Ahead of the school holidays and October long weekend, visitors are reminded to plan their trip to NSW National Parks as staff prepare for a busy Spring season.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Northern Inland Director Robert Smith, said with COVID-19 restrictions still in place, keeping visitors and staff safe remains the top priority but is only possible if we all work together.
“With good weather expected for the holidays our most popular parks such as Oxley Wild Rivers, Bald Rock, Cathedral Rock, Warrumbungle, Mount Kaputar, Gundabooka and Toorale National Parks are already at camping capacity,” said Mr Smith.
“When coming to any park or reserve, even for just a quick picnic or swim, please plan ahead by visiting our website for information on closures, park alerts and COVID-19 updates.
“By working together we can all keep our parks COVID compliant and ensure all visitors have a safe and enjoyable nature-based experience.
“This means if you arrive at an area where you can’t safely maintain social distancing, then please move to another location or time your visit outside peak periods.
“With over 100 parks and reserves in the Northern Inland region alone, there are plenty of places and lesser known spots for everyone to get out and explore,” Mr Smith said.
Julie Bishop, Visitor Experience Director, said NPWS is required to operate its parks and campsites in line with NSW Public Health orders including managing visitor numbers within each campground.
“For many of us it will be a relief to get outdoors and into nature this Spring, particularly after what felt like a long Winter, but accommodation in parks is filling up fast,” said Ms Bishop.
“All campgrounds in NSW national parks, even our free sites, now require a booking to ensure we comply with COVID requirements.
“Only visitors who have booked may stay in NPWS campgrounds so booking ahead is essential. Don’t leave home without a booking.
“It is also your responsibility to maintain social distancing at these sites and make yourself familiar with our COVID 19 safe camping guidelines. We want people to make sure they are taking all necessary precautions to keep themselves and their families and friends safe in these difficult times.
“The quickest and easiest way to check availability and to book is at the NPWS website.
“We have already seen some of the most popular parks become fully booked, so book early to avoid disappointment,” Ms Bishop said.
For up to date information visit National Parks and Wildlife Service Traffic information, including up to date information on road closures can be found at Live Traffic NSW.
