Oxley Wild Rivers National Park

Carved by ancient rivers into a labyrinth of gorges, waterfalls and wild forests, Oxley Wild Rivers National Park is a rugged wilderness that feels a world away from the Hunter Valley’s vineyards — yet it’s just a couple of hours’ drive north-east. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed park (part of the Gondwana Rainforests) is a paradise for hikers, birdwatchers and waterfall chasers, with dramatic lookouts that plunge into misty valleys. The park’s remote, untamed character rewards those who come prepared: bring sturdy boots, plenty of water and a sense of adventure.

Highlights & What to See

• Wollomombi Falls – One of Australia’s highest waterfalls, plunging 220 m into the gorge. The lookout offers heart-stopping views, especially after rain.
• Apsley Falls – A spectacular double-drop waterfall with a well-maintained walking track that takes you to the base for a face-full of spray.
• Oxley Wild Rivers Loop – A challenging multi-day hike that traverses the park’s core, passing through ancient rainforest and past several waterfalls. For day-trippers, shorter sections like the Riverside Walk are rewarding.
• Gondwana Rainforest – Explore pockets of subtropical and dry rainforest, home to ancient ferns, towering eucalypts and lyrebirds. The Lyrebird Walk near the Apsley Falls is a good introduction.
• Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for wallabies, echidnas, and over 150 bird species including peregrine falcons and glossy black-cockatoos. Dawn and dusk are best.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors tackle the park as a day trip from the Hunter Valley or Armidale. To see the major lookouts and do a couple of short walks (Wollomombi Falls and Apsley Falls), allow a full day — start early to make the most of the morning light. If you’re a keen hiker, overnighting at one of the basic campgrounds lets you immerse yourself in the wilderness and tackle longer trails like the 25 km Green Gully Track. For a relaxed pace, two days gives you time to explore both the falls and the quieter southern end of the park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Armidale – A historic university town 30 minutes west, with great cafés, the New England Regional Art Museum and the lovely Armidale Arboretum.
• Waterfall Way – The scenic drive from Coffs Harbour to Armidale passes several other stunning waterfalls; combine with a stop at Dorrigo National Park for a rainforest walk.
• Hunter Valley wine region – After your wilderness fix, head south to the vineyards for cellar-door tastings, gourmet food and luxury accommodation.
• New England National Park – Another Gondwana rainforest gem with the dramatic Point Lookout and excellent birdwatching, about an hour east.
• Guy Fawkes River National Park – Adjacent to Oxley Wild Rivers, this park offers even more remote gorges and the chance to see wild horses.

Please check official sources for current details.