Nestled along NSW’s South Coast, Mystery Bay offers a serene escape into nature, where the sounds of the ocean and the rustle of native flora form the perfect backdrop for your camping adventure. Just a short distance off the Princes Highway, and close to the historic villages of the Tilba district, it’s a place that feels a million miles from the hustle of daily life. With its spectacular cliff headlands and campgrounds that front the ocean, Mystery Bay offers a variety of natural camping areas that cater to every type of camper.
Top Camping Spots in Mystery Bay
Whether you’re looking to explore the Eurobodalla National Park or relax by the ocean, Mystery Bay offers a variety of camping experiences, from traditional tent sites, powered or primitive, through to luxury glamping options. As fewer coastal bush camping areas remain accessible to the public, Mystery Bay is a rare gem. With camp sites scattered throughout the natural landscape, Mystery Bay is a mecca for campers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Mystery Bay Campground
Nestled in the heart of Mystery Bay, Mystery Bay Campground fronts the ocean, offering a unique blend of coastal charm and natural beauty. It’s one of the few natural camping areas remaining on NSW’s south coast, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the stunning landscapes of the region.
- Location: Mystery Bay Road, Mystery Bay.
- Accommodation: The campground provides unpowered sites suitable for tents, caravans, camper vans, and boats.
- Amenities: Facilities include pit toilets, cold showers, and water taps. The campground is also pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along.
Mystery Bay Cottages
Mystery Bay Cottages is a hidden gem on the far south coast of NSW – bordering onto Eurobodalla National Park and Billy’s Beach. With views to the majestic Gulaga, the 32-acre property offers privacy, rest and relaxation, bushwalks, ocean swims, bike rides, bird watching, snorkelling, star gazing…
- Location: Mystery Bay Road, Mystery Bay.
- Accommodation: There are three types of holiday accommodation, from self-catering cottages to cabins or glamping. For an elevated camping experience try our glamping. The hot showers under the stars are divine.
- Amenities: Your glamping experience offers comfort and style with a little funkiness too. Everything from your tent’s entrance mat to the spacious cathedral ceiling tent, bedside tables, lighting, storage and super comfortable bed with quality linen. You’ll be warm as toast in winter and well ventilated for summer. You’ll love your privacy and enjoy sharing the well crafted kitchen, bathroom facilities, dining area and fire pit with your fellow glampers.
Tilba Lake House
Tilba Lake House, a boutique luxury accommodation on the NSW south coast. Set out on a stunning coastal-country property, Tilba Lake House is minutes to beautiful beaches (including Mystery Bay Beach), pristine lakes (including Tilba Tilba Lake) and the sacred Mount Gulaga aka Mount Dromedary.
- Location: Sunnyside Road, Central Tilba
- Accommodation: Set on rural acreage, the property offers a range of accommodation from tiny houses through to glamping in their luxury Sibley bell tent, fondly known as “Frankie”.
- Amenities: Frankie includes a comfy and cosy queen size bed, private shower facilities and wifi. Enjoy a drink by the firepit or chill out by the pool.
Mountain View Farm
Surrounded by the beauty of the Tilba Valley, Mountain View Farm is a truly unique and wonderfully peaceful place with friendly, genuine hospitality. Located in Tilba Tilba, at the base of Gulaga Mountain, a camping stay on the farm is a truly unique experience.
- Location: Mount Dromedary Trail, Tilba Tilba
- Accommodation: Choose from a variety of accommodation options but for the ultimate camping adventure you can’t go past the huge safari tents which have their own distinct identities and charms, and all share majestic views over Gulaga and the spectacular landscape.
- Amenities: Your tent house includes linen and towels, a personal fire pit, an esky, a picnic basket, a small gas cooker and access to our common area “The Old Dairy” and amenity block (toilet and shower), plus fridge, BBQ, TV, wi-fi, kitchen utensils etc.
From the rustic charm of Mystery Bay Campground to the serene settings of nearby campgrounds, each location offers its unique allure. Whether you’re seeking some time alone or a community vibe, Mystery Bay is a destination that promises an unforgettable camping experience.
Discovering Mystery Bay's Hidden Gems
While the campgrounds in Mystery Bay offer an immersive natural experience, the surrounding area offers a variety of attractions, each contributing to a unique camping getaway.
- Mystery Bay Lookout: Perched atop the spectacular cliff headlands, Mystery Bay Lookout is more than just a viewpoint—it’s a gateway to the breathtaking scenery of NSW’s South Coast. During migration seasons, it becomes a prime spot for whale watching, where the vast ocean meets the sky.
- Narooma to Dalmeny Cycleway: This scenic cycling route is only a short distance from most of the campgrounds. Ideal for cycling enthusiasts, it offers a picturesque journey with views that encapsulate the essence of the South Coast’s beauty. The path winds along the coast, offering glimpses of Baranguba Montague Island and expansive ocean views
- Barunguba Montague Island: Just off the coast and a short distance off the Princes Highway, Barunguba Montague Island is an ecological paradise. Accessible from Narooma, this island is a sanctuary for wildlife, including seals and various bird species, including penguins. The island, with its historic lighthouse, offers guided tours that include snorkelling adventures and insights into the island’s rich history.
- Eurobodalla National Park: A stone’s throw from Mystery Bay, the Eurobodalla National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. With its dense forests of mainly spotted gums and small beaches, it offers a peaceful retreat.
- Tilba District: The villages of Central Tilba and Tilba Tilba are as beautiful as they are unique. Classified by the National Trust and are regarded as one of Australia’s best heritage sights.
These attractions, each a unique facet of the region, enhance the camping experience at Mystery Bay, ensuring that every camper takes home memories that last a lifetime.
Making the Most of Your Mystery Bay Camping Experience
Camping in Mystery Bay is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of New South Wales. To make the most of your trip, consider these tips:
- Be Prepared: Pack according to the activities you plan to engage in. Essentials include camping gear, appropriate clothing, and food supplies.
- Respect the Environment: Practice eco-friendly camping by minimising waste and respecting wildlife.
- Explore the Local Area: Take time to visit nearby attractions and engage with the local community. This can enrich your camping experience and provide a deeper understanding of the area’s culture and history.
Mystery Bay is a rare gem on NSW’s South Coast, a place where time slows down and nature’s beauty unfolds in its full glory. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a newcomer to outdoor adventures, this region promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the unforgettable charm of Mystery Bay!
