Blue Mountains National Park continues to be the most visited national park in NSW, welcoming 7.8 million visits in the previous financial year, as record numbers of people head outdoors.
More people than ever are choosing to experience the natural beauty of NSW with a record 65.6 million visits to national parks in, positioning the state’s parks network as a major driver of economic activity, regional development and affordable outdoor recreation.
Visitation has grown statewide in recent years, up 24 per cent since 2022, reflecting the growing appeal of nature-based experiences across the state.
The state government invested more than $54.7 million in the Blue Mountains to support growing visitation and protect this iconic destination.
New and upgraded walking tracks and visitor facilities, including the new Grand Cliff Top Walk, are making it easier for people to experience the World Heritage listed landscape, whether for a day trip or extended stay.
NPWS has also focused on improving accessibility including new fully accessible pathways to iconic lookouts at Evans and Govetts Leap lookouts and upgraded roads and additional parking at Wentworth Falls and Grand Canyon track. Major road upgrades are currently underway at Green Gully in the Megalong Valley and Mount Hay.
Just a train trip from Sydney, the Blue Mountains remains one of the most accessible nature-based experiences in the state.
The most visited national parks in NSW include Blue Mountains, Royal, Ku-ring-gai Chase, Lane Cove, Kosciuszko, Sydney Harbour, Brisbane Water, Morton, Bouddi and Glenrock.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment and Member for the Blue Mountains, Trish Doyle said:
“It’s no surprise Blue Mountains National Park is the most visited in the state. It is one of NSW’s most iconic natural destinations and something our community is incredibly proud of.
“These numbers show just how important national parks are to local jobs, tourism operators and small businesses, while also giving more people the chance to experience extraordinary parts of NSW.”
“That’s why the Minns Labor Government has invested more than $54 million to improve walking tracks, visitor facilities, access and safety, while protecting this iconic park - so people can continue to enjoy it today, and for generations to come.”
Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Penny Sharpe said:
“National Parks are one of the states most precious public assets and are loved by all.
“Our national parks are where families make memories, kids get outside and communities welcome visitors.
“Connecting people to nature supports tens of thousands of jobs and drives economic development, especially in regional NSW.
“We’ve invested $352 million to improve facilities, open new campgrounds, build world class walks and support recreation like 4WD, mountains bikes and rock climbing.”
Minster for Tourism, Steve Kamper said:
“NSW’s national parks are among the best in the world, protecting our unique environment while attracting global visitors — with three-quarters of international travellers including a park in their itinerary.
“They offer great holiday options for families and play a key role in the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 by spreading visitor spending into regional communities and supporting local jobs and businesses.”
B-Roll, Stills and Adventure Footage here: https://bit.ly/4sHiiGM
MEDIA:
Ira Brenner | Minister Sharpe | 0417 873 436
Brenda Cunningham-Lewis | Trish Doyle MP (02) 4751 3298
