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Discovery Parks – Lane Cove – A Serene National Park Retreat in the Heart of Sydney

Experience the remarkable sensation of staying in a bushland wilderness while being just 10 kilometres from the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge at Discovery Parks – Lane Cove. Located within the pristine boundaries of the Lane Cove National Park in Macquarie Park, this unique destination offers a “best of both worlds” experience for holidaymakers. It is one of the few places in Australia where you can wake up to the sound of kookaburras and native wildlife, then jump on a train to find yourself in the centre of a global metropolis within minutes.

The park is a favourite for families, grey nomads, and international travellers alike, providing a diverse range of accommodation options. From luxury glamping tents and modern, fully self-contained cabins to spacious powered sites suitable for caravans and motorhomes, there is a choice for every budget and preference. The park’s layout is designed to maximise the natural beauty of the surrounding valley, offering shaded sites and a tranquil atmosphere that makes it hard to believe you are in one of the most densely populated regions of New South Wales. The meticulous maintenance of the grounds ensures a premium experience for those seeking a peaceful holiday base.

Beyond the park boundaries, the area is a gateway to the Northern Suburbs’ major hubs. Macquarie Park is a centre for innovation and shopping, with the massive Macquarie Centre providing world-class retail and dining just a short distance away. For nature enthusiasts, the Lane Cove River offers opportunities for kayaking and rowing, while the surrounding national park features kilometres of walking and cycling tracks. Whether you are visiting for a weekend escape or using the park as a long-term base to explore the Greater Sydney region, Discovery Parks – Lane Cove provides a secure, scenic, and exceptionally convenient location. Our dedicated team is on hand to ensure your stay is memorable, offering local tips on the best bushwalks and city sights to ensure you get the most out of your Sydney adventure.

Discovery Parks – Lane Cove – NSW Location Map

Discovery Parks – Lane Cove

Location Map

Location & Site Suitability

  • Location: Nestled inside Lane Cove National Park, Macquarie Park.
  • Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Campervans, Tents, and Glamping.
  • Road Access: Bitumen road access; suitable for most rig sizes, though some internal roads are winding.
  • Site Surface: Mix of grass sites, concrete slabs, and paved areas.

Facilities & Essentials

  • Swimming Pool: Outdoor swimming pool for guest use.
  • Camp Kitchen: Large, modern kitchen with fridges, ovens, and plenty of seating.
  • BBQ Areas: Multiple undercover gas BBQ stations throughout the park.
  • Amenities Block: Clean, modern showers and toilets with disabled access.
  • Laundry: Full laundry facilities with coin-operated machines.
  • Essentials to Bring: Insect repellent, walking shoes, binoculars for bird watching, and a valid Opal card for public transport.

Activities & Pets

  • Pet Friendly: Generally no, as the park is located within a National Park (strictly no domestic animals allowed).
  • Fishing: Available at various points along the Lane Cove River (permit required).
  • Short Walks: Direct access to the Fairyland Track and Great North Walk directly from the park.

Local Amenities

Local Pubs

  • The Ranch Hotel – ~2.2km
  • The Governor Hotel – ~2.8km
  • North Ryde RSL – ~3.5km

Places to Eat

  • Macquarie Centre Food Court (100+ options) – ~2.1km
  • Kinn Thai Macquarie – ~2.1km
  • The Verandah (Lane Cove Boatshed) – ~1.5km

Local Attractions

  • Lane Cove Boatshed (Kayak/Canoe hire) – ~1.4km
  • Macquarie Shopping Centre & Ice Rink – ~2.1km
  • Eden Gardens – ~3.4km
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge / CBD – ~11.5km
  • Taronga Zoo – ~14.0km

Caravan Parks & Free Camps

  • Ingenia Holidays Sydney Hills – ~20.5km
  • NRMA Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park – ~22.0km
  • Cattai National Park (Budget Camping) – ~42.0km
  • Bendeela Recreation Area (Free/Low Cost) – ~165km (Nearest legal free camp outside Metro Sydney).

Dump Points & Services

  • On-site RV Dump Point (Discovery Parks) – 0km
  • Hornsby Public Dump Point – ~15.5km
  • Shell Coles Express Macquarie Park (Petrol) – ~1.8km
  • BP North Ryde (Petrol Station) – ~2.5km
  • Drinking Water Resupply (On-site) – 0km
  • Drinking Water (National Park Picnic Areas) – ~0.5km
  • Public Toilets (Lane Cove National Park Entrance) – ~0.4km
  • Public Toilets (Macquarie Centre) – ~2.1km

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Discovery Parks – Lane Cove

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Warm with cooling river breezes. Highs of 26°C–29°C. Best time for the pool, though high humidity is common.
  • Autumn (Mar–May): Pleasant and mild. Highs of 20°C–24°C. Perfect for bushwalking without the summer heat.
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Sunny but cool days. Highs of 17°C with nights dropping to 8°C. The bushland stays lush and green.
  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Mild and beautiful. Temperatures between 13°C and 23°C. Native wildflowers bloom throughout the national park.

 

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