GETTING READY TO BOOK? HERE’S SOME HANDY INFO...
How do I book my stay at Carawirry?
Right off the bat, you’re gonna love it. Second – us, the eucalypts and forest friends, can’t wait to have you. And third, follow the trail to our secure online booking system.
Just a few pointers to keep in mind…
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There’s a 2-night minimum stay on Friday, Saturday and Sunday across all cabins
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NSW Public Holidays are stay-over days – arrivals and departures aren’t available on those dates
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Guests aged 16+ are considered adults
For the most accurate pricing, just enter your dates and number of guests into our booking calculator – it’ll show you all available cabins, rates, and the total cost for your stay.
Chattin’ to a human more your style?
Email us at hello@carawirry.com.au or call us on 0432 341 744. Happy to help.
How much does it cost to stay at Carawirry?
Rates vary by cabin, dates, and length of stay.
Here’s the current guide (always check the booking calculator for your exact total):
- Gum Leaf Cabin — from $368.50 per night (includes first 2 guests)
- The Cottage — from $368.50 per night (includes first 2 guests)
- The Treehouse — from $368.50 per night (includes first 2 guests)
- The Cottage + The Nook — from $579.50 per night (includes first 4 guests)
- Tathra House — from $728 per night (includes first 4 guests)
- Tathra House + The Humpy — from $992 per night (includes first 6 guests)
- All of Carawirry — from $2,724 per night (includes first 12 guests)
Extra guests are $69 per person per night.
For the most accurate pricing, just enter your dates and number of guests in the booking system — it updates live.
What are the different rates and what do they include?
We keep it fair and flexible:
- Base rate – Just a Cabin in the Forest – full flexibility, best for most people
- One Night in the Forest – single-night stays available Monday–Thursday only (not Friday, Saturday or Sunday)
- Lock it in, Eddy (non-refundable) – our lowest price, paid in full upfront, no changes
All rates include the base number of guests. Extra guests are always $69 each per night.
Always check the booking page for our current specials and packages — we often have promo codes that give you a free night or a percentage off when you stay a certain number of nights.
How do I book local experiences and extras for my stay?
We’ve made it easy with our Local Experiences – Little Black Book — a handpicked guide to some of our favourite local providers, from private chefs and massage therapists to florists, yoga and more.
Inside, you’ll find service details and direct contact information, so you can chat with each provider directly and tailor the experience to suit your stay.
Booking direct means less back-and-forth, more flexibility, and a more personalised experience from the people delivering it.
How do I pay for my booking?
That’s an easy one — payment is by card via our secure online booking system.
A 50% payment when you book is required to secure your dates. The balance is due 14 days before your arrival.
**Except when you book our Lock it in Eddy. Non-refundable rate. This rate is to be paid in full when booking your stay and is 100% Non-refundable, Non-transferable... 'cause ain't nothing stopping your Escape.
What’s included in the cabin?
Each cabin is thoughtfully equipped with the essentials you need to settle in and switch off — from quality linen and firewood to kitchen basics and a few extra touches to make your stay feel easy.
For the full list of inclusions, along with all the practical details for your stay, head to our Nitty Gritty Stay Info.
What is your cancellation policy?
We’re a small family business, so we keep it fair for everyone:
Flexible rates (Base rate – Just a Cabin in the Forest and One Night in the Forest)
- 30+ days before arrival: full refund
- 15–30 days: $50 change fee or deposit loss
- Less than 14 days: no refund or changes
Lock it in, Eddy (non-refundable rate): fully non-refundable and non-changeable.
If we ever have to cancel (very rare — weather or access issues), we’ll offer a full refund or move your dates at no extra cost.
Travel insurance is always a smart idea if you're concerned.
What happens if Carawirry needs to cancel my stay?
In the very unlikely event that we need to close or can’t safely host your stay — for example, due to a major weather event or an access issue — we’ll be in touch straight away with your options.
You’ll be able to choose between:
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A full refund of any payments made, or
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The option to postpone your stay to a future date that suits you, with your full deposit carried across as credit
While it’s rare, our priority is always guest safety — and making the rebooking process as smooth and fair as possible.
Are the cabins part of one joined building? Will I need to share with anyone?
No — every stay at Carawirry is completely private.
Gum Leaf Cabin, The Cottage, The Treehouse and Tathra House are all separate buildings, each positioned in its own part of the property.
