JALI Farm Stay, Johns River NSW

Escape the highway and discover a tranquil rural escape at JALI Farm Stay, a beautiful camping property located on the banks of the Stewarts River, near the charming village of Johns River on the New South Wales Mid North Coast. This pet-friendly farm offers a genuine back-to-nature camping experience for travellers looking for an alternative to crowded caravan parks or noisy highway rest areas. Perfectly suited for self-contained caravans, campervans, motorhomes, and tents, JALI Farm provides spacious, level, grassy sites where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful countryside.

The farm’s prime attraction is its direct river access, making it a paradise for water lovers. Launch your kayak or canoe right from the property, cast a line in for a spot of fishing, or simply sit back and watch the birdlife. The facilities are rustic but clean and functional, including access to toilets and hot showers. Campfires are permitted in designated areas, allowing for magical evenings under the stars (subject to local fire restrictions). While it feels a world away, JALI Farm Stay is conveniently located just a short drive from the Pacific Highway, making it an easy and accessible stopover between Sydney and Brisbane. The nearby towns of Laurieton and Port Macquarie provide all necessary supplies, including supermarkets, fuel, and restaurants. For a unique and affordable stay that combines rural charm with riverside recreation, JALI Farm Stay is a hidden gem on the Mid North Coast.

Site Information

• Location: On Wharf Road, just outside the village of Johns River, with frontage to the Stewarts River.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed road to the property, internal access is gravel/grass.
• Site Surface: Grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings are essential.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Dependant on booking.
• Number of Powered Sites: None, this is an unpowered farm stay experience.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Multiple spacious sites available.
• Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, river access.
• Picnic Tables: Bring your own chairs and tables.
• Potable Water: Yes, potable water is available.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Generally good, but can be variable depending on carrier.
• TV Reception: Unreliable; a satellite dish is recommended.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, toilets and showers for campers.
• Ullage / Dump Point: Not available on site.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, campers are expected to manage their waste responsibly.
• Open Fires: Yes, permitted in designated areas. Check for local fire bans.
• Generator Use: Check with farm management upon booking.
• Number of Sites Available: Varies, booking is essential.
• Essentials to Bring: Camp chairs, cooking equipment, insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be well-behaved and controlled.
• Fishing: Excellent opportunities in the Stewarts River directly from the property.
• Short Walks: Pleasant walks around the farm property and along the river bank.

Local Amenities

Pubs

• Laurieton Hotel, Laurieton: A classic pub with a family-friendly bistro (approx. 20km).
• Royal Hotel, Kew: A friendly local pub just off the highway (approx. 15km).
• Taree Railway Station Hotel, Taree: A historic pub in the centre of Taree (approx. 30km).

Places to Eat

• Johns River: Home to a famous local cafe and pie shop.
• Laurieton: Offers a good range of cafes, bakeries, restaurants, and a Coles supermarket.
• Taree: A major regional centre with all major supermarkets and fast-food outlets.

Local Attractions

• North Brother Mountain Lookout: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coast near Laurieton.
• Crowdy Bay National Park: Features beautiful beaches, walks, and camping areas.
• Coopernook State Forest: Offers opportunities for 4WDing and exploring the hinterland.

Nearest Caravan Parks

• Laurieton Gardens Caravan Resort: A well-appointed park in the heart of Laurieton.
• Lanis on the Lakes, Forster: A large park with extensive facilities further south.

Next Free Camps

• Newlys Creek Rest Area (North & Southbound): The closest highway rest area with a 24-hour limit.
• Coopernook Hotel Motel: Offers free camping for patrons.

Nearest Dump Points

• Taree Visitor Information Centre: A public dump point is available for travellers.
• Laurieton United Services Club: Dump point may be available for a fee.

Nearest Petrol Station

• Johns River / Kew: Service stations are located just off the highway.

Drinking Water Resupply

• Onsite: Potable water is available at the farm.

Nearest Public Toilets (offsite)

• Johns River Community Hall: Public toilets available in the village.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Johns River area enjoys a beautiful subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters.

• Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot and can be humid, with average temperatures from 20°C to 29°C. Great for water activities.
• Autumn (Mar – May): Typically beautiful weather with warm, sunny days and lower humidity.
• Winter (Jun – Aug): Mild and mostly sunny. Daytime temperatures average 8°C to 20°C, and nights are cool.
• Spring (Sep – Nov): Weather warms up with pleasant days ideal for enjoying the outdoors before the summer heat.