MEMBER for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan has criticised the NSW Government’s plan to increase the cost of camping in NSW National Parks.

Mr Moylan believes the price hike could prevent families from engaging with regional parts of the state.

“Camping has always been an affordable way for families to escape the hustle and bustle and relax in the natural environment without breaking the bank,” Mr Moylan said.

“I am incredibly concerned about the proposal.

“The Northern Tablelands is full of picturesque and accessible national parks which brings a significant number of tourists to the region.

“If the cost of camping in our national parks increases, other parts of the region will suffer including small businesses like cafés and pubs.

“Rather than limiting access to our National Parks, the Government should be encouraging tourism by developing more campgrounds and improving accessibility, allowing more people to experience the beauty of the great outdoors.”

Shadow Minister for Tourism Kevin Anderson said visiting one of the state’s 365 National Parks campgrounds has always been an affordable way to holiday.

Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan said the regions will suffer if camping fees at national parks are increased.

“Camping has always been a great Australian pastime, with generations of families enjoying some time away from the rat-race in the peace and tranquillity of regional NSW,” Mr Anderson said.

“Labor now wants to take that option away from families by hiking fees on campgrounds, meaning the cost of camping could blow out to over $600 a week in a national park.”

When asked about the increase in Question Time last week, Minister for Tourism Steve Kamper refused to acknowledge the issue claiming the government had “nothing more to say”.