Dharug National Park

Dharug National Park is a rugged wilderness on the Hawkesbury River, just north of Sydney. It's a place of deep sandstone gorges, eucalypt forests, and rich Aboriginal heritage—the traditional land of the Dharug people. This is a park for those who love solitude, bushwalking, and paddling, with the mighty Hawkesbury as its watery spine.

Highlights & What to See

• Great North Walk – Tackle a section of this epic trail; the stretch from Cowan to Brooklyn offers stunning river views and passes through the park's heart.
• Hawkesbury River kayaking – Paddle the calm, wide waters of the Hawkesbury, spotting eagles and sandstone cliffs; launch at Gentlemans Halt or Milsons Passage.
• Aboriginal engravings – Seek out rock carvings at Basin Track or near the river—ancient motifs of kangaroos and fish etched into the sandstone.
• Mill Creek camping area – A basic, walk-in campground beside a creek; perfect for a night under the stars after a day's hike.
• Brisbane Water National Park – Adjacent to the north, this park offers more bushwalks and the scenic Girrakool loop with waterfalls.

Suggested Time to Spend

A minimum of a full day is needed to appreciate Dharug. Most visitors combine a morning kayak or a 4–5 hour bushwalk with a picnic by the river. For a deeper experience, stay overnight at Mill Creek campground—this allows you to explore the quieter southern sections and paddle at dawn. If you're short on time, focus on the Great North Walk section near Cowan and a short paddle from Brooklyn.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Brooklyn – A charming Hawkesbury River village with a pub, ferry wharf, and access to the river for boat hire.
• Gosford – The main hub of the Central Coast, with the Australian Reptile Park and waterfront dining.
• Bouddi National Park – Coastal cliffs and beaches an hour east, with the Bouddi Coastal Walk and Putty Beach.
• Wisemans Ferry – Historic ferry crossing and riverside pub; a scenic drive from the park's western edge.
• Mangrove Mountain – A small village with fruit stalls and the Girrakool picnic area in Brisbane Water National Park.

Please check official sources for current details.