1

Newnes Campground

Situated by the Wolgan River, and just 3.5 hours from Sydney, Newnes Campground is the perfect weekend retreat. While there, you'll be treated to plenty of wildlife encounters in the day and at night so make sure you bring your torches! Pitch your tent down in the valley surrounded by steep hills and beautiful forests.

Bookings are not available at Newnes campground so make sure you get there early and claim the best spot. While at the campground you can visit the Industrial Ruins and take in a bit of history, or just kick back and enjoy the scenery.

You can't buy firewood here unfortunately and it's a bit of a drive out to find more so make sure you stock up before you arrive. When you get there try and make your fire in the same place as a previous camper so as not to make new marks on the land.

Newnes has to be one of the best free, fire friendly campsites near Sydney. ????: @_shellssees @brittanydominique23 @campers_pantry @cobygirl86 @jasonbak @offgridadventure @thetravellingshoe @y.alex12 @nswnationalparks #campingnsw #campingaustralia #NSWParks

A post shared by Michael Hill (@aircamp_australia) on Dec 13, 2017 at 9:17pm PST

2

Treachery Camp

If you haven’t been, why not!? Treachery camp is a short trip up the coast but it’s a favourite for almost anyone you speak to. Open fires, near the beach, shaded, great snorkelling and surfing. This campsite has it all. Even laundry and coffee on the weekends.

We’re going to stop talking now… just go there and check it out for yourself!

3

Wollondilly River Station

The ultimate bush retreat for families with kids (and pets!). And if you don’t like kids… don’t go in the summer months.They are everywhere… and it’s amazing.

Wollondilly is a famous spot for school excursions and a great place to teach your little ones how to make a fire. The campsite has been family run for generations and constantly improving.

If you want a fire friendly bush retreat, add Wollondilly to your bucket list this winter.

4

Bents Basin

Bents Basin, not to be confused with ‘The Basin’ is one of the first campsites people go to when they start their camping life. It’s close to Sydney, with large wide open areas for kids to play around in.

Bring your fishing rod and kayak if you have them and go go for a paddle in the river on a hot summer’s day.

You can get firewood at the kiosk which is a huge bonus. But make sure you bring your own fire pit as you can’t start a fire on the grass.

5

The Basin

How fit are you feeling? Or how strong are your kids? Because if you want to go to The Basin you’re going to have to lug your gear on a ferry from the Palm Beach Wharf.

That being said, this is a cracking spot surrounded by the beautiful Hawkesbury River. There are designated fire pits so you get to meet some new friends over a toasted marshmallow.

6

Riverwood Downs

Heard of Riverwood Downs? Nope, we hadn’t either. And we’re ashamed of ourselves because this place is beautiful! The are powered and unpowered sites. You are allowed fires on the unpowered sites down by the river. Situated in the foothills of Barrington Tops, just 3.5hrs from Sydney, this place is a tightly run getaway with great amenities for caravan owners as well as campers.

Cabins are also available, as well as an onsite restaurant if you want to go upmarket for a night! Oh, and bring your pets!

7

Coolendel Bush Camp

If you want to head South, Coolendel, on the Shoalhaven river is a great option. Take your Kayak and fishing gear and kick back and enjoy the great outdoors. The campsite generates all it’s power and water on site so is totally sustainable.

There are 70-80 fire rings dotted around the campgrounds and if there isn’t one near you, speak to the manager who says he’s happy to drop one near you. Firewood is sold on site. Get in the car now and try this one out. It’s a beauty!

8

Killalea State Camping Park

We’ve heard a sneaky rumour that the fire policy at Killalea has changed or is about to change. We hope that is not the case! Up until recently you were allowed to have Fires by your tent at this great site. Regardless of the decision there is a huge communal fire pit that is great for meeting new people.

The campsite is close to a great beach and lots of walks to do in the area. A great spot to add to your list of you are heading South. Firewood available on site.

9

Wombeyan Caves Campground

Oh wow the caves! You’ll need to bring your own wood to this special campsite. The site can get very busy in the summer so make sure you book ahead.

While you are there make sure you visit Fig Tree Cave for a self guide experience. You will not regret this crazy little adventure!

10

Turon Gates

As the owner Soren told me.. “Camping is not camping, without a fire!”. This place is a beauty. The campsite is relaxing and despite only being just outside of Sydney the climate seems to be cooler in the summer months.

The campsite is pet friendly and you can camp where you like so it’s perfect if you are visiting with friends. Bring your own firewood or buy on site. Turon Gates is one of the special, wild places we almost don’t want you to go!

11

Dunns Swamp (Bonus Site!)

Don’t let the name fool you. There are swamps, there there is Dunn’s Swamp. This place is beautiful!

Bring your kayak (or hire one) and relax at night around a campfire to the sound of crickets and frogs.

There is limited firewood available at the camp but you can buy some at the BP garage up the road. And please remember to check for Fire Bans!