I found a hidden coastal haven that was perfect for a camping getaway

Camping, fishing, bike riding, and Aussie animals galore? This NSW’s North Coast camp spot has all the ingredients you need for family adventure.

There’s something pretty special about a camping trip where sun, sand, and serenity collide. Even better when it’s an off the beaten path, slice of heaven, right?

Woody Head Campground - tucked away in Bundjalung National Park on the sparkling North Coast of New South Wales - has all of that and then some. Whether you’re a tent enthusiast, caravan lover, or prefer the comfort of a retro beach shack, this little piece of paradise is a one-stop shop for family fun.

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Woody Head has it all

Woody Head is the kind of place where childhood memories are made. It’s got the lot: a protected sandy beach perfect for little ones to splash about, rock platforms to explore, and clear blue waters for fishing, boating, snorkelling or just bobbing about like a happy cork. There’s even a boat ramp, so if you’ve got the tinny hitched to the back, you’re sorted.

For the nature lovers, Woody Head is surrounded by Bundjalung National Park’s lush sub-tropical eucalyptus forests. Kids (and big kids) will love fossicking in shallow reefs, trekking through the rainforest, and spotting wildlife. Keep your ears open for the call of the eastern whip-bird and the flashy antics of the satin bowerbird - it’s like living in the middle of an Australian nature documentary.

At dawn and dusk, you’re likely to have some furry visitors at your campsite. Eastern grey kangaroos, red-necked wallabies, and swamp wallabies are all regulars around here. If you’re lucky (and have sharp eyes), you might spot a snoozing koala up in the gum trees.

The nearby waters and skies play host to everything from pelicans to white-bellied sea eagles, while rock pools hide wobbegongs lazing about like the grumpy locals they are.

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Facilities for every type of camper

Woody Head caters to every kind of camper. With 94 marked campsites to choose from, you can pitch your tent, park your caravan, or even sleep beside your vehicle.

For the glampers among us, the retro Woody Head cabins and cottages are a game-changer. These charming 2-bedroom beach shacks sleep up to six and offer just enough comfort to keep everyone happy. They’re simple and cosy, but you’ll need to BYO bed sheets, blankets, and towels - we’re not talking five-star luxury here, and that’s all part of the charm.

The facilities are spot-on for a stress-free stay. There’s drinking water, toilets, and coin-operated showers (pop in a $1 coin for a sweet four minutes of hot water). The kiosk is the go-to spot for ice creams and essentials, and it even has power points to charge your phone or mobility scooter.

Need step-free access? No worries. The campground is flat with easy pathways, an accessible toilet and shower, and even a wood chip path leading to the beach. It’s camping done right.

Endless things to do and see

If you’ve brought your fishing rod, you’re in luck. The beach and rocky outcrops offer plenty of opportunities to snag dinner (just don’t forget your NSW recreational fishing licence). Prefer to get out on the water? The boat ramp gives you access to some of the best fishing and boating spots around.

During spring, Woody Head turns into a whale-watching hotspot as humpbacks cruise back south with their calves. It’s the perfect time to perch yourself on a rocky headland with a cuppa and keep an eye on the horizon. Even in winter, the North Coast weather is kind enough to coax you into a swim – so pack the togs and brave the water, you won’t regret it.

If history’s more your thing, head to nearby Gummigurrah in Bundjalung National Park. This area was used as a winter camping ground by the Bundjalung People, who knew a good spot when they saw one. A quiet wander through this culturally significant place is both humbling and grounding.

If you’re up for a little day trip, Woody Head Campground is just a short 10-minute drive from the charming coastal village of Iluka. Nestled at the mouth of the Clarence River, Iluka is a laid-back spot with stunning scenery and plenty to explore. Take a stroll along Iluka’s beautiful beaches or meander through the Iluka Nature Reserve, a World Heritage-listed rainforest that feels like stepping back in time.

The village is also home to great cafés, fish and chip shops, and a wharf where you can try your luck at fishing or simply watch the boats come and go. It’s the perfect place to stock up on supplies, grab a coffee, or indulge in a lazy afternoon soaking up the local charm. Saturday yoga at the Scout Hall is a must-do too!

Don’t forget to pack the bikes, because Woody Head is a dream for family riding adventures. The flat, easy roads around the campground make it perfect for kids to cruise safely, while the more adventurous can pedal along the flat road into Iluka itself. It’s only a 17-minute ride away, and there’s no better way to soak up the coastal scenery than on two wheels with the breeze in your hair. A bike ride to Iluka for an ice cream or coffee makes for a fun family outing that’s equal parts exercise and reward.

Why not book your own stay?

Now, here’s the best part: booking your stay at Woody Head is simple! Just jump onto the Service NSW website, call the National Parks Contact Centre at 1300 072 757 or flick an email to [e-mail]. The cancellation policy is pretty great, and you can even move your dates pretty easily if there is availability.

A quick heads-up: camping fees don’t include the $8 per vehicle per day entry fee for Bundjalung National Park, so factor that in or consider an annual pass if you’re a regular explorer.

At the end of the day, Woody Head Campground ticks all the boxes for a classic Aussie family holiday. Whether you’re spotting whales, fishing from the rocks, watching the epic sunrises and sunsets or just toasting marshmallows around the fire pit (yes, campfires are allowed!) it’s the kind of place where you can hit pause, slow down, and reconnect.

Originally published as I found a hidden coastal haven that was perfect for a camping getaway