The Cottage + The Nook and Tathra House + The Humpy each have their own private driveway. Gum Leaf Cabin and The Treehouse share a driveway, but they’re more than 200 metres apart and screened by thick forest, so they still feel very private.
Which cabin’s the biggest?
That’d be Tathra House. She’s a beauty. Two [2] stories, five [5] private bedrooms - each with a king that can split to two [2] singles, two [2] large bathrooms, a big entertainer kitchen, lots of large gathering spaces.. huge comfy lounge area, indoor fireplace + ducted aircon, big firepit area... An outdoor BBQ area with a 3.5m plunge pool… and a partridge in a pear tree.. hehe
Tathra House sleeps 10 in 5 bedrooms.
If you have a few more than 10 staying, The Humpy is a great addition. It's a separate little cabin with 1 king [that can be split into 2 singles] and another 2 kids in a double sofa bed. There’s a kitchenette, bathroom, living spaces and veranda.
Sleeps 2 [+ 2 kids] in 1x king [or split to 2x singles] + 1x double sofa bed
After a cabin a little smaller? One of our other three cabins might fit the bill.
The Treehouse is set out to accommodate up to eight [8] guests - we recommend no more than 4 adults; it's just too squishy - in two large bedrooms, two [2] living rooms, an outdoor fire pit, indoor fireplace and The Bathhouse.
Sleeps up to 8 in 2x queen beds + 2x double sofa beds.
The Gum Leaf Cabin is a little more intimate, perfect for couples or small families. Double rainfall shower, outdoor bath, lounge + dining, indoor fireplace and outdoor fire pit make this a special place to #escape
Sleeps 6 in 2x queen beds + 1x double sofa bed.
And The Cottage is perfect for extra space. It’s a different feel from our other cabins built in the forest. The Cottage is found on a beautiful green paddock, a little more open from the forest for stargazing and lazing on the lawn. Still boasts a fire pit, indoor fireplace, outdoor bath and all the standard luxe extras of a Carawirry property. If you have more guests than the 4 guests The Cottage sleeps, you can add The Nook - a separate little cabin with 1 king [can be split into 2 singles] and a kitchenette, bathroom living spaces and veranda. Sleeps 2 in 1x king [or split to 2x singles]
Sleeps up to 4 guests in 2x king beds [ both can split to 4x single beds] + additional 2x guests in the Nook in 1x king or 2x single beds.
How many does each cabin sleep?
Gum Leaf Cabin sleeps up to 6 guests
Gum Leaf Cabin has 2 bedrooms — one with a queen bed, and the other with a queen bed and double sofa bed, best suited to children.
The Treehouse sleeps up to 8 guests
The Treehouse has 2 bedrooms with 2 queen beds and 2 double sofa beds (best suited to children).
The Cottage sleeps up to 4 guests, or 6 guests total when booked with The Nook
The Cottage has 2 bedrooms, each with a king bed that can be split into 2 singles if preferred. The neighbouring Nook adds 1 bedroom with a king bed, which can also be configured as 2 singles.
Tathra House sleeps up to 10 guests, or 14 guests total when booked with The Humpy
Tathra House has 5 bedrooms, each with a king bed that can be split into 2 singles if preferred. The neighbouring Humpy adds 1 king bed, which can also be configured as 2 singles, plus a double sofa bed.
All of Carawirry sleeps up to 34 guests
For larger group stays, you can book all accommodation options across the property, with space for up to 34 guests in total.
What’s the phone reception and Wi-Fi like?
Phone reception at Carawirry is patchy at best. A text might occasionally make its way through the crisp air and thick forest canopy… but we wouldn’t build plans around it. Bliss for some, mildly inconvenient for others.
The good news: every cabin includes reliable Starlink Wi-Fi in the price of your stay, with no extra fee. It’s strong enough for streaming, video calls, and most work needs — so you can stay connected when you need to, then disappear again when you don’t.
BEFORE YOUR ESCAPE
What should I bring with me?
We’ve stocked the cabins with all the essentials, so you don’t need to bring much — but here are a few things worth packing to make your forest stay even more comfortable:
Must-Haves
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Food & drinks – Bring everything you need for meals, snacks and your favourite sips
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Clothing – Pack layers suited to the season; the forest can be warm by day and cool by night
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Closed-toe shoes – Perfect for walking trails and exploring safely
For the Adventurous
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Mountain bikes – Great for nearby trails and forest roads
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Fishing gear – Bring rods, tackle and bait for local rivers
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Binoculars – Spot wildlife or take in the treetop views from your deck
A Few Extras for Comfort
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Towel for wild swimming – Our towels are for indoor use only
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First aid kit – We include a basic one, but it’s handy to have your own
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Sunscreen & insect repellent – Stay comfy while enjoying the great outdoors
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Torch or headlamp – Ideal for after-dark wanders or firepit evenings
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Books, magazines or a journal – Unplug, unwind and take it slow
Tip: Pack light, embrace the forest, and let the slow pace do the rest.
