On the seventh day of our Queensland road trip, we made quick stops at Boomerang Beach, Elizabeth Beach, Seven Mile Beach, Cape Hawke Lookout, 2nd Head Lookout and John Wright Park. We then continued our journey to Indian Head and Kylies Beach Lookout and Diamond Head campground, in Crowdy Bay National Park, New South Wales, before heading to our next accommodation. To make the most of each stop, we kept our daily drives short, typically between 1-2 hours. We then stopped at Camden Haven River which is along “Diamond Head Road” Dunbogan it was only a short stop to check out thte river and take some photos and videos before heading onto our next sight seeing spot. I would love to come back here and see the surrounds properly, there was too many places that we didn’t get time to see.
When road-tripping for a couple of weeks, it’s essential to be aware of Australian roads. Potholes are common, some patched, others left unaddressed. Freeways often have overtaking lanes to pass slower vehicles like trucks or caravans, and there are plenty of rest stops along the way to stretch your legs and switch drivers. Most of these stops offer toilets, bins, and picnic tables. There are also plenty of petrol stations for refueling and I enjoy driving along the freeways that are 110km.
A pet peeve we’ve encountered on the road is people driving below the speed limit and then speeding up to the limit when an overtaking lane appears, forcing you to speed to 110-120 km/h just to pass them—only for them to slow down again once the lane ends.
Be aware of mobile speed cameras along roads or hidden police cars waiting to catch speeders. Red-light and speed cameras at intersections are also common, and fines are issued for running red lights.
There are numerous road signs reminding drivers not to drink and drive and warning about fatigue-related accidents, as many lives are lost due to reckless behavior on the roads.
Additionally, you’ll notice dead animals along the roadside, particularly around dawn and dusk. Wombats, for example, are more active at night, so it’s advisable to drive slower during these times to avoid accidents.
Exploring Camden Haven River, New South Wales
Nestled in the picturesque Mid North Coast of New South Wales, Camden Haven River is a serene and scenic destination that offers a wealth of outdoor activities, natural beauty, and a peaceful escape from the bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or someone simply looking to unwind, Camden Haven River has something special for everyone.
Scenic Beauty and Wildlife
The Camden Haven River meanders through lush landscapes, creating a tranquil atmosphere perfect for exploration. The river is flanked by towering trees, providing a lush backdrop that is particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset. Along its banks, you can find an abundance of wildlife, including birds, kangaroos, and koalas. It’s a fantastic place for birdwatching, with species such as pelicans, kingfishers, and ospreys commonly spotted in the area.
When you get to the photo below with the bin and gravel dirt area that is where we stopped along “Diamond Head Road” Dunbogan which was just past Diamond Waters Caravan Park and Treehouse Reatreat at Diamond Waters. It was a quick stop here to get a couple of photos and videos
Water Activities
One of the main draws of Camden Haven River is the range of water activities it offers. Kayaking and canoeing are popular pastimes, allowing you to paddle along the river’s calm waters while soaking in the surrounding natural beauty. For those who enjoy fishing, the river is teeming with various species, making it a prime spot for both novice and experienced anglers.
Boating is also a favorite activity, and the river’s wide, peaceful waters are perfect for a leisurely cruise. Whether you’re on a yacht or a smaller boat, exploring the river from the water gives you a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.
Camden Haven Inlet
At the mouth of the Camden Haven River lies the Camden Haven Inlet, which connects the river to the Pacific Ocean. The inlet is a great spot to enjoy beach activities, including swimming, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the water. With its calm, sheltered waters, it’s an excellent location for families with young children or anyone looking for a safe and enjoyable swimming spot.
Walking and Cycling
For those who prefer land-based activities, the area around Camden Haven River offers several walking and cycling tracks that let you explore its beauty at a more leisurely pace. The river is surrounded by diverse ecosystems, from mangrove forests to coastal heathland, making it an excellent destination for nature walks. The surrounding towns of Laurieton and Kendall are also connected to the river, offering quaint cafes, local shops, and opportunities to experience the laid-back lifestyle of the region.
