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Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park
Attraction
Park alerts
Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park
1 current alert · Checked 13 Oct 2026, 7:05 pm
- Other planned eventsUntil 28 Feb 2027
Notice of Fox Baiting Program
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is conducting an ongoing ground baiting program in Gaagal Wanggaan National Park, from 27 August 2026 to 28 February 2027. The operation will use 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) poison for the control of foxes. The program is designed to minimise fox impacts on wildlife, especially threatened species. Signs will be placed at the entry to the baiting location. Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW NPWS-managed lands. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs) and should be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and also must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance. Please contact the local Coffs Coast NPWS area office for more information on 02 6652 0900.
About
The park at a glance
Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park offers a variety of water activities and other great things to do like kayaking, swimming, boating and fishing.
Some places are so special they demand protection, and such was the case with the stretch of coastal land between Nambucca Heads and Scotts Head, near Macksville. Home to the local Gumbaynggirr People, this area was recognised as a vital spot for state preservation on 23 April, 2010, in a joint management agreement with the Traditional Owners.
Encompassing Warrell Creek, Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park covers an undisturbed coastal dune system, littoral rainforest, shrubland, and estuarine mangroves – covers, in short, a variety of breathtaking natural environments that teem with migratory wildlife and precious endangered species.
Visitors to the park will find a unique marine playground perfect for boating, fishing, and canoeing. Beach tracks lead to short forest hikes, and secluded camping sites accessible by boat or canoe from Warrell Creek make it an ideal spot for an enjoyable camping weekend. Bring your binoculars and swimmers for a lazy afternoon of birdwatching and swimming, or bring a kayak or canoe and go kayaking or canoeing along tranquil Warrell Creek as the sun goes down.
- Campgrounds
- 2
Plan your visit
Access, facilities and practical details.
Best times to visit
Spring
Go beach walking along ‘Gaagal Wanggaan,' the original Gumbaynggirr name for Forster or South Beach.
Summer
Explore the cool retreat of Warrell Creek by kayaking or canoeing, then settle down for a barbecue at Warrell Creek picnic area.
Winter
Wander through the coastal forest on dune sand, enjoying the birdlife and wildflower display.
Places to discover
Stay, explore and relax across the park.
Campgrounds (2)
- 1st Bay campground
- 2nd Bay campground
Plants and animals
Animals
- Australian pelican (Pelecanus conspicillatus)
- Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae)
- Superb fairy wren (Malurus cyaneus)
Plants
- Black sheoak (Allocasuarina littoralis)
- Cabbage palm (Livistona australis)
Protected species listed by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Frequently asked questions
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Before you go
Opening
Always open
Nearby towns
Macksville (18 km) · South West Rocks (50 km) · Bellingen (64 km)
Get in touch
Phone
1300 072 757Website
Visit websiteCoffs Harbour office
02 6652 0900npws.coffscoast@environment.nsw.gov.au4/32 Edgar St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450
Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm
Where you'll be
Gaagal Wanggaan National Park
Gumma NSW 2447