| At a Glance | |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free to budget (donations and pub stays) |
| Location | Pacific Coast between Sydney and Brisbane, NSW |
| Pet Friendly | Yes (most sites mentioned) |
| Facilities | Varies by site – most have toilets |
| Vehicle Access | Self contained vehicles required at most sites |
| In Camps App | Yes – search using $ symbol for free camps |
One of the frequent queries we receive is why aren’t there free camps along the Pacific Highway?
Historically, the rest areas allowed free overnight stays. However, as travellers abused the 24 hour limit, with locations so close to beautiful beaches and towns… the government cracked down what was allowed.
You will notice that listings were deliberately kept in the CAMPS book, so travellers could have a spot to rest overnight (not necessarily “camp”).
Some of these regions were trialing an RV stopover at the rest areas – we felt it was important to provide options along the Pacific coast where sometimes the only alternative was caravan park (outside the $ limit so not included in the Camps book).
These listings generally have a note to obey signage or check signs. You can also read the explanation of a Rest Area on Page 12 of your CAMPS 12 guide.
If a site has been removed, it is generally because an authority has advised us they are closed for “camping”, sometimes an Indigenous corporation. Alternatively, if the rest area is now day use only – you will find them in the CAMPS App.
However, if you are looking to camp between Sydney and Brisbane, we can share some places mid-way on the Pacific Coast that are lower priced (south to north):
Bulahdelah Golf Club
Donation site, pet friendly for self contained vehicles. Plus, it is right on the highway – great for golf lovers. (Like this golf club route in Queensland!)
Bulahdelah Showgrounds have also reopened and there are other options for camping.
Coopernook Hotel (near Taree)
Buy your dinner and drinks to stay the night at lovely Coopernook Hotel. It is very close to the highway, opposite the river, and we definitely recommend. Toilets are now open 24 hrs, but they do specify self contained RVs.
Johns River Tavern and Cafe
Free for patrons, pet friendly. Only for self contained vehicles.
Kew
This town has a pub stay for self contained vehicles and a donation site with facilities. Both are 24 hours and pet friendly.
Macleay River Hotel, Frederickton
Riverside, you can park up to 48 hours behind the pub on the grass. Free for patrons and pet friendly. There is a park next door with toilet and playground, too.
Macksville RV Parks
With four small, but FREE and pet friendly, RV stops (two on the Nambucca River) and close to town, we think Macksville is a terrific stop off! Access is excellent with north and south bypass roads – they are close to the Pacific Highway. They are for self contained vehicles, however, most have toilets.
Burdett Park and Roses Park
Located near Bellingen – these sites are well off the highway, up the hill. Bellingen is a beautiful area with two donation camps located between it and Dorrigo, on the popular Waterfall Way.
Maclean Showground
Pet friendly and budget priced, Maclean Showground (pictured above in our feature) is a pretty spot by the river and only a short walk into town.
Find more in the CAMPS App and guides. Do look for budget stops as well. Important: when searching for free camps in the CAMPS App, use the $ symbol – not the black moon and star symbol. Read why here.
Please keep letting us know of other updates or suggested sites you come across. Be assured our CAMPS guides are still full of free rest areas, other free and budget places for you to camp!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why aren’t there more free camps along the Pacific Highway?
Historically, rest areas allowed free overnight stays, but travellers abused the 24-hour limit. With locations so close to beautiful beaches and towns, the government cracked down on what was allowed. Many sites are now day use only or have camping restrictions.
Can I still stop overnight at rest areas on the Pacific Coast?
Some rest areas still allow overnight stops for rest (not camping). Check signage carefully as rules vary. Many former camping sites are now listed in the Camps App as day use only.
Are pets allowed at these Pacific Coast camping spots?
Yes, most of the recommended sites including Bulahdelah Golf Club, Coopernook Hotel, Johns River Tavern, Kew, Macleay River Hotel, Macksville RV Parks, and Maclean Showground are pet friendly.
Do I need a self-contained vehicle to camp along this route?
Yes, most sites require self-contained vehicles, though some like Macksville’s RV parks have toilets available. Self-contained is generally specified for pub stays and many donation sites.
What’s the best value stopover between Sydney and Brisbane?
Macksville is highly recommended with four small, free, pet-friendly RV stops, two on the Nambucca River. Access is excellent with north and south bypass roads close to the Pacific Highway.
How long can I stay at Macleay River Hotel in Frederickton?
You can park up to 48 hours behind the pub on the grass by the river. It’s free for patrons and pet friendly, with a park next door featuring toilets and a playground.
How do I search for free camps in the Camps App?
Use the $ symbol when searching for free camps in the Camps App, not the black moon and star symbol. This will give you accurate results for free camping options.
What facilities are available at Bulahdelah Golf Club?
Check the Camps App for current details on facilities at Bulahdelah Golf Club. It’s a donation site right on the highway that’s pet friendly for self-contained vehicles.
