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New South Wales

Welcome to the vibrant and expansive New South Wales (NSW), a premier destination for families and adventurers looking to explore the wonders of Australia in the unique comfort of a campervan. Nestled on the east coast, NSW is bordered by tropical Queensland to the north, verdant Victoria to the south, and azure waters of South Australia to the west, making it a perfect central starting point for any Australia campervan holiday on the mainland.

Exploring NSW in a campervan is the perfect way to experience the sheer diversity of Australia’s landscapes and NSW attractions—from the pristine beaches of Kiama and the rugged peaks of the Blue Mountains to the dynamic urban centres, remote bushland, and coastal retreats of Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Whether you're looking to surf the waves at Bondi Beach, enjoy a serene hike in the national parks, or indulge in the culture at the Sydney Art Gallery, there is an unparalleled variety of things to do in NSW!

 

Why explore NSW by campervan

Travelling through NSW on an Australia campervan holiday offers an unmatched sense of freedom and adventure. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the ocean at a beachside campsite near Batemans Bay or enjoying your breakfast amidst the lush greenery of a secluded forest. Campervans provide not only flexibility in your travel plans but also the opportunity to connect deeply with the Aussie landscapes. 

What’s more, an Australia campervan holiday through NSW lets you discover hidden gems that are often off the beaten path and not easily accessible by traditional means of travel. From the wine regions of the Hunter Valley, where you can taste some of the best wines in the world, to the heritage towns of the New England hinterland area, a campervan can take you to places that would otherwise require extensive planning or expensive tours.

 

Things to do in New South Wales

NSW is bursting with activities. For beach lovers, the coast offers endless opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing at famous spots like Bondi, Coffs Harbour, and Port Macquarie. Beyond the usual tourist attractions, NSW also offers unique experiences like whale watching in Nelson Bay, marvelling at contemporary art at the Sydney Art Gallery, or hiking through the ancient rainforests of the Blue Mountains. No matter what your interests are, NSW has something spectacular to explore. For information on what to do in NSW, check out our guides to exploring NSW. 

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Popular NSW road trips & itineraries

New South Wales, located on the southeastern coast of Australia, is bordered by Queensland to the north, Victoria to the south, and South Australia to the west. Accessible internationally via the Sydney International Airport and an achievable drive away from major cities like Brisbane (approximately 10 hours) and Melbourne (about 9 hours), NSW is ideally positioned for an Australia campervan holiday adventure. Some of the most popular road trips within New South Wales include the scenic coastal drive from Sydney to Byron Bay, the food and wine trail in the Hunter Valley, and the heritage-rich adventures around the historical towns of Bathurst and Mudgee.

Queensland | Cairns to Daintree Rainforest Road Trip Itinerary

Queensland | Cairns to Daintree Rainforest Road Trip Itinerary

From beaches to bush, discover North Queensland in this 10 day road trip itinerary taking you inland and back to the coast.

Day 1: Cairns Apollo Branch to Josephine Falls and Paronella Park

Distance: 123km

Travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes 

Pick up your vehicle at the Cairns Apollo Branch and head south. Today you will be exploring Josephine Falls in Woooroonooran National Park before arriving at the enchanting gardens of Paronella Park. Famous for its rainforest fringed swimming hole and waterfall 'water slide,' Josephine Falls is a popular waterfall with travellers and locals alike and is a great spot to jump right in to your Cairns adventure. 

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 2: Paronella Park

While you might not expect castles and North Queensland in the same sentence, Paronella Park will pleasantly surprise you. Spend the second day of your North Queensland road trip exploring the incredible grounds of Paronella Park. Built in the 1930s by José Paronella, Paronella Park was once the go-to social location for residents of the Mena Creek area. Now, you can wander through the castle ruins and explore the captivating grounds. 

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 3: Paronella Park to Undara

Distance: 232km

Travel time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Say goodbye to Paronella Park, today's destination is a different type of magic. After just under 3 hours on the road today, you'll find yourself within Undara Volcanic National Park.

Image: Jason Charles Hill

 

Day 4: Undara 

One of the longest lava tube cave systems in the world, Undara Lava Tubes were created some 190,000 years old from a volcanic eruption. Spend the day exploring this natural phenomenon on a guided tour before enjoying the sunset over the savannah grassland. 

Image: Jason Charles Hill

 

Day 5: Undara to Millaa Millaa

Distance: 171km

Travel time: 2 hours

Say goodbye to the outback and hello the rolling green hills of the Atherton Tablelands. Once you've arrived at the quaint township of Millaa Millaa, make your way stat to the famous Millaa Millaa Falls. Once you've taken in its beauty (and had a cheeky swim under the falls!), continue on to Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls, all within a short distance of one another.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 6: Millaa Millaa to Cape Tribulation

Distance: 218km

Travel time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Enjoy the scenery on today's drive as you pass through green rolling hills, to the Australian bush before arriving in world heritage rainforest at Cape Tribulation.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 7: Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest 

Just how old is the world's oldest tropical rainforest? About 130 million (give or take a few years!). The Daintree Rainforest is a part of the larger Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and is one of nature's greatest triumphs. Surviving world-altering events (the dinosaur extinction and an ice-age just to name a few!), this rainforest is home to the world's first songbirds and flowering plants. Plus, it's incredibly beautiful. You don't even need to take our word on it - it's been scientifically recognised as a place of "exceptional natural beauty!"

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 8: Cape Tribulation to Port Douglas

Distance: 85km

Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Wind down from your time in the rainforest by visiting Port Douglas. On your way into Port Douglas be sure to stop by Mossman Gorge

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 9: Port Douglas 

Spend your day in Port Douglas however you'd like. Relax at Four Mile Beach, interact with Australian animals at Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas, discover the Great Barrier Reef or, if you've arrived on a Sunday, wander through the Port Douglas Markets. 

