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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. 

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

The best family-friendly campsites and holiday parks in NSW

To help you create a fun, family-friendly road trip itinerary planner, we’ve researched 10 of the best campsites in NSW.

Is NSW a good place for families to visit?

Family campervan holidays are all about spending quality time together, enjoying new experiences, and making happy memories. And NSW is the perfect place to do exactly that. With its beautiful beaches, magnificent national parks, and fun family attractions, there’s something unique to offer families with children of all ages and stages. Spend one day watching the kids build sandcastles and learning to surf. Spend the next day discovering museums, zoos, and theme parks. If the kids are keen to meet some furry or finned friends, NSW has plenty on offer. From wildlife sanctuaries and farm tours to marine parks and rescue centres, they’ll have loads of opportunities to learn about our unique wildlife.  

 

Why families should explore NSW in a campervan

A family holiday should be about fun, freedom, and relaxation – for parents as well as the kids! Travelling by campervan offers all that and more. And with so many great things to do in NSW, it makes for the ideal family destination. Here are just some of the great benefits of a family campervan holiday:

  • The kids can enjoy the comfort of sleeping in their ‘own’ bed each night. They can even bring their favourite pillows, blankets, and toys. And any time they need a nap, their bed is ready and waiting. 

  • Wherever you go, your kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom facilities go along with you. That means you won’t have the hassle of finding public restrooms, booking motels, or finding somewhere to eat out. And when you’re travelling as a family, that’s a big benefit!

  • There’s plenty of room for all the kids' camping supplies. And best of all, no need to pack and unpack as you move between destinations. 

  • You can bring the family dog with you! Holidays just aren’t the same without your best furry friend. But with Apollo campers, dogs are welcome!

  • You can be spontaneous. Explore NSW’s off-the-beaten-track roads, take a diversion to somewhere new, stay longer in places you love. There’s no strict schedule to worry about when you explore Australia by campervan

  • It’s easier to keep your budget in check. Apollo campervans offer an economical way to have a family holiday. You can cook your own meals, and not worry about expensive accommodation. 

  • NSW is a fantastic, family-friendly destination with some awesome holiday parks and campsites. Let’s take a look at some of the best:

 

Best family-friendly campsites and holiday parks in NSW

 

Seal Rocks Caravan & Holiday Park

Nestled between lush green forest and the aptly named Number One beach, Seal Rocks Caravan & Holiday Park is the perfect spot to park up the campervan and relax. The adventure playground has loads of space for kids to run, play, and make new friends. During school holidays, the holiday park organises exciting activities to keep kids entertained. The park provides excellent facilities, including a barbecue area where families can gather and enjoy the relaxed holiday vibe. Spend the morning surfing, try your luck fishing on the beach, or take the family for a hike to Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse.

 

BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park

If Kiama features on your travel planner, be sure to book in a stay at the BIG4 Easts Beach holiday park. A stay at Easts Beach Holiday Park is a holiday in itself! This 35-acre park is just minutes from the centre of Kiama. You’ll feel a million miles away though, as the park sits within a picturesque green valley backdropped by mountains and leading down to the golden sands of Easts Beach. The kids will be kept busy all day long on the crazy cool Aquaventure Park and in the resort pool. If they’ve still got energy to burn, send them off to play on the Spooky Rooky playground or enrol them in the Krazy Kids Club. And when you need a good coffee or fancy an ice cream, pop into the onsite Breakaway Café. 

 

Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park

Just a few hours’ drive from Sydney, Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park is a fantastic destination for families seeking a fun-filled holiday. Grab the sunscreen and send the kids off to splash and play in the swimming pool and waterslide. Fancy a fun game of golf? Enjoy a friendly family challenge on the mini golf course. Take some time out from the NSW sunshine in the games room. You’ll find a pool, air hockey, foosball, and arcade games – plenty to keep everyone busy. For a cosy night in, make some popcorn and head to the indoor cinema to watch a family-friendly movie together. Keen to explore the local area? There’s plenty nearby to see and do. A bucket-list experience for motorsport enthusiasts, the Mount Panorama racing circuit is a must-see. Bathurst itself is a vibrant city with lots on offer including charming shops, delicious foodie outlets, and historic sites. And if the family pooch loves to join in on your adventures, bring them along. The Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park is dog-friendly! 

