Oxley Wild Rivers National Park

Thundering waterfalls plunge into deep, ancient gorges in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, a World Heritage-listed wilderness that feels a world away from the Hunter Valley's vineyards just to the south. This is a place of dramatic escarpments, wild rivers, and dense rainforest pockets, where the sound of cascading water is your constant companion. For travellers who love raw nature and epic lookouts, this park offers some of the most spectacular gorge scenery in NSW, with walking trails that range from short viewpoint strolls to multi-day wilderness treks.

Highlights & What to See

• Apsley Falls – The park's star attraction, a dramatic two-tiered waterfall that drops 65 m into a sheer-sided gorge. The lookout platform and short walk from the carpark give you heart-stopping views, especially after rain.
• Wollomombi Falls – At 220 m, one of Australia's highest waterfalls. The walk to the lookout is easy, and you can continue along the gorge rim for even more breathtaking perspectives.
• Oxley Wild Rivers Wilderness Walk – A challenging 5-day, 40 km trek for experienced hikers, following the Macleay River through pristine wilderness. Permits are required, but it's a true bucket-list adventure.
• Riverside Camping – Several basic campgrounds along the Macleay and Chandler rivers offer a chance to fall asleep to the sound of flowing water. Perfect for self-sufficient campers with 4WDs.
• Lookouts & Short Walks – Don't miss the view from East Kunderang Brook Lookout and the easy Budds Mare Lookout Walk, which rewards with sweeping vistas of the rugged landscape.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can easily experience the park's highlights in a day trip from the Hunter Valley or Armidale – start early, hit Apsley Falls and Wollomombi Falls, and enjoy a picnic lunch with a view. For a more immersive experience, overnight camping at one of the riverside sites lets you explore deeper gorges and spot wildlife at dawn. Dedicated hikers should allow 5 days for the full wilderness walk. The park is best visited in spring or autumn when temperatures are mild and the waterfalls are flowing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Armidale – A charming university city with excellent museums, cafes, and the New England Regional Art Museum. It's the main gateway to the park.
• Waterfall Way – Continue east along this scenic drive to other stunning waterfalls, including Dangar Falls and Ebor Falls, linking to the coast at Coffs Harbour.
• Dorrigo National Park – Part of the Gondwana Rainforests, with skywalks and lush walking trails through ancient rainforest.
• Hunter Valley Wine Country – After your wilderness adventure, unwind with wine tasting and gourmet dining in the Hunter Valley vineyards, less than two hours south.

Please check official sources for current details.