Munmorah State Recreation Area is located on the northern end of the Central Coast between Budgewoi and Catherine Hill Bay. It was initially established in April 1977 with an area of 997 hectares. Subsequent additions include the Southern Peninsula in 1989, Moonee Beach in 1993 and 53 hectares of intertidal zone along the coastline of the park in 2002. The total area of the park now exceeds 1515 hectares. Approximately 1.5km offshore from Birdie Beach, which adjoins the park, is the Bird Island Nature Reserve which is about 7.3 hectares in size.

Munmorah State Recreation Area contains diverse vegetation including woodlands, open forests, wetlands, shrubland and coastal heath. The spectacular coastline of the park is the result of erosion and deposition during the Pleistocene era that stretches a breathtaking 12km. There many diverse animal and plant species found in Munmorah, reflecting the diverse habitats that the park contains. A number of animals found within the park are listed as threatened species, including the Squirrel Glider, Osprey, Sooty Oyster Catcher and the Wallum Froglet.

Munmorah is a popular holiday destination with several hotels, motels and caravan parks within an easy driving distance of the park. Walking, picnicking, camping, swimming, surfing and fishing are among the parks more popular activities.

Places of Interest

Palms Picnic Area Pictured on the top left of this page, the Palms picnic area is beautifully shaded and has gas barbeque facilities. It is the start and finish point for the Palm Tree Circuit Track, a moderate 20 minute walk through open woodland. It is located about 5 minutes from Frazer Beach. Bringing your own water is advised.

Snapper Point (pictured top right) is a picturesque rocky headland locate near Frazer Beach camping area. Care must be taken at Snapper Point as the sea has claimed many lives off this ideal rock fishing platform.

Wybung Head offers breathtaking views that stretch from Norah Head in the south to Catherine hill Bay to the north. A fairly steep track from the car park descends to the headland itself. The view from the headland itself is spectacular and warrants the arduous return journey. A very poor track descends from the southern side of Wybung Head to the tidal rock shelf below. Once again caution is advised particularly at high tide but fishing from this headland is reported to be excellent.

Camping

Freemans Camping Ground

Location: In the southern part of the park near the park entrance.

Getting there: Drive to the campground on Birdie Beach Drive. Roads are paved.

Campsites are suitable for: caravans; camper trailers; camping beside your vehicle.

Facilities: 50 camp sites, Drinking water, flush toilets, cold showers, picnic tables, electric/gas barbecues, rubbish bins. A few minutes walk from Birdie Beach, this campground offers a peaceful atmosphere with basic facilities. There is limited access for caravans. You can stay for a maximum of two weeks.

Fees: $8.00 per adult per night, $4.00 per child per night. At off-peak times, camping costs $5 adults/$3 children per day.

Frazers Camping Ground

Location: In the northern part of the park.

Getting there: The campground is on Frazer Beach Road (off Campbell Drive). Roads are paved.

Campsites are suitable for: camping beside your vehicle. Not suitable for: caravans; camper trailers.

Facilities: 6 camp sites, Flush toilets, cold showers, picnic tables, electric/gas barbecues, rubbish bins

Water supply: Bore water is available.

More details: This small camping ground is set in a quiet, protected pocket of the Frazer Valley a short walk away from Frazer Beach. It has quick, easy access to Snapper Point, a popular fishing spot. Each of the six sites has room for up to six people. You can stay for a maximum of two weeks.

Fees: $10.00 per adult per night, $5.00 per child per night. At off-peak times, camping costs $8.00 adults/$4.00 children per day. Annual pass or daily vehicle entry fee of $7 also required.

Bookings: The campground is very popular, and there is a ballot system for bookings during peak periods. Outside the period covered by the ballot, bookings can be made (up to 3 months in advance) by calling the Lake Munmorah office between 9am and 11am on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.

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