If you want to do it, the Great Lakes area can provide the opportunity. Nestled amongst National Parks and State Forests, Great Lakes Council offers everything from pristine coastlines to rural experiences.

There is 460ha of open space spread from Stroud to Forster and down to Karuah including145 kilometres of foreshore, three major lake systems being Wallis Lake, Smiths Lake and Myall Lakes and three showgrounds capable of meeting most of your equestrian needs. In addition Council provides playing fields fit for all sports with superior spectator provisions. Council's picturesque ribbon reserves along the harbour provide the most attractive views of the lakes and are well used by the community, visitors to the area and for special events.

Boat ramps and aquatic facilities are strategically placed throughout the lake networks providing easy access to the ocean, rivers and lake activities. There are a myriad of shared pathways allowing easy visitation and movement along the coastline. Perhaps the area's most significant attraction is our 11 beaches that range from world renown surfing locations to some of the safest swimming spots in NSW.

What makes Great Lakes open space so unique, is the diverse experiences available.  These experiences are all within easy driving distance of each other. You can have an authentic rural experience at the historic showgrounds and within an hour be taking in the sand and surf on one of our many beaches. To top that off, with a change in wind, you can swap to the lakes and rivers and experience what the natural waterways have to offer. There are countless opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming and bushwalking, all of which are well facilitated with public toilets, car parking and other facilities.

Sporting Fields and Skate Parks

Pools and Beaches

Sporting Field Closures

Showgrounds

Wharves Jetties and Boat Ramps

Parks and Reserves

Islands

Public Toilets