$25-a-night hotspot Aussies love
Aussies have been flocking to a beachside camping ground known for its picturesque views and affordable rates.
Aussies have been flocking to a beachside camping ground known for its picturesque views and affordable rates.
In NSW, places to go camping range from free camps to big holiday parks and can vary considerably in price depending on the type and time of year you book.
But a campground that’s got Aussies hooked is The Ruins Campground, located just 15km south of Forster and nestled within Booti Booti National Park.
“The campground is peaceful and surrounded by natural beauty. Nearby coastal villages of Pacific Palms and Seal Rocks make this a desirable campsite location and choice for visitors of all ages,” Tamara Campbell, area manager, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, told news.com.au.
“There are 96 campsites catering for tents, camper trailers, caravans and camping beside vehicle.”
The tranquil Booti Booti National Park sits on an 8km peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and Wallis Lake, with the campground fringed by cabbage tree palms and paperbarks.
“Experience your ultimate affordable camping retreat for just $24.60 per night!” Visit NSW said in a recent TikTok that‘s amassaed almost 100,000 views.
The social media platform is awash with visitor experiences with many boasting about having the perks of the beach right at your doorstep.
“You MUST add this to your NSW camping list!” one person wrote.
“45 minutes from home. Camp there all the time. Please don’t tell everyone tho (sic),” another joked.
“Been there, it’s amazing,” a third added.
Thousands of people enjoy camping at The Ruins every year with a 10 per cent increase on the number of nights booked, over the last year.
“In 2023, National Parks NSW upgraded the picturesque Booti walking track, a stunning two to three hour walk located on the campground’s doorstep,” Ms Campbell said.
According to the National Parks NSW website, the campground’s “real charm” lies in what’s nearby.
“Whether you prefer the beach or a sheltered lake, both are just a stone’s throw away. Seven Mile Beach offers gorgeous sand and whale watching in the winter,” it states on its site.
“Wallis Lake is perfect for relaxing beneath a tree or launching the kayak for a cool afternoon paddle.”
“You can even hike along the Booti walking track, which includes scenic lookouts and a direct link to Elizabeth Beach – perfect for surfing and seasonally patrolled. Keep your eyes open for graceful shore birds along the challenging walk.”
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Meanwhile, others have taken to TripAdvisor to boast about the national park and its surrounding beaches giving it an average 4.5 star rating.
“It’s one this areas best kept secrets a beautiful beach not populated wonderful sand and waves, beats Bondi hands down,” one person wrote.
“What a top spot. Great beaches on your door step. Booti Booti Hill Walking Track & others close by. Cape Hawk Lookout. Visiting the Green Cathedral a must, just a manic spot,” another added.