Water, safety and supplies
Be tree aware
Because of the risks associated with camping or recreation beneath overhanging trees camping is restricted to designated camping areas.
Falling trees and branches may cause death or injury to people or damage to property. Many of the larger paperbark trees in the park are between 200-300 years old and contain extensive rot, damage and decay which can result in branches or whole trees falling to the ground. Special precautions should be taken during and after storms, rain or wind.
Ropes in trees: tying ropes to trees can cause ringbarking and other damage which exposes the tree to increased insect attack and disease. Over time this results in branch damage and potential death of the entire tree, posing a risk to visitor safety and leading to a loss of shade. Please bring extra poles or pegs for typing ropes.
Be wildlife aware
Dingos and goannas are commonly seen throughout Myall Lakes National Park. Remember that they are wild animals and are unpredictable. For your safety and for the welfare of all park wildlife follow these simple rules:
do not feed any wild animals, or allow them to scavenge
do not approach them or encourage their attention
supervise children at all times
store your food and rubbish in secure containers (or in vehicles) out of their reach
deposit rubbish at waste and recycling stations
clean all barbecues and utensils
If you feel threatened by a dingo, stay calm, keep eye contact, back away, do not run.
Native birds including kookaburras and butcher birds are common scavengers around camping and picnic areas. Be cautious as they can swoop unpredictably for food.
Be fire aware
Remember that during a Park Fire Ban the use of wood fires and solid fuel barbecues is prohibited, whereas during a Total Fire Ban all fire, gas and cookers of any sort are prohibited. For more information on fire safety see general safety information. Check with the park office for information on fire bans in place.
Supplies
- Drinking water
There is no drinking water supplied within the park. Refer to local townships or Myall Shores for supplies.
- Local villages
The twin towns of Hawks Nest/Tea Gardens are approximately 5-10 km from the southern entrance of the national park. Provisions can be purchased from the many town shops. Supplies can also be purchased from Bulahdelah, Seal Rocks, Bungwahl and Forster.
- Myall Shores
Myall Shores is a privately managed Eco Resort located within the Myall Lakes National Park. From the store you can buy provisions such as water, milk, bread, ice, firewood and fuel. A phone and boat hire facility are also available.
- Firewood
Bring your own firewood from outside the park. Remember that fires can only be lit in fireplaces provided by NPWS.
Blue-Green algae
High levels of blue-green algae can occur in the lake system under certain conditions. Please avoid direct contact with blue-green algae in the water and as surface scum. Warning signs will be displayed when algae levels in the lakes are high. Algae can exist in the shallow muddy bays and sediment disturbance in these areas should be avoided at all times.
