Wilderness National Park, also known as the Wilderness Section, is near the coastal town of Wilderness, between the larger towns of George and Knysna in the Western Cape. It is a protected area in South Africa that is part of the Garden Route National Park.

Description

This natural area extends from the mouth of the Touws River to the Eilandvlei estuary and connects to the Swartvlei lake, which borders the Goukamma Nature Reserve. The wildlife in this area is diverse and includes species such as the Knysna seahorse, pansy shell, pied kingfisher, Knysna lourie, grey heron, and little egret.

The park includes three major areas of indigenous forest, four types of fynbos (wild shrubs), as well as several lakes and winding waterways. It also features several historical sites, including the Woodville Big Tree (believed to be over 800 years old) and Goudveld, an old mining town located within the forest.

The Touws River connects three lakes—Eilandvlei, Langvlei, and Rondevlei—which are home to many aquatic species. These lakes are designated as a Ramsar site (wetlands of international importance). Activities available in the park include canoeing, bicycling, abseiling, kloofing, paragliding, boating, fishing, and hiking.

History

In 1968, efforts to protect the lakes in the Wilderness area began by designating 450 hectares near the river mouth. This area included the two lakes and the Duiwerivier Kloof. The Wilderness National Park was officially established in 1987. Before that, from 1985, it was managed by the Lake Areas Development Board, and after 1985, it was taken over by the National Parks Board. In 2008, the Wilderness National Park became part of the Garden Route National Park.