Where is the closest town? Is there a supermarket, petrol station etc?
It feels like you’re worlds away, but the charming country town of Dungog is only around a 20-minute drive from Carawirry.
Dungog has the essentials covered if you need to top up supplies or head out for a bite to eat, including an IGA supermarket, newsagency, bakery, bottle shop, petrol station, as well as pubs, a brewery, cafés and boutique shopping.
It’s close enough for a quick supplies run, coffee stop or casual wander, while still letting Carawirry feel properly tucked away in the forest.
I want to book for a special occasion. Can I book a caterer, wine tasting, birthday cake, or fun activities?
Absolutely — we love seeing our guests celebrate in the forest.
While we don’t organise extras directly, we’ve pulled together a handy Little Black Book of local experiences, providers, and services we recommend. From private chefs and grazing boxes to birthday cakes, yoga, guided hikes, and wine tasting — it’s all in there.
Each service is booked directly with the supplier, so you’ll find their contact details alongside our notes and suggestions.
Perfect for birthdays, honeymoons, anniversaries or just because.
What if I have more than 8 people? Can I bring my own bed, tent or swag?
Email us to have a chat about your options. Booking all cabins is always an option too – imagine that!
I’m flying. Where’s the best airport to land at? I’ll need a car too. Who would you recommend?
Newcastle Airport (just 1 hour 15 minutes drive away). Check out Newcastle Airport’s selection of car rentals to pick up after you land.
What’s the weather like, and when’s the best time of year to visit?
Bloody beautiful… well, mostly.
Like anywhere, the weather at Carawirry can be a little unpredictable. It’s similar to Sydney and Newcastle, just a touch cooler beneath the forest canopy. Which means cosy winters by the fire, glorious autumn walks, fresh spring mornings, and summer swims in natural pools and beneath waterfalls.
Truthfully, there’s no bad time to visit — just different reasons to fall in love with the place.
Winter is a favourite for many guests, with crisp air, wilderness walks and slow mornings rugged up with a cuppa on the veranda. Autumn brings golden leaves, perfect biking and hiking weather, and that calm forest feeling we can’t get enough of. Spring is full of birdsong, blossoming native flora and fauna, and long days spent outdoors. Then summer rolls in with warm weather, freshwater dips and waterfall swims that make it very hard to leave.
Each cabin is well set up for the seasons, with ceiling fans, air conditioning, and indoor and outdoor fireplaces. We do recommend packing a jumper or jacket year-round, and bathers in the warmer months.
For the latest conditions before your stay, it’s always worth checking the forecast. Search the weather for Main Creek NSW on your favourite weather app.
Is Carawirry kid-friendly?
That’s a big ol’ YES. Many little tackers consider it their adventuring wonderland. Helping you stoke the fire, playing board games, meeting friendly locals (AKA resident forest friends Kook, Skip and Poss – get to know ‘em here), splashing in natural pools and fishing off the jetty. We just ask that you keep a good eye on your little adventurers while they're on the property.
Is Carawirry pet-friendly?
Since Carawirry’s forest is brimming with wildlife, we don’t allow any pets. Think of it this way, Fido gets a holiday from you too! Just kidding, Fido loves you. But we can assure you, you’ll definitely get your furry friend fix from resident wallaby Skip.
What does it sound like at Carawirry?
This honey of a soundtrack.
Is Carawirry offgrid?
Nope, all cabins are connected to mains power, rainwater and LPG gas.
So, keep in mind that there is the rare occasion power might dip or go out for an hour or 2 after a big storm. We’ve only had 2 occasions in the last 8+ years that the power has been out for more than 2 hrs at a stretch in our quiet cabins in the middle of the forest - and even this is very rare.
If the power does drop, we can pop around with a generator and a few torches to get you up and running until the Essential Energy team has us back online.
DURING YOUR STAY
How do I get to Carawirry Forest Escape?
Put our address in Google Maps and Bob’s ya Uncle – you’ll find us.
