New $1.9 million-dollar eco-tourism holiday hotspot opens at Belmont Wetlands

The Minns Labor Government has unlocked the latest eco-tourism holiday offering with a new $1.9 million campground at Belmont Wetlands in the Lake Macquarie region, giving visitors the option to stay overnight at this iconic destination.

Minister for the Hunter and Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said, “Belmont Wetlands is one of our region’s natural treasures, and these new campgrounds will make it even more accessible for locals and visitors who want to experience it up close.”

One hundred campsites nestled close to the sand dunes will be available. Visitors will be able to pitch a tent or pull up their camper trailer beneath the stars and use facilities including two new BBQs, covered seating areas, hot and cold showers and an accessible bathroom. 

“The new and upgraded Belmont Wetlands Campground is set to become one of the Hunter region’s standout eco-tourism drawcards. A place that celebrates the natural beauty of NSW and actively boosts local jobs, small businesses, and the visitor economy,” said Minister for Lands and Property, and Tourism Steve Kamper.

A new underground water system has also been installed to service the campground’s water needs and support emergency services in the event of a bushfire. 

An additional $910,000 has been invested to upgrade the reserve’s entrance road and carpark provided by the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund. These upgrades will increase parking capacity, reduce traffic congestion and encourage more people to visit the reserve. Work is planned to commence early 2026. 

Belmont Wetlands was acquired by the NSW Government from BHP in 2002, following the cessation of sand mining. The beautiful Crown reserve stretches over 554 hectares of bushland, sand dunes and wetlands, providing a haven for walking, bird watching, cycling, surfing, fishing, camping, horse riding and four-wheel driving. 

Belmont Wetlands Administrator, Nicole Dunn said, “The campground offers families a safe, welcoming place to reconnect with nature and each other. It’s the perfect spot to experience the joy of camping, whether it’s a weekend adventure, a first family trip, or a chance for locals to try out their new camping gear close to home.  

The wetlands are less than two hours’ drive from Sydney and just over half an hour from Newcastle. It makes it the perfect weekend getaway for families and intrepid travellers looking to spend a night camping out in one of NSW’s most diverse natural reserves.