Belmont Wetlands State Park
Explore Lake Macquarie’s coastal wilderness.
Belmont Wetlands State Park is a spectacular stretch of bushland, sand dunes, and wetlands nestled between Belmont and Redhead on the New South Wales coast. Covering over 500 hectares, the Park offers a unique mix of recreation, conservation, and education for visitors of all ages.
Having previously operated as a BHP mine site, the land was purchased in 2002 by the New South Wales Government to be returned to public ownership and protected as Crown Land. Today, members of the public can purchase beach access permits to explore the area by 4WD, with plans underway to introduce camping amenities in the future.
Proudly managed on behalf of the NSW community, Belmont Wetlands is a place where nature thrives and people connect with the environment.
Recreation and Activities
Belmont Wetlands State Park offers a diverse range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Explore scenic walking trails including the sealed Fernleigh Track, the sandy Wildflower Walk, the more challenging Sand Plains Loop, the gentle Gilbey Track with views over Jewells Wetlands, and the Jewells to Dunes Track leading to Nine Mile Beach.
Registered 4WD vehicles are permitted on designated tracks, provided all regulations and safety guidelines are followed. The Park is also a haven for bird watchers, with three bird hides on the Airshaft Peninsula. Horse riding is allowed on fire trails and the beachfront south of the Beach Access Track (registration required). Nine Mile Beach is popular for swimming, surfing, and kite surfing—please note it is not patrolled and conditions should always be checked before entering the water. Dogs are welcome throughout the Park and must be on leash except in the designated off-leash area between Second Creek and Third Creek.
Visitors are asked to respect all signage, share the space thoughtfully with other users, and take responsibility for their own safety while enjoying this unique natural environment.
Protecting the Environment
Belmont Wetlands State Park is managed by a Land Administrator appointed by the NSW Minister for Crown Lands, with the support of dedicated staff and volunteers. The team works closely with Lake Macquarie City Council, Trees in Newcastle, and the local community to restore and protect this unique environment for everyone to enjoy.
The land is a Crown reserve owned by the State of New South Wales under the Department of Primary Industries.
Plan Your Visit
Come and explore this remarkable part of the Lake Macquarie coast. Whether you’re walking, bird watching, horse riding, or driving the dunes, you’ll find something to inspire you at Belmont Wetlands State Park.
Proud RezExpert Clients
Belmont Wetlands State Park uses the RezExpert reservation and management system to deliver a seamless experience for visitors.
"I wanted to reach out and let you know we have had a cracker few weeks with the system. I am so pleased with it, and to know we have a system that has the capacity to manage our business, with seamless customer engagement, along with the support RezExpert has provided has been a very welcomed change.
Thank you - our success is your success!"
- Nicole Dunn, Land Administrator
