With its stunning beaches, family-friendly towns, and wildlife-rich national parks, Port Stephens is one of New South Wales’ most iconic caravan destinations. But if you’re wondering how many caravan parks are in the region — and whether they’re worth visiting — the answer might surprise you.
For travellers browsing caravans in Heatherbrae and planning road trips close to home, Port Stephens offers the perfect mix of accessibility and natural beauty. From beachfront stays to bushland hideaways, the area caters to almost every type of caravanner, whether you’re off-grid, luxury-seeking or budget-conscious.
In this guide, we’ll break down the number of parks, explore what makes each area unique, and help you decide where to set up next time you’re headed up the coast.
How Many Caravan Parks Are In Port Stephens?
There are currently over 25 caravan parks and holiday parks spread across the Port Stephens area. This includes major coastal hubs like Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay, as well as quieter inland pockets around Anna Bay, Fingal Bay, and Lemon Tree Passage.
Some are run by large national operators (like Reflections or Ingenia), while others are family-owned or council-managed. Many of these parks offer a combination of:
- Powered and unpowered sites
- Cabin accommodation
- Onsite amenities (BBQs, laundries, camp kitchens)
- Beach or riverfront access
- Pet-friendly options
The number of parks continues to grow gradually, thanks to rising domestic tourism and long-term vanlife interest.
Key Locations And Standout Parks
Let’s take a closer look at the key hotspots and some of their top parks.
Nelson Bay
- One of the most popular areas
- Great access to dolphin cruises, cafes, and beaches
- Notable parks: Halifax Holiday Park, Marina Resort Holiday Village
Shoal Bay
- Scenic views of Tomaree Headland
- Known for upmarket camping and walking trails
- Shoal Bay Holiday Park is a long-standing favourite
Fingal Bay
- Quieter than Nelson or Shoal
- Excellent surf beach and family atmosphere
- Fingal Bay Holiday Park is well-reviewed for its spacious layout
Anna Bay
- Famous for 4WD sand dunes and off-road beach access
- Fewer parks, but lots of space and proximity to Stockton Beach
- Samurai Beach Bungalows and Melaleuca Surfside are local picks
Lemon Tree Passage / Taylors Beach
- Great for fishing, boating and laid-back holidaymakers
- Often less crowded than coastal spots
- Big4 Ingenia Holidays Soldiers Point sits between water access points
Council-Owned Vs Privately Operated Parks
A notable difference in Port Stephens is the variety of park operators.
- Reflections Holiday Parks: Council-owned, nature-based focus
- BIG4 / NRMA / Ingenia: Privately run, often more resort-style
- Independent parks: May offer cheaper rates or quirky features
Reflections tends to dominate the beach-access locations, while private parks excel in extras like splash zones, pools, or pet-friendly cabins. If you’re after full-blown amenities, a private park might suit better. If you’re chasing simplicity and nature, council parks have the edge.
Amenities You Can Expect
Most caravan parks in Port Stephens offer:
- Powered and unpowered sites
- Water hookups
- Clean bathrooms and showers
- Camp kitchens and BBQ areas
- Dump points and laundry facilities
- Wi-Fi (though reception varies in coastal pockets)
Larger parks may also have:
- Swimming pools
- Kids’ play areas
- Bike and kayak hire
- Onsite cafes or general stores
Before booking, always double-check for seasonal changes, minimum stays, and cancellation policies.
Peak Season vs Off-Peak
Port Stephens is a year-round destination, but pricing and availability vary greatly.
- Peak season: December to February, school holidays, Easter
- Off-peak: May to September, excluding long weekends
Booking ahead is essential during summer or if you want a premium beachfront spot. In winter, you’ll likely find availability — and discounts.
Pet-Friendly Caravan Parks
Pet-friendliness is a major deciding factor for many travellers. Fortunately, at least 10 of the 25+ parks in Port Stephens allow dogs.
Look for parks that specify pet-friendly sites and check:
- Whether pets are allowed during school holidays
- If there are leash or zone restrictions
- If cabins allow dogs or only van sites
Some of the more relaxed parks are near Anna Bay and Soldiers Point, but policies vary.
Tips For Choosing The Right Park
With so many options, here’s how to narrow down your list:
- Families with kids: Go for larger parks with pools and activities
- Couples: Shoal Bay or Fingal Bay are more relaxed
- 4WD enthusiasts: Anna Bay gives access to sand dunes and off-road trails
- Nature lovers: Lemon Tree Passage is quiet and full of birdlife
- Budget travellers: Look just outside the main towns for better rates
And always look at Google reviews, not just the glossy website photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Is Wild Camping Allowed In Port Stephens?
Free camping or wild camping is generally not permitted in the Port Stephens council area. Rangers regularly patrol known spots, and fines may apply if you’re camped illegally. While some travellers report staying overnight in car parks or rest areas, these are typically not approved — and definitely not a reliable long-term option. For a safe, legal, and hassle-free experience, it’s better to stay at an approved caravan park or campground. Many local parks offer affordable unpowered sites if you’re travelling light or self-contained.
2) What Is The Average Cost Per Night At A Caravan Park?
Prices vary based on season, park size, and amenities, but you can expect:
- Unpowered site: $30–$45 per night
- Powered site: $45–$70 per night
- Cabin accommodation: $100–$250 per night
During off-peak periods, you might score discounts or extended stay deals. Some parks also offer weekly or monthly rates for grey nomads or long-stay travellers. It pays to book early and compare sites using apps like Wikicamps or CamperMate to find the best value in Port Stephens.
3) Are Any Parks Located Directly On The Beach?
Yes — several caravan parks in Port Stephens offer absolute beachfront access. These include Halifax Holiday Park (Nelson Bay), Shoal Bay Holiday Park, and Fingal Bay Holiday Park. These parks are often in high demand and can book out months in advance during the summer. Being on the beach means you’ll pay a premium — but you also get quick access to swimming, fishing, and walking trails. If beachfront access is important to you, book well in advance and check whether dogs are allowed (many beachfront parks have pet restrictions).
4) Can I Stay Long-Term At A Port Stephens Caravan Park?
Some caravan parks in the region do offer long-term stays, particularly during off-peak months or for grey nomads who return seasonally. However, long-term arrangements are usually subject to:
- Park manager approval
- Compliance with residential stay limits
- Proof of self-sufficiency (for off-grid setups)
- Minimum night requirements
If you’re thinking of staying for several weeks or longer, it’s best to contact the park directly. Some even offer storage for vans if you plan to return regularly but don’t want to tow back and forth.
5) Are There Parks Near Shops And Restaurants?
Absolutely. Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, and Salamander Bay have caravan parks that are walking distance from supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants. If convenience is a priority, focus your search within these town centres. More remote parks like those near Lemon Tree Passage or Anna Bay offer beautiful surroundings but may require a short drive for supplies. That said, many parks — even the remote ones — have basic amenities like snack kiosks or onsite cafes for the essentials.
Explore Port Stephens With Confidence
Port Stephens strikes the perfect balance between wild nature and modern convenience. Whether you’re into surfing, bushwalking, boating, or beach-hopping, there’s a caravan park nearby that’ll suit your travel style and budget.
With over 25 parks to choose from, you’ll never be short on places to stay — and it’s all just a short drive from Newcastle or the heart of the Hunter.
Speak With The Local Experts At 7th Street Caravans
If you’re planning to explore the region or upgrade your touring setup, the team at 7th Street Caravans can help you hit the road with confidence and clarity.
Start your journey with confidence — visit 7th Street Caravans or give our team a call on 02 4012 6009 for friendly, local advice.