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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. 

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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.

Queensland | Brisbane to Yeppoon Road Trip Itinerary

Queensland | Brisbane to Yeppoon Road Trip Itinerary

Discover the path less travelled on your 10 day Brisbane to Tropic of Capricorn Queensland road trip.

Day 1: Brisbane Apollo Branch to Miriam Vale Star Roadhouse

Distance: 477 km

Travel time: 5 hours 30 minutes

Located 470 km north of Brisbane and 170 km south of Rockhampton, Miriam Vale Star Roadhouse is an ideal stopping point to relax after a long day of driving and grab a roadhouse style meal.

 

Day 2: Miriam Vale Star Roadhouse to Byfield National Park

Distance: 251 km

Travel time: 3 hours

Make the most of the drive to Byfield National Park, stopping along the way for a photo at The Tropic of Capricorn Spire in Rockhampton and picking up groceries from the supermarket in Yeppoon.

 

Day 3: Byfield National Park

Byfield National Park is a beautiful blend of rugged mountain ranges, large sand dunes, remote beaches and campgrounds, pine plantations and rainforest fringed creeks. Whether campers want to four-wheel drive, hike, fish or walk for miles on a secluded beach, the choice of activities here are endless. 

 

Day 4: Byfield National Park to Yeppoon

Distance: 43 km

Travel time: 36 minutes

Yeppoon is the spectacular beachside accommodation hub for the region and is known as the Heart of the Capricorn Coast. Yeppoon is the ideal location for a travelling family to entertain the entire tribe. With a multitude of free activities, including the Keppel Kracken water park and Yeppoon Lagoon, these fantastic foreshore play areas offer year-round swimming, with first class restaurants and cafes to keep all campers satisfied.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 5: Yeppoon to Pumpkin Island

Travel time: 45 minutes

A visit to this region would not be complete without some island hopping to make the most of the accessibility to the Great Barrier Reef. Pumpkin Island is Australia’s best kept secret. Powered completely by the sun and wind, this ultimate island getaway has been recognised and awarded the Best Sustainable Hotel in the southern hemisphere. Covering just six hectares of natural environment, the seven self-catering beach cottages nestled along the water’s edge offer a complete unwind for couples, families or larger groups who want to hire the entire island.

Tip: The Keppel Bay Marina in Yeppoon offers secure parking options for a very affordable price

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 6: Yeppoon to Great Keppel Island

Travel time: 30 minutes

Great Keppel Island is a short 30-minute ferry ride from the Yeppoon marina and boasts 17 of Australia’s most outstanding secluded white sand beaches. With varying accommodation options on the island, The Holiday Village offers self-catered ‘Budget Boutique’ glamping tents, and three-bedroom villas. Activities range from island hiking trails, fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving, or lazing under palm trees in a hammock for the day.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 7: Yeppoon to Kinka Beach

Distance: 15.8 km

Travel time: 15 minutes

Ideal for an affordable family getaway, Kinka Beach showcases wide open beaches, easy swimming for all ages and never-ending water adventure. Take the kids fishing and crabbing or explore the lake by boat, catamaran, kayak, paddle board or canoe.

 

Day 8: Kinka Beach to Burrum Heads

Distance: 411 km

Travel time: 5 hours

Making the journey through Burrem Heads, campers will discover great swimming, fishing and camping spots on the Burrem River. Go fishing in a local favourite, Lake Lenthall or enjoy a picnic by the Wongi Waterholes.

 

Day 9: Trinity Islands to Sandstone Point

Distance: 255 km

Travel time: 3 hours

Nestled in the Pumicestone Passage, Sandstone Point is a great gateway to the Moreton Bay region, with Bribie Island situated just across the bridge. Explore Bribie’s beaches by RV, leisurely drive through the nearby Glass House Mountains or take a short 30-minute drive to the iconic Australia Zoo.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 10: Sandstone Point to Brisbane

Distance: 60 km

Travel time: 45 hours

After enjoying all the amazing facilities at BIG4 Sandstone Point Holiday Resort, pack up your motorhome and head back to Apollo's Brisbane branch

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Where to stay

Island View Caravan Park, Kinka Beach

Trinity Islands Holiday Park, Burrem Heads

Miriam Vale Star Roadhouse, Miriam Vale

Sandstone Point Holiday Resort, Sandstone Point

 

 

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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.

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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.

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