Bungonia National Park

Carved from the ancient limestone of the Southern Tablelands, Bungonia National Park is a dramatic landscape of sheer gorges, plunging waterfalls, and one of Australia's deepest canyon systems. Just two hours from Sydney, this wild pocket of nature offers hikers, campers, and adventure seekers a raw, uncrowded escape into a world of rock and water.

Highlights & What to See

• Bungonia Lookdown – The park’s signature viewpoint peers 400 metres into the shadowy depths of Bungonia Gorge. On a clear day, you’ll spot the Shoalhaven River snaking far below.
• Bungonia Creek Walking Track – A steep 3 km descent into the gorge leads to a natural swimming hole at the base of a cascading waterfall. The return climb is tough but rewarding.
• Adams Lookout – A shorter, family-friendly walk offering panoramic views across the gorge and beyond to the Budawang Range.
• Limestone Caves – The park sits atop a vast karst system with several undeveloped caves. Experienced cavers can explore the likes of B-15 Cave (permit required), but for most visitors, the surface karst features and sinkholes are fascinating enough.
• Camping at Bungonia Campground – Basic campsites (no power, no showers) sit among eucalypts near the gorge rim. It’s a favourite for star-gazing and waking to kookaburras.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find a full day sufficient to tackle the main lookout walks and enjoy a picnic. If you’re keen on hiking into the gorge (allow 4–5 hours return) or exploring the caves, plan for an overnight stay. Two days lets you do the classic gorge descent one day and a more relaxed walk or cave tour the next. The park is also a popular stop on a longer self-drive itinerary between Sydney and Canberra.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Morton National Park – Just south, this vast park features the iconic Pigeon House Mountain and the stunning sandstone cliffs of the Budawang Range.
• Bundanoon – A charming village in the Southern Highlands, known for its antique shops, cosy cafes, and access to the Morton National Park walking tracks.
• Goulburn – The historic city of Goulburn offers a dose of country-town heritage, including the famous Big Merino and a lively café scene.
• Shoalhaven Coast – An hour east, the coastal towns of Ulladulla and Mollymook provide beaches, seafood, and whale-watching opportunities (June–November).

Please check official sources for current details.