If you’re looking for a getaway that’s a little more magical than your average camping trip, we’ve got a treat for you. Imagine swapping the city’s bright lights for a sky bursting with stars, the Milky Way stretching overhead, and the only sounds being the gentle rustling of the bushes.
Sounds dreamy, right? Well, pack your thermos and dust off your binoculars, because we’re about to reveal one of Australia’s best-kept secrets for stargazers—and it won’t break the bank!
A recent investigation by tech and camera retailer Becextech has crowned Oakey Farm in Piallamore, NSW, as the top spot in Australia for stargazing. Nestled about five hours northwest of Sydney, this tranquil campsite scored a stellar 75.1 on the Autumnal Stargazing Index, beating out dozens of other contenders.
What makes Oakey Farm so special? It’s all about location, location, location—far from city lights, with clear skies and the perfect angle to spot the Milky Way in all its glory.
Why Autumn is the Stargazer’s Secret Season
According to Becextech’s managing director, Santo Ludy, autumn is the ‘best-kept secret’ for stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere. The weather is just right—not too hot, not too cold—so you can spend hours outside without freezing or sweltering.
Plus, there are fewer tourists, meaning you’ll have more peace and quiet to enjoy the cosmic show. The Milky Way is especially visible during these months, making it the perfect time to plan your celestial escape.
‘With temperatures comfortable enough to spend hours outdoors admiring the night sky, increased chances of spotting the Milky Way at night, and fewer tourist crowds, it offers a truly magical experience,’ Becextech said.
What Makes Oakey Farm Shine?
Set on a sprawling 180 acres, Oakey Farm welcomes everyone from RV enthusiasts to tent campers and caravanners. With over 100 glowing reviews and a perfect 100 per cent rating on HipCamp, it’s clear this spot is a crowd-pleaser.
For just $34 a night, you can reserve your patch of paradise and enjoy an ‘uninterrupted celestial panorama’ that feels both vast and intimately close. The lack of artificial light for kilometres around means the stars shine brighter and clearer than almost anywhere else.
If you’re planning a visit, here’s a tip: once the sun dips below the horizon, look east for the best view of the Milky Way. Don’t forget your camera—this is one night sky you’ll want to remember!Why Autumn is the Stargazer’s Secret Season
According to Becextech’s managing director, Santo Ludy, autumn is the ‘best-kept secret’ for stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere. The weather is just right—not too hot, not too cold—so you can spend hours outside without freezing or sweltering.
Plus, there are fewer tourists, meaning you’ll have more peace and quiet to enjoy the cosmic show. The Milky Way is especially visible during these months, making it the perfect time to plan your celestial escape.
‘With temperatures comfortable enough to spend hours outdoors admiring the night sky, increased chances of spotting the Milky Way at night, and fewer tourist crowds, it offers a truly magical experience,’ Becextech said.
What Makes Oakey Farm Shine?
Set on a sprawling 180 acres, Oakey Farm welcomes everyone from RV enthusiasts to tent campers and caravanners. With over 100 glowing reviews and a perfect 100 per cent rating on HipCamp, it’s clear this spot is a crowd-pleaser.
For just $34 a night, you can reserve your patch of paradise and enjoy an ‘uninterrupted celestial panorama’ that feels both vast and intimately close. The lack of artificial light for kilometres around means the stars shine brighter and clearer than almost anywhere else.
If you’re planning a visit, here’s a tip: once the sun dips below the horizon, look east for the best view of the Milky Way. Don’t forget your camera—this is one night sky you’ll want to remember!
NSW: The Stargazing State
It’s not just Oakey Farm putting New South Wales on the map for stargazers. In fact, nine out of the top ten stargazing campsites in Australia are in NSW! Here’s the full list, in case you want to plan a stargazing road trip:
- Oakey Farm, Piallamore, NSW – Stargazing index score: 75.1
- First Falls, Mylneford, NSW – 75
- JALUM Undulating Farmland, Mooball, NSW – 74.6
- Clearfield Estate, Clearfield, NSW – 74.6
- NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort, South Durras, NSW – 74.3
- Eastgrove Organic Farm Stay, Couradda, NSW – 74.2
- Scrub n Bush, Bohena Creek, NSW – 74.2
- Sky Camp, Atholwood, NSW – 74.2
- NRMA Turtle Sands, Mon Repos, QLD – 74.2
- Yarralen Retreat, Yarrahapinni, NSW – 74.1
Queensland’s Turtle Sands: A Coastal Surprise
Queensland managed to sneak into the top ten with NRMA Turtle Sands at Mon Repos. This glamping site is famous for its nesting sea turtles and boasts a standout light and cloud score of 89.4.
With the Milky Way rising over the eastern horizon, it proves that you don’t have to head to the outback for world-class stargazing—sometimes, the coast is just as dazzling.
Why Stargazing is Good for the Soul
There’s something truly special about looking up at the night sky. It’s a reminder of how vast and beautiful our universe is—and how lucky we are to have such incredible natural wonders right on our doorstep.
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just want to relive the magic of childhood camping trips, stargazing is a simple pleasure that never gets old.
Key Takeaways
- Oakey Farm in Piallamore, NSW has been named the top campsite in Australia for stargazing, with a stargazing index score of 75.1 and views of the Milky Way, costing from $34 per night.
- NSW dominated the stargazing rankings, with nine out of the top ten best-rated campsites located in the state.
- The best stargazing spots were chosen for their minimal artificial light, prime location, clear skies, and optimal viewing angle of the Milky Way—especially in autumn, when crowds are smaller, and the temperatures are comfortable.
- Queensland’s only entry in the top 10 was NRMA Turtle Sands at Mon Repos, highlighted for its glamping experience and unique position on the foreshore near famous sea turtle nesting sites.
Have you visited any of these top stargazing spots? Do you have a favourite campsite where the stars seem to go on forever? We’d love to hear your stories, tips, and photos!
Share your experiences in the comments below and help fellow members discover their next great adventure under the stars.
