Red Cedar Flat picnic area

Overview

A small, no‑fuss clearing beside the Hacking River on the park’s southern side near Otford. Think simple: pull in, spread a rug or grab a table, listen to the water, and watch the birdlife. It’s a handy breather for walkers, road cyclists and anyone after a quiet picnic away from the busy hubs.

What You’ll Find

• Basic setup: parking on a sealed road and picnic tables.
• Direct access to the river for a leg‑soak or fish/yabby spotting.
• Short loop walks right nearby, with longer walking and cycling options in the surrounding area.
• Not listed on site: toilets, BBQs or drinking water taps. Mobile reception can be patchy.

Getting There

From Princes Highway at Waterfall station, follow McKell Avenue to the end, turn right onto Lady Wakehurst Drive; the picnic area is about 4 km on the right. Roads are sealed and fine for 2WD in all weather.

Nature & Wildlife

This stretch of river valley and coastal forest is rich in birds—expect cockatoos, rosellas, yellow‑tailed black cockatoos and lorikeets. Possums, sugar gliders and wallabies live in the area too. Some visitors even report spotting platypus in the creek here—rare, but eyes peeled.

Pair It With

• Governor Game Lookout or Otford Lookout for big coastal views.
• Garie Beach picnic area if you want a swim or surf afterward.
• Southern tracks like Palm Jungle loop or sections of The Coast Track.

Know Before You Go

• Park entry fees apply (per‑vehicle day fee). Usual park hours are around 7:00am–8:30pm and closures can occur during poor weather or high fire danger.
• The ground can be lumpy with rocks and roots—chairs or a small folding table make life easier.

Best Time to Visit

Midday can be the busiest period; early mornings and later afternoons are typically quieter. Aim for weekdays if you prefer solitude. Light is nicest here early or late when the riverbanks glow and birds are most active.