Samurai Beach campground, Tomaree National Park NSW
For the adventurous camper seeking a truly spectacular and secluded coastal escape, Samurai Beach Campground is one of Port Stephens’ best-kept secrets. Tucked away behind the sand dunes in a beautiful pocket of Tomaree National Park, this primitive campground offers a genuine back-to-nature experience. Reaching this spot is an adventure in itself, as it is strictly accessible by 4WD vehicles only, via a soft sand track that requires experience and lowered tyre pressures. This exclusivity ensures the campground remains a peaceful retreat, far from the bustling holiday crowds. The beach itself is a stunning, pristine stretch of sand and is also well-known as a designated clothing-optional beach, attracting visitors who appreciate the freedom and naturalistic ethos.
This is a quintessential bush camp for the fully self-sufficient traveller. The campground consists of a series of small, sheltered clearings nestled in the coastal scrub, providing a good degree of privacy between sites. The only facility provided is a non-flushing toilet, meaning campers must bring absolutely everything they need for their stay, including all drinking water, and must pack out all their rubbish. The rewards for this self-reliance are immense: falling asleep to the sound of the ocean, waking up for a sunrise swim, and spending your days fishing, surfing, or simply relaxing on the beautiful, uncrowded beach.
Despite its remote feel, Samurai Beach is remarkably close to the conveniences of the Port Stephens area. The towns of Anna Bay and Nelson Bay are just a short drive away for supplies, cafes, and pubs. It’s the perfect base for exploring the other wonders of Tomaree National Park, such as the Tomaree Head Summit walk with its breathtaking views, or the vast sand dunes of the Worimi Conservation Lands. Bookings are essential for this popular spot, especially on weekends and holidays.
Site Information
- Location: In a secluded section of Tomaree National Park, behind Samurai Beach.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, and Off-road Camper Trailers. Not suitable for caravans.
- Road Access: 4WD access only via a soft sand track. Experience with sand driving and tyre deflation is essential.
- Site Surface: Sand and natural ground.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Online booking in advance is mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the NPWS booking website for current limits.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: 15 un-designated sites available for booking.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy. Telstra provides the best chance of a signal.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Strictly prohibited at all times. Fuel stoves only.
- Generator Use: Prohibited.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All water and food, rubbish bags, 4WD recovery gear, tyre pressure gauge and pump, insect repellent.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
- Fishing: Excellent beach fishing.
- Short Walks: Beautiful walks along the beach and connecting to other trails within Tomaree National Park.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Anna Bay Tavern (approx. 5 km)
- Seabreeze Hotel, Nelson Bay (approx. 10 km)
- The Cheeky Dog, Soldiers Point (approx. 12 km)
- Places to Eat: A full range of supermarkets, cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in nearby Anna Bay and Nelson Bay.
- Local Attractions:
- Tomaree Head Summit Walk
- Worimi Conservation Lands (Stockton Sand Dunes)
- Dolphin and whale watching cruises from Nelson Bay
- Fingal Bay Beach
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Birubi Beach Holiday Park
- Thou Walla Sunset Retreat
- Multiple parks in Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay.
- Next Free Camps: Very limited. Low-cost camping at Karuah Jetty.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available at some commercial caravan parks (fee may apply) or at the Cabbage Tree Road Rest Area, north of Heatherbrae.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Several options in Anna Bay.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Anna Bay or Nelson Bay.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Hot and humid. The peak season for beach activities and crowds in the Port Stephens area. Temperatures average 19°C to 27°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A prime time to visit, with warm, sunny days, lower humidity, and pleasant water temperatures. Temperatures average 14°C to 24°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): The whale watching season. Days are mild and often sunny, but can be cool and windy. Nights are cool. Temperatures range from 8°C to 18°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season with warming temperatures and coastal wildflowers in bloom. Excellent for hiking. Temperatures average 12°C to 23°C.