Parks, reserves and protected areas Areas protected by the National Parks and Wildlife Act play a critical role in protecting biodiversity, natural and cultural heritage.photo_cameraOpen description Duffer Creek, Gibraltar Washpool World Heritage Walk, Gibraltar Range National Park closeClose descriptionImage Credit: Rob Cleary, Seen Australia/OEH What would you like to do? Become a volunteer for the environmentStay in a national parkLearn about fire managementPropose land for parksSee policies on park activities Visit a national park From outback walking tracks and coastal lookouts to picturesque campgrounds and beaches, you’ll never run out of things to do in NSW national parks.open_in_new Types of protected areas Parks, reserves and protected areas within the national parks system cover a diverse range of environments that we manage for conservation.east Establishing new parks and protected areas Each year we acquire new land for our parks system to protect biodiversity and cultural heritage and to provide areas for recreation.east Park management Find plans of management, statements of management intent, fire and pest management strategies, and other information about how we manage parks.open_in_new Park policies Our park management policies are designed to protect native plants, animals and ecosystems while meeting the needs of business operators and visitors.east Commercial activities in parks The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service provides many opportunities for commercial activities that are compatible with the protection of our natural and cultural heritage.east Development guidelines We have clear guidelines for use in assessing developments proposed within or adjoining national parks, aquatic reserves and marine parks.east Current park closures, fire and safety alerts Find up-to-date information on fires, floods and park closures.open_in_new