Guide to Hunter's unique Highland cow camping at Halacal Farm

TL;DR

Former NSW police officer Luke Jamieson now runs Halacal Farm in Lambs Valley, offering camping with Highland cows.
Bookings nearly doubled after importing four Highland cows, including leader Donald Rump, from Victoria.
Guests enjoy secluded spots, cow interactions, and a peaceful Hunter Valley escape via Hipcamp.

The story at a glance

Luke Jamieson left the NSW Police Force after 16 years to manage 100-acre Halacal Farm in Lambs Valley with his family. The farm provides unique camping and farm stays focused on Highland cows, which boosted bookings. It's covered now to highlight this shift to rural tourism in the Hunter region.

Key points

Jamieson switched from Angus cattle to Highland cows, importing four from Victoria: five-year-old Donald Rump and his three one-year-old half-brothers Jock, Finley, and Dougal.
Camping sites are secluded, like traditional bush camping, with guests escorted by farm dog Titan the Husky.
Experiences include petting the friendly cows, noted for their personalities, plus cheese platters amid vineyard views.
Bookings via Hipcamp nearly doubled since the cows arrived; special events like Valentine's Day debut planned.
Family-run with wife and three children; Jamieson stresses fair pricing to ensure guests enjoy themselves.
Check Halacal Farm's Facebook for details: https://www.facebook.com/Halacalrural.[[1]](https://www.maitlandmercury.com.au/story/9210145/your-guide-to-the-hunters-most-unique-camping-and-farm-experience/)[[2]](https://www.maitlandmercury.com.au/story/9210145/your-guide-to-the-hunters-most-unique-camping-and-farm-experience)

Details and context

Halacal Farm sits in Lambs Valley, NSW, close enough to towns but far from caravan park crowds. The Highland cows stand out with their long hair and calm nature, drawing families wanting animal contact without city stress. Titan the Husky appears in most reviews as a welcoming feature.[[1]](https://www.maitlandmercury.com.au/story/9210145/your-guide-to-the-hunters-most-unique-camping-and-farm-experience/)

This setup revives Jamieson's childhood camping style on his parents' property. The cows' arrival marked a turn, with Donald Rump as the charismatic lead. No powered sites or high-end facilities; focus stays on nature and animals.[[1]](https://www.maitlandmercury.com.au/story/9210145/your-guide-to-the-hunters-most-unique-camping-and-farm-experience/)

Key quotes

"Not here to rip people off," Jamieson says of pricing.[[1]](https://www.maitlandmercury.com.au/story/9210145/your-guide-to-the-hunters-most-unique-camping-and-farm-experience/)
The cows give guests a "real kick."[[1]](https://www.maitlandmercury.com.au/story/9210145/your-guide-to-the-hunters-most-unique-camping-and-farm-experience/)

Why it matters

Rural tourism like this supports ex-urban workers starting farm ventures in regions like the Hunter Valley. Readers seeking quiet getaways get a specific, animal-focused option close to civilisation. Watch for events like Mother's Day at Halacal Farm via their Facebook page.[[1]](https://www.maitlandmercury.com.au/story/9210145/your-guide-to-the-hunters-most-unique-camping-and-farm-experience/)