Melbourne (about 9 hours), NSW is ideally positioned for an Australia campervan holiday adventure. Some of the most popular road trips within New South Wales include the scenic coastal drive from Sydney to Byron Bay, the food and wine trail in the Hunter Valley, and the heritage-rich adventures around the historical towns of Bathurst and Mudgee.

New South Wales | Sydney to Orange Road Trip Itinerary

New South Wales | Sydney to Orange Road Trip Itinerary

Enjoy everything from country roast dinners to cool climate Orange wines on this country to coast NSW road trip itinerary.

 
 
 
 

Day 1: Apollo Sydney Branch to Cambewarra Mountains

Distance: 190km

Travel time: 2 hours

Balanced on the summit of the Cambewarra Ranges, the Cambewarra Mountain lookout showcases soaring vistas and extensive panoramas to both horizons. From the top, campers will witness views of Shoalhaven City, the Coolangatta Mountains, the Pigeon House Mountain, Point Perpendicular and the stunning Jervis Bay National Park.

Image: Destination NSW

 

Day 2: Cambewarra Mountains to Moss Vale

Distance: 59km

Travel time: 45 minutes

From birdwatching in wetlands to wine tasting, golfing and exploring galleries and antique stores, there is something for every camper in Moss Vale. A must-visit is the gourmet trail, featuring Mount Ashby Estate – a boutique vineyard with a cellar door and delightful café.

Image: Instagram - @mitchell.wick

 

Day 3: Moss Vale to Bendalong

Distance: 106km

Travel time: 2 hours

Set on the magnificent jutting section of the south coast known as Red Point, Bendalong is every beach lover’s dream. The sleepy township provides adventure-packed surf beaches, with opportunities for fishing, swimming, SUPing and more. Nestled amongst tall eucalyptus, the Holiday Haven Caravan Park is the perfect spot to settle for those looking to spot native wildlife, with possums, kangaroos and even stingrays calling the park home.

Image: Destination NSW

 

Day 4: Bendalong to Kangaroo Valley

Distance: 91km

Travel time: 1 hour

As the name suggests, Kangaroo Valley is one of New South Wales must-visit villages, known for its spectacular wilderness, historic bridge, tea rooms and pies. It is also a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, golf and wine tasting. Kayak or canoe along the Kangaroo River, drive less than 20km to Fitzroy Falls and Gerringong Falls or for a waterside picnic, visit Tallowa Dam – home to the largest fish lift of its kind in Australia.

Image: Destination NSW

 

Day 5: Kangaroo Valley to Canowindra

Distance: 343km

Travel time: 4 hours

Travel through time in Canowindra – known as ‘The Balloon Capital of Australia’ – and discover its old-world charm, gentle winds and open countryside. Witness the town from above on a hot air balloon tour or step into the shoes of a bushranger on Canowindra’s main street – Gaskill Street.

Image: Instagram - @mitchell.wick

 

Day 6: Canowindra to Carcoar

Distance: 54km

Travel time: 40 minutes

Known as ‘The Town Time Forgot’, Carcoar is one of Australia’s most charming and well-preserved historic towns. Located just off the Mid-Western Highway, spend hours wandering the streets and exploring the beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, walk up to the old railway station and tunnel and enjoy some crumbed cutlets or bangers and mash at the Royal Hotel Carcoar in the main street.

Image: Instagram - @mitchell.wick

 

Day 7: Carcoar to Apollo Sydney Branch 

Distance: 250km

Travel time: 3 hours 30 minutes

En route back to Sydney, stop at the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, home to the famous Three Sisters in Katoomba and appreciate the steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, waterfalls and villages.

Image: Destination NSW

 

 

 

Next Article Queensland | Brisbane to Bald Rock National Park Road Trip Itinerary
Print
13026 Rate this article:
No rating
days7
kms1,093
stops7
LabelField42
Field4Historic Towns
Please login or register to post comments.

Great savings on your NSW road trip

New South Wales offers a mosaic of dazzling coastal views and exquisite natural terrains. From the iconic beaches within Sydney's bustling centre to the serene heights of its alpine regions, discover the full splendour of this region and see how you can make your travel budget go further with our incredible deals. Check out the epic savings available for your NSW road trip. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked shores or mountainous adventures, these offers help ensure your Australia campervan holiday is both memorable and affordable.