73 Cabbage Tree Road, Main Creek, NSW 2420
Planning to digi detox? Here’s directions to save.
Once you’ve arrived at Carawirry (our entry sign should give that away). We’ll send you more information about your exact cabin after you’ve booked. And we’re only a phone call away!
Where we’re near
- 90km drive from Singleton
- 95km drive from Newcastle
- 75km drive from Bulahdelah
- 80km drive from Maitland
Is it like AirBnB or will you be there when I arrive?
You’ll self-check in and we won’t be at the property. You’ll know more about this easy-peasy process once you book. We’ll email you your own check in procedure ahead of time too. Oh, the anticipation!
What time can we check in and check out?
Standard times:
- Check-in: 3:00 pm
- Check-out: 10:00 am
Arrive Early – 1pm Check-In For guests who would love a little more time to unwind. Arrive from 1pm and enjoy two extra hours to slow down, settle in and let the forest welcome you. $150
Late Check-Out – 12noon Departure Because slow mornings are the best kind. Enjoy a relaxed 12noon check-out and savour two extra unhurried hours in the forest. $150
Both options are subject to availability — just let us know when you book and we’ll do our best.
What do the animals eat? Should we feed them?
It’s pretty hard to resist the cuteness of our forest friends, or ‘friendly locals’ as we like to call our surrounding wildlife. So it’s no wonder so many of you wanna sneak ‘em a little snack. We provide a small selection of native animal food in your cabin for this very reason. This is the only food you should feed these furry and feathered friends – and maybe a cheeky apply core or bit of banana here or there.
Are there local places to dine out?
Foodies unite. Yep neighbouring Dungog’s home to some seriously good restaurants, cafes, clubs and pubs.
Some of our personal favourite local places to dine at are:
Tinshed Brewery: Microbrewery and affordable Australian pub meals, perfectly paired with a pint. The cheeseburger comes highly recommended!
Settlers Arms: A you-beaut stop for tasty tapas using local produce and products from the Hunter Region.
Long Room Café: Drop in to Long room for cafe-style eats, freshly made sandwiches, wraps and country fare. The perfect spot to hang out before hitting the road to head home.
Tell them John and Heather from Carawirry sent you and enjoy some local Dungog hospitality!
Are there any walking trails nearby?
Lucky for you, Carawirry’s home to several kilometres of private nature trails. Follow the signs into the wilderness... they’ll show you the way. You’ll also receive a ripper lay of the land map on arrival for every trail. And if you’re feeling up for a challenge (we’re talking multi-hour treks) head to neighbouring Black Bulga State Forest’s thousands of hectares of hiking trails.
Can we go fishing?
We’ve stocked Carawirry’s dam with Silver Perch and Bass to catch straight from your private jetty. Feel like exploring further? There’s plenty of popular fishing spots along the Williams River, running through the heart of the Dungog Shire. You little beauty.
I want to relax. Can we get a massage or spa treatment at Carawirry?
We’ve made it easy with our Local Experiences – Little Black Book — a handpicked guide to some of our favourite local providers, from private chefs and massage therapists to florists, yoga and more.
Inside, you’ll find service details and direct contact information, so you can chat with each provider directly and tailor the experience to suit your stay.
Booking direct means less back-and-forth, more flexibility, and a more personalised experience from the people delivering it.
Can I bring my mountain bike? Anywhere to ride closeby?
Call us Billy Bikelover and colour us wrapt. Yes, Carawirry’s the perfect locale to rest your head after a big day in the great outdoors and along local trails. Ride out straight from your Carawirry cabin into our forest trails or into thousands of hectares of state forest. Find our growing MTB community here. And check out all experiences on offer at Carawirry.
Can I drink the tap water in my cabin?
Straight from the heavens to your glass. Whether it’s coming through the kitchen tap or the rainfall shower heads, rainwater is held in our tanks around the property. The water runs through a filter before entering the tank and then again before entering the cabin.
We drink it every day, but it’s up to you. Bring your own if the idea of tank water doesn’t wet the whistle.
What if I have more people in my group than fit in the cabin? Can I bring my own bed, tent, or swag?
The short answer is no. But still get in touch to chat options for your larger group; we would love to customise our space to suit your group. We can add roll-out beds and extras to accommodate all your peeps.
Email us at hello@carawirry.com.au or call us on 0432 341 744. Happy to help.
Can we have extra people camp at Carawirry?
No, Carawirry can't accommodate campers.
