Arakoon National Park

Arakoon National Park is a coastal protected area on the Mid-North Coast of New South Wales near the town of South West Rocks. The park includes the shoreline around Trial Bay and the historic ruins of Trial Bay Gaol.

The park offers rocky headlands, sandy bays and low coastal cliffs with short walking tracks and picnic areas. Rock platforms and small beaches provide opportunities for coastal exploration, fishing and panoramic ocean views.

The most prominent historic feature is the Trial Bay Gaol complex, built in the late 19th century; the site was later used to hold internees during World War I and is interpreted for visitors. Over time the area has been managed for both heritage conservation and coastal recreation.

The park sits on the Tasman Sea coast adjacent to the town of South West Rocks on New South Wales’ Mid-North Coast. The landscape is dominated by coastal cliffs, bays and maritime vegetation.

• Trial Bay Gaol access: The gaol ruins are the park's main historic attraction and have parking and short walkways for access.
• Best viewpoints and time: Coastal lookouts face east over the Tasman Sea, making mornings ideal for sea and sunrise photography.

What to See #

• Trial Bay Gaol: A 19th century prison complex in ruins located on the park shoreline, interpreted with walking paths and interpretive signs; the site was used as an internment camp during World War I.
• Headlands and rock platforms: Rugged coastal headlands, rock platforms and small sandy bays that provide panoramic ocean views, informal fishing spots and short walking routes along the shoreline.