Welcome to the ultimate guide to the best budget-friendly campsites in NSW (New South Wales)! Whether you're planning an Australia road trip with a stop in this southern state or simply seeking an escape into nature without breaking the bank, you've come to the right place. 

This blog will explore some of the top destinations where you can park your campervan and enjoy the natural beauty of NSW at a fraction of the cost. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer looking to rent a travel van, we'll guide you through the must-visit campsites and budget-friendly holiday parks in NSW that are a perfect addition to any road trip itinerary planner!  

Why you should go camping in NSW

New South Wales is a paradise for campers, offering the gamut of breathtaking Aussie landscapes, from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to rugged mountains and arid Outbacks. Camping in NSW allows you to immerse yourself in these diverse environments. What’s more, NSW is home to numerous national parks and nature reserves, many of which feature budget-friendly campsites and holiday parks with excellent facilities. Still not convinced? Here are a few reasons to add NSW to your campervan camping trip: 

• Unique natural wonders: New South Wales is home to wonders like the Blue Mountains, a World Heritage site boasting dramatic views, dense eucalypt forests, and a network of walking tracks that cater to all fitness levels. In this state, you also have access to the stunning beaches of Byron Bay, the picturesque Sydney Harbour, the Hunter Valley, and the Outback heritage of Mungo National Park. Best of all, the nearby campsites allow you to wake up to crisp mountain air, rolling waves and stunning natural vistas.

• Aussie surf culture: This state is known for its spectacular beaches and vibrant surfing community. It's a perfect state for those looking to combine a beach holiday with camping, offering plenty of opportunities for surfing, hiking, and even whale watching during migration seasons. Better yet, some of the best budget-friendly campsites on NSW’s coastline give you a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

• Stunning hinterlands and Outback: For a completely different experience, head inland to explore the more remote regions of NSW. Interior NSW is filled with vineyard-laden hinterlands, mysterious and vast deserts, and rugged bushlands, offering remote camping experiences. These areas provide a quiet escape from the bustling coastal towns and allow campers to explore the authentic Australian Outback.

As you can see, the sheer variety of landscapes makes NSW a top destination for an Australia road trip. Whether you’re looking for mountain adventures, beachside relaxation, or Outback exploration, camping in NSW provides a perfect opportunity to connect deeply with nature. 

READ MORE: For more inspiration on how to travel Australia cheaply with budget-friendly activities in NSW, check out our guide on the best budget-friendly things to do in Sydney.

What’s the best way to explore NSW?

The freedom and flexibility offered by a campervan make it the ideal way to explore NSW. With Cheapa Campa, you can experience all that this stunning state has to offer at your own pace without the constraints of hotel bookings and rigid itineraries. Travelling in a campervan not only provides a comfortable and convenient home on wheels but also allows you to make the most out of every destination. You can choose to stay close to major attractions or find solitude in remote areas, all while keeping your travel costs low.

Moreover, opting for a campervan journey can be significantly cheaper, especially if you travel during off-peak seasons or are flexible with your dates. This flexibility means you can avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices at the best budget-friendly campsites in NSW, enhancing the tranquillity of your trip. Additionally, campervans come equipped with cooking facilities, allowing you to save money on dining out by preparing your own meals amidst some of the most scenic dining rooms imaginable—under the stars or overlooking the ocean. By choosing a campervan for your NSW adventures, you're able to craft a unique adventure tailored to your interests and budget.  

The best budget-friendly campsites/holiday parks in NSW

Okay, now let’s talk about the campgrounds in NSW! In this section, we'll delve into some of the best budget-friendly campsites in NSW, as well as some of the best holiday parks that provide comfort, excellent facilities, and access to some of NSW's most stunning natural and cultural attractions.

1. NRMA Darlington Beach Holiday Resort

Located just 25 minutes outside Coffs Harbour, NRMA Darlington Beach Holiday Resort is a rainforest beachfront paradise for campervan travellers looking for the best budget-friendly campsites in NSW. This resort is ideal for travellers looking to enjoy a budget-friendly holiday with plenty of activities right on their doorstep. In addition to all their basic campervan amenities, including powered sites and a dump station, this holiday park also features some fun bonus facilities like a mini-golf course, a water park, and various sports courts. What’s more, within a short drive of the park, you have access to Coffs Harbour’s lush rainforests and stunning beaches, which are perfect for day trips.

