Youcamp allows private landowners to list accommodation and activities on their properties – it is like Airbnb for farms or Airbnb of camping.

“We have been told by local tourism authorities that there is virtually no accommodation left in the Hunter Valley on the weekend of the Neil Diamond concert on April 7 next year,” said co-founder of the website James Woodford.

“Unless extra accommodation options are provided very quickly, those travellers will take their money elsewhere. 

“What’s ideal about Youcamp is that farmers and landholders can almost provide ‘pop-up’ accommodation options because often all that people are looking for is a safe place to park their camper or caravan. 

“It is also a way for private property owners to earn much-needed cash from travellers.

“We hope local councils can see the common sense of keeping people in the area when they look for accommodation and help streamline the application process. 

“Not only will people get to see Neil Diamond but by letting travellers stay on private land the local farming community gets to showcase the other side of life in the Hunter Valley.

“We have seen over and over again the way that private land tourism benefits not just landholders wanting extra sources of income, but also regional communities which gain a big boost from the arrival of tourists who may not otherwise be able to find accommodation during busy festivals and events.”

Proprietor of Pokolbin Farm Alicia Cooke has recently joined the Youcamp stable.

“We’re finding that people who have stayed with us really enjoy the mixed landscape of the farm stay experience, with the paddocks, dams, creeks and spectacular rural outlook,” she said.

“Guests seem to really enjoy staying on a farm.  

“They love the animals, and the fact that they can choose the type of accommodation that best suits their needs.  

“And we have enough space to offer complete privacy for all, with self-contained visitors welcome.

“Guests just love being right in the middle of it all, with wonderful food and wine options right on our doorstep.

“It wasn’t until we listed our old Farm House for rental that we realised how great the demand was for affordable accommodation due to the many concerts and events happening all around us.  

“We’ve been booked every weekend with people from out of town coming to enjoy the concerts, vineyards and other events that take place in the Hunter Valley. 

“Many of our guests love staying in the old farm house as it is an experience that is just little bit different.”

For further information, contact James Woodford on 0417 668 374 or jameswoodford@youcamp.com