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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.

New South Wales | Sydney to Broken Hill Road Trip Itinerary

New South Wales | Sydney to Broken Hill Road Trip Itinerary

Discover the best of inland New South Wales on this 12 day road trip itinerary. Leaving from and returning to Sydney, experience spectacular inland Australia including Mungo National Park.

Day 1: Sydney

Pick up your Apollo vehicle from our dedicated Sydney Apollo Branch and start exploring! We recommend visiting the Bronte Baths (pictured below!), the world famous Taronga Zoo or taking in the view of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Bridge

Image: Destination NSW

 

Day 2: Sydney to Mudgee

Travel time: 3 hours 40 minutes

Distance: 266kms

Say goodbye to the city and hello to the Blue Mountains. Today you can head directly to Mudgee or stop at some of the beautiful scenic lookouts in the Blue Mountains. We recommend visiting the iconic (and easy to reach!) Three Sisters Lookout

Image: Destination NSW

 

Day 3: Mudgee to Dubbo

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Distance: 128kms

Only a quick 90 minutes in your Apollo vehicle today before arriving in the small town of Dubbo

 

Day 4: Dubbo

Didn't manage to fit in Taronga Zoo while you were in Sydney (or couldn't get enough of all the animals?)? Either way Dubbo has you sorted with their own Taronga Zoo. The Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo is open every day of the year (including Christmas Day!) and is a must do while in Dubbo. 

Image: Destination NSW

 

Day 5: Dubbo to Cobar

Travel time: 3 hours 10 minutes

Distance: 297kms

Just over three hours on the road today to get to your day five destination - Cobar. Once you've arrived be sure to tick off another one of Australia's 'Big Things' with The Big Beer Can, found atop of the Grand Hotel.  

 

Day 6: Cobar to Broken Hill

Travel time: 4 hours 45 minutes

Distance: 457kms

Today you'll head within an inch of the South Australia border (okay not quite an inch) with a visit to Broken Hill. Australia's longest lived mining city and the home of BHP Billiton, the world's largest mining company (the BH in BHP Billiton even stands for Broken Hill!), you can explore more of this famous mining town wth mine tours, museums and memorials. 

Image: Destination NSW

 

Day 7: Broken Hill

Start today with a magnificent sunrise over the Australian outback before visiting the Living Desert and Sculpture Symposium. Found just 12km from Broken Hill, the Symposium is a popular tourist attraction comprising of 12 giant sandstone sculptures standing tall amongst the stunning outback landscape. You an explore the sculptures in more detail by following the easy walking trail from the carpark. 

Image: Destination NSW
 

Day 8: Broken Hill to Wentworth

Travel time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Distance: 287kms

Just under 3 hours on the road and you'll arrive in Wentworth, where the Darling and Murray Rivers meet. This town is known for its emerging foodie culture. Enjoy delicious food and drink at the Crown Hotel and Trentham Estate Winery before exploring the Orange World Orchard (with a tour on a tractor train!)

Image: Destination NSW

 

Day 9: Wentworth to Balranald

Distance: 191km

Travel time: 2 hours 5 minutes

Set off early today to arrive at Balranald with plenty of time to explore. From here you can book a 4WD tour to explore the incredible Mungo National Park or visit the area's impressive river system - there are five different rivers to choose from all within a 30 minute drive!

 

Day 10: Balranald to Wagga Wagga

Travel time: 4 hours 45 minutes

Distance: 442kms

Stock up on your road trip snacks today as you're going to want them. Today enjoy just under five hours on the road where you can really take in and appreciate Australia's rugged and stretched landscape. 

Image: Destination NSW

 

Day 11: Wagga Wagga

Just north of Wagga Wagga, discover the Canola Trail. From last August to early October each year, the Canola Fields bloom into a vibrant yellow and make an impressive sight (and a great picture!). If visiting outside of the season be sure to visit the beautifully painted Lockhart Water Tower, Wagga Riverside Beach and, if you're up for a bit of a detour, the Yarrangobilly Caves are well worth the drive. 

Image: Destination NSW
 
 

Day 12: Wagga Wagga to Sydney Apollo Branch 

Distance: 459kms

Travel time: 4 hours 45 minutes

Say goodbye to Wagga Wagga and hello to the city. After one last stretch on the road drop off your Apollo vehicle at our Sydney Apollo Branch. We're sure we'll see you again shortly! 

Image: Destination NSW

 

Places to stay

Reflections Holiday Parks Cudgegong River

Discovery Parks Dubbo

Broken Hill Tourist Park 

Horseshoe Tourist 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.

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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