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Turingal Head picnic area

Bournda National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about the Turingal Head picnic area.

Getting there and parking

Turingal Head is in the northern precinct of Bournda National Park. To get there:

  • Take the Sapphire Coast Drive from Tathra or Merimbula
  • Turn into Wallagoot Lake Road and follow this through past the boat club for another 2km to the end at Turingal Head carpark

Road quality

  • Unsealed roads

Vehicle access

  • 2WD vehicles

Weather restrictions

  • All weather

Parking

Parking is available at Turingal Head picnic area. Please note that this is paid parking. It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking might be limited.

Best times to visit

There are lots of great things waiting for you in Bournda National Park. Here are some of the highlights.

Autumn

As the weather cools but the waters are still warm, it's a great time to enjoy the Kangarutha walking track. Swim along the way at secluded beaches. It will feel like you have the place to yourself.

Spring

Enjoy the colours of wildflowers and the take in the smells of spring as the park comes alive. Head to the lookout at North Tura, find a sunny spot and look out for whales passing in the distance.

Summer

Discover the water activities on offer. Paddling at Bournda Lagoon, sailing on Wallagoot Lake, fishing at Wine Glass Bay or surfing and swimming at any one of the secluded beaches.

Facilities

  • There is limited water available in this area, so it’s a good idea to bring your own.
  • Firewood is not supplied and may not be collected from the park.
  • You’re encouraged to bring gas or fuel stoves, especially in summer during the fire season.

Toilets

  • Non-flush toilets

Picnic tables

Carpark

Maps and downloads

Safety messages

Beach safety

Beaches in this park are not patrolled, and can sometimes have strong rips and currents. These beach safety tips will help you and your family stay safe in the water.

Fishing safety

Fishing from a boat, the beach or by the river is a popular activity for many national park visitors. If you’re planning a day out fishing, check out these fishing safety tips.

Mobile safety

Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

Accessibility

Disability access level - hard

  • Viewing platform at top of Wine Glass Bay
  • Toilet at the carpark

Permitted

Fishing

A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in all waters.

Prohibited

Gathering firewood

Pets

Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

Smoking

NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

Turingal Head picnic area

Operated by

Park info

  • in Bournda National Park in the South Coast region
  • Bournda National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to extreme weather or fire danger.

  • Park entry fees:

    $8 per vehicle per day. This park uses a self-registration fee collection system, please bring correct change.

    Buy annual pass