Thirlmere Lakes National Park

Thirlmere Lakes National Park is a serene pocket of bushland and waterways in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, offering a peaceful escape from the urban rush. The park’s five interconnected lakes—formed over millennia by natural processes—are its soul, providing a habitat for birdlife and a tranquil setting for walking, picnicking, and paddling. Despite being only 90 minutes from Sydney, it feels wonderfully remote, with a quiet, contemplative atmosphere that rewards those who slow down and listen to the rustle of paperbarks and the call of waterbirds.

Highlights & What to See

• Lakeside Walking Trails – The 4 km loop around the main lake is the best way to absorb the landscape, with boardwalks and shaded tracks that reveal changing perspectives of the water and surrounding forest.
• Birdwatching – Bring binoculars for sightings of swans, ducks, herons, and the occasional kingfisher; the lakes are a magnet for birdlife, especially in the early morning.
• Kayaking & Canoeing – The still, dark waters are perfect for a quiet paddle; you can launch from the picnic area and explore the narrow channels between lakes.
• Picnic by the Water – The main picnic area has tables and barbecues under a canopy of eucalypts, making it an idyllic spot for a relaxed lunch with lake views.
• Interpretive Signs – Along the trails, signs explain the unique geology of the lakes—one of the few examples of a ‘drowned valley’ lake system in Australia.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can comfortably experience the park’s highlights in half a day (3–4 hours). Start with a gentle walk around the main lake, then enjoy a picnic and perhaps a short paddle. If you’re keen on birdwatching or photography, allow a full day to linger at different spots. The park is best visited in spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the bush is at its most vibrant.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Picton – A historic town with a charming main street, antique shops, and the scenic Picton Botanic Gardens, just 20 minutes north.
• Mittagong – The gateway to the Southern Highlands, offering cafes, galleries, and the famous Bradman Museum, 25 minutes south.
• Fitzroy Falls – A spectacular waterfall in Morton National Park, about 40 minutes east, with excellent walking tracks and lookouts.
• Wollondilly River Walk – A peaceful riverside trail near Bargo, 15 minutes north, ideal for a short bushwalk.

Please check official sources for current details.