A major new eco-tourism attraction has officially opened on the New South Wales Hunter coast, offering campers a unique chance to sleep among the sand dunes with the ocean at their doorstep.
A Coastal Camping Transformation
The $1.9 million Belmont Wetlands Campground is now welcoming visitors, featuring 100 individual beachside sites where guests can pitch a tent or park a camper trailer. The site, nestled between coastal dunes and the Pacific Ocean at Lake Macquarie, represents a significant transformation for land once used for sand mining.
The state government acquired the Belmont Wetlands in 2002 following the cessation of BHP's sand mining operations. More than two decades later, the area has been repurposed into a premier nature-based destination designed to capitalise on growing demand for outdoor experiences.
Modern Facilities in a Natural Setting
Campers will have access to a range of new amenities aimed at blending comfort with the natural environment. Facilities include two new barbecues, covered seating areas, hot and cold showers, and an accessible bathroom.
Significant infrastructure work has also been completed, including the installation of an underground water system. This system will service the campground's daily needs and has the added benefit of supporting emergency services with water supply in the event of a bushfire.
An additional $910,000 from the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund has been allocated to upgrade the reserve's entrance road and car park. This work, scheduled to begin in early 2026, aims to increase parking capacity, reduce traffic congestion, and encourage more visitors to explore the wider reserve.
Boosting the Local Economy and Conservation
NSW Land, Property and Tourism Minister Steve Kamper said the project celebrates the state's natural beauty while delivering tangible economic benefits. He positioned the campground as a future standout eco-tourism drawcard for the Hunter region.
"With more travellers seeking nature-based experiences, this revitalised campground will encourage longer stays, greater local spending, and stronger support for cafes, shops, tour operators, and accommodation providers right across the region," Mr Kamper stated.
Swansea MP and Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley, highlighted the accessibility and affordability of the new facility. "These new facilities mean families, school groups and travellers can stay overnight at a really affordable price, surrounded by some of the most spectacular coastline and bushland in the state," she said.
A key aspect of the project's long-term viability is the reinvestment of campground revenue. Funds will be directed back into maintaining park infrastructure, supporting ongoing conservation efforts, and protecting the natural environment. This model aims to create a sustainable future for the park and assist the volunteer groups dedicated to its preservation.
The official opening of the Belmont Wetlands Campground marks a new chapter for a significant parcel of coastal land, turning it into a destination expected to attract nature lovers and provide a substantial boost to the Hunter visitor economy.
