Darling Downs National Park

Darling Downs National Park is a hidden gem on the Mid North Coast of NSW, offering a wild and rugged landscape of ancient Gondwana rainforests, dramatic gorges, and cascading waterfalls. This park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers seeking solitude and raw beauty, far from the crowds. The park's diverse ecosystems, from subtropical rainforest to dry eucalypt forest, support an incredible array of birdlife, including the elusive paradise riflebird. As you explore, you'll feel a deep connection to the land's ancient past.

Highlights & What to See

• Boorganna Nature Reserve – A stunning remnant of lowland subtropical rainforest with towering trees and a serene walking track to the beautiful Rawson Falls.
• Dingo Tops Forest Park – A network of walking trails leading to scenic lookouts over the Manning River gorge, perfect for spotting lyrebirds and wallabies.
• Brumlow Tops Walking Track – A challenging 6 km return hike through lush rainforest to a lookout with breathtaking views over the valley and beyond.
• Rawson Falls – A picturesque waterfall cascading into a deep pool, ideal for a refreshing dip after a walk through the rainforest.
• Birdwatching – The park is a hotspot for birdlife, including the rare rufous scrub-bird and the vibrant king parrot.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least a full day to immerse yourself in the park's highlights. Start early with the Brumlow Tops walk (3–4 hours), then visit Rawson Falls for a swim and picnic lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the Dingo Tops trails and lookout. If you're a keen hiker or birdwatcher, consider an overnight stay at the basic campground to experience the park at dawn and dusk.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – A vibrant coastal town with beautiful beaches, the Koala Hospital, and a lively waterfront dining scene.
• Wauchope – A historic timber town with the Timbertown heritage park and access to the Hastings River.
• Ellenborough Falls – One of Australia's tallest waterfalls, a short drive north, with a stunning lookout and walking track.
• Comboyne Plateau – A scenic rural area with rolling hills, dairy farms, and the Comboyne State Forest offering more walking trails.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – Coastal park with dramatic headlands, sandy beaches, and the iconic Diamond Head.

Please check official sources for current details.