Goobang National Park

Goobang National Park, a rugged pocket of protected bushland in central-western New South Wales, offers a genuine escape into the Australian outback. This is a place of rolling hills, granite outcrops, and silent forests of cypress pine and ironbark. You'll find few crowds and a palpable sense of isolation — perfect for those who want to trade tourist trails for the call of the bellbird and the rustle of a kangaroo in the scrub.

Highlights & What to See

• Goobang Mountain Summit – A moderate 2 km hike to the top rewards you with sweeping views over the park and across the vast wheatbelt. The summit is a great spot for sunrise photography.
• Granite boulders and rock formations – Scattered throughout the park are impressive granite tors, perfect for scrambling and picnicking. The area around Bald Hill is especially striking.
• Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos, wallaroos, and a rich array of birdlife including wedge-tailed eagles and crimson rosellas. Early morning or late afternoon are best.
• Four-wheel driving tracks – The park has a network of unsealed roads that are a treat for 4WD enthusiasts. The Goobang Circuit is a scenic drive through diverse landscapes.
• Wildflower displays – In spring (August to October), the park bursts into colour with native wattles, orchids, and everlastings.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that half a day is enough to do the summit walk and explore the main tracks. However, if you want to truly soak in the solitude and attempt a longer hike or a full 4WD circuit, plan for a full day. Overnight camping is also possible — the park has basic campgrounds with pit toilets, so you can experience the star-filled outback night.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Parkes – Home to the famous Parkes Radio Telescope (The Dish) and a charming country town with a great museum.
• Dubbo – About an hour north, Dubbo offers the outstanding Taronga Western Plains Zoo and the historic Old Dubbo Gaol.
• Wellington – Known for the Wellington Caves, a fascinating underground world of limestone formations.
• Lake Burrendong – A large dam with excellent water sports, fishing, and lakeside camping, just a short drive west.
• Orange – A wine region and foodie haven, about 90 minutes south, perfect for a gourmet stop on a longer road trip.

Please check official sources for current details.