Bournda National Park wilderness guide
National Park · NSW

Bournda National Park

Bournda National Park offers coastal landscapes, pristine beaches, and a rich mix of forest and wetland areas, making it a favored destination for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation along Australia’s southeastern coastline.

National Park87504+ Trails
DesignationNational Park
Total Wilderness Area8750
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Bournda National Park

Bournda National Park offers coastal landscapes, pristine beaches, and a rich mix of forest and wetland areas, making it a favored destination for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation along Australia’s southeastern coastline.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Bournda National Park is located on the south coast of New South Wales, Australia, immediately south of Merimbula. The park comprises a diverse range of coastal environments, including sandy beaches, ancient dunes, heathlands, wetlands, and forests. It is an important habitat for numerous native species, including migratory birds and unique flora adapted to the coastal climate. The park stretches along the Tasman Sea and includes features such as the popular Brou Lake—a freshwater lake bounded by sand dunes—and the Bournda Lagoon, supporting rich birdlife and aquatic ecosystems. Historically, the park area holds significance for the traditional custodians, the Yuin people, who have maintained a connection to the land for thousands of years. Key recreational opportunities include hiking the network of scenic trails, camping at the well-equipped campgrounds, swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Notable landmarks include the Blue Pool, a secluded natural rock pool, and the clear waters of Bournda Lagoon, both ideal for swimming and exploring. Visitors are drawn to the park for its combination of natural beauty and relative tranquility, compared to busier coastal destinations nearby. The park also forms part of the Bournda Marine Protected Area, giving it additional status for conservation and marine activities. With its blend of terrestrial and marine environments, Bournda National Park offers exceptional outdoor experiences that highlight the ecological diversity of Australia’s southeast coast.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Bournda National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Brou Lake – a peaceful freshwater lake surrounded by dunes and hiking trails✦ Blue Pool – a natural rock pool known for clear water and sheltered swimming✦ Bournda Lagoon – important wetland habitat supporting diverse birdlife✦ Coastal walking trails linking beaches and forested areas with scenic views
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Bournda National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Bournda National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Bournda National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Bournda National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Bournda National Park
Park Recreation

Kayaking

Available in Bournda National Park
Park Recreation

Swimming

Available in Bournda National Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Bournda National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Bournda National Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Bournda National Park
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Bournda National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Bournda National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Park entry is free; camping requires permits and booking through NSW National Parks.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Bournda National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Bournda Lagoon Campground

Located near the lagoon with facilities including toilets, picnic shelters, and direct beach access; popular for fishing and water activities.

Brou Lake Campground

A campground close to the freshwater lake with amenities like toilets, BBQs, and shaded areas; ideal for families and nature lovers.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Bournda National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Merimbula, New South Wales
⌖ 0.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Merimbula, New South Wales

Merimbula on the NSW coast is perfect for outdoor lovers who enjoy ocean sports, coastal hikes, and wildlife watching. Its calm estuaries and lively beaches make it a great year-round spot for paddling, surfing, and biking adventures.

Spring to early Summer (September to November)
Explore Town
Tura Beach, New South Wales
⌖ 2.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tura Beach, New South Wales

Tura Beach offers a peaceful coastal escape with sandy shores, calm lagoons, and bush trails perfect for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. It’s an ideal spot for outdoor lovers seeking both water and forest adventures.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Pambula, New South Wales
⌖ 2.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pambula, New South Wales

Pambula is a calm coastal town in NSW with river paddling, beach walks, and forest trails. Perfect for nature lovers seeking relaxed hiking, biking, fishing, and birdwatching adventures.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Severn Beach, Wales
⌖ 3.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Severn Beach, Wales

Severn Beach is a quiet coastal village ideal for outdoor lovers seeking estuary hikes, bird watching, kayaking, and cycling. Its rich natural estuary environment offers calm waters and scenic trails away from crowded tourist spots.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Yellow Pinch, New South Wales
⌖ 4.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Yellow Pinch, New South Wales

Yellow Pinch in New South Wales offers adventurous hikers and climbers thrilling sandstone trails and spectacular Grose Valley views. This rugged spot, ideal in spring and autumn, promises nature immersion, quiet camping, and unforgettable outdoor challenges.