Camden Haven’s Charming Towns
The towns of Laurieton and Kendall, situated along the river, are charming and offer a mix of local attractions and historical sites. Laurieton, in particular, is known for its vibrant atmosphere, bustling with cafes, galleries, and local markets. Kendall is a peaceful village with rich history, perfect for those who want to experience the authentic charm of the region.
Where to Stay
Camden Haven River and its surrounding areas offer a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler. From charming bed and breakfasts to cozy cabins and holiday parks, you’ll find plenty of places to stay near the river, ensuring you can enjoy all the beauty and activities the area has to offer.
Conclusion
Camden Haven River is a hidden gem on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and relaxed coastal living. Whether you’re kayaking along the river, exploring the wildlife, or simply soaking in the stunning views, it’s an unforgettable destination. Make sure to add Camden Haven River to your travel list and discover the tranquil charm of this picturesque spot in Australia.
Exploring Nearby Attractions of Diamond Head and Crowdy Bay National Park
The nearest attractions to Diamond Head and Crowdy Bay National Park include:
Harrington
A charming coastal town with beautiful beaches, perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. The Harrington Breakwall is a popular spot for a walk and to enjoy ocean views.
Kendall
A peaceful village offering nature walks, historical sites, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s known for its proximity to the Camden Haven River.
Port Macquarie
A short drive north, Port Macquarie offers stunning beaches, wildlife parks like the Koala Hospital, and scenic coastal walks. It’s also home to the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, which offers guided tours through the rainforest.
Dunbogan
Known for its beautiful beaches and the nearby Crowdy Bay National Park, ideal for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting.
Cape Hawke Lookout
Located near Forster, this lookout offers breathtaking views over the coastline, perfect for photography and enjoying the surrounding nature.
Forster
A vibrant coastal town known for its beaches, fishing, and water sports. Forster also offers the Great Lakes, a popular spot for kayaking and boat trips.
Tuncurry
Just across the lake from Forster, Tuncurry is a quaint town with excellent fishing spots, lakeside walks, and local seafood.
These nearby attractions provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, relaxation, and exploration of the region’s natural beauty.
Discovering the Nearest Towns to Diamond Head and Crowdy Bay National Park
The nearest towns to Diamond Head and Crowdy Bay National Park are:
Laurieton
A charming town located just 15 minutes south of Diamond Head, known for its picturesque river views, waterfront cafes, and proximity to both the Camden Haven River and Crowdy Bay National Park.
Kendall
A peaceful village situated about 20 minutes south of Diamond Head, famous for its historical significance and natural surroundings, including the nearby Camden Haven River.
Harrington
Located to the north, about 25 minutes from Diamond Head, Harrington is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, the breakwall, and its fishing and boating activities.
Port Macquarie
Around 40 minutes to the north, Port Macquarie is a larger town offering a range of attractions, including beaches, wildlife parks, and scenic lookouts.
Forster
Situated about 50 minutes north of Diamond Head, Forster is a popular coastal town known for its beaches, lakes, and outdoor recreational activities.
These towns offer a variety of experiences, from coastal relaxation to outdoor adventures, making them great bases for exploring the region.