Tell me something different
Much of the cabins’ furniture is custom made by Johnny from local timbers sourced within the forest.
CANCELLATIONS Ts & Cs
Is there a cleaning surcharge?
Nope, we don’t charge extra for cleaning. We just kindly ask you to be a good person, follow the departure checklist you'll find in the cabin and tidy up a bit for the cleaning team to do their thing.
Do I have to pay for any damages to the property?
Accidents happen, we get it. To keep us all in check, a $400 bond is taken at check-in for the duration of your stay. Any accidents happen? We’ll use the bond to cover replacement and repair costs. If the damage exceeds $400 we'll be in touch.
What is the Carawirry Cancellation Policy?
We’re a small family business, so we keep it fair for everyone:
Flexible rates (Base rate – Just a Cabin in the Forest)
- 30+ days before arrival: full refund
- 15–30 days: $50 change fee or deposit loss
- Less than 14 days: no refund or changes
Lock it in, Eddy (non-refundable rate): fully non-refundable and non-changeable.
If we ever have to cancel (very rare — weather or access issues), we’ll offer a full refund or move your dates at no extra cost.
Travel insurance is always a smart idea if you're concerned.
What if I want to change the dates of my booking?
No problemo – as long as it’s more than 14 days before your arrival. That’s so fine. Just get in touch as soon as you know and we’ll help you find a more suitable date.
GIFT VOUCHER Ts & Cs
Purchase of Carawirry Gift Vouchers
- Carawirry Forest Escape [CFE] gift vouchers are valid for the Australian dollar amount displayed on the Voucher and cannot be exchanged or refunded for cash.
- CFE gift vouchers include GST of 10% in Australian Dollars.
- Any other taxes, charges, fees or duties that are, or may be, levied on such prices or services must be paid for by the customer unless stated otherwise.
- CFE vouchers are paid for in full at the time of purchasing.
- The dollar value that is purchased on the gift Voucher is a pre-payment for the period of validity specified on the voucher.
- The gift Voucher is to be treated like cash. No credit card, credit line, overdraft protection or deposit account is associated with the gift Voucher, nor are they legal tender.
- Gift vouchers may not be copied or reproduced in any circumstance.
- Gift Vouchers cannot be used to purchase further vouchers.
How will I receive my Gift Voucher?
- Carawirry Forest Escape [CFE] Gift Vouchers are delivered by email to the purchaser's email address. Some email accounts may categorize our emails as ‘spam’ email. To avoid this, please add our email address to your address book.
- The gift voucher recipient accepts full responsibility for the safekeeping of the Gift Voucher.
- CFE is not liable or responsible for any loss suffered because of an email gift Voucher being blocked by web filters or firewalls. If the recipient does not receive the email gift Voucher, please contact CFE directly.
How long will I have to use the Gift Voucher?
- Gift Vouchers are valid for a period of 3 years from the purchase date, and bookings must be made within this period.
- Gift Vouchers are for one use only.
- Gift Voucher expiry dates cannot be extended under any circumstances.
- The value of the gift Voucher should be used before the expiry date. Any unused value will not be refunded and will become the property of CFE upon expiry.
- If you have any questions regarding the expiry date of your gift Voucher please email /call CFE directly.
Reservations made using a Gift Voucher.
- Gift Vouchers are valid for a period of 3 years from the purchase date, and bookings must be made within this period.
- Gift Vouchers are for one use only.
- Gift vouchers are ‘redeemed’ upon check-in. No credit or change will be given on the unused portion of the Voucher.
- All accommodation and other services by CFE are strictly subject to availability at the time of booking.
- CFE vouchers entitle the bearer to the Australian dollar value of the voucher for available accommodation and services. Actual rates may vary and are listed as the best available rate at the time of booking, on our website.
- Should the total spend be more than the value of the Gift Voucher, CFE will invoice for the difference and this must be paid as per the booking terms and conditions.
- Reservations must be made directly with the property and the voucher number must be quoted at the time of booking.
- If the guest is unable to use the voucher and desires to transfer this to a relative or friend, the guest is required to contact the property directly. Transfer of the voucher is subject to proof of original purchase, validity of the voucher, proof of identity of the purchaser and recipient, circumstances of the request & the discretion of the property.
- A gift Voucher recipient may redeem two or more separate gift Vouchers in one transaction.
- Photo identification and a valid credit card are required prior to check-in as per the usual booking procedure.
- To cancel or postpone a reservation for a Voucher Booking, the guest must contact the hotel directly.