Sydney is one of Australia’s busiest cities, known for its crazy house prices and sub-tropical climate. For Sydney siders who want to make a quick escape from the hustle bustle of the city, Offmain handpicked the best spots for 4WD day trips near Sydney. Beach driving, fishing and river crossings make these locations perfect for a weekend (or weekday) challenge! They are only 1.5-2 hours away from the city and suitable for both beginners and experienced 4WDers. Read on to find out where they are, what’s around and how to get there.
FYI, water available at below campsites are not suitable for drinking. Check out our tips for clean drinking water while camping.
1. Blacksmiths Beach
How far:
1 hr 38 minutes (130 kms) north of Sydney
What to do & see
- Beach driving! One of the toughest and most fun beach drives in the NSW, Note, that you need a permit to drive on the beach and your vehicle must be registered (fine is $220 if you forget). Visit https://www.belmontwetlands.com.au/ to purchase
- Swimming and surfing is popular among family. The beach has an active lifesaving club and is patrolled in the warmer months
- Fishing is allowed on the beach
- Let your dog(s) run around off-lead. The beach is pet friendly
Camping facilities
Camping rules seem to be changing. According to BelmontWetlands.com.au, camping on the beach itself is no longer permitted. Please check before planning your trip. Other options include Blacksmith Beachside Holiday Park and Lake Mac Holiday Park.
2. Stockton Beach
How far:
2 hours 7 minutes (165 kms) north of Sydney
What to do & see:
- Driving on moving sand dune! One of the largest coastal dune drives in NSW. (Beginners can stick with beach driving on hard sand.) Note that Stockton Beach is sometimes closed for rehabilitation of sand dunes due to storms and public use. Check nationalparks.nsw.gov.au before planning your trip. You need a permit (only available via physical outlets. Visit https://worimiconservationlands.com/beach-driving/ for where to buy.
- Scuba diving, surfing, swimming, camel riding and fishing
- Visit the surrounding Port Stephens area. Check out Toboggan Hill Park and Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
Camping facilities:
Currently camping is not permitted on Stockton beach itself but a designated remote camping area is available at southern end of the Worimi Conservation Lands. Check https://worimiconservationlands.com/camping/ for how to get there.
3. Colo river
How far:
1 hr 37 minutes (104.3kms) northwest of Sydney
What to do & see:
- Plenty of fun 4WD tracks. Gees Arm South Trail is notorious for rock steps suitable for the more experienced drivers.
- Lower Colo Reserve to Hawkesbury River is an excellent spot for canoeing
- Bushwalking tracks ranging from beginners to experienced. Check out Bob Turner’s and Mount Lagoon T3 Track
Camping facilities
Camping at the Upper Colo Reserve is closed for bridge repair. Other options are Colo Mud Brick Cabin, Ossian Hall, The Lodge and Colo River Holiday Park.
4. Kurrajong Discovery Trail
How far:
1 hour 21 minutes (95kms) west of Sydney (start at Bells Line of Road)
What to do & see:
- 4WDing down the Blue Mountain National Park to the Barralow Valley. Drive through the dense forest and take in the surroundings. The Mountain Lagoon Road to Comleroy Road is also a 4WD track worth checking out
- Cafes, galleries and antique shops on Bells Line of Road
- Mountain biking and bushwalking. Check out the Bulcamatta Track, which is full of rainforest ferns and ends in a waterfall
Camping facilites
Wheeny Creek campground is near East Kurrajong. It’s free with toilets and BBQ facilities. BYO firewood.
5. Watagans National Park
How far:
1 hour 43 mins (131kms) north of Sydney
What to do & see:
- Plenty of 4WD tracks to explore (best to stay a few days for this), ranging from beginners friendly to experienced drivers only. Do your research and be prepared
- Picnic ground at Boarding House Dam with toilet facilities, BBQs and Toilets
- Walking tracks. Check out Great North Walk if you’re an experienced bushwalker or opt for a shorter Circuit Walking track from the Boarding House Dam picnic ground. Keep your eyes peeled for wild horses!
- Monkey Face Lookout for scenery and bird watching (bring your binoculars)
Camping facilities
Bungalow and Gap Creek Campground has BBQs and toilets. BYO firewood. Gap Creek has immediate access to walking tracks and lookout. Both are free to use (only $6 booking fee applies, Booking required. Visit nationalparks.nsw.gov.au)
At Offmain, we believe that 4WDing and outdoor adventure is for everyone, and getting started should be easy. Founded by a team of female 4WDers and a rookie hiking adventurer, Offmain is a positive and inclusive community for people of all experience levels, from those researching Vehicles, Camping and adventure options - all you need is the love to explore.
Come on an adventure with us 🥳
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