North Era

Walk-in coastal camp by a wild surf beach; currently closed
North Era, Royal National Park
InsideRoyal National Park

Overview

North Era Campground sits just behind North Era Beach on the Coast Track—remote, grassy, and ocean‑kissed. It’s the traditional overnight stop for the multi‑day Bundeena–Otford trek and a favourite base for surfers who don’t mind carrying their board. Important heads‑up: camping here is closed until further notice in 2025. Day hiking to the beach along the Coast Track is still doable; always check NSW National Parks (NPWS) alerts before you go.

Access

There’s no vehicle access. You’ll walk in via the Coast Track: about 1.5 hours from Garie Beach, roughly 5 hours from Otford, or around 7 hours from Bundeena. Closest parking for most walkers is at Garie, but Otford and Bundeena trailheads also work.

What to Expect

This is a basic bush site with drop toilets and no listed water—plan to be fully self‑sufficient. Expect wind and big sky; shade is scarce and the ground can turn boggy. The beach is unpatrolled and rips are common, so treat the surf with caution. Phone reception is unreliable to nonexistent.

Scenery & Wildlife

You’re ringed by high sandstone headlands, heath, and coastal scrub, with the surf thundering out front. Along the track, watch for small heathland birds like honeyeaters and wrens, and patches of littoral rainforest further south.

Best Time to Visit

While camping is paused, aim for a day walk. Start early on warm days—the approach is exposed—or time an afternoon leg when cliff shade helps on the beachside route. Weekdays feel properly remote. Remember the park’s day‑use hours and entry fee.

Need to Know

  • Camping closed in 2025; day walks permitted—check NPWS alerts first.
  • Unpatrolled beach; assess conditions before entering the water.
  • Bring all water, food, and kit; drop toilets only.
  • Walk‑in access via the Coast Track from Garie, Otford, or Bundeena.

Pros

  • Scenic, walk-in site right behind North Era Beach
  • Classic overnight stop on the Coast Track

Cons

  • Closed to camping until further notice in 2025
  • Exposed and windy with little shade; can be boggy after rain

Tips

  • Camping is closed in 2025—treat it as a day-walk destination and check NPWS alerts.
  • Walk in from Garie (~1.5 h) or via the Coast Track from Otford or Bundeena.
  • Carry all drinking water and food; facilities are limited to drop toilets.
  • Expect wind, little shade and occasional boggy ground—aim for higher, drier pitches if reopened.
  • Beaches here are unpatrolled; plan around surf, swell and park hours/fees.
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