Notable Campgrounds
- Best for escaping the crowds: Little Beach Campground has just six tent sites with direct access to the beach. Restrooms and barbecues are the only facilities, so bring everything you need with you.
- Best for beach and bush access: Putty Beach Campground has spacious grass pitches for tents only and basic facilities including restrooms, drinking water, and gas barbecues.
- Best for hikers: Tallow Beach Campground is a simple bush campground with grass pitches—it’s a bit of a hike to reach it, but worth it for the tranquil surroundings.
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- Advance bookings are essential, and you will need to pay the full amount before arrival. Campsites have a minimum nightly rate, and minimal stays may apply in peak season.
- Space is limited at Bouddi campgrounds, so book at least three months in advance for peak periods such as summer, school holidays, and bank holiday weekends.
When to Go
Summer (December through March) is peak season in Bouddi National Park and the ideal time to swim at the park’s beaches. However, daytime temperatures can reach up to 30°C, so make an early start if you plan to hike and pick a shady spot to pitch your tent. Hiking is best in spring when the Bouddi Coastal Walk is blooming with wildflowers, while May through July is the time to spot humpback whales during their annual migration.
Know Before You Go
- Bouddi National Park is located near Gosford along the Central Coast, 100 kilometres north of Sydney or about a 1.5-hour drive. There are two entrances to the park at Putty Beach Drive and The Scenic Road.
- Facilities within the park include restrooms, picnic and barbecue areas, and drinking water outlets, but you’ll need to bring everything else you need with you.
- There is an entrance fee (per vehicle) to visit the park.
Nearby Attractions
- An easily accessible escape from Sydney, Ocean Beach is the perfect beach for families. Warm sands, clear waters, and a nearby esplanade are sure to keep the whole group entertained.
- One of the most secluded and peaceful beaches on the Central Coast, Patonga Beach lies in a calm bay alongside the Hawkesbury River. Tranquil waters make this the perfect place to visit for a peaceful swim or paddle.
Bouddi National Park
Coastal walks and beachside camping are the highlights of this Central Coast national park.
Rugged headlands and bushland trails lead to secluded beaches, sandy coves, and pockets of rainforest along the shores of Bouddi National Park. Hike the 8.5-kilometre Bouddi Coastal Walk along the Bouddi Peninsula, climb up to the Box Head Viewpoint, or cycle along one of the two mountain bike trails. Along the way, stop to swim, fish, or stand-up paddleboard at one of the park’s eight beaches, look out for humpback whales along the coast, or barbecue at one of the dedicated picnic areas. Camping comes with views, too—pitch your tent by the beach and wake up early to hit the surf.
Rugged headlands and bushland trails lead to secluded beaches, sandy coves, and pockets of rainforest along the shores of Bouddi National Park. Hike the 8.5-kilometre Bouddi Coastal Walk along the Bouddi Peninsula, climb up to the Box Head Viewpoint, or cycle along one of the two mountain bike trails. Along the way, stop to swim, fish, or stand-up paddleboard at one of the park’s eight beaches, look out for humpback whales along the coast, or barbecue at one of the dedicated picnic areas. Camping comes with views, too—pitch your tent by the beach and wake up early to hit the surf.
Notable Campgrounds
Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Summer (December through March) is peak season in Bouddi National Park and the ideal time to swim at the park’s beaches. However, daytime temperatures can reach up to 30°C, so make an early start if you plan to hike and pick a shady spot to pitch your tent. Hiking is best in spring when the Bouddi Coastal Walk is blooming with wildflowers, while May through July is the time to spot humpback whales during their annual migration.
Know Before You Go
Nearby Attractions