Photo: Rohan Stelling / CC BY-SA 3.0
Camden Haven is a serene coastal paradise where the Camden Haven River meets the sea, offering a tranquil escape from busier tourist hubs. This area, encompassing charming towns like Laurieton and North Haven, is a haven for water lovers and nature enthusiasts. With its stunning waterways, national parks, and laid-back vibe, Camden Haven invites you to slow down and soak in the beauty of the Mid North Coast.
Highlights & What to See
- Crowdy Bay National Park – Explore dramatic coastal heathlands, pristine beaches, and the iconic 'Diamond Head' rock formation. Keep an eye out for kangaroos and wallabies at sunrise.
- Camden Haven River – Kayak or paddleboard along the calm, mangrove-lined river. The waterway is a peaceful route for spotting birdlife, including pelicans and ospreys.
- Laurieton – This historic village boasts a quaint main street with cafes and galleries. Don't miss the Camden Haven Historical Museum for a glimpse into local timber and fishing heritage.
- North Haven Beach – A patrolled, family-friendly beach with gentle waves. The adjacent breakwall is perfect for a sunset stroll with views across the river mouth.
- Kattang Nature Reserve – A short walk through this coastal reserve rewards you with panoramic views from Perpendicular Point, a great spot for whale watching (June–November).
Suggested Time to Spend
Give Camden Haven at least two full days to truly unwind. Spend one day exploring the river by kayak and visiting Laurieton's shops and museum. Dedicate the second day to hiking in Crowdy Bay National Park and relaxing on North Haven Beach. If you have a third day, consider a scenic drive to the nearby villages of Kendall or Kew for a taste of the hinterland.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Port Macquarie – Just 30 minutes north, this coastal city offers the Koala Hospital, Tacking Point Lighthouse, and a vibrant dining scene.
- Port Stephens – An hour south, famous for its bottlenose dolphins, sand dunes at Stockton Beach, and the Tomaree National Park summit walk.
- Wauchope – The gateway to the rainforests of the Werrikimbe National Park, with the historic Timbertown attraction.
- Myall Lakes National Park – A vast system of lakes and waterways ideal for canoeing, fishing, and camping, located about 40 minutes south.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Port Stephens — AussieLegend / Public domain
- Crowdy Bay National Park — Grahamec / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Laurieton — Rohan Stelling / CC BY-SA 3.0
- North Haven — Bilby / CC BY 3.0
- Port Macquarie — Inas / CC0
- Myall Lakes National Park — Eduardo M. C. / CC BY 2.0
- Kendall — sludgegulper / CC BY-SA 2.0