From the Sydney Cheapa branch, you can reach this holiday park by taking a scenic five-and-a-half-hour drive up the coast, turning a simple drive into part of the adventure. So, whether you need a place to stop on your Australia road trip or are looking for a convenient base on the coast, this is a top choice to add to your road trip itinerary planner!

2. BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park

Situated in the charming coastal town of Kiama, just 1 hour and 45 minutes drive south of Sydney, BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park boasts a stunning location with direct access to the beach. This campground is not only perfect for enjoying the sun and surf but also for exploring local attractions like the famous Kiama Blowhole and the picturesque coastal walks. Accessing this budget-friendly holiday park in NSW is made simple when you pick your camper up from the Sydney Cheapa branch, which takes you past some of the Illawarra region’s most beautiful landscapes. This park's combination of location, facilities, and affordability makes it a top choice for campervan travellers looking to maximise their travel budget while exploring NSW.

3. NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort

Found on the stunning Sapphire Coast, NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort offers spectacular beachfront accommodations for campervan travellers. Guests can enjoy amenities, including the on-site swimming pool, BBQ areas and e-bike hire. This campground is also within easy reach of Merimbula’s charming eateries, shops, and natural attractions. What’s more, this area is known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, ideal for snorkelling, fishing, and relaxing by the sea – so all you need to bring is a snorkel or a book, and your campsite fee covers the rest!

Travelling from the Sydney Cheapa branch to this resort is an experience in itself. The five-and-a-half-hour drive south takes you through some of NSW’s most scenic coastal and hinterland areas. This is easily one of the best budget-friendly campsites in NSW for those looking to enjoy a serene beach holiday and monopolise on facilities without the hefty price tag —another excellent choice for budget-conscious campervan travellers.

Image: Destination NSW

4. BIG4 Tweed Billabong Holiday Park

Located in Tweed Heads South, BIG4 Tweed Billabong Holiday Park provides a serene escape with a unique attraction—its own private saltwater billabong, sourced from the nearby Tweed River. This budget-friendly holiday park in NSW is perfect for those who enjoy water activities such as fishing and kayaking, and it even has a fun water park on-site. The area is also within a short 30-minute drive of the Gold Coast, offering easy access to additional beaches, theme parks, and shopping areas.

For quick access, the Brisbane Cheapa branch is the closest campervan rental branch. The drive to Tweed Heads South is a short but scenic coastal route and offers plenty of opportunities to explore other parts of the Northern Rivers region. This park is a perfect budget-friendly choice for groups looking to explore the Gold Coast on a budget, combining affordable accommodation with free or low-cost on-site activities to maximise the value of your stay.

5. NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort

Situated on the scenic Central Coast, NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort is an idyllic setting for a relaxing vacation or a group getaway. This budget-friendly holiday park in NSW features beachfront accommodation, allowing you to wake up to the sounds of the ocean. Facilities on-site include swimming pools, a water park, and a tennis court. The resort is just a short 90-minute drive from Sydney, making it an excellent spot for weekend trips or longer stays.

To reach this holiday resort, simply drive north from the Sydney Cheapa branch, enjoying the lush landscapes and coastal views along the way. Its proximity to Sydney and the range of budget-friendly activities on-site and close by make it an attractive option for those wondering how to travel Australia cheaply and enjoy a beach holiday without the high costs associated with many other seaside destinations.

Think camping in NSW sounds like fun?

We’ve explored some of the best budget-friendly campsites in NSW and the must-visit holiday parks across New South Wales, each offering unique amenities and experiences, from beachfront vistas and private billabongs. Think camping in NSW sounds like fun? You can book your Cheapa camper online and pick it up from any Cheapa branch, including the convenient Sydney or Brisbane locations to access these budget-friendly holiday parks in NSW. 

Want to add a bit of freedom camping to your road trip itinerary planner? Don’t miss our guide to the best free camping spots in New South Wales. Pack your bags, plan your route and prepare for an unforgettable journey exploring the natural beauty of NSW with Cheapa!