Winter is approaching, which means the NSW hiking season is heating up. Keen to get amongst it? We spoke with outdoors expert Nick Baker (CEO of Reflections Holidays) to get his tips on the best camping sites close to hikes – so you can stay under the stars and then spend a day getting in those steps.
These are the best 10 hikes in NSW close to campgrounds
- Hume and Hovell Track
Campground: Reflections Wee Jasper, NSW
Located around 50km from the track’s starting point in Yass, Reflections Burrinjuck Waters makes an ideal rest stop on the legendary Hume and Hovell Track. Hikers can wind through Burrinjuck Nature Reserve and enjoy the serenity of the lake, local wildlife and even a relaxing cruise across Burrinjuck Dam. A boat transfer from the park can take hikers to nearby Reflections Wee Jasper and Carey’s Cave, making it a key point along the trail’s 440km length.
- Yuraygir Coastal Walk
Campground: Brooms Head Holiday Park, Yamba
Set in the laid-back coastal town of Yamba, the 65km Yuraygir Coastal Walk is a must for lovers of coastal hikes. The track follows the coastline from Angourie to Red Rock, cutting through headlands, rock platforms and sweeping ocean views. Camp at Brooms Head Holiday Park or other national park campgrounds along the route for a multi-day wilderness adventure by the sea.
- Minyon Falls Track, Nightcap National Park
Campground: Reflections Brunswick Heads
Just a short drive from Byron Bay and Lennox Head, Nightcap National Park offers one of the region’s most-loved hikes, the Minyon Falls walking track. Wander through dense rainforest filled with birdsong, ferns and towering palms before reaching the spectacular 100-metre Minyon Falls. Afterwards, cool off with a swim in the river at Reflections Brunswick Heads, where you can camp or stay in a cabin.
- Green Patch to Bristol Point Loop Walk
Campground: Green Patch Campground, Jervis Bay
This short but rewarding 1km walk begins at Green Patch car park, right beside a family-friendly campground complete with hot showers, BBQs and both walk-in and drive-in sites. Wait for low tide and set off across the rock platform via a small bridge on the eastern side of the Green Patch picnic area. Follow the trail past a secluded beach, before winding through coastal forest to the Bristol Point picnic area.
- Glenbrook Gorge and Red Hands Cave Track
Campground: Euroka Campground, Blue Mountains National Park
This scenic 3.5km loop winds through Glenbrook Gorge, past eucalyptus forest and sandstone cliffs before arriving at Red Hands Cave, a sacred Aboriginal site featuring pieces believed to be more than 500 years old. Euroka Campground is nearby, offering fire pits, toilets and plenty of space to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Cave Creek Falls Track
Campground: Blue Waterholes Campground, Kosciuszko National Park
Tucked away in the northern wilderness of Kosciuszko National Park, the Cave Creek Falls Track is a serene 2.5km return hike that rewards with turquoise pools, limestone cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Base yourself at the nearby Blue Waterholes Campground – a peaceful and remote site with basic facilities, so don’t forget to bring your own water and firewood.
- The Castle Walk
Campground: Yadboro Flat Campground, Morton National Park
This 14km return hike is one of NSW’s most popular, offering sweeping views and dramatic cliffs as you ascend through rugged terrain to the imposing “Castle” rock formation. It’s a tough walk suited to experienced hikers, but well worth the effort. Yadboro Flat Campground is a quiet, no-frills site nearby where you can enjoy the sounds of the forest after a big day on the trail.
- Coastal Walk and Trial Bay Gaol Ruins
Campground: Trial Bay Gaol Campground, Arakoon National Park
This scenic 1.6km loop offers more than just ocean views, it also takes you through the eerie and fascinating ruins of a 19th-century prison. The walk is easy and family-friendly, weaving past dramatic cliffs, sandy coves and sweeping beaches. Stay at the beachfront campground below the ruins, which has showers, BBQs and picnic areas.
- Solitary Islands Coastal Walk
Campground Options: Red Rock, Woolgoolga, Reflections Moonee Beach, Sawtell
Stretching along the spectacular Coffs Coast, this 60km coastal track links rainforest, headlands and endless beaches. Begin at Coffs Coast Regional Park and journey past Moonee Beach, Muttonbird Island and more, finishing in the charming town of Sawtell. There are plenty of places to camp along the way, making this the perfect multi-day coastal escape.
- Jerusalem Creek Walk, Esk NSW
Campground: Mibanbah Black Rocks campground
Just 30 minutes south of Evans Head, this 10km loop winds through forest and wetland before reaching a picnic area overlooking peaceful Jerusalem Creek. Go in the late afternoon for beautiful views of the sun setting over the lagoon, or bring your paddle board and explore the waterway. The Mibanbah Black Rocks Campground is set behind the dunes, so you can fall asleep to the gentle sound of the ocean.
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