Nymboida National Park

Nymboida National Park is a rugged wilderness haven in northern NSW, where ancient Gondwana rainforests meet dramatic gorges and the wild Nymboida River. This remote park offers a true escape for nature lovers, with world-class white-water rafting, secluded swimming holes, and hiking trails through towering brush box and flooded gum forests. It's a place of profound quiet, broken only by the roar of rapids and birdcalls.

Highlights & What to See

• Nymboida River – Renowned for exhilarating white-water rafting and kayaking; the rapids range from gentle Grade II to challenging Grade IV after rain.
• Bicentennial National Trail – A section of this epic 5,330 km trail passes through the park, offering multi-day hiking and horse riding through pristine forest.
• Dalmorton State Conservation Area – Adjacent to the park, featuring historic gold-mining relics and the dramatic Dalmorton Tunnel.
• Birdwatching – Spot glossy black cockatoos, wompoo fruit-doves, and the elusive rufous scrub-bird in the dense rainforest understorey.
• Picnic at Platypus Flat – A serene riverside spot perfect for a swim and lunch, with a chance to see platypuses at dawn or dusk.

Suggested Time to Spend

For a satisfying visit, plan at least a full day. Combine a morning hike on the Bicentennial Trail (e.g., the 6 km return Platypus Flat walk) with an afternoon of river exploration or a rafting trip. For serious adventurers, two days allow time to tackle longer trails or paddle the river's lower gorges. The park is remote and facilities are basic, so come self-sufficient.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gwydir River – A scenic drive north leads to the Gwydir River valley, with more canoeing and fishing opportunities.
• Yuraygir National Park – Coastal national park to the east, with stunning beaches and coastal walks.
• Glenreagh – A historic village with a charming pub and access to the Orara River for swimming.
• Coffs Harbour – About an hour east, offering beaches, the Big Banana, and the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve.

Please check official sources for current details.