Warrumbungle Dark Sky Park

In the heart of outback New South Wales, Warrumbungle National Park is Australia’s first Dark Sky Park – a sanctuary for star lovers where the Milky Way arcs so brightly it seems close enough to touch. By day, this ancient volcanic landscape offers dramatic hikes through razorback ridges and lava domes; by night, it’s one of the best places on Earth to gaze into the universe. A self-drive here from Coonabarabran (the ‘Astronomy Capital of Australia’) makes a stellar addition to any outback itinerary.

Highlights & What to See

• Dark Sky Viewing – Join a ranger-led night program or simply find a dark spot; the park’s certification guarantees minimal light pollution. Bring binoculars or a telescope for jaw-dropping views of the Southern Cross, Magellanic Clouds, and star clusters.
• The Breadknife – A spectacular 90-metre-high volcanic dyke that slices through the landscape. The Grand High Tops walk offers the best perspective, winding through rocky outcrops and wildflowers.
• Mount Exmouth – The park’s highest peak (1206 m). A challenging hike rewards with panoramic views over the Warrumbungle Range and, on clear days, the Liverpool Plains.
• Camp Pincham – The only accommodation within the park, this historic camp offers basic cabins and a perfect base for night-sky photography. Book ahead for the self-contained observatory.
• Warrumbungle Observatory – Located just outside the park in Coonabarabran, this public observatory runs evening star tours with powerful telescopes. A must for astronomy buffs.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two days and one night is ideal: arrive early Day 1 to tackle the Grand High Tops walk (4–5 hours), then settle in for the star show after dark. Day 2 can be spent on a shorter hike, like the Burbie Canyon walk, or a visit to the observatory. If you’re short on time, a single night still rewards – but you’ll wish you’d stayed longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coonabarabran – The gateway town with the Australian Astronomical Observatory’s visitor centre and the Warrumbungle Observatory.
• Siding Spring Observatory – A working research observatory on a nearby mountain; tours offer a peek at professional telescopes.
• Pilliga Forest – Australia’s largest inland forest, with natural hot springs, Aboriginal rock art, and the Pilliga Scrub – a unique ecosystem.
• Dubbo – About 2 hours south, home to Taronga Western Plains Zoo and the Old Dubbo Gaol, great for families.
• Mount Kaputar National Park – Another volcanic landscape with stunning views and wildflower displays, about 3 hours north.

Please check official sources for current details.