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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 | Brisbane to Longreach Road Trip Itinerary

Queensland | Brisbane to Longreach Road Trip Itinerary

Travel through unique landscapes, from the outback’s red dust, to lush rainforest and turquoise coastline on this Queensland outback explorer itinerary.

 
 
 
 

Day 1: Brisbane to Roma 

Distance: 486km

Travel time: 5 hours 45 minutes

Pick up your Apollo camper at the Brisbane Apollo Branch and say goodbye to the city skyline, it's time to head out west! On your way out of town enjoy the scenery change from city, to lush countryside to the outback's classic orange. Finish your day by staying at the Roma Big Rig Tourist Park, which is dog friendly and includes powered sites for your needs. Ensuring you unwind and make the most of your stay in Roma.

 

Day 2: Roma

Today is yours to explore. Roma is famous for being home to the southern hemisphere's largest saleyards of cattle. If you time your visit with a Tuesday or Thursday, you can join a visitor tour of the Roma Saleyards. Encompassing the picturesque Railway Dam, your next stop can be located in the Roma Bush Gardens, which is a must for the enthusiast of the Australian bush and nature.

 

Day 3: Roma to Carnarvon Gorge

Distance: 243km

Travel time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Today we leave Roma and head off to Carnarvon Gorge, a lush oasis hidden within the outback. When arriving in Carnarvon Gorge, stay at BIG4 Holiday Park which is on 100 acres and is the perfect destination to disconnect from the hustle of life and reconnect with nature.

Image: Flynn Graham

 

Day 4: Carnarvon Gorge

Towering sandstone cliffs millions of years in the making await you as you explore the ancient Carnarvon Gorge today. Take a tour through the Carnarvon Gorge and meet the smallest bird in Australia and the tallest orchid on the same track. Take a walk through the Moss Garden where water drips constantly from the sandstone walls of the Moss Garden, supporting a lush carpet of mosses and ferns, proving to be a beautiful site.  


Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 5: Carnarvon Gorge to Tambo

Distance: 427km

Travel time: 5 hours 10 minutes

Say g'day to Tambo, the oldest town in the Central West of Queensland. Just over 5 hours on the road and you'll arrive in this outback town of only 400 people. Spend some time at the Tambo Dam which is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic or make use of the barbecues provided, while enjoying the water birds and wildlife around the parkland. Finish your day off by visiting Tambo Teddies to watch your bear come to life as they are lovingly made, as each hand crafted sheepskin teddy bear is individually named after a farming property in the Tambo district. 

Unwind for the day and stay at Tambo Mill Motel & Caravan Park which has 21 powered sites with a swimming pool and BBQ facilities for you to enjoy.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 6: Tambo to Longreach

Driving distance: 385km

Travel time: 4 hours 10 minutes

Today we head in the direction of Longreach, the birthplace of Australia's national airline Qantas. While you're here a trip around the Qantas Founders Museum is a must do, as well as a visit to the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame. Finish your day off by visiting Harry’s Restaurant and Bar, catering to a range of palates they offer a contemporary Australian menu. 

Finish your day by staying at the Longreach Caravan Park which is just a short walk from the main shops, cafes and bistros.

Image: Tourism Australia


Day 7: Longreach to Winton

Distance: 223km

Travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Say see you later to Longreach (you'll be back tomorrow!) and head north to Winton. Legend has it that Banjo Paterson 'Waltzing Matilda' was first performed in this town and you can visit the Waltzing Matilda Centre while here. You can also explore the Australian Age of Dinosaurs natural history museum. 

Enjoy the sunset and stay at Winton Wanderers Caravan Park which is set on 100 acres and has 80 powered, drive thru sites.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
 

Day 8: Winton to Longreach

Distance: 223km

Travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes

You've reached the half way point of your Queensland Outback Explorer road trip. A quick 2 hours and 20 minutes on the road and you'll find yourself back in Longreach. Enjoy the Longreach Tourist Park with three large amenities blocks, four laundries and several barbecues throughout.

 

Day 9: Longreach to Emerald

Distance: 481km

Travel time: 5 hours 10 minutes

Stock up on your road trip snacks before leaving Longreach, you've got just over 5 hours on the road today before reaching Emerald. Savour some amazing Australian food at the Capricornian Restaurant, located in the heart of Emerald, which will combine many elements of culinary traditions. Finish your day off by staying at the Emerald Tourist Park in one of their powered sites to relax for the afternoon. 

Image: Jason Charles Hill

 

Day 10: Emerald

Welcome to Emerald, the gateway to one of the largest sapphire fields in the southern hemisphere and also home to a 25 metre Van Gogh sunflower painting (just for a bit of variety!) Enjoy the Emerald Botanic Gardens, where you can find six kilometres of walking tracks that lead to picnic areas, playgrounds, mazes, sculptures and specialised plant communities.

Image: Emilie Ristevski

 

Day 11: Emerald to Seventeen Seventy

Distance: 490km

Travel time: 5 hours 30 minutes

It's time to say goodbye to orange landscapes and hello to the beautiful Queensland coast! Your destination today is Seventeen Seventy, a quaint seaside town, home to some of the best surf in Queensland. Head to the Seventeen Seventy Headland and Lookout to view the long, golden beaches as this family-friendly walk only takes 30 minutes. Enjoy your stay at 1770 Camping Ground, which is situated on the beachfront. The campsite offers many activities and attractions including a Larc Paradise Tour and witnessing the famous sunsets of an afternoon.

 

Day 12: Seventeen Seventy & Agnes Water

Shake off the orange dust with a day spent by the beach at Seventeen Seventy and Agnes Water. While you're here be sure to visit the paperbark forest boardwalk for a little touch of magic. 

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 13: Seventeen Seventy to Hervey Bay

Distance: 239km

Travel time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Say goodbye to Seventeen Seventy and continue along the Queensland coast in the direction of Hervey Bay. Known as both the gateway to K'gari (Fraser Island) and a popular location to spot to the annual whale migration between Australia and Antartica. Stay at the BIG4 Hervey Bay Holiday Park which is just a 5-minute walk to the ocean.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
 
 

Day 14: Hervey Bay

Time your road trip between July and October each year for your best chance at experiencing the annual whale migration. Each year the calm, protected waters of Hervey Bay become a playground for whales and it is one of the best locations in Australia to catch a glimpse at these friendly giants. To finish your day, enjoy some food at one of Hervey Bay’s restaurants to relish in the delights and joys of dining out.


Image: Tourism Australia

 

Day 15: Hervey Bay to Brisbane 

Distance: 282km

Travel time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Make the most of your final day by stopping at the Kin Kin General Store, Moffat Beach and Serenity Falls as you make your way back into Brisbane to return your camper at the Brisbane Apollo Branch.  

 

 

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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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