Top five Easter camping locations around Sydney

Bouddi National Park, Bouddi. Image Courtesy: Central Coast Tourism.

Easter is one of the most popular camping times of the year. With its public holidays, school term break and relatively mild weather, this is a superb opportunity to get outdoors and explore the many beautiful regional and coastal towns that are on your doorstep, as opposed to having to jump on a jet.

If you're thinking of joining the many Sydneysiders who love Easter camping in NSW, here are five of the most popular Easter camping locations for families within a three (and a bit) hour drive from the city.

Remember, wherever you decide to go, familiarise yourself with the COVID-19 restrictions in place at your destination before hitting the road.

Lane Cove Tourist Park, Lane Cove National Park

It's hard to believe that this prime camping spot is just 10 kilometres north-east of Sydney Harbour but that's where you'll find Lane Cove National Park.

As well as breathtaking sights and sounds, campers come specifically for Lane Cove River Tourist Park, which offers plenty of space for tents, motorhomes and caravans, as well as well-equipped communal kitchens, BBQs, wi-fi and mains hot water.

Lane Cove Tourist Park is perfect for a 'try before you buy' camping experience. If glamping is more your speed, look no further than the ever-popular Tandara.

The Basin Campground, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Around an hour or so from Sydney (depending on traffic, of course) is the ever-popular Basin Campground in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

Basin Campground boasts potable water, shower facilities, BBQ and picnic blocks. It's also an ideal spot for some stand-up paddle-boarding or kayaking, or for enjoying one of many spectacular bushwalks in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

There's a two-kilometre walk from the car parking area to the actual campground, so the Palm Beach Ferry service is recommended if you're lugging heavy camping gear and/or kids.

Euroka Campground, Blue Mountains National Park

Heading to the Euroka Campground will take you roughly an hour's drive west of central Sydney where it's tucked within the idyllic surrounds of the Blue Mountains adjacent the stunning Nepean River.

The campground consists of five different sites: Appletree Flat, Bennett Ridge, Darug, Nioka and Red Gum. Regardless of the site you choose, an Easter spent here means putting the feet up and unwinding amid the sounds of peaceful natural birdlife and filling your lungs with fresh mountain air. Try one of the many walking and mountain biking trails in the area if you're more actively inclined.

Note that you'll need to bring your own water and firewood but the park boasts plenty of picnic tables, BBQs and toilet facilities.

Gambells Rest Campground, Morton National Park

One-hundred-and-fifty-kilometres south-west of Sydney in the Southern Highlands is Gambells Rest.

While places like Uloola Falls, North Era and Mirang Pool are popular with seasoned campers and those who appreciate a more off-the-grid getaway, Gambells Rest is just the ticket for families and rookie campers alike. Park your caravan or RV, pitch your tent or unroll your swag and camp beside your vehicle close to some great bushwalking options (for working off the Easter eggs) and awe-inspiring lookouts.

Gambells Rest is excellently served by shower and toilet facilities, BBQs and picnic tables, and drinking water.

Putty Beach Campground, Bouddi National Park

If you're looking for a coastal Easter camping experience, Putty Beach campgrounds in the Bouddi National Park, located around 90 minutes from the city, is your A1 destination.

The ultimate spot for some ocean angling (and a swim if the weather gods come to the party), Putty Beach is also home to some absolutely spectacular coastal walks that can get you up-close and personal to the native wildlife. If that sounds too taxing, you can simply sit back in a comfy camp chair and let the salty sea air do the rest.

The park comes well-equipped with showers, toilets and BBQ facilities but those in the know recommend bringing your own cooking and drinking water.

Make it an Easter camping experience to remember (for all the right reasons) with these camping essentials:

• An easy to set up and durable tent;
• Reliable sleeping bags, airbeds, stretchers and hiking mats to help you get a good night's sleep;
• Outdoor furniture like camp chairs and hammocks;
• Purpose-designed cooking facilities, cookware and utensils and premium cast iron cooking products;
• A portable energy source, if your campsite doesn't have access to mains power;
• Camp toilets and portable camp showers for staying fresh at campsites without water connectivity.

Find your local Anaconda store and check out our extensive range of camping gear to get you ready for your Easter adventure.