North Coast national parks are drawing record crowds, with millions of visits helping drive tourism and regional economies.

New figures show there were 6.81 million visits to North Coast parks in the 2024–25 financial year, up from 6.19 million in 2022.

The region’s most popular destinations included Cape Byron State Conservation Area, Coffs Coast Regional Park, Crowdy Bay, Arakoon and Bundjalung national parks, each attracting more than half a million visitors.

Across NSW, visitation reached a record 65.6 million visits, representing a 24 per cent increase since 2022.

The state government says more than $49 million has been invested in North Coast parks to support the surge in visitors and protect key природ landscapes.

Projects include the new Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk in the Tweed-Byron region and upgrades to campgrounds at Trial Bay and Point Plomer.

Planning is also underway for a major redevelopment of the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and a new multi-day escarpment walk.

Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said the figures highlight the region’s growing appeal.

“The North Coast is such a special part of the world, and it’s no surprise that so many people are drawn to our beaches and rainforests,” she said.

She said the investment would help ensure popular destinations remain accessible and protected for future generations.

The figures reinforce the North Coast’s status as one of Australia’s leading nature-based tourism destinations.