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Wattle Forest picnic area

Royal National Park

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Overview

A lovely riverside spot, Wattle Forest picnic area is great for barbecues, walking and mountain biking, especially if you’re looking for things to do near Audley and Sydney.

Type
Picnic areas
Where
Royal National Park in Sydney and surrounds, South Coast
Entry fees
Park entry fees apply

One of the more popular picnic spots in Royal National Park, Wattle Forest picnic area offers scenic water views on the banks of Hacking River, just south of Audley. Easily accessible from Sydney and Sutherland, it’s a great spot for a family day trip, with the option to relax by the river or discover the delights of the park by walking track or bicycle.

You could be tempted to while away a lazy afternoon in the shade by the river, serenaded by the cockatoos and currawongs, or join the kids for some swimming. When it’s time for lunch, spark up the barbecues and cook up a sausage feast to satisfy the hungry hoards.

If you’re inspired to explore, step out on nearby Uloola walking track or bring the mountain bikes for a great ride along picturesque Lady Carrington Drive.

Take a virtual tour of Wattle Forest picnic area captured with Google Street View Trekker.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

 

Google Street View Trekker

Using Google Street View Trekker, we've captured imagery across a range of NSW national parks and attractions. Get a bird's eye view of these incredible landscapes before setting off on your own adventure.

Google Trekker at Cape Byron State Conservation Area. Photo: J Spencer/OEH.

Conservation program:

Conservation and coastal engravings in Royal National Park

The conservation and coastal engravings project in the Royal National Park is working to preserve one of the region’s finest expressions of Aboriginal culture: the Jibbon Headland Aboriginal engravings. A new boardwalk and viewing platform limit the foot access that was damaging the engravings, while encroaching soil and vegetation are being removed.

Aboriginal engravings in Royal National Park. Photo: David Finnegan

Operated by

Park info

  • in Royal National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and South Coast regions

  • Royal National Park is open 7am to 8.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

  • Park entry fees:

    $12 per vehicle per day. Payment options include Audley Visitor Centre, vehicle entry stations, pay machines and the Park’nPay app.

    Vehicles over 8 seats: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Students on educational programs: $1.10 per student. Teachers/educational supervisors: free (1 adult per 10 students).

    Buy annual pass
See more visitor info

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