Ultimate Guide to Kangaroo Valley Camping: Best Campgrounds & Free Campsites
Kangaroo Valley, NSW, is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled among rolling hills, lush forests, and the sparkling Kangaroo River, it offers peaceful riverside spots, secluded wilderness hideaways, and family-friendly campgrounds. This guide will help you discover the best campgrounds, hidden gems, and free camping options in and around Kangaroo Valley, with practical tips for Kangaroo Valley Camping.
Best Campgrounds in Kangaroo Valley
From riverside escapes to fully equipped family-friendly sites, here are some of the top campgrounds in Kangaroo Valley.
Bendeela Recreation Area
Located on a bend of the Kangaroo River, Bendeela Recreation Area is a popular spot for families and water activity enthusiasts. Visitors can swim, canoe, and spot the local population of bare-nosed wombats. It’s also an excellent location for stargazing. While it’s not a free camping site, Bendeela offers affordable rates and a rustic, authentic outdoor experience.
Best for: Adventure-seekers and nature lovers looking for a riverside camping experience.
Address: Bendeela Road, Kangaroo Valley
Lake Yarrunga Campgrounds
This remote campsite can only be reached by canoe or kayak from Tallowa Dam, offering complete seclusion and a quiet natural environment. Campers must bring their own water, food, and equipment. Although it’s considered free camping, there is a small booking fee.
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy kayaking and off-grid camping.
Address: 1301 Nowra Rd, Fitzroy Falls
Acacia Flat
Nestled deep within Morton National Park, Acacia Flat offers a truly remote camping experience. Access is limited to canoe or kayak, providing a sense of wilderness isolation. Check the National Parks website before visiting, as the area may be closed due to fire danger or adverse weather.
Best for: Families and campers looking to completely disconnect from the city.
Address: Morton National Park
Carrington Falls Campground
Located in Budderoo National Park, Carrington Falls Campground offers stunning waterfall views and excellent hiking opportunities. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation amidst nature while still enjoying easy access to trails and picnic facilities.
Best for: Hikers and campers who want a mix of adventure and comfort.
Address: Budderoo National Park
Glenmack Park
Just a short walk from Kangaroo Valley village, Glenmack Park provides a variety of accommodation options, including cabins and powered/unpowered camping sites. Families will enjoy friendly animals like ponies and alpacas, as well as nearby canoeing opportunities on the Kangaroo River.
Best for: Families seeking a convenient and interactive camping experience.
Address: Kangaroo Valley Village
Holiday Haven Kangaroo Valley
This well-equipped holiday park offers a range of options from cabins to camping sites. It features amenities like children’s playgrounds, BBQ areas, and laundry facilities, making it perfect for families looking for a comfortable outdoor getaway.
Best for: Families who want a mix of nature and convenience.
Address: 5 Moss Vale Rd, Kangaroo Valley
Crystal Waters Eco Village
Crystal Waters Eco Village sits beside a peaceful river, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty and comfort. This eco-friendly campground caters to both traditional tent campers and those who prefer glamping, making it ideal for families, couples, or groups.
Guests can swim, kayak, and fish in the clear river waters or explore nearby hiking trails to spot local wildlife and learn about the native flora. With clean amenities like hot showers, flush toilets, and a camp kitchen with BBQ facilities, Crystal Waters combines convenience with a close-to-nature experience.
Best for: Families and nature enthusiasts looking for a comfortable, eco-friendly camping adventure.
Address: Lot 1 Crystal Waters, 65 Kilcoy Ln, Conondale QLD 4552
Tallowa Dam Campsite
Tallowa Dam Campsite offers a secluded, off-the-grid camping experience for those seeking true wilderness immersion. Located near the scenic Tallowa Dam, the campground is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and exploring the surrounding Morton National Park.
With unpowered sites and minimal facilities, this spot is ideal for experienced campers who enjoy rustic bush camping. Picnic tables and BBQ areas provide basic convenience, while the calm waters and walking trails create excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and nature photography.
Best for: Adventurous campers who want a quiet, natural setting away from the crowds.
Address: Tallong NSW 2579
Top Free Camping in and Around Kangaroo Valley
For budget-friendly or off-grid camping, Kangaroo Valley offers several free sites that immerse you in nature.
Yalwal Campground
Yalwal Campground is a versatile free camping site with facilities like toilets, BBQ areas, and a boat ramp nearby. It supports caravans, camper trailers, and cars, making it a great choice for families and anglers alike.
Best for: Families, fishing enthusiasts, and campers who enjoy easy access to facilities.
Address: Yalwal Road, Yalwal
Gale’s Flat
A quiet free campsite located along Griffins Fire Track, Gale’s Flat offers walking trails and phone reception for those who want a mix of adventure and convenience.