Places To Get Food
- Harrington Breeze
- Moorland Cottage Cafe – Best Scones On The Coast
- Ems Thai Kitchen
- Waterbird Restaurant
- Shoreline Tavern Harrington Waters
- Nate’s Pizzeria
- Blue Buffalo Cafe
- Blowfish Street Food
- McDonald’s Taree
- Kendall Takeaway
- The Golden Elephant Thai Cuisine
- Our little cafe laurieton
- Delizioso
- McDonald’s Glenthorne
- KFC Taree
- Club Harrington
- Laurieton Hotel
- Riverview Cafe on Camden
- Curry Heaven Indian Restaurant
- Big Brother Pizza
- Golden Inn Chinese Restaurant
- Kebabs @ Victoria
- Flipz n Chipz
- Laurieton Charcoal Chickenland
- Hungry Jack’s Burgers Taree
- Epic Burger Shack
- Feel Good Food Lake Cathie
- Old Bar Tavern
- Deep Sea Delights
- Subway
- Domino’s Pizza Taree
Accommodation
- Little Palm Cabins
- Saltwater Apartments
- Sun Catcher – ocean views, walk to beach, lake, cafés, shops
- Reflections Bonny Hills – Holiday Park
- Salt Breeze
- Middle Rock Beach Unit 2
- Ingenia Holidays Bonny Hills
- Paradise View @ Bonny Hills
- Second Level on Honeysuckle
- Gone Coastal – pool, river, beach getaway
- Allure By The Sea
- Frangipani Cottage
- Papa Joes
- A Coastal Hideaway
- Reflections North Haven – Holiday Park
- Jacaranda Holiday Park
- Getaway North Haven
- Lighthouse Beach Holiday Village
- Bonny Seascape
- Flynns on Surf Beach Villas
- Macquarie Waters Boutique Apartment Hotel
- Mantra The Observatory
- Northpoint Apartments
- ibis Styles Port Macquarie
- El Motor Inn
- Rydges Hotel Port Macquarie
- Shelly Beach Resort
- Surf Beach Motel Port
- Macquarie Barracks Motor Inn
- Punt House – riverfront home with ramp access
- Sandcastle Apartments
- Club Wyndham Port Macquarie
- Flynns Beach Caravan Park
- Palm Court Motor Inn
- Beauty at the Beach – modern beachfront apartment
- Town Beach Beachcomber Resort
- Waterfront Bliss
- Fi’s Beach House
- Spacious 4BR w/ Water Views
- Beachfront Apartments
- Comfort Resort Waters Edge
- The Mid Pacific
- 2 Bedroom Coastal getaway with ocean views!
- South Pacific Apartments
- Number One – tranquility, views, walk to beach
- Mercure Centro Port Macquarie
- Adrift at Dolphin Cove Apt 5 – riverfront modern
- East Port Motor Inn
- Ki-ea Apartments
- 6 58 Pacific Drive – Beachfront modern apartment
- Strathmore Lodge
- Se-Ayr BnB at Lighthouse
- Beachside Holiday Apartments
- Coastal 3-bedroom home close by the beach
- 5 OClock Somewhere 6BR sleeps 18 with Kids Retreat
- Walk to Flynns , Nobbys Beach – Tranquility amongst the Rainforest
- Seaview Getaway
- Beaches Holiday Resort
- Illalangi – views, pool, walk to beach
- Beachport Bed & Breakfast
- 40 William Street Apartments
- Perfect Family Holiday Apartment – Flynns Beach
- Shelly Cove Apt 12 – common pool
- Holiday Haven @ North Haven – club, river, beach
- Narimba Motel
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Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are in Camden River?
The Camden Haven is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts looking to catch Bream, Flathead, Luderick, and Whiting in the river.
Can you fish in Camden?
Fishing is a popular recreational activity in our waterways. However, it’s important to be mindful of your impact on the environment and to consider how water quality may affect your health.
What bait to use in the Nepean River?
Bass fishing is a favorite among spin anglers, who often use surface lures, spinnerbaits, and hard-body lures. Fly fishing is also highly popular, especially at dusk and after heavy rain, with large dry flies like surface poppers, grasshoppers, and Christmas beetles being top choices.
What is the best bait for river fishing?
Effective natural freshwater fishing baits include worms, leeches, minnows, crayfish, crickets, and grasshoppers. Bottom-feeders such as catfish and carp are also drawn to cut bait (pieces of baitfish) and specially prepared dough balls.
Can you fish at a Harbour?
During the warmer months, the Harbour comes alive with pelagic species such as Australian salmon, bonito, frigate mackerel, and the powerful kingfish. These fish offer thrilling opportunities for sportfishing enthusiasts from numerous wharves, piers, reserves, and rocky outcrops. Overall, fishing access in the Harbour is quite convenient.
Are there bull sharks in the Nepean River?
Carcharhinus leucas (Bull Shark) – Common but not abundant. Found in estuaries, the lower sections of rivers, and coastal waters.
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Exploring Diamond Head Beach – A Coastal Gem in Crowdy Bay National Park, New South Wales
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