Oxley Wild Rivers National Park

Plunging gorges, thundering waterfalls and wild rivers define Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, a World Heritage-listed wilderness on the New South Wales mid-north coast. This rugged park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, offering dramatic escarpments, ancient forests and exceptional birdwatching. It's a paradise for hikers and nature lovers seeking solitude and raw beauty.

Highlights & What to See

• Apsley Falls: A spectacular double-drop waterfall plunging 65 metres into a deep gorge. Walk the rim circuit for multiple viewpoints and feel the mist on your face.
• Wollomombi Falls: One of Australia's highest waterfalls at 220 metres. The lookout offers heart-stopping views across the gorge – particularly impressive after rain.
• Riverside walking tracks: Explore the Oxley Wild Rivers Trail or the shorter Green Gully Track, weaving through eucalypt forests and past cascades.
• Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos, lyrebirds, and the elusive platypus in the river pools.
• Stargazing: Far from city lights, the park offers incredible night skies – perfect for camping under the stars.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least a full day to explore the main highlights – start early to walk to both Apsley and Wollomombi Falls. If you're keen on longer hikes or camping, allow two days to immerse yourself in the remote gorges and river valleys. The park is best visited between autumn and spring when temperatures are mild; summer can be hot and humid.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie: A coastal hub with beaches, a historic convict site, and the Koala Hospital – perfect for a relaxed stay before or after your wilderness adventure.
• Kempsey: Gateway to the Macleay Valley, offering river cruises and Aboriginal cultural experiences.
• New England National Park: Another Gondwana rainforest gem, with cool temperate forests and dramatic escarpment views.
• Dorrigo National Park: Famous for its Skywalk and lush rainforest walks, about an hour's drive north.

Please check official sources for current details.