Esk River paddle route
Bundjalung National Park
Overview
Esk River is the perfect place for canoeing, offering birdwatching and a back to nature wilderness experience on the north coast of NSW.
- Where
- Bundjalung National Park in North Coast
- Distance
- 15km one-way
- Time suggested
- 4hrs
- Grade
- Medium
- Entry fees
- Park entry fees apply
- Please note
- Toilets and picnic facilities are available at Woody Head campground
- It’s a good idea to take insect repellent with you
The sheltered inland waterways are a perfect way to explore the southern section of Bundjalung National Park. Paddling up Esk River, the longest unspoilt natural coastal river system on the north coast, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a wildlife wonderland.
When you push off from Bill Weiley Bridge and head upstream, you’ll glide past mangroves, heathland and old growth dry sclerophyll forest; keep your eye out for the unique rock formations. This is prime birdwatching territory so get your binoculars ready. Downstream, closer to the Clarence River entrance, pied oystercatchers and eastern whipbirds are common.
If you’re lucky you might see a koala snoozing or snacking on gum leaves in the branches of the tallowwood and swamp mahogany.
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Operated by
- Woody Head Campground
- 8.30am to 5pm daily. Closed 1pm to 5pm Christmas Day.
- 02 6646 6134
- woody.head@environment.nsw.gov.au
- 92 Woody Head Road, Woody Head NSW 2466
Park info
- in Bundjalung National Park in the North Coast region
Bundjalung National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
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Park entry fees:
$8 per vehicle per day.
Buy annual pass