Helensburgh is a rural and residential area, is thought to be named after the town Scotland or after Helen Harper, the daughter of the Cumberland Coal Miner's Manager.

It was previously known as Camp Creek. Population was minimal until 1880's spurred by the established of coal mining and the construction of the railway line.

Major features of the area include Royal National Park, Garawarra State Conservation Area, Tall Gums Environment Farm, Sri Venkateswara Hindu Temple, Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh Hall, The George Wheen Conference Centre and Uniting Church Camp, Just Cruisin Motor Cycle Tours and Ultimate Skirmish Paint Ball Centre.