Kempsey is a peaceful town on the Macleay River offering easy access to hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and bird watching. Surrounded by national parks and forests, it's a great base for outdoor lovers seeking quiet nature escapes.
Kempsey is a peaceful town on the Macleay River offering easy access to hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and bird watching. Surrounded by national parks and forests, it's a great base for outdoor lovers seeking quiet nature escapes.
Outdoor Adventure in Kempsey, New South Wales
Kempsey is a small riverside town on the mid-north coast of New South Wales that offers a variety of outdoor activities ideal for travelers seeking nature and adventure. Positioned on the banks of the Macleay River, Kempsey provides a gateway to diverse landscapes including rainforests, coastal estuaries, and rolling hinterlands.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Kempsey, New South Wales special.
★ 8.5⌖ 48.92 milesModerateEllenborough Falls offers a majestic 200m drop and vibrant natural surroundings. This moderate hike near Elands, NSW, is ideal for adventurous visitors who love nature and photography. Drive-in access makes it easily reachable.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Kempsey, New South Wales, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Kempsey, New South Wales.
⌖ 17.3 miTwo boat dives — an open-water first dive among renowned walls and bommies, then a cave run from a deep to shallow entrance — tailored for certified divers on a five-hour outing.
⌖ 23.6 miOn-site double-kayak hire at Jordan’s in Port Macquarie — this guide clarifies what’s supplied, operator rules and how the hire works.
⌖ 23.6 miA relaxed, all-ages hire from Jordans offering 3- or 6-hour luxury BBQ-boat outings and fishing-capable canopy boats in Port Macquarie—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 23.6 miA 3‑ or 6‑hour hire of a luxury BBQ or canopy fishing boat for small groups, with onboard safety gear, BBQ utensils and on‑site rentals available.
⌖ 23.6 miA stable Polycraft for up to four people, fitted with rod holders, a casting deck, a Bimini top and a Yamaha 9.9 four‑stroke engine — hire for up to six hours from Jordans.
⌖ 23.6 miA 3- or 6-hour hire from Jordans of a carpeted Polycraft fitted with a 40hp outboard, rod holders, casting deck and Bimini — set up for fishing, cruising and comfort for up to five people.
⌖ 25.5 miA private, family-focused surf lesson in Port Macquarie for ages 5 and up — up to two hours of instruction with equipment provided, useful for families planning a shared first-time surf experience.
⌖ 26.9 miA two-hour treetop ropes-course run by WildNets at Lake Innes for all ages; this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 26.9 miA 2–3 hour treetop ropes course operated by WildNets that lifts participants up to 20 meters across ziplines and suspended bridges; this guide explains what to expect and key logistics.
⌖ 26.9 miA day-access attraction run by Koala Conservation Australia featuring Wildnets Adventure Park, forest pathways and the Big Koala sculpture—useful for planning a visit, learning about conservation, and timing your entry.
⌖ 32.1 miThe Tractor Shed is Bago Maze & Vineyards’ private function room for relaxed gatherings, with seating and standing capacity and onsite catering options.
⌖ 32.1 miA practical guide to exploring Bago Maze’s two distinct puzzles — an expansive Lilly Pilly hedge maze and a racing Rush Maze — set in subtropical bushland beside a maritime vineyard.
⌖ 41.9 miA 1‑hour OzFoiling session for two returning riders (1 board per person, ages 12+), designed for shared progression and guided fun.
⌖ 41.9 miA 1.5‑hour group package in Urunga with OzFoiling that lets a group of four or a family share two boards, learn to efoil together, and include younger children with assisted options.
⌖ 41.9 miAges 12+ can pair up for a 1.5‑hour shared Fliteboard lesson — ideal for friends, partners or family to learn efoiling together.
Make the most of your visit to Kempsey, New South Wales with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Kempsey, New South Wales hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Kempsey, New South Wales during the iconic Kempsey River Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Kempsey, New South Wales during the iconic Macleay River Running Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Kempsey, New South Wales during the iconic South West Rocks Whale Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Bring insect repellent for river and forest areas.
Check local weather before paddling or hiking due to variable conditions.
Limited public transport; renting a vehicle is recommended for exploring.
Book accommodations early during festival dates and holiday seasons.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Kempsey, New South Wales. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.