Goulburn River National Park

Flowing through the rugged sandstone country of the upper Hunter Valley, Goulburn River National Park is a wild, water-carved landscape of deep gorges, towering cliffs, and tranquil river pools. This is a place for paddlers, bushwalkers, and anyone seeking a genuine escape into the Australian bush, far from the crowds of the coast. The park protects a significant stretch of the Goulburn River, offering some of the best flat-water canoeing and kayaking in New South Wales, with the chance to spot platypuses, kangaroos, and a dazzling array of birds.

Highlights & What to See

• Canoeing the Goulburn River: Paddle through serene gorges and past sandstone cliffs. The 30 km stretch from Kerrabee to Baerami is a classic multi-day trip, with designated campsites along the way.
• Big River Campground: A peaceful riverside camping area with basic facilities, perfect for launching a canoe or simply relaxing by the water.
• Spring Gully Track: A scenic walking trail that leads to a lookout over the river valley, with opportunities to see wildflowers in spring and native wildlife year-round.
• Aboriginal Heritage: The park contains significant cultural sites, including rock art and grinding grooves. Respect these areas and do not touch or disturb them.
• Birdwatching: Look for white-bellied sea eagles, wedge-tailed eagles, kingfishers, and the elusive platypus in the river pools.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience the park, plan for at least a full day. For a quick visit, a half-day allows time for a short walk and a picnic by the river. However, a weekend is ideal for a canoeing trip, allowing you to paddle downstream, camp overnight, and soak in the remote atmosphere. If you're combining with other Hunter Valley attractions, a day trip from nearby towns like Denman or Merriwa is feasible, but you'll want to leave early to make the most of the light.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Denman: A charming country town with cafes, a historic pub, and the Hunter Valley's only licensed distillery.
• Merriwa: Known for its rural character, the Merriwa Festival of the Fleeces, and access to the park's western entrance.
• Wollemi National Park: A vast wilderness area to the south, home to the prehistoric Wollemi Pine and spectacular canyon walks.
• Hunter Valley Wine Country: After your bush adventure, explore the vineyards, cellar doors, and gourmet restaurants around Pokolbin, just an hour's drive away.
• Lake Saint Clair: A tranquil spot for swimming, fishing, and birdwatching, located near Singleton.

Please check official sources for current details.