5 amazing camping spots in NSW with swimming holes

Looking for a few amazing camping spots in NSW with swimming holes? Well, look no further because we’ve done the hard work for you.

If your road trips are anything like mine, nine times out of ten, by the time you reach your destination, you’re absolutely stinging for a shower. To add to that, if your campground preferences are anything like my partner’s, you’re probably not staying anywhere with facilities. So your wash is actually just a quick cold plunge into a nearby river or waterhole!

On the flip side, perhaps you’re a thrill seeker and you love a cold swim on a trip, even in the depths of winter. Whatever reason you have to submerge yourself into a natural river or beautiful waterhole, we’ve got you covered with 5 of the best camping spots in NSW with swimming holes.

1. Watton Airstrip – Watton, NSW

Nestled on the banks of the Macquarie River, this riverside camping spot in NSW doubles as a nature-lovers paradise. Not only will you have the chance to frolic in the river, but you’ll be able to spot kangaroos, wallabies, emus, echidnas, deer and platypus around the site. The Watton Airstrip Campsite features nine riverside camps, as well as paddock and bush sites if you prefer.

If you’re coming by 2WD, you’ll have the option of two sites that are just as picturesque with spectacular views. To the right, you’ll see Mt Panorama, Mt Horrible (don’t let that name deter you, it’s quite gorgeous) and Mt Canobolas when you turn your head to the left.

This idyllic camping spot in NSW is great for families who love a dip, a paddle in the water, or a keen interest in fishing. You’re allowed to wet a line and see what you bring back, but if all else fails, this campsite offers optional extras. These include homemade bread, free-range eggs, and even grazing platters. So you won’t go hungry!

As always, it’s important to check the reviews before you make up your mind. Watton Airstrip has been labelled “peaceful” and “easily accessible” by past visitors, and even “best loo with a view” by one camper. That’s enough to persuade me to check out availability for my next riverside camping trip.

2. Platypus Cove – Glen Innes, NSW

Families who love kayaking, swimming, fishing and water views need look no further than Platypus Cove. Located in Glen Innes, NSW this tranquil spot has 11 riverbank camping spots with fire pits for when the nights get a little chilly by the water.

This is a great option for those who like to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and spend time with only the bare essentials. That means you’ll need to come prepared, as the site doesn’t have a toilet, running water or an electrical hookup.

Some of my fondest camping memories come from bare-essential campsites such as Platypus Cove. With nothing but a velvet sky decorated with stars and the sound of local wildlife to entertain, you are always able to enjoy a relaxing and peaceful getaway.

One past camper wrote in the review section, “It was a lovely and quiet place to stay. I will be telling my friends!” We reckon you’d better get your booking in quickly to this NSW camp before their friends do, so you don’t miss out on this gorgeous riverbank camping spot.

3. Karoola Station

When driving on the highway en route to a getaway, I always find myself mesmerised by the beautiful farms that line the road. So it’s unsurprising that I’ve listed Karoola Station in NSW as one of the best camping spots to spend a weekend.

Karoola Station is a working family farm, but rather than vast acres of dry land, you’ll have easy access to the Murrumbidgee River for all your swimming, kayaking and fishing needs. The campsite boasts good access for caravans and advises that campers must engage in self-contained camping only, as there are no amenities available. 

To find a great view of the Murrumbidgee floodplain and surrounding farming country, simply take a scenic walk along the riverbank or onto the rocky outcrop after swimming. Or, if you’re like me, lounge around by the riverbank and enjoy the serenity by the water of this NSW camping spot.

4. Meralda Station – Cobar, NSW

If you’re looking for a calm, peaceful outback stay then check out Meralda Station. Nestled in the outback town of Cobar, this bush-filled, natural landscape is an incredible spot to pull in with your RV. You’ll be camping in their designated eco camping spots surrounded by gum trees, NSW native wildlife and, most importantly, right next to water by the dam. That’s where you’ll have the freedom to swim, kayak or engage in water sports (on request). How often can you say you’ve had the chance to frolic in a farm’s dam during your camp stay?

If you’re a nature lover, you’d better keep an eye out for the emus, echidnas and kangaroos that roam the property. Plus, the vast array of birds taking flight, including galahs, major mitchells, parrots and wrens. If you’d like to get close and comfortable with the sheep and goats that are farmed on the property, this site offers a complimentary petting tour for guests. It’s truly an animal lover’s haven!

One past camper in his review said, “The night skies are amazing, a very nice spot to just relax.” This is likely to do with the fact that this NSW camping spot has no artifiial light, offering incredible views of the outback night sky and its sparkling array of stars.

5. Curlew Camp – Lake Cargelligo, New South Wales

If a 2.5-acre property with lake frontage sounds like your cup of tea, then look no further than Curlew Camp. This stunning NSW camping spot is situated at the mouth of the channel that feeds from Curlew Waters into Lake Cargelligo.

So if you’re looking to head further into the lake in your boat to wet a line, this spot is ideal for your next fishing adventure. Fish you may be able to catch in the lake include Murray cod, yellowbelly, redfin, catfish and European carp – we have our fingers and toes crossed for you.

If you’re travelling as a family with small kids in tow, be aware that the channel of water is not fenced, so supervision is important.

With 50 metres of shoreline available to you, free kayaks waiting for you to be used, and stunning sunrises and sunsets over the water, Curlew Camp in NSW is an absolute must-book spot for your next trip. One previous guest wrote, “This was our third holiday at Curlew Camp, which speaks for itself! We just love it! We love the idyllic location situated on the banks of the lake.”

I’m no fortune teller, but it seems like multiple bookings could be on the horizon!

Which of these private camping spots in NSW will you visit first?

Whether it’s the option of kayaking, a simple swim through the water to cool off or just the view of a river running by your campsite, there are so many advantages to camping near water. Thankfully there are some incredible camping spots on private land in NSW …. so, what are you waiting for?