Goobang National Park

Goobang National Park is a rugged, off-the-beaten-track gem in central western NSW that rewards travellers who crave solitude and a genuine bush experience. With its ancient granite outcrops, dry eucalypt forests, and surprising pockets of wildflowers, this park feels a world away from the coastal crowds. It's a place to hike, birdwatch, and camp under star-filled skies – a true antidote to modern life.

Highlights & What to See

• Hervey Range Walking Track – A challenging 8 km return hike that climbs through granite boulders and offers sweeping views over the park and distant mountains. Look for wedge-tailed eagles soaring overhead.
• Goobang Creek Picnic Area – A peaceful spot for a lunch break, with shady casuarinas and the chance to spot kangaroos and wallabies drinking at the creek.
• Wildflower Displays – In spring (August–October), the park bursts into colour with wattles, grevilleas, and orchids. The granite outcrops are particularly good for unique species.
• Birdwatching – Over 100 species recorded, including superb parrots, painted honeyeaters, and the elusive turquoise parrot. Early mornings are best.
• Camping Under the Stars – The park’s basic campgrounds (like Goobang Creek) offer a true back-to-nature experience. No facilities, so come self-sufficient.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day exploring the park – enough for the Hervey Range walk and a picnic. To really soak up the tranquillity, stay one or two nights camping. The park is small enough that you can cover the main sights in a day, but the slow pace of bushwalking and birdwatching invites you to linger. Pair it with a visit to nearby Parkes or Forbes for supplies.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Parkes – Home to the famous Parkes Radio Telescope (The Dish) and a friendly country town with good cafes and a weekly market.
• Forbes – A historic gold-rush town on the Lachlan River, with heritage buildings, a lovely river walk, and the Forbes Museum.
• Lake Forbes – A popular spot for water sports, fishing, and birdwatching, just a short drive from the national park.
• Eugowra – A tiny historic village known for the Escort Way and the Eugowra National Park, offering more bushwalking and history.
• Condobolin – Further west, this town has a strong Aboriginal heritage and the Wiradjuri Visitor Centre, plus the nearby Lake Cargelligo for birdlife.

Please check official sources for current details.