How Much Does It Cost To Get Into Booderee National Park?

Booderee is an immensely historic and treasured National Park in Australia. Located in the Jervis Bay Region of New South Wales, specifically the south coast, this immaculate National Park was named by the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community.

Previously, this park was called the Jervis Bay National Park and Jervis Bay Botanical Gardens, however, the land was given back to those Aboriginal communities that were the traditional and rightful owners.

The term “Booderee” comes from the Dhurga language of the region and means the “Bay of Plenty“. Booderee is a Koori or Wreck Bay people-owned park, which means that it is teaming in the rich history, culture, and spirit of the people who have cared for it.

Guests and travellers to the park are sure to experience an amazing excursion of the botanical gardens and park landscapes, coupled with fantastic stories of the Koori ancestors and their unique ways of life.

Guests to the park all require a pass in order to explore this park, as well as the opportunity to take part in a variety of cultural activities – all of which are available online for the convenience of travellers. It’s worth noting that these passes can be purchased for a two-day visit, a year-long pass, or a two-year-long pass.

In total, a 2-day pass at adult rates with a car or motorcycle is $13, or the concession rate at $6.50. A 1-year pass is $51 or $25.50 at concession rate, 2nd a vehicle is $25.50 or $12.50 at concession rate. A 2-year pass is $76 or $38 at the concession rate, a 2nd vehicle costs $38 or $19 at concession rate.

Every purchase of the park pass goes towards maintaining the park’s facilities, preserving the natural and cultural climate, supporting the traditional owners, and bettering their community. Another important fact is that if you are entering the park by foot or on a bicycle, there is no cost for admission, with the same being said for those who are merely passing through the waters by boat, canoe, kayak, etc.

It’s also important to mention that there is the availability for guests to camp at Booderee National Park, which comes with its own set of fees. Generally speaking, a campsite will cost a guest between $25-$43 per night, depending on the size of the campsite, the number of guests camping, etc.

Can I Enter Booderee National Park?

One can certainly choose to enter Booderee National Park for a visit, camping trip, hike, etc., however, a pass is required if you are entering in a vehicle or to camp on the premises.

Travellers by foot, bicycle, or water are not required to purchase a pass – unless folks entering by water intend on using the facilities within the park. Travellers are reminded to remain respectful of not only other guests but also the land and the people who have cared for the land for generations.

Is Booderee National Park NSW or ACT?

Regardless of the fact that Booderee National Park is located on the New South Wales (NSW) coast and is surrounded by the Shoalhaven Local Government in Australia (LGA), it actually makes up approximately three-quarters of the Jervis Bay Territory. This area was surrendered by the New South Wales government in 1915 to the Commonwealth Government so that the landlocked Australian Capital Territory (ACT) residents would have proper access to the sea.

However, in the present day, the administration for the Jervis Bay Territory, which includes Booderee National Park, is divided between ACT government agencies and NSW government agencies.

What Is There To Do In Booderee National Park?

Considering that Booderee National Park is a stunning and vast outdoor adventure just waiting to be discovered, there is clearly an abundance of activities to delve into. Whether it’s a solo trip, an adults-only excursion, or a family vacation, there is truly something for everyone.

This park plays host to some of the most gorgeous beaches in Australia, making a beach trip a top-notch priority for many guests. Other guests will enjoy the great camping sites and facilities, which makes it comforting to be away from home. Aside from this, the lovely hiking trails and walks are always an excellent option for a bit of physical activity, coupled with sightseeing.

Two phenomenal options that can be paired together for an excursion within the park are the Cape St. George Lighthouse and Whale Watching. The Cape St. George Lighthouse is a significant European site within the park, holding a mass amount of history – parts of which, were incredibly tragic.

However, in the present day, this lighthouse is considered the best place to watch the whale migration and return. Guests can look for both humpback and southern right whales beginning or returning from their routinely northern migration patterns. During the months of June and July, these breeds of whales will head to the breeding grounds within the warmer waters in Queensland.

Aside from these interesting activities, guests can take part in diving and snorkelling adventures, birdwatching, or even enjoy a nice stroll within the beautiful botanical gardens.

What Animals Reside Within Booderee National Park?

Aside from the previously mentioned species of whales that guests may see, there is an abundance of wildlife that can be viewed. Booderee National Park is home to well over 200 species of birds. At the same time, there are over 30 known species of mammals – including 10 species of bats. In terms of reptiles, this park is home to 37 different species and 17 species of amphibians.

Fish also come in plentiful amount of numbers, with over 180 species calling this park home. All of this makes Booderee National Park an extremely unique place to visit, with an opportunity to view a large number of native species. This gives outdoorsy folks even more of a reason to want to come and visit or camp within this National Park.