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Broughton Island walking tracks

Myall Lakes National Park

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Broughton Island walking tracks.

Track grading

Grade 3

Learn more about the grading system

Features of this track

Distance

2km return

Time

1hr

Quality of markings

Clearly sign posted

Experience required

No experience required

Gradient

Short steep hills

Steps

Occasional steps

Quality of path

Formed track, some obstacles

Getting there and parking

Broughton Island walking tracks are on the remote Broughton Island, part of Myall Lakes National Park. To get there, you can only arrive by boat:

  • A private vessel, or
  • A boat-based tour operator based at Port Stephens

From Port Stephens, the boat journey takes around 45min to 1 hour one-way. 

Esmeralda Cove moorings are all privately owned and cannot be used by the general public. If you use private boat to reach Broughton Island, register your movements with Marine Rescue Port Stephens on marine radio before you travel.

If you’re booking a campsite, contact your tour operator before you book to ensure that boat transfer is available, and costs suit your requirements.

If you use a private tour operator to get to Broughton Island, their schedules and prices vary. These tour operators provide boat transfers or guided tours to Broughton Island:

Vehicle access

  • No vehicle access

Facilities

  • Water is not available on Broughton Island. Bring plenty of drinking water.
  • There are no rubbish bins, please take rubbish with you.

Toilets

  • Non-flush toilets

Picnic tables

There is 1 picnic table on Broughton Island, in front of the campsites on Little Poverty Beach.

Maps and downloads

Safety messages

In severe weather, take refuge on high ground or in the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service huts at Esmeralda Cove. These huts have an emergency marine VHF radio. Contact Marine Rescue Port Stephens on channel 16.

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.

Surf conditions can be rough and dangerous at times. Do not swim or enter the water when conditions are rough.

Boating safety

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

Bushwalking safety

If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

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.

Accessibility

Disability access level - no wheelchair access

Permitted

Camping

There are only 5 campsites on Broughton Island, right in front of Little Poverty Beach. You need to book a campsite before you arrive. Camping is not permitted anywhere else on the island.

Fishing

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

Prohibited

Camp fires and solid fuel burners

Cycling

Gathering firewood

Generators

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.

Map of Broughton Island walking tracks

Operated by

Park info

  • in Myall Lakes National Park in the North Coast region

  • Myall Lakes National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

  • Park entry fees:

    $8 per vehicle per day.

    The park has coin/card operated pay machines at Mungo Brush campground. Day passes are also available from the Manning Great Lakes Area Office, Bulahdelah Visitor Information Centre and the Hawks Nest Newsagency. You can also pay for your visit via the Park’nPay app.

    Bombah Point ferry fees may also apply (cash payment only).

    Buy annual pass