There are lots of great hikes and walks around Wollongong including: 

• Forest Walk to Sublime Point: a rewarding 11km trail that threads through cool upland swamps, blackbutt forests and cliff-top rainforests.
• Mount Kembla Ring Track: a 5km trail that takes in mining heritage, bushland and Mount Kembla Lookout.
• Mount Keira Ring Track: a trail that offers great bird watching and includes Mount Keira Lookout.
• Bulli to Wollongong Coastal Track: enjoy stunning ocean views and passes by the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge.
• North Wollongong Foreshore Walk: follow the coastline taking in Wollongong’s harbour and beaches.
• Wodi Wodi Track: a longer walk through the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation area, known for its diverse flora and coastal views.

There are lots of great lookouts and viewpoints around Wollongong including: 

• Bald Hill Lookout
• Sublime Point Lookout
• Mount Kembla Lookout
• Mount Keira Lookout
• Southern Gateway Centre Lookout
• Hill 60 Lookout
• Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout 

There are lots of things to do with your family in Wollongong including: 

• Horse riding: take a lesson or join a trail ride at Otford Farm or Darkes Forest Riding Ranch. There are lots of options for all skill levels and ages.
• Swimming: explore the region’s beaches or splash in one of the many ocean rock pools.
• Surfing: catch waves together or join a surfing lesson with Pines Surfing Academy and Illawarra Surf Academy.
• Hiking: enjoy an easy stroll through rainforest or along the coastline, or challenge yourself with a steep hike up to a lookout.
• Cycling: bike along the scenic 17km Wollongong to Thirroul bike track. Best of all, it’s relatively flat and good for all skill levels.
• Ziplining: visit Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures to zipline above canopies and walk along elevated boardwalks.
• Symbio Wildlife Park: get up close and personal with native and exotic animals.
• Jamberoo Action Park: enjoy thrilling rides and attractions for all ages.
• Wollongong Science Centre and Planetarium: discover interactive exhibits, engage in hands-on experiments, and explore the wonders of the universe. 

Several great camping options are available near Wollongong, ranging from beachside locations to bushland retreats. For convenient amenities and proximity to the coast, book in to: 

• Bulli Beach Tourist Park
• Windang Beach Tourist Park
• Corrimal Beach Tourist Park
• Coledale Camping Reserve
• Killalea Campground 

There are several national parks near Wollongong including: 

• Royal National Park: an hour's drive from Wollongong and offers diverse landscapes including beaches and rainforests. It's a popular spot for hiking, camping, and scenic drives.
• Budderoo National Park: known for the Minnamurra Rainforest, it offers rainforest walks, waterfalls, and lookouts.
• Macquarie Pass National Park: located close to the Illawarra escarpment, this park features a mix of heathland and rainforest, along with views of the ocean.
• Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area: popular for bush walking and its scenic views.