Kew

Kew is a tiny, sun-baked village in the Camden Haven region, best known as the gateway to the stunning Bago Bluff National Park. This is off-the-beaten-path NSW at its most authentic — think quiet country lanes, dairy farms, and eucalyptus-scented air. It’s the perfect base for hikers and nature lovers wanting to explore dramatic escarpments and ancient forests without the crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Bago Bluff National Park — The star attraction. Hike the Bago Bluff Walking Track for jaw-dropping views across the Camden Haven River and out to the Pacific Ocean. The clifftop lookouts are sublime, and the park is home to superb lyrebirds and wallabies.
• Kew Visitor Information Centre — A helpful stop for maps and local tips, housed in a historic railway station. It also sells local crafts and honey.
• Old Bottlebutt Forest Drive — A scenic self-drive through towering red gums and blackbutt trees, with picnic spots and short walks along the way.
• Kew General Store & Café — The heart of the village. Grab a pie or a coffee and chat with the friendly locals — it’s a classic country stop.
• Camden Haven River — Kayak or canoe on the tranquil river; put in at the small boat ramp near the village. Look for ospreys and sea eagles overhead.

Suggested Time to Spend

Kew itself is a 15-minute stop, but to really experience Bago Bluff National Park, set aside a full day. A morning hike on the Bago Bluff track (allow 3–4 hours return) plus a picnic lunch and a slow drive on Bottlebutt Forest Drive makes for a perfect day trip. If you’re keen on multiple walks, consider staying overnight in Port Macquarie or Laurieton and making Kew a half-day excursion.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie — 25 minutes east, with its famous koala hospital, beautiful beaches, and lively waterfront dining.
• Laurieton — A charming historic town on the Camden Haven Inlet, great for a riverside stroll or a seafood lunch.
• North Brother Mountain — A steep drive to a fire tower with panoramic views over the coast and hinterland; part of the Dooragan National Park.
• Crowdy Bay National Park — Wild beaches, coastal heath, and the iconic 'Diamond Head' headland; perfect for a beach walk or surf.
• Wauchope — The gateway to the Hastings River and the Werrikimbe Wilderness; check out the historic timber town and the Timbertown heritage park.

Please check official sources for current details.