Swans Crossing is a favourite among locals for good reason. Set in lush rainforest near Kendall, this free camp is surrounded by creeks perfect for a swim or paddle, and shaded by tall gums that make it feel worlds away from the highway. It’s popular with families thanks to its picnic tables and wide open spaces, but still has that rustic, off-grid vibe. Kids can ride their bikes or explore the nearby forest walks while adults kick back by the fire.

Nestled between ocean and forest, Black Rock Campground is a coastal escape where you can fall asleep to the sound of the surf. While there’s a small fee, the setting feels like a free-camping gem. From your campsite, it’s a short walk to the beach for sunrise swims or surf sessions, and the surrounding Bundjalung National Park is home to birdlife, wallabies, and shady walking tracks. This spot attracts couples and travellers chasing a low-key coastal vibe.

If you’re looking for a quick escape from Sydney, Wingello ticks all the boxes. Just two hours south, this state forest offers free camping in a peaceful pine plantation. It’s a haven for mountain bikers with world-class trails, but also popular with families and groups who want a quiet bush base. The campsites are spacious, and fires are allowed when conditions permit, making it an easy weekend getaway with that authentic camping feel.

Heading west of Bourke, Gundabooka immerses you in the wide open skies and ochre-red landscapes of the outback. The park is culturally significant to the Ngemba people and offers a real sense of connection to country. Campers will find themselves surrounded by silence at night, broken only by the call of owls or the crackle of a fire. Stargazing here is unmatched, with the Milky Way stretching horizon to horizon.

Yalwal is an old goldmining village turned rugged bush camp, popular with 4WDers and history buffs. Surrounded by forest and close to creeks and waterfalls, it has a remote, adventurous feel even though it’s only 30 minutes inland from Nowra. Wildlife is abundant, and it’s not unusual to have kangaroos hopping through your site at dusk. This is a true off-grid experience — pack everything you need and be prepared for limited facilities.

Bretti Reserve is one of the Hunter’s best-kept secrets. Situated along the Barrington River, this free camp has grassy sites that are perfect for spreading out, swimming, or kayaking. It’s a popular family spot thanks to its size and river access, but it still feels relaxed and laid-back. With the mountains in the background and the river at your feet, it’s a perfect mix of comfort and wilderness.

Set against the backdrop of the Snowy Mountains, Micalong Creek Reserve offers some of the prettiest creekside camping in NSW. The water is crystal clear, dotted with swimming holes and cascades, while the surrounding bushland is perfect for walks and wildlife spotting. It’s an ideal spot for families and photographers chasing that quintessential “hidden valley” feel.

Putty Beach is one of the closest free/low-cost camping spots to Sydney that feels like a true beach escape. Just steps from your tent or van, you’ll find golden sand, surf breaks, and the start of the Bouddi Coastal Walk — one of the state’s most scenic short hikes. While sites are limited and book out fast, if you score a spot you’ll be rewarded with ocean views and the salty air of a true coastal getaway.

Quiet and tucked away near Willawarrin, Toorooka Reserve is a riverside camp surrounded by rolling farmland. It’s simple and peaceful, the kind of place where you wake up to birdsong and watch the mist lift off the river. Pet-friendly and low-key, it’s perfect for travellers looking to slow down and spend a few days off the main tourist trail.

If you’re doing a long haul across the Hunter region, Sandy Hollow makes for an ideal free stopover. Surrounded by rugged sandstone cliffs, it’s a surprisingly scenic break in your journey. While facilities are minimal, there’s enough space for caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers, making it a practical and picturesque overnight choice.

From surfside escapes to outback horizons, NSW has free camps for every traveller and every rig. Whether you’re pitching a tent by a creek or parking a motorhome under the Milky Way, these 10 spots showcase why free camping is such a big part of the Australian road trip experience.

Next up: Best Free Campsites in QLD | Best Free Campsites in VIC