Trial Bay Gaol opened in 1886 as a works prison and utilised in World War One as a German internment camp, closed in 1918. It is located in the Arakoon State Conservation Area just 5 kilometres east of the coastal town of South West Rocks.

Trial Bay Gaol is one of the most popular attractions on the mid north coast of NSW, Australia, with spectacular scenery ranging from the extensive gaol ruins, to the natural beauty of Trial Bay, the coast and beaches.
Visitors can camp or use the barbeque’s and picnic areas, tour the gaol and museum, go swimming or bushwalking .
Walks range from an easy 10 minutes up to difficult 4 hours. Walking maps available.

Self-guided tours of the gaol are also available between 9.00am -4.00pm daily

Weddings and other special events within the national park require an application form.
View the requirements here.
View the application form here.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service run qualified Discovery programs throughout the area, evening tours of the gaol are run on Tuesdays and Thursdays during NSW school holidays. The guided tours last for approximately 1.5 hours.

Whilst in the area, visit Smoky Cape Lighthouse, being the highest in NSW and only 10 minutes drive away in adjoining Hat Head National Park.

There is a licensed restaurant in the park open from 8am to 4pm.
Phone 0265667100 for bookings.