Pool Flat picnic area
Royal National Park
Visitor info
All the practical information you need to know about the Pool Flat picnic area.
Getting there and parking
Get driving directions
Pool Flat picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. The picnic area can only be accessed by foot. 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
- Leave the car here, cross over Sir Bertram Stevens Drive, and take the short walk along the trail adjacent to Hacking River to reach the picnic area.
Road quality
- Sealed roads
Vehicle access
- 2WD vehicles
Weather restrictions
- All weather
Parking
Parking is available at Pool Flat picnic area. 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
- Flush toilets
Picnic tables
Carpark
Maps and downloads
Permitted
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.
Operated by
- Royal National Park Visitor Centre
- 8.30am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
- 02 9542 0648
- 1300 072 757 for campground and cottage bookings
- npws.royal@environment.nsw.gov.au
- 2 Lady Carrington Drive, Audley, NSW 2232
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.
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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
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Royal National Park Visitor Centre
2 Lady Carrington Drive, Audley, NSW 2232 - 8.30am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
- 02 9542 0648
- 1300 072 757 for campground and cottage bookings