UPDATE: Major changes are on the horizon for national parks in New South Wales (NSW) as officials confirm plans for increased fees and the introduction of commercial quad biking and motorbike tours across hundreds of parks. This urgent development, revealed during budget estimates on February 24, 2026, has sparked a heated debate about the accessibility and costs associated with camping in these beloved natural spaces.
Environment Minister Penny Sharpe faced tough questions from Coalition environment spokeswoman Jacqui Munro regarding the lack of caps on fees that private operators can charge for supported camping services. During the meeting, Sharpe described the proposal as “hypothetical,” indicating that the revenue generated for the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is estimated at only $32,000. This revenue, she stated, aligns with practices under the previous Coalition government.
The proposed scheme would allow private businesses to offer services such as pre-booked tents and campervans in national parks. However, Munro expressed concern that this could lead to excessive fees for public access to these lands. “Operators are potentially making money off access to public land,” she stated, criticizing the absence of price limitations.
The NPWS has announced that private operators would pay either $830.40 annually plus 5% of turnover or $1,245.60 along with 10% of revenue, depending on park popularity. Alarmingly, there are no specified limits on how much these businesses can charge the public, raising fears of profit-driven access to public land.
The supported camping controversy highlights issues of equitable access to nature. Gary Dunnett, CEO of the National Parks Association, emphasized the importance of affordable overnight stays in national parks to foster a connection with nature. He warned that allowing for-profit operations could undermine this goal, stating, “Having for-profit operations that are charging excessive fees is not conducive to providing that sort of widest possible access.”
As part of this update, the NPWS is also reviewing the fee structure and booking system for campsites it manages. This comes as an updated list from NPWS indicates that commercial motorbike tours could be permitted in 256 locations, including Mungo National Park and Dorrigo National Park, alongside wilderness areas like Barrington Tops and the Blue Mountains. Moreover, 72 locations could see the introduction of commercial quad biking activities.
While NPWS spokespersons noted that licensing has been in place for guided tours since 2009, the latest updates have raised eyebrows. Dunnett expressed surprise at some of the proposed areas for quad biking, particularly citing popular swimming spots like the Bents Basin State Conservation Area, deeming it “totally inappropriate” for such activities.
As the situation develops, the government’s focus on balancing profitability with public access remains a critical concern for NSW residents. Munro reiterated the essential role of national parks for community health and well-being, stating, “National parks are more important than ever.”
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: As discussions continue, the community is urged to stay informed about the potential impacts of these proposals on both access to national parks and the costs associated with camping. This developing story will have significant implications for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife preservation in the region. Stay tuned for further updates from the NPWS and government officials.
