Free Camping Sites On The South Coast NSW
We’re pretty lucky to have some of the most amazing landscapes at our doorsteps in Australia. Thankfully, exploring our stunning coastlines, tranquil national parks and gorgeous lakes, rivers and mountainsides doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult.
We’ve rounded up some of the best free camping sites on the South Coast, New South Wales that allow you to get in touch with nature and enjoy a relaxing weekend away, or longer.
All that’s left to do is pack your tent and camping gear into a GoGet and hit the road.
Before You Leave For The South Coast
Pack smartly – When you’re staying at free camping spots, you’ll need to pack your GoGet pretty strategically to make sure you have everything you need. Beach gear is essential on the south coast but don’t forget something warm if the weather changes at night. Cooking pots, pans, utensils and plates, bowls and cutlery to eat your dinner with will need to go into the car as well. If you’re looking for a more detailed list, there’s a great checklist here.
Check for fire bans – Fire warnings change daily in high-risk areas so it pays to be aware of the current rules so you don’t risk a fine, or worse, a fire getting out of control. You can find up-to-date information on the Rural Fire Service’s website here.
Party like your grandma’s next door – You’ll find such a wide range of people at free camping sites in NSW from young groups to families and retirees, so loud music until the early hours of the morning and clinking beer bottles won’t keep your neighbours happy. Be respectful and wary of those around you.
Leave nothing but footprints – Protecting our environment is paramount and with hundreds of people visiting the South Coast’s best free camping spots every year, it can make a big impact. Be sure to take all of your rubbish with you, try your best to cause no disruption to the space around you and always use ecologically friendly soaps, dishwashing liquids and personal care products.
Free Camping Sites On The South Coast
Sunburnt Beach Free Camping Ground
Facilities: You’ll find picnic tables, toilets and a carpark at the Sunburnt Beach camp ground that serves ten sites separated by logs and fences for a little privacy. There’s no power supplied so it’s best for those who are ready to go back to basics.
Nearby: It’s just a short walk to the nearest beach where you can try our hand at fishing or take a drive in to Tabourie, the closest township to the site at approx. 3km away, or Ulladulla is a 14km drive.
Meroo Head Campground
Facilities: There are 25 free campsites located at the beachside grounds of Meroo Head Campground that have access to toilets, picnic tables and a carpark that’s a short walk from the sites. There’s no power here but camp fires are permitted when there are no fire bans in place.
Nearby: This free campsite is just a short walk to a pristine beach where you can swim, snorkel, surf and whale watch. You’ll also find some great mountain bike trails around the area. Tabourie is the closest spot to pick up supplies or Ulladulla, just 14km away, offers plenty of exciting holiday activities.
Bendeela Recreation Area
Facilities: Bendeela boasts wide open spaces on the banks of the Kangaroo River. This free spot to camp is right near Lake Yarrunga where you can canoe, swim, sail or fish and the site itself has toilets, parking spots and clean drinking water. You aren’t allowed open fires however gas barbeques are permitted.
Nearby: There are some great spots just a short drive from the Bendeela area including Tallowa Dam, Fitzroy Falls Reservoir, and Morton National Park. Kangaroo Valley is also close by car where there are plenty of great local producers and historical sites.
Red Gum Campground
Facilities: A free riverside campsite, the Red Gum Campground is small, intimate and private with only a handful of spots available. You’ll also find toilets and barbeque facilities, plus you can park your car right next to the spot you pitch your tent.
Nearby: The site is just a short drive south of Batemans Bay so there is plenty to see and do nearby. You can swim, fish or paddle on the tranquil river or take a walk into a nearby national park to enjoy the serenity behind all of the hustle and bustle of the nearby coastline.
With GoGet you have the power of choice, so you can choose the vehicle that’s right for you trip. Whether it’s a small and convenient car to zip down the coast, or you need a van to fit your surfboards while jumping from one free campsite to another, we’ve got it all. Check out your options here.