Autumn and Spring
Explore Town
Kalaru, New South Wales
⌖ 11.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kalaru, New South Wales

Kalaru offers quiet river kayaking, scenic cycling routes, and rewarding birdwatching in southern NSW. Ideal for travelers wanting peaceful nature escapes far from crowds.

Autumn and Spring
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Bournda National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Merimbula Wildlife Adventure
ADVEXPEDITION
Merimbula, New South Wales
WildlifeADV Bookable

Merimbula Wildlife Adventure

Experience the Sapphire Coast’s dynamic marine life aboard a high-speed vessel with Sapphire Coastal Adventures. This two-hour wildlife tour from Merimbula offers close encounters with dolphins, seals, and seabirds along a stunning coastal route.

WildlifeThe most exhilarating way to see the spectacular Sapphire Coast!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Rentals - Boss Double Kayak
ADVEXPEDITION
Merimbula, New South Wales
Boat TourADV Bookable

Rentals - Boss Double Kayak

Discover the joy of paddling with Boss Outdoor Rentals, your gateway to water adventures in a scenic area. Perfect for all skill levels, their double kayaks make exploring lakes and rivers straightforward and fun.

Boat Tour8:30am - 5:30pm • 7 days a week • multi-day rental options!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Rentals - Adult Combo Basic
ADVEXPEDITION
Merimbula, New South Wales
CanoeADV Bookable

Rentals - Adult Combo Basic

Boss Outdoor Rentals in Merimbula offers a versatile range of gear—kayaks, bikes, boats, and camping essentials—to help you experience the best of southeastern Australia’s coastal adventures with ease.

Canoe8:30am - 5:30pm • 7 days a week • multi-day rental options!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Rentals - Life Jacket
ADVEXPEDITION
Merimbula, New South Wales
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Rentals - Life Jacket

Gear up for safe water adventures in Merimbula with Boss Outdoor Rentals. From life jackets to kayaks, their versatile equipment rental service supports thrilling and secure outdoor experiences on the NSW South Coast.

Water Activities8:30am - 5:30pm • 7 days a week • multi-day rental options!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Rentals - Bike Helmet
ADVEXPEDITION
Merimbula, New South Wales
Bike TourADV Bookable

Rentals - Bike Helmet

Gear up with Boss Outdoor Rentals for your next outdoor adventure. Whether biking, kayaking, or camping, they have everything you need for an unforgettable experience.

Bike Tour8:30am - 5:30pm • 7 days a week • multi-day rental options!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Rentals - Fishing - Kids Combo Basic
ADVEXPEDITION
Merimbula, New South Wales
FishingADV Bookable

Rentals - Fishing - Kids Combo Basic

Discover fishing, kayaking, and more with Boss Outdoor Rentals. Perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to make the most of their water and land adventures.

Fishing8:30am - 5:30pm • 7 days a week • multi-day rental options!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Rentals - Kayak Trolley
ADVEXPEDITION
Merimbula, New South Wales
KayakADV Bookable

Rentals - Kayak Trolley

Looking to dive into water adventures? Boss Outdoor Rentals offers everything you need—from kayaks to camping gear—to craft your perfect outdoor day. Read more about why this spot is a must-visit for water lovers.

Kayak8:30am - 5:30pm • 7 days a week • multi-day rental options!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Rentals - Mask, Snorkel & Flippers
ADVEXPEDITION
Merimbula, New South Wales
SnorkelADV Bookable

Rentals - Mask, Snorkel & Flippers

Looking to make the most of your outdoor trip? Boss Outdoor Rentals offers top-notch gear for water and land adventures, making fun and safe experiences accessible for everyone. Read on to see how they can elevate your outing.

Snorkel8:30am - 5:30pm • 7 days a week • multi-day rental options!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Rentals - Boss Single Kayak
ADVEXPEDITION
Merimbula, New South Wales
Self-Guided TourADV Bookable

Rentals - Boss Single Kayak

Discover the waterways of the local area with top-quality kayak rentals from Boss Outdoor Rentals. Perfect for all skill levels, this spot offers easy access to serene lakes and rivers, alongside tips to enhance your paddling experience. Keep reading to learn why this is a must-visit for water lovers!

Self-Guided Tour8:30am - 5:30pm• 7 days a week • multi-day rental options!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip