Oxley Wild Rivers National Park

Carved by ancient rivers and cloaked in rugged wilderness, Oxley Wild Rivers National Park is a spectacular World Heritage-listed escape on the New South Wales mid-north coast. This vast park protects deep gorges, thundering waterfalls, and pockets of subtropical rainforest, offering travellers a raw, untamed slice of Australia that feels a world away from the coastal bustle. Whether you're hiking to a lookout or cooling off in a river pool, the park rewards those who venture into its wild heart.

Highlights & What to See

• Wollomombi Falls – One of Australia's highest waterfalls, plunging 220 metres into the gorge; the lookout offers jaw-dropping views, especially after rain.
• Gara Gorge – A serene spot for a swim or picnic, with clear pools and granite boulders beneath towering cliffs.
• Oxley Wild Rivers Walk – A challenging multi-day trek through diverse landscapes, from dry eucalypt forest to lush rainforest sections.
• Dangar Falls – A picturesque, easily accessible waterfall near Dorrigo, perfect for a quick photo stop.
• Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos, lyrebirds, and if you're lucky, the elusive platypus in the river pools.
• Four-Wheel-Drive tracks – For adventurous drivers, the park's network of 4WD trails leads to remote campsites and hidden lookouts.

Suggested Time to Spend

To appreciate the park's highlights, plan at least a full day. Start at Wollomombi Falls in the morning, then drive to Gara Gorge for a swim and lunch. In the afternoon, explore the shorter walks or continue to Dangar Falls. For serious hikers or 4WD enthusiasts, two to three days allows you to tackle longer trails and camp under the stars. The park is best visited between autumn and spring, when temperatures are mild and waterfalls are flowing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dorrigo National Park – Just north, this Gondwana Rainforest gem offers canopy walks and lush waterfalls, easily paired with the southern section of Oxley Wild Rivers.
• Kosciuszko National Park – A longer drive south, but worth it for alpine scenery and winter snow sports.
• New England National Park – West of the park, this high-altitude reserve boasts dramatic escarpment views and cool-climate rainforest.
• Coffs Harbour – A coastal hub with beaches, banana plantations, and the iconic Big Banana, ideal for a relaxed stop before or after your wilderness adventure.
• Armidale – A historic country city with museums, galleries, and a vibrant café scene, just a short drive from the park's northern entrance.

Please check official sources for current details.