Bonnie Vale Campground

Bonnie Vale is the largest campground in Royal National Park and the most popular, and the location explains why. It sits on the Hacking River between Bundeena and Maianbar at the northern end of the park, about 40km south of Sydney, with a large sand spit that creates one of the safest and most sheltered swimming spots in the area. It’s genuinely well-equipped for a national park campground, and for families wanting to introduce kids to the experience without roughing it, this is the obvious starting point.

There are 79 marked sites spread across beachside and bush positions, a mix of powered and unpowered. The flat, step-free layout makes it one of the better campgrounds in Sydney for families with prams or anyone with mobility needs. The amenities block has accessible toilets and showers on concrete paths. Grey water must be captured and emptied at the dump points next to each amenities block. Gates lock to vehicles 8pm to 7am, so plan your arrival time accordingly. One vehicle per site including trailers and boats.

Facilities are solid: flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water, and gas and electric BBQs at no charge. No campfires, no generators. Mobile reception is available. Check-in from 12pm, check-out by 10am.

Weekend kayak hire operates at the Bonnie Vale picnic area for exploring the Hacking River bays or heading upstream toward Audley Weir. Jibbon Beach is a short walk for fishing. The Coast Track, Royal National Park’s 26km coastal walk between Otford and Bundeena, starts a short drive from the campground at Bundeena Drive. NPWS runs guided nature walks directly from Bonnie Vale through coastal bush, mangroves, and rocky shore. Bundeena’s shops, cafes, and RSL are within walking distance of the campground entrance.

Two ways in: drive via Audley Weir and Sir Bertram Stevens Drive, 25km from the Loftus entrance, or take the Cronulla ferry to Bundeena Wharf and walk 15 minutes to the entrance. Check the Audley Weir crossing status before driving in wet weather as it can close. Park entry is $12 per vehicle per day. Book via NPWS up to 6 months ahead. Peak weekends and school holidays go fast.