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Warrell Creek

Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Warrell Creek.

Getting there and parking

Warrell Creek runs along the western boundary of Gaagal Wanggaan National Park. There are three canoe access points reachable by vehicle:

  • The boat ramp at Weir Reserve, on South Pacific Drive at Scotts Head township.
  • Warrell Creek picnic area, via South Pacific Drive and South Beach access trail from Scotts Head township.
  • The boat ramp at Gumma Crossing Reserve, via Gumma Road and Boultons Crossing Road from Macksville.

Road quality

  • Unsealed roads

Vehicle access

  • 2WD vehicles (no long vehicle access)

Weather restrictions

  • 4WD required in wet weather

Parking

Parking is available at Weir Reserve at Scotts Head, Boultons Crossing campground and Warrell Creek picnic area. There is no designated disabled parking.

Best times to visit

There are lots of great things waiting for you in Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park. Here are some of the highlights.

Spring

Go beach walking along ‘Gaagal Wanggaan,' the original Gumbaynggirr name for Forster or South Beach.

Summer

Explore the cool retreat of Warrell Creek by kayaking or canoeing, then settle down for a barbecue at Warrell Creek picnic area.

Winter

Wander through the coastal forest on dune sand, enjoying the birdlife and wildflower display.

Weather, temperature and rainfall

Summer temperature

Average

19°C and 26.7°C

Highest recorded

43.3°C

Winter temperature

Average

8.3°C and 19.3°C

Lowest recorded

-3.2°C

Rainfall

Wettest month

March

Driest month

September

The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

404.6mm

Facilities

Toilets

  • Flush toilets

Picnic tables

Barbecue facilities

  • Wood barbecues (bring your own firewood)

Boat ramp

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.

Boating safety

If you're out on your boat fishing, waterskiing or just cruising the waterways, read these paddling and boating safety tips.

Fire safety

During periods of fire weather, the Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service may declare a total fire ban for particular NSW fire areas, or statewide. Learn more about total fire bans and fire safety.

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).

Paddling safety

To make your paddling or kayaking adventure safer and more enjoyable, check out these paddling safety tips.

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.

Warrell Creek

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