Cockatoo Island Camping

Cockatoo Island / Wareamah is the only place in Sydney Harbour where you can camp overnight, and it’s about as far from a typical campground as you can get while still calling it camping. The island sits in the middle of the harbour, 10 minutes by ferry from Circular Quay, and it carries 150 years of layered history: convict gaol, reformatory, naval dockyard, now UNESCO World Heritage listed. Lonely Planet once called it one of the world’s most spectacularly located campsites. That’s not marketing waffle, it’s accurate.

Camping options range from BYO tent on unpowered grass sites (max 4 guests, bring tent pegs, it’s exposed and windy) through to basic pre-pitched tents, deluxe packages, and premium waterfront glamping setups with stretcher beds, bedding, towels, and harbour views. The deluxe waterfront area has power from 6am to 6pm. All campers regardless of package get exclusive access to flush toilets, hot showers, and the campground kitchen, which is properly equipped: 10 BBQs, instant boiling water, 2 fridges, microwaves, a vending machine, and seating for 50. There’s also a fire pit and an outdoor cinema running movies every night.

Two licensed cafes operate on the island: Cockatoo Overboard on the Eastern Apron and the Marina Café and Bar at Camber Wharf. Both serve food and alcohol seven days a week. Note that BYO alcohol is not permitted on the island. Food and drink outside the cafes is your own. Wi-Fi is available, enquire at the Visitor Centre. Check-in is from 2pm at the Visitor Centre, check-out by 10am.

The island itself warrants a full day of exploration. The UNESCO World Heritage Convict Site, the historic dockyard, audio and guided tours, and self-guided heritage walks are all available. Events run throughout the year including New Year’s Eve celebrations. This is one of those places where you stay for the camping and end up spending most of your time walking around wondering how this place exists 10 minutes from the CBD.

Ferry access from Circular Quay or Barangaroo (F3/F8 lines), or via RiverCat from Parramatta River wharves. No private vehicle access. Booking essential via the Cockatoo Island website. Check the events calendar before booking as major events may affect your stay. No pets.