 

Ingenia Holiday Parks, Lake Macquarie

Located just footsteps from the water’s edge, BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Lake Macquarie is tucked away on the tranquil southern shores of Lake Macquarie. Park up your campervan rental, pour a glass of wine, and get ready to relax! The kids will have a blast on the jumping cushion or splashing in the swimming pool. Bring along the family dog too, this holiday park is dog-friendly. Make the most of the great location and spend time exploring the lake, walking the nearby trails, or simply kicking back and enjoying some well-earned R&R.

 

Reflections Copeton Waters Holiday Park

If your family loves fishing, Copeton Waters Holiday Park provides the perfect spot to hook a big one. Copeton is a freshwater fishing mecca, so bring along your rods (or pick up some gear from the local shops) and see if the kids can catch a fish for dinner. There’s loads more fun to be had on the water too with a boat ramp providing easy access to the sparkling waters of Copeton Dam. The kids can have a go at kayaking or even learn to jet-ski. If that’s not enough to tire them out, there’s also a BMX track, mountain bike trails, tennis courts, and three playgrounds!

 

Dubbo Holiday Park

Planning an adventure in Dubbo? Be sure to book into Dubbo Holiday Park, just 2 km from the central city. Take the family to visit the nearby Taronga Western Plains Zoo where you can meet giraffes, rhinos, elephants, and big cats. History buffs will be captivated by the Old Dubbo Gaol, a 19th-century prison which offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. For something a little different, visit the Royal Flying Doctor Outback Heritage Experience to learn about their life-saving work. And don't forget to stargaze at the Dubbo Observatory, where the wonders of the universe come alive. There’s plenty to do without leaving the park too. The jumping pillow and playground are guaranteed to tire out the most energetic of kids! 

 

BIG4 Narooma Easts Holiday Park

Located on the edge of the pristine waters of Wagonga Inlet, Narooma Easts Holiday Park is the perfect campsite for a family getaway. The park offers an array of fantastic facilities that will keep everyone entertained. The kids will have a ball splashing around in the indoor heated splash park regardless of the weather outside. For a taste of luxury, the resort-style pool provides a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun followed by a refreshing swim. The jumping pillow is always popular with the kids, while mum and dad can enjoy a competitive game out on the tennis courts. When it comes to nearby attractions, Narooma has plenty to offer. Don’t miss the opportunity for a photo of the imposing Glasshouse Rocks on Surf Beach. For a truly special family experience, book a whale-watching tour (best between September and November). 

 

NRMA Forster Tuncurry Holiday Park

Make the most of the magic of the Mid-North Coast with a stay at NRMA Forster Tuncurry Holiday Park. Sitting in prime position on the shores of a sparkling coastal estuary, this fantastic family campground is surrounded by natural wonders. Enjoy a family dinner on the beach and watch the incredible sunsets. Head out on the water for a spot of fishing or book a cruise on the lake to meet some of the local wildlife. The kids will never be short of things to do with a school holiday activity schedule, a splash zone and water play area. Make new friends and enjoy some entertainment with the weekly hosted events. In the mood for a pizza night? Head to Pezzella’s Pizza and indulge in pizza, pasta, and all things deliciously Italian. 

 

Image: Destination NSW

 

Ready for a family trip to NSW?

As you can see, New South Wales has some seriously awesome campsites and holiday parks for families. Now that you’ve got a list of great places to stay, it’s time to plan your ultimate NSW road trip itinerary! Take the first step and book your Apollo campervan online and then pick it up from our Sydney branch.

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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.

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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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