Welcome to the Clarence Valley—where rivers run wide, beaches stretch endlessly, and the locals love a good yarn. We know you’re here for a good time, but let’s make sure it stays a good time in the future too. A few small changes can help keep this incredible place just the way we like it—wild, wonderful, and welcoming.
Embrace the Clarence Way of Life
- Connect with nature and community – Take time to enjoy the slower pace, soak in the surroundings, and have a chat with the friendly locals. Whether you’re fishing, paddling, or just kicking back by the river, remember—it’s all about balance. Leave it how you found it.
- Stay where you’re welcome – The Clarence Valley has fantastic camping spots and accommodation providers who do the right thing for the environment. Free camping outside designated areas isn’t just a no-go—it’s a fast track to damaging the places we all love. For top spots to camp check out The Clarence Valley Guide to Happy Camping.
- Swap four wheels for two – Where possible, ditch the car and explore on foot or bike. It’s better for the planet and lets you soak in the scenery at a slower pace. (plus, you’re less likely to miss that hidden spot everyone raves about).
Respect Nature (It Was Here First)
- Stick to the paths – Our national parks and reserves are full of stunning trails. Straying off-track can damage fragile ecosystems (and possibly lead to an unplanned game of ‘Where am I’).
- Only take photos and memories with you – Take your rubbish with you, or better yet, pick up any stray litter you see. Nature will thank you (and so will the locals- probably with a nod of approval).
- Keep wildlife wild – Feeding the local critters might seem cute, but it can actually harm them. Admire from a distance, and let them do their thing.
- Say no to single-use plastics – Bring your own reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags. Less plastic = happier rivers and beaches.
- Follow the rules for open fires, fishing, and off-road driving – Seasonal fire bans exist for a reason, fishing should be done responsibly (follow bag limits and size restrictions), and four-wheel drives should stick to approved access tracks. The rules aren’t there to ruin your fun—they help protect the land and waters we all love.
Listen, Learn and Respect Culture
- Respect First Nations – The Clarence Valley is home to the Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr, and Yaegl peoples. Significant sites deserve respect, so follow signage and guidance from Traditional Owners.
- Learn from First Nations – Take the time to listen and learn. Deepen your understanding by listening to the First Nations Story Trail or take the self-guided Lower Clarence Aboriginal Tourist Site Drive. Learn more about 13 significant Aboriginal sites on Yaegl Country, covering Maclean, Woombah, Yamba and Angourie.
Celebrate like a local
- Support local events – Attend festivals, markets, and exhibitions that showcase the rich heritage of the region. Get amongst it!
- Support local agriculture – Farmers’ markets, farm-gate produce, and locally made goods aren’t just delicious—they support the people who make this region what it is. Choose local when you can! Check out one of the many markets in the Clarence Valley.
- Shop smart – Visit farmers’ markets, local stores, and artisan shops. Supporting local businesses keeps our communities thriving. After all, they are the pros in providing one-of-a-kind Clarence Valley service (and they’ll probably give you the best local tips too).
