Bilbari National Park

Bilbari National Park is a hidden gem on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, offering a raw and immersive wilderness experience just a short drive from Port Macquarie. This compact but ecologically rich park protects a mosaic of coastal rainforest, swamp forests, and heathlands, making it a paradise for birdwatchers, bushwalkers, and anyone craving a quiet escape into nature. The park’s network of walking trails leads you through dense vegetation, past tranquil creeks, and to panoramic lookouts that showcase the rugged coastline and hinterland. With its sense of seclusion and abundant wildlife, Bilbari feels like a world apart.

Highlights & What to See

• Bilbari Lookout Walk – A short but rewarding track that climbs through rainforest to a stunning viewpoint over the Camden Haven River and coastline; keep an eye out for sea eagles soaring overhead.
• Birdwatching – The park is a haven for birdlife, including glossy black-cockatoos, wonga pigeons, and the elusive rufous fantail; bring binoculars for the best experience.
• Swamp Forest Boardwalk – An easy, wheelchair-accessible walk that meanders through a unique paperbark swamp forest, perfect for spotting frogs and water dragons.
• Picnic Areas – Several shaded picnic spots with tables and fireplaces are scattered near the entrance, ideal for a relaxed lunch surrounded by the sounds of the bush.
• Wildflowers in Spring – From August to October, the heathlands burst into colour with banksias, wattles, and orchids, creating a spectacular display.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is ample to explore the park’s main trails and enjoy a picnic. Arrive in the morning when wildlife is most active, and allow 2–3 hours for the Bilbari Lookout Walk and the boardwalk loop. If you’re a keen birdwatcher or photographer, you could easily fill a full day here. The park is compact, so you can cover the highlights without rushing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – Just 20 minutes north, this coastal town offers beaches, the Koala Hospital, and a vibrant café scene.
• Camden Haven – A series of picturesque villages around the inlet, perfect for kayaking, fishing, and exploring the historic Laurieton.
• Sea Acres National Park – Home to a spectacular rainforest boardwalk and the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, just a short drive away.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – About 40 minutes south, featuring dramatic coastal cliffs, the historic Diamond Head, and excellent surfing beaches.

Please check official sources for current details.