National Parks across NSW have recorded their highest ever visitation, with 65.5 million visits last financial year, driving economic growth and getting more people into the great outdoors.
Right here in the Charlestown electorate, Glenrock State Conservation Area is leading the way, ranking as the 10th most visited park in NSW with more than 1.5 million visits in the 2024–25 financial year.
Glenrock’s popularity reflects a broader trend across the Hunter-Central Coast, with national parks in the region attracting 8.1 million visits last year, up significantly from five million in 2022.
NSW’s network of around 900 parks and reserves offers an affordable way for people to connect with nature, whether they are exploring close to home or visiting from further afield. National parks inject $19.5 billion into the state’s economy and support 62,000 jobs annually, with regional communities benefiting from increased visitation.
The Minns Labor Government is supporting this growth with targeted investment to improve visitor experiences while protecting natural assets. At Glenrock, more than $1.5 million has been invested between March 2023 and June 2025 to deliver new and upgraded facilities.
This includes upgrades to the Yuelarbah Walking Tracks precinct, improvements to visitor access roads, and the delivery of new adaptive mountain bike trails, completed in August 2023.
These improvements are helping ensure Glenrock remains a safe, accessible and high-quality destination for locals and visitors alike.
Quotes attributable to the Hon Jodie Harrison MP, Member for Charlestown:
“Glenrock State Conservation Area is one of our community’s most loved natural spaces, and it’s fantastic to see it recognised as one of the most visited parks in NSW.
“With more than 1.5 million visits last year alone, it’s clear that people are choosing Glenrock to connect with nature, stay active and enjoy everything our region has to offer.
“This investment is about making sure Glenrock can continue to welcome visitors while protecting the environment that makes it so special.”
