While the changing cost structure for camping in New South Wales national parks has been the subject of fierce criticism in recent months, the state government has been seeking to put the focus back on the improvements it has made to many campsites.
It says that 2025 saw new facilities built in some spots, while others were refreshed and repaired.
Acting Minister for the Environment, Steve Whan, said the idea was to build on NSW’s much-loved camping tradition.
“These improvements mean more places to stay, better facilities and more reasons to explore our incredible national parks,” he said. “They will in turn boost nature-based tourism and regional economies.”
Yelgun Kyoomgun campground in Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk. PIC: Daniel Parsons / DCCEEW
Over the past 12 months, some major works have been carried out.
On the Mid-North Coast, for example, Trial Bay Gaol campground has reopened after a $6.7 million upgrade. It features new picnic shelters, improved beach access and formalised walking and cycling paths.
Further north, three brand-new campgrounds have been created along the spectacular multi-day Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk in Nightcap National Park and Whian Whian State Conservation Area. A $1.8 million investment means these sites now offer hardwood tent platforms, yarning circles, picnic tables and rainwater tanks.
In Mebbin National Park near Murwillumbah in the state’s far north, Cutters Camp now boasts an additional eight camping platforms for tents with parking, tables and fireplaces.
In Central West NSW, Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp campsite near Rylstone has had a $1.1 million reconfiguration to cater for its growing popularity. There are now more spots to pitch a tent, better internal roads and more access for camper trailers.
Further west, a new campground at the Cuttaburra National Park near Bourke is opening with barbecue facilities, shelters, toilets and outdoor artesian showers.
Down south in the beloved Kosciuszko National Park, the Cooleman Mountain campground has been expanded from 12 to 29 campsites. There are also new barbecues and fire rings.
These new and upgraded campgrounds form part of the NSW Government’s $43 million commitment to deliver 56 new and upgraded campsites, with 40 of those already complete.
In other national parks, recent upgrades are already proving popular, with Wombeyan Caves campground hosting 34,000 visitor nights since reopening in March, 2024.
At Point Plomer near Port Macquarie, 56,000 visitor nights have been recorded since its $2 million revitalisation was unveiled a year ago.
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