Environmental destruction caused by illegal camping, trail bikes and 4WDing has been increasing in the bushland behind Grants Beach at North Haven, according to local residents.

A Port Macquarie-Hastings Council spokesperson said council has been contacted by some residents regarding illegal camping on the beach and those matters are being dealt with.

"Council rangers will be actively monitoring and patrolling the beaches over the Christmas period," the spokesperson said.

"We are aware of the increased visitor numbers and ask that people adhere or rules that are sign posted near beach entrances and purchase a beach driving permit.

"If the public witnesses illegal camping we ask that they report the incident to council for the rangers to manage. In the report photos or information such as registration plate numbers will be very helpful. We do not encourage the public to engage with the offender due to possible safety concerns."

Council officers are able to pursue compliance action in the event they find an offender at an illegal camping site. They can also cordon off and request waste services assist the clean up of rubbish remaining at abandoned camping sites.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Environmental Citizen of the Year and Bonny Hills resident Judy Love said people have done a lot of work to make Grants Beach a beautiful area.

"After talking to residents I have heard it is getting worse and there are now several illegal campgrounds near Grants Beach and Bonny Hills," she said.

"These illegal camping sites can be very offensive to see sometimes when people leave their rubbish, toilet paper or worse."

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