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Astills picnic area

Werakata National Park

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Visitor info

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

Getting there and parking

Astills picnic area is in the Astills precinct of Werakata National Park. 

From Cessnock:

  • Follow Maitland Road (B68) towards Abermain
  • Turn left on Old Maitland Road at East Cessnock 
  • Turn left on Ironbark Lane 
  • Follow the signs to Astills picnic area

Road quality

  • Unsealed roads

Vehicle access

  • 2WD vehicles

Weather restrictions

  • All weather

Parking

Parking is available at Astills picnic area.

Best times to visit

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

Autumn

The days are cooler but still sunny in autumn, making it a fabulous time for hitting the cycle trails of Werakata National Park. The Deadmans Loop trail and Astills trail offer easy flat, fun rides for the family.

Spring

There are more than 200 different types of animals recorded in Werakata National Park and the nearby State Conservation Area. Spring is a great time to see them. The wildflower displays during spring are a sight to behold .

Summer

Pack a picnic lunch and head for the Astills picnic area with its beautiful canopy of gums.

Winter

Winter is a great time for bird watching in the park. Werakata is blessed with a huge number of spotted gums, one of only a few winter-flowering eucalypts found near the New South Wales coast.

Facilities

Picnic tables

Carpark

Maps and downloads

Safety messages

This park is in a remote location, please ensure you are thoroughly prepared and bring appropriate clothing.

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 - medium

Assistance may be required to access this area

Prohibited

Illegal dumping is prohibited and penalties apply. If you see illegal dumping activity please help NPWS by reporting it to Environment Line: 131 555.

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.

Astills picnic area

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