Bundjalung National Park

Bundjalung National Park is located on the far north coast of New South Wales, Australia, between the towns of Iluka and Evans Head, about 700 km north of Sydney. The park stretches along 38 km of coastline and covers 21,000 hectares, offering a variety of landscapes, including beaches, estuaries, and heathland. Established in 1980, the park is named after the Bundjalung people, the traditional custodians of the land, whose cultural heritage is deeply embedded in the region. The park’s coastal landscape was historically significant for fishing and gathering by the Bundjalung people, and several culturally important sites, including middens and rock art, are found within the park. Parking facilities are available at multiple points throughout the park, such as the Black Rocks campground and Shark Bay. Parking is generally free for day visitors, but camping fees apply at designated campgrounds, and visitors must book in advance if staying overnight. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Eastern grey kangaroos and wallabies are common, while the park’s wetlands and estuaries support a variety of bird species, such as ospreys, pied oystercatchers, and spoonbills. Coastal areas are also known for sightings of dolphins, sea turtles, and, during migration season, humpback whales. Bundjalung National Park’s flora is equally diverse, with coastal heath, paperbark swamps, and mangroves along the river systems. Notable plant species include banksias, tea trees, and she-oaks. The park’s heathlands bloom with wildflowers in spring, adding to its natural beauty. Notable landmarks include Jerusalem Creek, which winds through the park’s estuaries, and the Iluka Bluff, a scenic lookout. Public transport options are limited, so most visitors drive to the park, accessing it via the Pacific Highway. The closest towns, Iluka and Evans Head, offer services and access points.