It's official! NSW national parks are a top destination choice now that regional travel restrictions have eased, with most campgrounds already booked to capacity for the June long weekend.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Director Visitor Experience, Julie Bishop said the overwhelming interest in pitching a tent since reopening campgrounds on 1 June demonstrates how special these beautiful places are to us all.
"For anyone who missed out on booking a campsite for the June long weekend, check the website for lesser known campgrounds or give us a call on 1300 072757 and we can suggest some great alternatives," Ms Bishop said.
"Otherwise a day trip to local parks for a picnic or bushwalk is a great option – but now is also the time to plan and book for the next school holidays or a quick weekend getaway.
"There is still plenty of availability in campgrounds over the weeks and months ahead right across the State and winter is the best time to take a road trip to inland areas of New South Wales – but booking ahead is essential.
"These inland areas are perfect for a winter escape with some of the most stunning landscapes, crystal clear skies for stargazing and a variety of bushwalks, especially at this time of year.
"Many of the Australian wildflowers are in bloom in winter and with colder nights quite a few places allow campers to enjoy a fire to toast some marshmallows over.
"NPWS will continue working hard to open up as many campgrounds as possible for the public to enjoy so we expect even more option to choose from in coming weeks and months for our visitors.
"We appreciate that some visitors will be disappointed by the reduced capacity in our campgrounds at this time, but these measures are essential to keep visitors, staff and the community safe from the spread of COVID 19.
"NPWS are required to operate their campgrounds in line with the NSW Public Health order including taking steps to limit numbers within each campground or accommodation.
"We have undertaken comprehensive risk assessments and safety plans to allow us to reopen our campgrounds to visitors, but we need everyone to work together.
"In meeting the guidelines, every person who is staying in a national park must be registered as part of a booking – so it is important only the number of people declared on your booking turn up on the day.
"Some bookings include limits on the number of people and vehicles per site. Please read the information in the booking system carefully.
"So far our visitors have been incredible – sticking closely to the allowable group numbers, practicing physical distancing and good hygiene – which will ensure we can keep these special places open," she said.
NPWS has uploaded plenty of information on their website to help visitors get ready for camping covid style so please take the time to check it out.
