National Parks - Upper Hunter Country

National Parks of The Upper Hunter

Each National Park, Nature reserve, Wilderness area or State Park features something unique; whether it be the world heritage listed Barrington Tops; the never-ending burning coal seam of Burning Mountain; the picturesque landscape within Goulburn River National Park.

Read further below for an overview of each National Park.

For more information about National Parks in Upper Hunter Country visit: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

Barrington Tops National Park

The World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops National Park lies between Scone, Dungog and Gloucester. The Upper Hunter provides a western gateway to the Park from Scone.

Over 390 species of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects can be found in the wilderness area. Enjoy the scenic drive along Barrington Tops Forrest Road and stop off at many of the lookouts for fantastic views over the Hunter Valley. The Barrington Tops plateau has a host of facilities and plenty of picnic areas for the day traveller with easy short walks. Camping facilities are available at Polblue, Devil’s Hole, Gummi Falls and Manning River. A range of hiking trails exist throughout the Park.

The majestic snow-covered ranges of the Barrington Tops are a must-see destination in winter.

With a highest peak of 1586m above sea level, snow may be possible at any time of the year but is more likely to occur in the colder months between May and June. The best spots to experience the snow are at the higher elevations on the plateau, accessible by vehicle on the Barrington Tops Forest Road. The main access road is steep and unsealed and can become very slippery in ice or snow. 4WD vehicles with good tyres and high ground clearance are better suited to the hazardous conditions, however, the road may be closed to all vehicles at short notice to ensure the safety of visitors.

To increase your chances of finding settled snow on the ground first check with the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) weather forecast before you go, or visit the Barrington Tops Snow Chasers page on Facebook for the latest updates.

Weather conditions at Barrington Tops can change very quickly so always be prepared and take spare warm dry clothing, blankets, food and water as a minimum.

Burning Mountain Nature Reserve

Burning Mountain Nature Reserve contains a 6,000-year-old underground naturally burning coal seam. A guided walking track, signposted with information panels leading from the Council car park, through previously burnt areas, to a viewing platform where the ever-burning coal seam and exhaust vents can be seen.

The 4.5km return walk is located 20km north of Scone and takes about an hour and a half to complete.

Goulburn River National Park

Goulburn River National Park is located west of Muswellbrook, south of Merriwa and east of Mudgee. The Park contains the Goulburn River meandering between rugged sandstone cliffs honeycombed with caves. Wide sandy riverbanks offering easy walking trails. Try to spot the multitude of wildlife including kangaroos, wombats, emus, red-neck wallabies, turquoise parrots and wedge-tailed eagles.

There are plenty of activities, including camping or picnicking at Spring Gully or Big River, and walking trails such as Lees Pinch Lookout. Walk along the Goulburn River and stand under The Drip on a hot day or check out the Aboriginal rock art at Hands on Rock. Take a dip in the swimming holes or bring along the canoe for a paddle along the river.

Towarri National Park

Towarri National Park and Wingen Maid Nature Reserve are only a 20-minute drive from Scone and a delight for bird watchers. Yellow-Tufted Honeyeaters, Kingfishers, and Glossy Black Cockatoos are just some of the species you will find.

Enjoy the Washpools Camping and Picnic Areas on the bank of Middle Brook and enjoy a swim in the culturally significant water hole, or take a remote walk over the Liverpool Range.

Take pleasure in the views of the Wingen Maid protruding from the sandstone cliffs as you drive to the park.

Wollemi National Park

New South Wales’ largest wilderness area is a spectacular maze of deep canyons, rocky cliffs, and undisturbed forest. Access Wollemi via Bulga and the Putty Road, or via Denman through Baerami.

A rich variety of diverse species including eastern grey kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, gliders, geckos and snakes exist in the park.

View breathtaking scenery of sandstone ridges and escarpments from the road along the Bylong Valley Way and the Widden Valley. Take a roadside break at Phipps Cutting and Honeysuckle Creek picnic areas.

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