Camping information
- Camping in South Cumberland Islands National Park
- Cockermouth Island
- Refuge Bay, Scawfell Island
- Turtle Beach, St Bees Island
Camping in South Cumberland Islands National Park
Most of the South Cumberland islands are national park and great places for camping. Choose from a range of camping opportunities, depending on your needs.
Facilities vary, but if present are limited to toilets and/or picnic tables. Campers must be self-sufficient. Visitor numbers are limited to ensure a secluded experience. You will need to book your site and purchase your permit in advance.
Camp at sheltered sites in Refuge Bay (Scawfell Island); Turtle Beach (St Bees Island) and on Cockermouth Island.
Camping permits are required and fees apply. A camping tag with your booking number must be displayed at your camp site.
Park-specific conditions
Warning: Strong winds, rough seas and cyclones can isolate campers. Carry emergency food and water for several days, broadcast radio, spare batteries and medical supplies.
Dangerous marine stingers may be present all year. Visit www.marinestingers.com.au for the latest safety advice.
Read more about staying safe and looking after the park.
Cockermouth Island
Campground features: This hilly island is mainly open grassland. Large tidal lagoons occur on the island’s western side where low tides expose an ancient Pleistocene reef.
Location: South-western bay of Cockermouth Island.
Access: The campground can be reached by boat (only).
Number of sites: Open area without separately defined sites. Maximum 12 people.
Camp sites are suitable for: walk-in camping.
Camp site surface: Sand. Grass.
Facilities: None.
Open fires: Prohibited.
Generators: Not permitted.
Essentials to bring: Drinking water, rubbish bags, insect repellent. Read more about things to know before you go.
Bookings: Book online, over-the-counter or by phone.
Mobile phone coverage: Not available.
Refuge Bay, Scawfell Island
Campground features: Granite cliffs line the coast of Scawfell Island, the largest national park island in the South Cumberland group. Large areas of rainforest perch on steep mountain slopes. A wide sheltered bay faces north with all tidal access.
Location: Refuge Bay.
Access: The campground can be reached by boat (only).
Number of sites: Open area without separately defined sites. Maximum 12 people.
Camp sites are suitable for: walk-in camping.
Camp site surface: Sand. Grass.
Facilities: Sheltered picnic tables, toilet, tables.
Open fires: Prohibited.
Generators: Not permitted.
Essentials to bring: Drinking water, rubbish bags, insect repellent. Read more about things to know before you go.
Bookings: Advance bookings only. Book online, over-the-counter or by phone.
Mobile phone coverage: Not available.
Turtle Beach, St Bees Island
Campground features: This steep and rugged island is mostly national park except for a small private lease at Homestead Bay.
Location: Northern end of St Bees Island.
Access: The campground can be reached by boat (only).
Number of sites: Open area without separately defined sites. Maximum 24 people.
Camp sites are suitable for: walk-in camping.
Camp site surface: Sand. Grass.
Facilities: None.
Open fires: Prohibited.
Generators: Not permitted.
Essentials to bring: Drinking water, rubbish bags, insect repellent. Read more about things to know before you go.
Bookings: Advance bookings only. Book online, over-the-counter or by phone.
Mobile phone coverage: Not available.
Last updated 9 June 2011