South Coast national parks reach record visitation

Three South Coast parks were amongst the top 20 most visited - Morton National Park, Eurobodalla National Park and Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area, each with more than a million visits.

34% of visits to South Coast parks were by interstate travellers, particularly from Victoria and the ACT.

More people than ever are choosing to experience the natural beauty of NSW, with a record 65.6 million visits to national parks in the last financial year, positioning the state's parks network as a major driver of economic activity, regional development and affordable outdoor recreation.

Visitation has grown strongly in recent years statewide, up 24 per cent since 2022, reflecting the growing appeal of nature-based experiences across the state.

The NSW Government invested more than $41 million between March 2023 and June 2025 to support growing visitation and protect this iconic destination.

Murramarang National Park received more than half a million visits, after the opening of the Murramarang South Coast Walk in 2023. Stage 1 of the Illawarra Escarpment Mountain Bike Network opened in 2025 to support growing demand.

Easily accessible from both Sydney and Wollongong by train or car, the South Coast remains a top destination for both locals and visitor

The most visited national parks in NSW include Blue Mountains, Royal, Ku-ring-gai Chase, Lane Cove, Kosciuszko, Sydney Harbour, Brisbane Water, Morton, Bouddi and Glenrock.

With more people visiting than ever before, the Government is continuing to invest to manage demand while protecting the natural environment for future generations.

Minister for the South Coast, Ryan Park said:

"The South Coast is a place people fall in love with, and these record numbers show just how many are choosing our beaches, bushland and national parks year after year. It's a huge source of pride for our local communities.

"From Morton and Eurobodalla to Murramarang and the Illawarra Escarpment, these parks showcase the very best of the South Coast and play a vital role in supporting tourism, local jobs and small businesses right across the region.

"The NSW Government investment of more than $41 million is helping protect these special places while making sure they can be enjoyed safely and sustainably by locals and visitors for generations to come."

Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart said:

"The Royal National Park, Australia's oldest national park, is the jewel of the crown joining the Sutherland Shire to the Illawarra.

"With our pristine beaches and all the wildlife, I am proud that the Minns Labor government has invested money and resources to protect our bushland, waterways, and all living things within."

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

"The Illawarra escarpment is not only a defining element of Wollongong's natural environment but it is also a great place to visit so it's no surprise to see it rank highly for visitation.

"A mix of the natural environment and major events is encouraging more people to visit the Illawarra which is great to see and good for jobs and local businesses."

Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson said:

"It's fantastic to see more people than ever discovering the natural beauty of the South Coast, with record visitation showing just how valued these incredible national parks are."

"An 81 per cent increase in visitation over the past decade highlights the growing appeal of our South Coast parks and the important role they play in recreation and wellbeing."

Member for South Coast Liza Butler said:

"Our National Parks continue to draw visitors looking to connect with nature in some of the state's most spectacular coastal landscapes - and it is understandable that people love the South Coast as much as I do.

"From the pristine beaches and spotted gum forests to the new Murramarang South Coast Walk, our national parks offer unforgettable experiences that showcase the very best of the South Coasts natural beauty."

Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland said:

"The unspoilt coastal wilderness of the Far South Coast is showcased in each of our national parks. It's good to see so many people choosing to experience the extraordinary landscapes we are fortunate to enough to have on our doorstep.

"Record visitation is a much needed boost for local businesses, supporting jobs in accommodation, hospitality, retail and tourism.

"It is important that as a government, we continue investing in infrastructure, conservation and visitor facilities so they remain protected and accessible for future generations."