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 10: Port Douglas to Cairns

Distance: 67km

Travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes

We might have even saved the best to last. The Great Barrier Reef drive between Port Douglas and Cairns is one of the most scenic drives in Australia (if not the world!). Be sure to stop at Rex Lookout on your way back to Cairns for stunning views of the rainforest, beach and Coral Sea!

 

Where to Stay 

Paronella Park

Undara Experience

Cape Tribulation Camping

Big4 Port Douglas Glengarry Holiday Park

 

 

 

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Great savings on your NSW road trip

New South Wales offers a mosaic of dazzling coastal views and exquisite natural terrains. From the iconic beaches within Sydney's bustling centre to the serene heights of its alpine regions, discover the full splendour of this region and see how you can make your travel budget go further with our incredible deals. Check out the epic savings available for your NSW road trip. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked shores or mountainous adventures, these offers help ensure your Australia campervan holiday is both memorable and affordable.

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Apollo NSW campervan branches

Sydney, a gateway to some of the most captivating NSW attractions, is also home to our Sydney Apollo campervan branch. Strategically located, it offers seamless access to iconic NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House, the Northern Beaches, and regional NSW gems. Apollo's Sydney branch is the perfect launchpad for your Australia campervan holiday, and our knowledgeable team is there to equip you with everything you need to explore urban wonders and serene landscapes at your own pace.

 

 

Helpful tips for visiting NSW

Are you excited to start planning your very own NSW Australia campervan holiday? Here are a few essential tips to consider when crafting your campervan itinerary, ranging from the best travel times and climate insights to packing essentials and must-see NSW attractions.

New South Wales boasts a climate as varied as its landscape, with coastal regions enjoying mild, breezy summers and crisp winters while the western plains see more extreme temperatures. All in all, the ideal times to visit are spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May), when the weather is most temperate, and the natural scenery is at its peak. Visiting outside the peak months means you won't have to navigate the hotter (and much busier) summers and cooler (and often rainy) winters. Travelling in the shoulder seasons also means fewer crowds and potentially lower costs for those looking to save a little on accommodation and NSW attractions.

Your packing list for an Australia campervan holiday in NSW should include versatile outdoor gear for sudden weather changes, sun protection like sunscreen and hats, and any campervan add-ons that enhance comfort, such as outdoor chairs (which are available from Apollo for hire). Don’t forget a good camera to capture the stunning views and any hiking or beach gear if you plan on heading out to explore NSW’s wild, remote regions. For more details on what to pack, check Apollo's summer campervan road trip essentials.

Wondering what to do in NSW? This state is booming with attractions, from natural beauties to man-made wonders. Here's a closer look at some must-visit things to do in NSW:

  • Sydney: As Australia's iconic face, Sydney is packed with must-see NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The city's vibrant culture and bustling nightlife are complemented by serene spaces like the Royal Botanic Gardens and bustling markets like The Rocks.
  • Taronga Zoo: This zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the globe and offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour. The zoo features daily animal shows, a sky safari gondola, and interactive encounters, making it a perfect day trip while exploring New South Wales.
  • Blue Mountains: Just a short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and lush eucalyptus forests. The region is perfect for hiking, with trails leading to stunning waterfalls and overlooks and the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
  • Hunter Valley: Renowned for its exquisite wineries and gourmet dining, Hunter Valley is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Explore vineyards, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy farm-to-table meals in picturesque vineyard settings.
  • Port Stephens: Known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, Port Stephens is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. From snorkelling and sailing to sandboarding on the dunes, it offers many outdoor activities.
  • Coffs Harbour: This coastal city is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and the Big Banana, one of Australia's original 'big things'. It's also a great spot for surfing, whale watching, and exploring the surrounding natural reserves.
  • Newcastle: A blend of old and new, Newcastle boasts a vibrant arts scene, historical architecture, and a strong surf culture. Its revitalised waterfront district offers trendy cafes, galleries, and parks.
  • Booderee National Park: Located at Jervis Bay, this national park is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and abundant wildlife. It's an excellent spot for camping, fishing, and bushwalking.
  • Kiama: Famous for the Kiama Blowhole, this charming seaside town offers scenic coastal walks and a laid-back atmosphere. The blowhole is a natural spectacle where seawater spouts high into the air from the rocks.
  • Port Macquarie: A historic town with a rich convict past, Port Macquarie has stunning coastal walks, beautiful beaches, and a koala hospital where visitors can learn about conservation.
  • Batemans Bay: Ideal for nature lovers, Batemans Bay is located at the entrance of the Clyde River and is surrounded by forests, estuaries, and national parks. It's popular for fishing, boating, and kayaking, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Sydney.

New South Wales offers a variety of campervan accommodation options, ranging from beachfront caravan parks to secluded free camping spots. For those looking to wake up to ocean views, there are plenty of stunning beachfront caravan parks in NSW that offer prime locations and amenities. Holiday parks in NSW are also for the whole family! Families can enjoy the comforts and activities at family-friendly campsites in NSW as well as family-friendly campgrounds in Sydney, while pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly campsites across NSW that welcome even the furriest members of the family. For those seeking a more rustic experience, NSW's free camping spots provide a perfect way to save a few pennies, all while connecting you with nature. Notable parks like South West Rocks Holiday Resort on the mid-north coast, Lake Mac Holiday Parks in Lake Macquarie, and Norah Head Holiday Park on the Central Coast offer excellent facilities and stunning natural surroundings, making them ideal bases for exploring the state in a campervan.

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