Kwiambal National Park

Kwiambal National Park is a wild and rugged escape in the far north of New South Wales, where the Macintyre and Severn rivers converge in a dramatic granite gorge. This remote park offers a true wilderness experience, with ancient landscapes, thunderous waterfalls, and rich Indigenous heritage. For travellers seeking solitude and raw nature, Kwiambal delivers – think swimming in crystal-clear rock pools, bushwalking through ironbark forests, and camping under star-filled skies far from city lights.

Highlights & What to See

• Kwiambal Waterfall: The park’s centrepiece – a powerful cascade plunging into a deep pool, perfect for a refreshing dip after the short walk from the car park.
• Macintyre River Gorge: A stunning granite-lined gorge with deep swimming holes and smooth rock platforms ideal for sunbaking or a picnic.
• Indigenous Cultural Sites: The park lies within the traditional lands of the Kamilaroi people; look for scar trees and grinding grooves that speak to thousands of years of custodianship.
• Bushwalking Trails: The Kwiambal Walk (1.5 km return) leads to the waterfall, while longer routes like the Severn River Track (8 km) explore the riverine wilderness.
• Birdwatching & Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles, wallabies, and the elusive platypus in the quieter reaches of the river.

Suggested Time to Spend

Kwiambal is best enjoyed over a full day or an overnight stay. Most visitors spend 4–6 hours exploring the main waterfall and gorge, swimming, and doing a short walk. To truly soak in the serenity, camp overnight at the basic campground (no facilities) and wake to the sound of the falls. The park is remote, so plan to arrive early and bring all supplies – including water and food – as there are no shops nearby.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Warrabah National Park: Just south, this park offers more rugged river scenery and excellent kayaking on the Namoi River.
• Torrington State Conservation Area: A granite wonderland with unusual rock formations and wildflowers, about an hour’s drive east.
• Inverell: A historic mining town known for sapphires and fossicking – a great place to try your luck or browse local gems.
• Ashford: A small country town with a pub and basic supplies, good for a pit stop on the way to the park.
• Gwydir River: Further south, this river offers canoeing, fishing, and camping in a peaceful setting.

Please check official sources for current details.