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CITY VIEWS: Cockatoo Island, New South Wales

At a Glance
Cost From $++ (paid)
Location Cockatoo Island, Sydney Harbour, NSW
Pet Friendly No pets allowed
Campfires See Camps App
Facilities Waterfront campground, cafes, licensed venues, guided tours
Vehicle Access Ferry access only from Woolwich (park car, one-stop ferry trip)
In Camps App Yes – tent and glamping site


Waterfront camping area at Cockatoo Island with Sydney Harbour views
Cockatoo Island Waterfront Campground

We really loved our visit to one unusual camping destination: Cockatoo Island, Sydney, New South Wales.

Where else can you camp beside Sydney Harbour and the Harbour Bridge views? And an old convict jail? There was even a cool art exhibition when we visited.

Historic industrial buildings and harbour views at Cockatoo Island, Sydney

Surrounded by lush gardens with sweeping views, Cockatoo Island’s waterfront campground let’s you relax under the stars, in the heart of the world’s best harbour.

Sydney city skyline viewed from Cockatoo Island campground

Visitors can park at Woolwich and take a short one-stop ferry to the island. Instead of your RV, choose from five options, catering for a range of budgets, group sizes, and occasions. 

Heritage shipyard structures on Cockatoo Island with harbour backdrop

Cockatoo Island is a former convict penal establishment and naval shipyard managed by the Harbour Trust. Explore with a tour, it was excellent. 

Waterfront walkway and industrial architecture at Cockatoo Island, NSW
Panoramic Sydney Harbour view from Cockatoo Island shoreline

Visitors can enjoy waterfront cafes and picnic spots as well as guided history and paranormal tours, delving into the island’s layered history and discovering iconic landmarks.

Cockatoo Island is fascinating! When we were there, we explored the old naval shipyard and convict Mess Hall, Barracks, Guardhouse, Military Officers Quarters and Solitary Confinement Cells. Take a convict precinct tour. 

Historic convict-era buildings and structures on Cockatoo Island

Please note, alcohol is not permitted to be brought onto the island, but can be purchased at the two licensed venues.

Prices start at $++, no pets allowed. You can find this tent and glamping site in the CAMPS AUSTRALIA WIDE App

Sydney Opera House and city views from Cockatoo Island camping site

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Cockatoo Island campground?

Park your vehicle at Woolwich and take a short one-stop ferry to the island. Your RV won’t be needed as accommodation options are already on the island.

Can I bring my dog to Cockatoo Island?

No, pets are not allowed on Cockatoo Island.

What accommodation options are available on Cockatoo Island?

There are five accommodation options catering for different budgets, group sizes and occasions, including tent camping and glamping sites at the waterfront campground.

Can I bring my own alcohol to Cockatoo Island?

No, alcohol is not permitted to be brought onto the island, but it can be purchased at the two licensed venues on site.

What historical attractions can I explore on Cockatoo Island?

The island features a former convict penal establishment and naval shipyard with guided tours. You can explore the old naval shipyard, convict Mess Hall, Barracks, Guardhouse, Military Officers Quarters and Solitary Confinement Cells on a convict precinct tour.

Are there cafes and food options on Cockatoo Island?

Yes, visitors can enjoy waterfront cafes and picnic spots on the island.

What tours are available on Cockatoo Island?

Guided history and paranormal tours are available, delving into the island’s layered history and discovering iconic landmarks. The convict precinct tour is highly recommended.

What are the campfire rules at Cockatoo Island?

Check the Camps App for current details.

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