Your guide to the coolest secret spots for summer escapes

There’s nothing better than finding a campground where your dog is welcome, the crowds are nowhere to be seen, and there’s a natural swimming hole just waiting for you to jump in. From the Sunshine Coast down through the Scenic Rim and into Northern NSW, these are some of the most peaceful, nature-immersed campgrounds with private (or semi-private) water access — perfect for summer camping, quick weekend getaways, or slow, lazy days by the creek.

Here are six beautifully secluded, pet-friendly campgrounds where you can cool off, unwind, and enjoy a refreshing swim in natural freshwater. And before you head out, don’t forget to pack your Buzzaroo Outdoor Mist to keep the mozzies away, and your Buzzaroo Buzz Soothing Balm for the one cheeky bite that always sneaks through. Your skin will thank you later.

1. A Campsite on Crystal Creek — Upper Crystal Creek, NSW

Swimming hole: Yes — private, clear rock pools
Pet-friendly: ✔ Yes (well-behaved pets on request, must be calm around farm animals)
Nearest town/pub: Murwillumbah (15 mins)

If you’re looking for peace, privacy, and your very own swimming hole, this is the ultimate find. Only one booking is allowed at a time, which means you and your furry friend get exclusive access to Crystal Creek. The water is cool, shallow in areas, and perfect for floating or wading on hot afternoons. After a day in the creek, you can pop into Murwillumbah for a meal or a cold drink.

Why it’s special:
It’s rare to have an entire stretch of creek to yourself. This is one of those magical places where the world goes quiet and nature takes over.

📍 Usually booked through: Hipcamp
Just visit Hipcamp, search “A Campsite on Crystal Creek,” choose your dates, and book instantly. Some hosts like a quick message if you’re bringing pets.

2. Natural Bridge Retreat — Numinbah Valley, QLD

Swimming hole: ✔ Yes — two private creeks/swimming areas
Pet-friendly: ✔ Yes (conditions apply)
Nearest town/pub: Advancetown (20–25 mins), Nerang (30 mins)

This rainforest hideaway sits beside a gently flowing creek with multiple swimming spots to choose from. Think lush green shade, rock pools, and cool mountain water. Sites are limited and well spaced, giving you that “private camp” feeling while still being close enough to day trips around the hinterland.

Why it’s special:
It feels like stepping into a secret rainforest pocket, with the soundtrack of flowing water and whip birds.

📍 Often booked through: Hipcamp or direct host contact
Search “Natural Bridge Retreat” on Hipcamp.
If dates are blocked, they sometimes take bookings via direct message on the platform.

3. Three Wishes Farm Private Campsite — Nimbin Region, NSW

Swimming hole: ✔ Yes — natural river swimming holes
Pet-friendly: ✔ Yes
Nearest town/pub: Nimbin (10 mins), Channon Tavern (15 mins)

A gorgeous 42-acre organic farm with rolling green paddocks, shady trees, and a quiet river running through the property. With only a few campsites available, you’ll enjoy a peaceful swim away from crowds. Dogs are welcome, and there’s plenty of space for them to roam safely.

Why it’s special:
It’s a relaxing farm-meets-river escape — perfect for campers who want nature without giving up comfort.

📍 Booked through: Hipcamp
Simply search the name on Hipcamp and select your site. This one books out quickly in warmer months, so a few weeks ahead is best.

4. Murphy’s Creek Escape — Upper Lockyer, QLD

Swimming hole: ✔ Yes — Eco Billabong (natural spring-fed swimming pool)
Pet-friendly: ✔ Yes
Nearest town/pub: Withcott (12 mins), Toowoomba (20 mins)

This is one of the prettiest natural swim spots in SE QLD. The Eco Billabong is huge, clean, fresh, and framed by trees and native bushland. Campsites are spread across dozens of acres, making it easy to find your own little corner of peace.

Why it’s special:
The Billabong is deep enough to dive into but calm enough to float in — perfection on a hot day.

📍 Booked directly via their website
Go to murphyscreekescape.com.au → Bookings.
You can choose your campsite style (powered, unpowered, secluded bush sites). Pets need to be added at checkout.

5. Hosanna Farmstay — Stokers Siding, NSW

Swimming hole: ✔ Yes — lake-style swimming + creek access
Pet-friendly: ✔ Yes (dogs welcome on leash)
Nearest town/pub: Stokers Siding, Uki, Murwillumbah (lots of cute pubs + cafes)

A family favourite with a rustic charm, Hosanna’s lakeside swimming area is perfect for cooling off. There’s also creek access, rope swings, and grassy banks to laze around on. It’s not completely private, but it feels relaxed and spread out — great for social dogs and kids.

Why it’s special:
It combines farm fun, swimming, country charm, and convenience — all in one chilled-out setting.

📍 Booked through their official website
Visit hosannafarmstay.com.au → Online booking calendar. Pet approval is automatic as long as you agree to their dog rules.

6. Bigriggen Camping — Scenic Rim, QLD

Swimming hole: ✔ Yes — river and creek swimming
Pet-friendly: ✔ Yes
Nearest town/pub: Rathdowney (10 mins — classic country pub!)

Bigriggen is a Scenic Rim icon — huge grassy areas, towering trees, and a creek that offers several shallow swimming holes long enough for a proper splash. Visit midweek for fewer people, or wander upstream to find quieter sections.

Why it’s special:
It’s the perfect mix of wild bush camping + comfort. The creek is cool, clean, and ideal for families or dogs who love water.

📍 Booked via their website
Head to bigriggen.com.au → Book a Site. Select “dog-friendly camping” if bringing pets. For weekends, booking ahead is essential.

🌞 Final Thoughts: Where Nature & Cool Water Meet

From rainforest creeks to secret farm swimming holes, these campgrounds offer the best of both worlds:
🦟 natural living
🌿 plenty of shade
🐕 happy dogs
💦 fresh, clear swimming
🍻 country pubs close by

Whether you’re road-tripping, camping with your pup, or escaping the city heat, each of these spots gives you space to breathe and cool off naturally — exactly what summer camping should feel like.

Don’t forget to pack your Buzzaroo Outdoor Mist and Buzz Soothing Balm for that little sneaky one that somehow finds its way through!

Buzzaroo was made for all the outdoorsy legends who love fresh air but hate being a mozzie buffet. Our Outdoor Mist is packed with gentle, plant-powered natural goodies that help keep the little biters away without the harsh chemical pong. And if one sneaky mozzie manages to slip through (there’s always one troublemaker), the Buzzaroo Buzz Soothing Balm jumps in to cool the itch, calm the sting, and save your skin before your campsite audience even notices.

6 Best Pet-Friendly Private & Secluded Campgrounds With Swimming Holes (Sunshine Coast → Northern NSW)