Fame Mountain Campsite, Pindimar

Fame Mountain Campsite is a private, back-to-basics bush camping area located in the quiet coastal hamlet of Pindimar, on the northern shores of the magnificent Port Stephens harbour. This is not a commercial caravan park, but rather a simple, undeveloped property offering a tranquil escape for self-sufficient campers who value peace, nature, and affordability. Nestled amongst native bushland, the campsite provides a serene environment where visitors can disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and a rich variety of birdlife frequently spotted on the property.

This is a primitive camping experience, and it is essential that campers are fully self-contained. There are no formal amenities such as toilets, showers, or power provided. All visitors must bring their own portable toilet and take all rubbish with them, adhering to strict ‘leave no trace’ principles to preserve the natural state of the land. The site consists of open, grassy clearings suitable for tents, swags, and small to medium-sized off-road camper trailers and caravans. Access is via local unsealed roads, which are generally manageable for 2WD vehicles in dry weather. The campsite’s primary appeal is its superb location. While it offers a feeling of seclusion, it is just a short drive from the charming twin towns of Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest, where you can find stunning surf beaches, calm river foreshores, shops, and pubs. It’s the perfect budget-friendly base for exploring the incredible waterways and national parks of the Port Stephens and Myall Lakes region.

Fame Mountain Campsite – NSW Map

Site Information

• Location: In the bushland setting of Pindimar, on the northern side of Port Stephens.
• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained tents, camper trailers, and small to medium off-road caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed local roads. 2WD accessible in dry conditions.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, informal camping on private property (bookings are essential via appropriate platforms).
• Maximum Overnight Stays: As per booking arrangement.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Several unmarked, unpowered sites.
• Facilities: None. This is a primitive campsite.
• Picnic Tables: Not available.
• Potable Water: Not available. You must bring all your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Variable; can be patchy depending on the carrier.
• TV Reception: Poor to non-existent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Not available. A portable chemical toilet is mandatory.
• Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
• Drive Through: No, it is an open paddock-style area.
• Rubbish Bins: Not available. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated areas, subject to local fire restrictions and total fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of other campers.
• Essentials to Bring: All water, power, portable toilet, rubbish bags, food, and insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, typically permitted under strict control as per booking rules.
• Fishing: Excellent fishing opportunities in the nearby Myall River and Port Stephens. A NSW fishing licence is required.
• Short Walks: Informal walks around the property and through the surrounding bushland.

Local Amenities (in Tea Gardens / Hawks Nest, approx. 15-20km away)

Pubs & Eateries

• Tea Gardens Hotel: A classic waterfront pub with a bistro and beautiful views of the Myall River.
• Hawks Nest Hotel: A friendly local pub just a short walk from Bennetts Beach.
• Tea Gardens Country Club & Motel: Offers bistro dining and other club facilities.
• The area has numerous cafes, fish and chip shops, and restaurants.

Local Attractions

• Bennetts Beach, Hawks Nest: A spectacular and often uncrowded surf beach.
• Jimmys Beach, Hawks Nest: A calm, protected beach on the shores of Port Stephens, perfect for families.
• Myall Lakes National Park: A vast waterway system perfect for boating, kayaking, and fishing.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

• Nearest Caravan Parks: Numerous holiday parks are located in Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest.
• Next Free Camps: Very limited free camping in the area. Most alternatives are paid National Park campgrounds.
• Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is located in Tea Gardens.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Tea Gardens.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available at public taps in Tea Gardens or Hawks Nest.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Available in parks and reserves in Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Pindimar area enjoys a temperate coastal climate. Summers are warm to hot and humid, with pleasant sea breezes often moderating the temperature. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Winters are mild and generally sunny, with cool nights but very rarely any frost. Autumn and spring are typically the best times to visit, with warm, sunny days and comfortable evenings. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.