🇦🇺 Why Free Camping in NSW is Aussie-Life Gold
No fees, no crowds, and all the coastal beauty you can handle? That’s the essence of free camping NSW. Perfect for van life camping fans chasing the ultimate coastal escape—worth its weight in joy, not dollars.
From wombat‑filled riverbanks to Aussie surf beaches, here are seven epic spots along New South Wales' coastline where you can park up for free and soak in the scenery.
🏕️ 1. Bendeela Recreation Area (Kangaroo Valley)
Set beside the Kangaroo River, this lush, grassy area offers free camping (plus a $6 booking admin fee) in a friendly, social vibe. Wombats wander at dusk—bring your camera! Clean toilets, gas BBQs, and kayaking make it a chilled van life favourite. 100% free camping, ideal for families and groups.
🌲 2. Olney & Ourimbah State Forests (Central Coast region)
Just a couple of hours north of Sydney, these forests offer legal, wild camping on Crown land. Minimal facilities, but tons of privacy among the tall trees—perfect for vanlifers ready to unplug.
🏖️ 3. Samurai Beach Campground (Port Stephens)
Found in Worimi Conservation Lands near Stockton Beach, this free 4WD-friendly campsite sits beside stunning dunes and crystal-clear surf. A peaceful spot away from crowds—just register and roll in.
🌊 4. Little Island Camp (Batemans Bay area)
This Crown land gem offers free camping with fishing, swimming, and even basic phone signal. Minimal frills—maximum relaxation. A dip in the water here feels like hitting the reset button.
🍂 5. Bermagui & Currowan State Forests (South Coast)
These forests by Batemans Bay include hidden campsites like Guulabaa and Currowan—surrounded by bushland and native wildlife. No crowds, no fees, just forest tranquillity on the NSW South Coast.
🌅 6. Yuraygir Coastal National Park (North Coast)
On the Yuraygir walk from Angourie to Red Rock, you can pitch up at basic camping zones like Wooli, Brooms Head, or Minnie Water. Beach breezes, whale sightings, and sunset views define this coastal journey.
🌾 7. Smoky Cape / Arakoon National Park (Near South West Rocks)
Found near Crescent Head, these parks offer quiet bush or beach camping. Kangaroos roam, rugged coastlines stretch wide, and the ocean soundtrack lulls you off to sleep. A real Aussie experience.
✅ Tips Before You Head Off:
- Always check booking requirements or permits—some sites ask for a $6 admin fee or free registration.
- Stick to allowed camping zones (state forests, Crown land, conservation areas). Don’t bush camp in restricted national park zones.
- Bring your essentials: water, toilet supplies, rubbish bags—facilities may be limited.
- Respect fire bans, wildlife, and leave no trace. It keeps the experience awesome for the next traveller.