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Ironbark Flat picnic area

Royal National Park

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about the Ironbark Flat picnic area.

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    Ironbark Flat picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. To get there:

    • Turn off Princes Highway at Farnell Avenue
    • Continue down the hill and drive across Audley Weir
    • Turn right into Triangle carpark just after the weir

    Road quality

    • Sealed roads

    Vehicle access

    • 2WD vehicles

    Weather restrictions

    • All weather

    Parking

    Parking is available at Ironbark Flat picnic area in Triangle carpark, including 2 accessible parking spots. There's also another accessible parking spot near the visitor centre toilet block.

    It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking might be limited.

    Best times to visit

    Royal National Park covers a wide range of landscapes, from open grassland to ocean-fronting clifftops. It's a good idea to pack clothing suitable for all weather conditions along with water, sunscreen and a map on your visit. Royal National Park shines in all seasons, though summer and winter each offer a few special attractions.

    Summer

    Visit the majestic Garie Beach to surf or just relax. The beach is patrolled by surf lifesavers in summer. Plus, the panorama from Garie North Head is just amazing, so be sure to take your camera. The beach at Bundeena's Bonnie Vale is a great swimming spot, as are Jibbon, Wattamolla and Little Marley beaches. If a freshwater swim is more your thing, try Karloo Pool, Deer Pool or Curracurrang. The summer holiday information has important tips to help you plan your day to Royal National Park during the busy holiday period .

    Winter

    Winter is a great time to tackle the popular Coast track from Bundeena to Otford. Not only will you be greeted by spectacular coastal scenery, you can also see whales from the cliffs (June to August). Complete the walk in small sections or undertake the entire 26km over two days. Plan a visit during spring to admire the stunning heathland wildflowers on display. Head along the Coast track or the Curra Moors Loop track or walk to Wises track to see them in bloom. .

    Weather, temperature and rainfall

    Summer temperature

    Average

    16°C and 27°C

    Highest recorded

    42°C (1977)

    Winter temperature

    Average

    6°C and 17°C

    Lowest recorded

    -0.6°C (1968)

    Rainfall

    Wettest month

    March

    The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

    254.5mm

    Facilities

    Toilets

    There are accessible toilets at nearby Royal National Park Visitor Centre. The toilets include a change facility for parents and carers.

    • Flush toilets

    Picnic tables

    Barbecue facilities

    • Gas/electric barbecues (free)

    Cafe/kiosk

    Drinking water

    Step-free access

    There's step-free access through the picnic area along a concrete pathway that leads from Triangle carpark to the visitor centre.

    Some of the picnic tables are located away from the path - you'll need to cross over stretches of flat grass to reach them.

    • Step-free outdoor pathways

    Seats and resting points

    There are 2 bench seats with backrests that look out towards the river.

    Maps and downloads

    Safety messages

    Mobile safety

    Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

    Water activities

    The aquatic environment around rivers, lakes and lagoons can be unpredictable. If you're visiting these areas, take note of these river and lake safety tips.

    Strong currents may be present at Hacking River, so take care in the water and please supervise children at all times.

    Accessibility

    Disability access level - easy

    Ironbark picnic area is flat and step-free, with the following accessible facilities:

    • A concrete path that leads from Triangle carpark through the picnic area to Royal National Park Visitor Centre, Weir Cafe, and the pavilion.
    • Accessible toilets at the visitor centre, including a change facility for parents and carers.
    • 2 accessible parking spaces in Triangle carpark and 1 near the visitor centre toilet block.
    • Bench seats by the river for resting

    You'll need to cross over stretches of flat grass to reach some of the picnic tables and the bench seats.

    The Audley Room can be reached from the parking area at the front of the Dance Hall on Sir Bertram Stevens Drive.

    Permitted

    Fishing

    A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in all waters.

    Prohibited

    Drones

    Flying recreational drones is not permitted because this park is located within 5.5km of an airfield or helicopter landing site. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) states that drones should not be flown within 30m of vehicles, boats, buildings or people, or within 5.5km of an airfield. Drones can also impact on public enjoyment and privacy, interfere with park operations, and may pose a threat to wildlife in some areas.

    Please contact the park office for consent if you wish to fly a drone for commercial filming or photography purposes. For more information, see the Drones in Parks policy.

    Pets

    Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

    Smoking

    NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

    Ironbark Flat picnic area

    Operated by

    Park info

    • in Royal National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and South Coast regions

    • Royal National Park is open 7am to 8.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

    • Park entry fees:

      $12 per vehicle per day. Payment options include Audley Visitor Centre, vehicle entry stations, pay machines and the Park’nPay app.

      Vehicles over 8 seats: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Students on educational programs: $1.10 per student. Teachers/educational supervisors: free (1 adult per 10 students).

      Buy annual pass

    Visitor centre