Barrington Tops State Conservation Area

Barrington Tops State Conservation Area is a rugged wilderness of ancient rainforests, wild rivers, and subalpine plateaus in the heart of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area. This high-altitude haven offers a true escape into nature, with dramatic escarpments, cascading waterfalls, and some of the best bushwalking in New South Wales. It’s a place where you can breathe crisp mountain air, spot lyrebirds and wallabies, and feel utterly removed from the modern world.

Highlights & What to See

• Gloucester River & Gloucester Falls – Crystal-clear swimming holes and a stunning waterfall plunge pool; perfect for a refreshing dip after a hike.
• Polblue Swamp & Campground – A subalpine wetland with walking trails that offer sweeping views of the plateau and opportunities to spot wildflowers in spring.
• Williams River & Rocky Crossing – A scenic picnic spot with calm pools for swimming and easy access to short rainforest walks.
• Barrington Tops Summit – The highest point in the area, offering panoramic views over the surrounding national park and out to the coast on clear days.
• Gondwana Rainforest Walks – Explore ancient Antarctic beech and myrtle beech trees along trails like the Antarctic Beech Walk, a living link to the supercontinent Gondwana.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate a full day to driving the scenic loop and tackling a few short walks, but for the full experience, camp overnight or stay in a nearby lodge. Two days allows you to explore the plateau’s highlights, hike to a waterfall, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere without rushing. If you’re a keen bushwalker, consider three days to tackle longer trails like the Barrington Tops Trail (a multi-day trek).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gloucester – A charming country town at the foot of the range, with cafes, pubs, and the historic Gloucester River.
• Barrington Tops National Park – Adjacent wilderness with even more hiking, camping, and the iconic Mount Royal Range.
• Dungog – A heritage town with a vibrant arts scene, perfect for a lunch stop or a short detour.
• Chichester State Forest – Offers excellent birdwatching and secluded picnic spots along the Allyn River.
• Hunter Valley Wine Country – About 1.5 hours south, renowned for its wineries, gourmet food, and cellar doors – a fine contrast to the high-country solitude.

Please check official sources for current details.