North Coast camping sites: Secret Lake Retreat ready to open

The finishing touches are being put on a secluded lakeside retreat on the NSW North Coast where owners hope to welcome visitors just in time for Christmas. See the video.

The secret is already starting to get out about a stunning new holiday destination on the NSW North Coast.

Secret Lake Retreat on Located along Ryries Road, Lawrence, has more than 320ha of wilderness to explore.

About 12ha of the property is dedicated to unpowered camping sites where guests can expect to completely switch off from society.

“We’ve already had several inquiries from various groups like the over 50s or four wheel drive clubs to name a few, as to when they can book in,” co-owner Graham Halls said.

Even the road signs that were erected in recent weeks, all of which are covered until they officially open, have caused a stir among the local community.

“At one stage someone pulled the cover off one and left it exposed; boy did the locals get excited about the name of the place and what it all means,” Mr Halls said.

A pontoon has been built in the middle of the lake at the new Secret Lake Retreat located in Lawrence, NSW.

Mr Halls said activities included mountain-biking through trails as well as swimming, kayaking or paddle boarding in the 24ha lake.

“There will be no jet skis, powered boats or motorbikes, just peace and quiet,” he said.

Posted by Secret Lake Retreat on Thursday, April 29, 2021

Mr Halls said he and fellow owners Sylvia Durant, Steve Peime and Debbie Halls bought the property in June 2019 after years looking for the perfect spot.

Their dream will be realised when they welcome visitors from December 1.

“We were looking in Queensland initially and were determined to find something with water but nothing was quite right until we came across this place which had been up for sale for a few years,” he said.

“When we came and visited the place in person, it was just breathtaking.

“We knew he had found the one.”

A road into the site has been upgraded overgrown reeds removed and an amenities block and pontoon added.

Mr Halls said they were putting the finishing touches to their online booking system in preparation for eager campers.

“We should hopefully have that up and running soon,” he said.

“We can’t wait to share this beautiful spot with everyone and hope they enjoy it as much as we do.”