Tallow Beach Campground – Bouddi National Park

For those who dream of camping on a deserted beach, Tallow Beach campground in Bouddi National Park is the ultimate destination. This is one of the most secluded and beautiful campsites on the Central Coast, offering an exclusive experience for the adventurous and self-sufficient camper. Access is a key part of the adventure; the campground can only be reached by a challenging 1.2km hike down a steep trail, or by arriving by boat or kayak from the Hawkesbury River. This ensures that the beautiful, golden sands of Tallow Beach remain a peaceful and pristine paradise, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. The campground itself is a primitive site with just a handful of designated spots set in a clearing right behind the beach, meaning you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves just metres from your tent.

This is a true back-to-basics wilderness experience. The only facility is a non-flush toilet, so campers must be completely self-reliant, carrying in all their food, cooking equipment, and most importantly, all their drinking water. A strict ‘leave no trace’ policy is in effect, and you must pack out every single piece of rubbish. The reward for this effort is an almost private beach, perfect for swimming, fishing, and exploring the surrounding rocky headlands. The campground is also a key stop on the magnificent Bouddi Coastal Walk, making it a fantastic overnight destination for serious hikers. Due to its limited size and immense beauty, bookings are essential and often need to be made far in advance. For a truly unforgettable off-grid coastal escape, Tallow Beach is a top-tier destination for the well-prepared adventurer.

• Website: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• Phone Number: 1300 072 757 (NPWS Bookings)
• GPS Coordinates: -33.53683, 151.351

Site Information

• Location: Bouddi National Park, on the Bouddi Peninsula.
• Site suitable for: Tents only. This is a walk-in or boat-in campground.
• Road access: None. Access via a steep 1.2km walking track from the Box Head track car park.
• Site surface: Sand and grass.
• Camping permitted: Yes, bookings and park entry fees are essential via the NSW National Parks website.
• Maximum overnight stays: Check booking details.
• Number of un-powered sites: 6 marked sites.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilet.
• Picnic tables: No.
• Potable water: No. You must carry in all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: Very limited to none. A PLB is highly recommended.
• TV reception: None.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Prohibited. Fuel stoves only.
• Generator use: Not permitted.
• Number of sites available: 6 sites.

Essentials to Bring

• A lightweight tent and hiking pack.
• All drinking water for your entire stay.
• A fuel stove for cooking.
• Rubbish bags to carry out all waste.
• A personal locator beacon (PLB) and first-aid kit.
• Sturdy hiking shoes.

Activities

• Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in National Parks.
• Fishing: Excellent beach and rock fishing. A NSW Recreational Fishing Licence is required.
• Short walks: Part of the multi-day Bouddi Coastal Walk. The walk to Box Head Lookout is a highlight.

Local Amenities (Nearest are in Killcare / Hardys Bay)

• Local Pubs:
  • Hardys Bay Club (~10 km drive to trailhead)
  • Ettalong Diggers, Ettalong Beach (~15 km drive to trailhead)
• Places to Eat:
  • A selection of excellent cafes and restaurants in Hardys Bay and Killcare (~10 km drive to trailhead).
• Local Attractions:
  • Bouddi Coastal Walk (on site)
  • Box Head Lookout (near trailhead)
  • The beautiful beaches of Killcare and Putty Beach.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Putty Beach Campground (drive-in, in the same park)
  • NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort, Umina Beach (~20 km drive to trailhead)
• Next Free Camps:
  • There are no designated free camps in the immediate area.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • The nearest public dump point is in Gosford.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Service stations in Kincumber or Umina (~15-20 km drive to trailhead).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • You must arrive at the park fully supplied with all the water you will need for your hike and stay.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. The nearest public toilets off-trail are at Killcare Beach.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Central Coast

• Summer (December – February): Hot and humid with sea breezes, perfect for swimming. High chance of thunderstorms. Average temperatures from 20°C to 28°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and mild evenings. Often the best time for hiking. Temperatures range from 15°C to 26°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cool, crisp, and often windy. Great for watching big surf and whale migration. Temperatures range from 8°C to 19°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm with pleasant weather. The coastal heath is vibrant with wildflowers. Temperatures range from 13°C to 25°C.