The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is encouraging people to plan ahead these school holidays as staff prepare for a busy spring season.
Acting Director of the South Coast Branch of NPWS, Graham Bush said COVID-19 restrictions were still in place and some popular precincts may close at short notice if visitation levels exceed safe capacity.
“With good weather expected for the holidays, popular precincts such as the camping areas at Murramarang, Meroo and Mimosa Rocks will quickly reach capacity,” Mr Bush said.
“The Eurobodalla, Ben Boyd, Bournda and Bungonia national parks are also expected to fill up quickly, as well as the NPWS Visitors Centres at Minnamurra and Fitzroy Falls,” he said.
Mr Bush warned that visitor areas tended to fill up around lunchtime and said it was best to avoid peak times between 11am and 2pm.
“Visit early in the morning or come in later in the day so you can enjoy the park for its quieter beauty,” he said.
Director of Visitor Experience at NPWS, Julie Bishop said NPWS was required to operate all its parks and campsites in line with the NSW Public Health orders, including taking steps to limit numbers within each campground or precinct.
Ms Bishop said parks across NSW were filling up fast.
Director of NPWS, David Crust advised campers that all campgrounds in NSW National Parks now required a booking, even the free sites.
“Those without a booking are unable to stay and we ask people to be upfront in declaring the number of people in their group so we can keep an eye on numbers to make sure everyone has an enjoyable but also a safe trip,” Mr Crust said.
“If you arrive at an area and you can’t safely maintain social distancing, then please move to another location or time your visit outside peak periods,” he said.
Information on camping and accommodation can be accessed at this PS News link.