Best for: Hikers and campers looking for a peaceful forest retreat.
Address: Griffins Fire Track, Meryla
Gecko Camp
Set in the Wingello State Forest, Gecko Camp allows pets and offers 4WD access, walking trails, and good phone reception. It’s perfect for those wanting a flexible camping experience.
Best for: Campers with pets and 4WD enthusiasts.
Address: Spratts Road, Wingello
Toorooroo Campground
Located along Yalwal Road, Toorooroo is a free campsite featuring BBQ areas and fire pits. It’s part of the national park network, ideal for campers who enjoy classic bush camping.
Best for: Campers seeking a rustic experience with minimal facilities.
Address: Yalwal Road, Buangla
Grasspit Meryla
Grasspit offers a remote forest experience for 4WD campers and walking enthusiasts. Fires are allowed, and there’s good phone reception, making it suitable for those seeking a balance of adventure and safety.
Best for: 4WD adventurers and forest explorers.
Address: 52 Meryla Rd, Meryla
Sandy Creek
A simple, free campsite in the Meryla State Forest, Sandy Creek is accessible via 4WD trails and perfect for those wanting a completely off-grid experience.
Best for: Experienced campers and 4WD enthusiasts.
Address: LMeryla Rd, Meryla
Little Rach’s Clearing
Located along Penrose Forest Way, Little Rach’s Clearing supports fires, pets, and walking trails. Phone reception is available, making it a flexible choice for solo or family campers.
Best for: Families, solo campers, and pet owners.
Address: Penrose Forest Way, Penrose
Camping Essentials & Tips for Kangaroo Valley
To make the most of your Kangaroo Valley camping experience, being well-prepared is key. Bring a sturdy tent, sleeping gear, cooking equipment, food and water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and clothing suitable for both warm days and cool nights.
When camping in Kangaroo Valley, a reliable portable power station is essential for keeping devices charged, running small appliances, or even boiling water on the go.
The EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max Portable Power Station is the perfect companion with its 512Wh capacity and 500W output, enough to run 80% of camping essentials like a travel kettle or lights. Thanks to its 1000W X-Boost, it handles higher-demand devices with ease, and the fastest 1-hour recharge ensures you’re quickly powered up between adventures. A compact, dependable choice for both families and solo campers.
EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max Portable Power Station
Whether camping solo or with family, keep these tips in mind:
Plan ahead: Check if your chosen campsite is open and whether bookings are required.
Respect wildlife: Observe animals like wombats from a safe distance and avoid feeding them.
Fire safety: Only light fires in designated areas and follow local regulations.
Stay hydrated: Bring enough drinking water, especially for off-grid locations.
Leave no trace: Keep the environment clean and dispose of waste responsibly.
Stay connected: For solo camping, inform someone of your plans and carry a first-aid kit and a reliable power source for emergencies.
Conclusion
Kangaroo Valley is a true haven for campers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Its mix of rivers, forests, and rolling hills creates the perfect backdrop for a memorable outdoor experience. Whether you’re after a quiet escape or a family-friendly getaway, the valley’s diverse Kangaroo Valley Camping options ensure everyone can enjoy nature at its best.
Plan your trip, embrace the outdoors, and let Kangaroo Valley’s natural beauty make your camping adventure unforgettable.
FAQs
What is the golden rule of camping?
The golden rule of camping is to “leave no trace.” This means respecting nature by cleaning up all waste, avoiding damage to plants and wildlife, and minimizing your impact on the environment. Camp responsibly, follow campsite rules, and ensure that others can enjoy the outdoors as much as you do. Being considerate helps preserve natural spaces for future campers.
Is Kangaroo Valley worth it?
Absolutely! Kangaroo Valley is worth visiting for its stunning scenery, rivers, and lush forests. It’s perfect for hiking, kayaking, wildlife spotting, or simply relaxing in nature. With a variety of campgrounds and free camping spots, it offers something for everyone. Whether you want adventure or a peaceful escape, Kangaroo Valley delivers a memorable and immersive outdoor experience.
What is the best Route to Kangaroo Valley?
The best way to reach Kangaroo Valley is by car, with routes varying by starting point:
From Sydney: Around 2 hours (150–160 km). Most travellers take the motorway south, then the scenic B73/Moss Vale Road via Bowral and Fitzroy Falls.
From Canberra: About 2–2.5 hours via the Hume and Illawarra Highways, descending into the valley past Fitzroy Falls.
From Wollongong/Illawarra: Roughly 1–1.5 hours, with mountain passes offering dramatic views before reaching the valley.
Tip: Always check road conditions, as Moss Vale Road and Kangaroo Valley Road can face closures or delays from landslips and repair works. Use Live Traffic NSW for updates.