RSS
12

Apollo NSW campervan branches

Sydney, a gateway to some of the most captivating NSW attractions, is also home to our Sydney Apollo campervan branch. Strategically located, it offers seamless access to iconic NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House, the Northern Beaches, and regional NSW gems. Apollo's Sydney branch is the perfect launchpad for your Australia campervan holiday, and our knowledgeable team is there to equip you with everything you need to explore urban wonders and serene landscapes at your own pace.

 

 

Helpful tips for visiting NSW

Are you excited to start planning your very own NSW Australia campervan holiday? Here are a few essential tips to consider when crafting your campervan itinerary, ranging from the best travel times and climate insights to packing essentials and must-see NSW attractions.

New South Wales boasts a climate as varied as its landscape, with coastal regions enjoying mild, breezy summers and crisp winters while the western plains see more extreme temperatures. All in all, the ideal times to visit are spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May), when the weather is most temperate, and the natural scenery is at its peak. Visiting outside the peak months means you won't have to navigate the hotter (and much busier) summers and cooler (and often rainy) winters. Travelling in the shoulder seasons also means fewer crowds and potentially lower costs for those looking to save a little on accommodation and NSW attractions.

Your packing list for an Australia campervan holiday in NSW should include versatile outdoor gear for sudden weather changes, sun protection like sunscreen and hats, and any campervan add-ons that enhance comfort, such as outdoor chairs (which are available from Apollo for hire). Don’t forget a good camera to capture the stunning views and any hiking or beach gear if you plan on heading out to explore NSW’s wild, remote regions. For more details on what to pack, check Apollo's summer campervan road trip essentials.

Wondering what to do in NSW? This state is booming with attractions, from natural beauties to man-made wonders. Here's a closer look at some must-visit things to do in NSW:

  • Sydney: As Australia's iconic face, Sydney is packed with must-see NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The city's vibrant culture and bustling nightlife are complemented by serene spaces like the Royal Botanic Gardens and bustling markets like The Rocks.
  • Taronga Zoo: This zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the globe and offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour. The zoo features daily animal shows, a sky safari gondola, and interactive encounters, making it a perfect day trip while exploring New South Wales.
  • Blue Mountains: Just a short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and lush eucalyptus forests. The region is perfect for hiking, with trails leading to stunning waterfalls and overlooks and the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
  • Hunter Valley: Renowned for its exquisite wineries and gourmet dining, Hunter Valley is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Explore vineyards, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy farm-to-table meals in picturesque vineyard settings.
  • Port Stephens: Known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, Port Stephens is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. From snorkelling and sailing to sandboarding on the dunes, it offers many outdoor activities.
  • Coffs Harbour: This coastal city is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and the Big Banana, one of Australia's original 'big things'. It's also a great spot for surfing, whale watching, and exploring the surrounding natural reserves.
  • Newcastle: A blend of old and new, Newcastle boasts a vibrant arts scene, historical architecture, and a strong surf culture. Its revitalised waterfront district offers trendy cafes, galleries, and parks.
  • Booderee National Park: Located at Jervis Bay, this national park is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and abundant wildlife. It's an excellent spot for camping, fishing, and bushwalking.
  • Kiama: Famous for the Kiama Blowhole, this charming seaside town offers scenic coastal walks and a laid-back atmosphere. The blowhole is a natural spectacle where seawater spouts high into the air from the rocks.
  • Port Macquarie: A historic town with a rich convict past, Port Macquarie has stunning coastal walks, beautiful beaches, and a koala hospital where visitors can learn about conservation.
  • Batemans Bay: Ideal for nature lovers, Batemans Bay is located at the entrance of the Clyde River and is surrounded by forests, estuaries, and national parks. It's popular for fishing, boating, and kayaking, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Sydney.

New South Wales offers a variety of campervan accommodation options, ranging from beachfront caravan parks to secluded free camping spots. For those looking to wake up to ocean views, there are plenty of stunning beachfront caravan parks in NSW that offer prime locations and amenities. Holiday parks in NSW are also for the whole family! Families can enjoy the comforts and activities at family-friendly campsites in NSW as well as family-friendly campgrounds in Sydney, while pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly campsites across NSW that welcome even the furriest members of the family. For those seeking a more rustic experience, NSW's free camping spots provide a perfect way to save a few pennies, all while connecting you with nature. Notable parks like South West Rocks Holiday Resort on the mid-north coast, Lake Mac Holiday Parks in Lake Macquarie, and Norah Head Holiday Park on the Central Coast offer excellent facilities and stunning natural surroundings, making them ideal bases for exploring the state in a campervan.

Terms Of UsePrivacy StatementCopyright 2024 by Apollo RV Holidays
Back To Top