Goulburn River National Park

Goulburn River National Park is a rugged and remote wilderness in the Upper Hunter region, where the river carves through dramatic sandstone gorges and eucalypt forests. This is a place for genuine adventurers seeking solitude, Aboriginal rock art, and the thrill of paddling or hiking through a landscape that feels unchanged for millennia. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 160 species recorded, and its dark skies make for stellar camping under the stars.

Highlights & What to See

• Goulburn River Gorge – The centrepiece of the park, a spectacular sandstone canyon with towering cliffs and tranquil pools. Canoe or kayak the river for the best perspectives, especially after rain when the water levels are higher.
• Aboriginal Rock Art Sites – Explore significant cultural sites with hand stencils and engravings, particularly around Big River and Kerrabee. Treat these with the utmost respect.
• Spring Gully Walking Track – A 4 km return hike through dry eucalypt forest to a lookout over the gorge. Excellent for spotting kangaroos and wallabies at dawn or dusk.
• Birdwatching – Keep an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles, peregrine falcons, and the rare glossy black-cockatoo. The river margins are prime spots for waterbirds.
• Kerrabee Campground – A basic, off-grid campground right by the river, perfect for falling asleep to the sound of flowing water. Bring all supplies as there are no facilities.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least a full day to explore the gorge area, but to truly appreciate the park’s remoteness and do any significant hiking or paddling, plan for an overnight stay. Two days allows you to paddle a section of the river, visit the rock art, and hike to a lookout. The park is best visited between autumn and spring, when temperatures are milder and the river is more likely to have water.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wollemi National Park – One of the largest wilderness areas in NSW, with deep gorges and the famous Wollemi Pine. Combine for a multi-day bushwalking adventure.
• Hunter Valley Wine Region – Just a couple of hours south, unwind with world-class wines and gourmet dining after your wilderness fix.
• Mudgee – A charming historic town with a thriving food and wine scene, plus nearby national parks like Munghorn Gap Nature Reserve.
• Bylong Valley Way – A scenic drive connecting the park to the Hunter Valley, passing through picturesque farmland and the Bylong Valley.
• Kerrabee – The small settlement near the park’s entrance, with a historic homestead and a great spot to start river trips.

Please check official sources for current details.