Free Camping Near Sydney: The Ultimate Guide
Ever wanted to escape the hustle of the city without paying camping fees? There are some incredible nature escapes near Sydney where you can pitch your tent, set up your camper or van, or just soak in the fresh air… and it won’t cost you a cent. Below are the highest rated free camping spots within 2-3 hours’ drive of Sydney, plus info on facilities and what to do there:
1. Cathedral Reserve, Mount Wilson
Easy to get to, one of the most popular free campsites in the Sydney region, located in the beautiful village of Mount Wilson 2 hours away. Good for tents, campers and caravans, basic facilities, located in a big patch of forest with walking tracks.
Distance from Sydney CBD: 124 km (~2 hours)
Facilities: Toilets, BBQ facilities, picnic tables
Things to do: Bushwalking, village gardens, lookouts, birdwatching
2. St Albans Reserve, Hawkesbury
Quiet camping beside the historic St Albans village and the Macdonald River. A haven for those looking for some nature and a bit of local character too.
Distance from Sydney CBD: 95 km (~2 hours)
Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, BBQ facilities, kids’ play park
Things to do: Riverside camping, historic pub next door, swimming, fishing, cultural events
3. Burralow Creek Campground, Blue Mountains
Beautiful bush camp located in the Blue Mountains National Park, not far from Katoomba. Popular for bushwalks, spotting local wildlife, and especially the nighttime walk to see glow worms in their tunnel.
Distance from Sydney CBD: 84 km (~2 hours)
Facilities: Toilets, BBQ facilities, fire pits, suitable for tents and camper trailers
Things to do: Bushwalking, hiking to waterfalls, wildlife, glow worm tunnel
4. Wheeny Creek, Kurrajong
Creek-side spot for a quiet weekend away, loved for family camping, swimming, and escaping into the wilderness. Easy to access, close to shops for supplies, has picnic areas.
Distance from Sydney CBD: ~ 2 hours
Facilities: Toilets, fire pits, sites for caravans and camper trailers
Things to do: Creek swimming, picnic, walking track, easy to access, dog friendly
5. Colo Meroo, Colo River
Situated on a bend in the Colo River in a patch of national parkland. Lovely for swimming, relaxing and really getting into nature.
Distance from Sydney CBD: ~ 2 hours
Facilities: Toilets, campsites allocated with fire pits
Things to do: Swimming in the river, hiking, exploring nearby wilderness
6. Gentlemans Halt, Hawkesbury Area
Wild and a bit more adventurous, this one is not for everyone as you need to hike or kayak in. Offers a spot of solitude for the hardier camper, and amazing views of the river.
Distance from Sydney CBD: Just over 2 hours (with hike or paddle in)
Facilities: Toilets, fire pits, basic picnic facilities
Things to do: Remote, great river views, hiking, fishing, swimming
7. Badgery’s Lookout, Tallong
For wide-open views and isolation, head to Badgery’s Lookout (south of Sydney, near Goulburn) for a peaceful dose of bush and amazing views off an escarpment.
Distance from Sydney CBD: About 2 hours
Facilities: Drop toilets, picnic tables, fire places
Things to do: Lookout views, walking tracks, more peaceful and uncrowded spot
Summary Table
| Site Name | Travel Time | Amenities | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cathedral Reserve | 2 hrs | Toilets, BBQs, tables | Lush forest walks, gardens |
| St Albans Reserve | 2 hrs | Toilets, tables, BBQs | Riverside, historic pub |
| Burralow Creek | 2 hrs | Toilets, BBQs, fire pits | Glow worms, bushwalking |
| Wheeny Creek | 2 hrs | Toilets, fire pits | Creek swim, easy car access |
| Colo Meroo | 2 hrs | Toilets, fire pits | River swim, wilderness hiking |
| Gentlemans Halt | 2+ hrs | Toilets, fire pits | Hike-in, river views, fishing |
| Badgery’s Lookout | 2 hrs | Drop toilets, tables | Escarpment views, peaceful bush camping |
Free Camping Near Sydney: Key Tips
- Get there early on weekends and public holidays to get a spot
- Respect the rules: many sites are ‘leave no trace’ or take your rubbish with you
- Seasonal fire restrictions: Check current weather conditions (e.g., NSW Rural Fire Service website) before lighting campfires, as total fire bans can be implemented.
- Amenities are basic: Be prepared to be self-sufficient with water and food. Rainwater tanks at some sites may not be suitable for drinking.
- Pets and Wildlife: Store your food away to avoid attracting animals to your site. Pets are allowed at some state forest and council-run sites but generally not in National Parks. Always check specific site rules regarding pets.
FAQs
1. Can I camp for free in Greater Sydney?
In urban areas around Greater Sydney, there are very few (if any) legal free camping spots because of local council by-laws. Further afield in the bush and riverside areas, there are several spots within 1.5-2 hours’ drive of Sydney, primarily in State Forests or council-managed reserves.
2. Do I need to book these free campsites?
While many free campsites are first-come, first-served, some, especially those within National Parks (even if listed as “free” but requiring a small booking fee), may require you to book online or check in at a kiosk. It’s important to check the specific National Parks or council website in advance, especially if you’re looking at a peak period.
3. Are campfires allowed at these free campsites?
You can have fires at most free campsites in pits or rings provided, but there are strict seasonal weather/fire restrictions (Total Fire Bans) that prohibit all open fires. Always double-check the NSW Rural Fire Service website or local park alerts before you set up camp. Collecting firewood from the park is generally not permitted, so bring your own or use gas appliances.
4. Are pets allowed at free campsites near Sydney?
Pets are welcome at some of the sites, for example, the St Albans Reserve near Windsor, and generally in NSW State Forests. However, dogs are typically NOT allowed in NSW National Parks. Always look out for signage when you arrive or check with local authorities first.
5. Are these free camping spots near Sydney good for caravans or campervans?
Most sites in the list are good for tents and camper trailers, and some can accommodate caravans or campervans. However, it’s best to check the access roads and on-site parking restrictions for each specific location, as some may have narrow or unsealed access, and turning circles might be limited for larger vehicles. Gentlemans Halt, for instance, requires a hike or kayak in.
Pack your tent and bug-out gear, follow the Leave No Trace principles, and enjoy Sydney’s free-camping bush havens!
Can’t wait to hear about your adventures and free camping spots in the comments below. Help fellow campers uncover nature’s hidden gems too.
Click here to find out more
- Cathedral Ferns Reserve: Top 5 Bush Camp Spots near Sydney
- The Top 7 NSW National Park Campsites for Camping on a Shoestring
- Shoestring Camping: The Ultimate NSW State Forests Adventure Guide
- 10 Best Value Camping Spots in Greater Sydney
