The Basin Campground
About This Campsite
Escape to Sydney’s most iconic waterfront campground at The Basin in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Just 45km from the CBD, this stunning beachside camping destination offers the unique experience of arriving by ferry, water taxi, or scenic bushwalk, there’s no vehicle access, making it a true escape from the everyday. Pitch your tent on expansive grassy areas overlooking the crystal-clear waters of Pittwater, with a sheltered beach, tranquil inland lagoon, and friendly swamp wallabies as your neighbours. The Basin Campground is the only camping permitted in Ku-ring-gai Chase, Australia’s second-oldest national park, offering 114 unmarked tent sites with excellent facilities including flush toilets, cold showers, BBQ areas, and drinking water. Perfect for families, couples, and adventure seekers wanting beach camping near Sydney with swimming, paddleboarding, fishing, bushwalking, and wildlife spotting on your doorstep. Book your slice of waterfront paradise and discover why The Basin has been a favourite camping destination for over 30 years.
Camp Comforts
Trip Essentials
In Detail
Palm Beach Ferry from Palm Beach Wharf, approximately hourly 9am-5pm. Strongly recommended for families with heavy gear. Also accessible via water taxi.
Contact Information
Address and Location
Sydney
New South Wales
2084
Australia
Local Area and Accessibility
What's Available
- Unpowered
- Grass
- Waterfront
- Shaded
- National Park Camping
Site Capacity and Characteristics
- Beachside
- Coastal
- Bushland
- Waterfront
Access Requirements
Vehicle Specifications
Directions and Access Notes
CRITICAL: There is absolutely NO vehicle access to the campground itself. You must arrive by ferry, water taxi, boat, or foot.
Option 1: The Ferry (Recommended) The Palm Beach Ferry departs from Palm Beach Wharf hourly (approx 9am-5pm). This is the best option for families or anyone with heavy camping gear (tents, eskies, etc.).
Option 2: The Walk (Steep!) You can drive to the West Head Road carpark (sealed road, 2WD accessible) and walk the 2.8km "The Basin Track" down to the site.
Warning: This is a steep walk and can be difficult with heavy gear. Allow plenty of time.
Gate Closures (Don't Get Locked In!) The gates to West Head Road are locked nightly. If you are parking at the top to walk in, ensure you arrive/leave within these hours:
Daylight Saving: Gates lock 8:30pm – 6:00am
Rest of Year: Gates lock 6:00pm – 6:00am
Bathroom and Sanitation
Kitchen and Cooking
- Electric
- Wood/Coal
Water and Waste
Utilities and Connectivity
On-Site and Nearby Activities
- Swimming (Beach/Lake/River)
- Fishing
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Boating
- Snorkeling
- Bushwalking/Hiking
- Mountain Biking
- Birdwatching
- Wildlife Spotting
- Wildlife Photography
- Landscape Photography
- Star Gazing
Barrenjoey Lighthouse – Historic 1881 lighthouse, accessible by water taxi
West Head Lookout – Panoramic views of Pittwater and Broken Bay
Patonga Beach – Tranquil seaside village accessible by ferry
Palm Beach – Sydney's iconic northern beach
Bobbin Head – Picnic area, visitor centre, marina
Setting and Environment
- Families
- Couples
- Solo Travelers
- Groups
- Nature Lovers
- Adventure Seekers
Swamp wallabies graze the campground and surrounding area. Eastern grey kangaroos common. Abundant birdlife throughout Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Dolphins and sea eagles spotted on the water.
No vehicle access. Ferry gates close at 5pm approximately. West Head Road gates locked nightly (8:30pm during daylight saving, 6pm rest of year) — do not get locked in if walking. Beach unpatrolled. Check NPWS alerts for any closures.
Important Rules and Regulations
Booking and Pricing
Camping Fee - Approx $34 for 2 people + tent/swag per night
Park Entry Fee (vehicle) - $12 per vehicle per day (if walking in)
Landing Fee (day visitors) - $3 adult / $2 child (included in camping fees)
Ferry (Palm Beach) - Approx $16.40 adult return + luggage fee
Check NPWS booking terms at time of reservation.
Status and Season
may close during poor weather or fire danger
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