With its iconic, volcanic peaks soaring above the valley below, plus the honour of being Australia’s only Dark Sky Park, a trip to Warrumbungle National Park is truly a unique weekend away.

 

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on the traditional Country of the Gamilaraay, the Wiradjuri and the Weilwan. peoples who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

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Quick Overview

Warrumbungle National Park boasts a 14.5km long loop trail in the Orange region in New South Wales. The drive from Sydney to Warrumbungle National Park takes about 6 hours to complete.

In his book, ‘When Breath Becomes Air‘, Dr Paul Kalanithi perfectly explains the magic of the mountains – ‘You can’t help but feel your speck-like existence among the immensity of a mountain’.

Add to the mix vast starry skies with clear views of distant universes, and you’ve got yourself a truly humbling experience. This is the magic combo on offer in the Warrumbungle National Park, Australia’s first designated Dark Sky Park, located in central-west New South Wales.

 

Australia’s Only Dark Sky Park

Low levels of light pollution, low humidity and high altitude combine here to produce crystal clear night skies so amazing they’re protected and used for scientific research. You can geek up on all of this stuff at the Warrumbungle Observatory night sky show – let the astronomers blow your mind with out-of-this-world facts as you stare into a sky full of stars.

What is a Dark Sky Park? 

A Dark Sky Park is a designated area, typically a national park or protected reserve, that has implemented measures to preserve and protect the quality of its night sky from light pollution. Designated as an International Dark Sky Park in 2016, the Warrumbungles provide a space where stargazers and astronomers alike can revel in pristine, unadulterated night skies.

 

Milky Way Magic

After sunset and before the moon rises is generally the best time to see the Milky Way in all its starry glory. You can pull over anywhere on the main road that passes through the park (switch off those headlights) or a great spot to stop is the open field in Camp Blackman. You don’t have to be staying here to enjoy the views and it’s a popular choice with local photographers.

About Warrumbungle National Park

Nearest town: Coonabarabran

Warrumbungle National Park, located in New South Wales, Australia, is a captivating natural haven renowned for its ancient rock formations, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. With a total area of approximately 23,311 hectares, the park offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences blending adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.

If you’re looking for amenities and supplies near Warrumbungle National Park, the closest town to consider is Coonabarabran. While the park itself doesn’t have any facilities, Coonabarabran provides convenient options for various needs. In the town, you’ll find a fuel station to fill up your vehicle, a supermarket to stock up on groceries and essentials, and a selection of cafes and restaurants to grab a bite to eat. Additionally, if you prefer accommodations other than camping, Coonabarabran offers a range of lodging options to suit your preferences.

Warrumbungle National Park Pass

Cost: $8 per vehicle per day.

You can buy a national parks pass from the NPWS website.

Best Time to Visit Warrumbungle National Park

The best time to visit Warrumbungle National Park is between April and Septemebr as the cooler weather makes for more pleasant hiking and clearer skies.

Essential Gear

  • Warm clothes for stargazing
  • Proper hiking boots
  • Camping gear
  • Water and drink bottle!
  • Camera

How To Get to Warrumbungle National Park

The Warrumbungles is a solid 6-hour drive from Sydney, so break at Mudgee (drink some wine and spend the night!) or start early and gun it straight to the Warrumbungles Visitor Centre, the park’s epicentre and a great info point.

Activities

  • Camping
  • Hiking
  • Stargazing
  • Sunset watching!

Skill Level

The hikes range from beginner to intermediate.

Hiking the Warrumbungles: Best Hikes and Walks

By day, the Warrumbungles is equally spectacular with a bunch of great treks to tackle such as Belougery Split Rock, and the Breadknife and Grand High Tops walking tracks. Each is as epic as it sounds, offering show-stopping views of the volcanic mountain range that gives this park its name – Warrumbungle is the Gamilaroi word for ‘crooked mountain’.

1. The Breadknife & Grand High Tops Walk

Distance: 14.5km
Time: 5 hours

The Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk is a challenging 14.5km loop that’ll get your heart rate up for all the right reasons – the panoramic views at the top are so unreal you’ll feel like you’ve been dropped into a Jurassic video game!

It’s also widely recognized as one of the top hiking trails in New South Wales! If you only have time  to complete a single hike in the Warrumbungles, be sure to choose the Breadknife!

Starting at Pincham car park, the ascent to the summit of Grand High Tops is truly remarkable. Along the entire path, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the famous Breadknife, Belougery Spire, and Bluff Mountain.

The climb itself is challenging and steep, featuring sections with steps and steeply paved pathways. Along the way, there are conveniently placed benches where you can take a quick break if needed. It’s essential to bring an ample supply of water for this adventure.

2. Fans Horizon Walking Track

Distance: 3.6km
Time: 1.5 hours

A quicker hike if you’re short on time is the Fans Horizon walking track, just 3.6km but with enough of a climb to get some pretty sick mountain views. A steep climb from Pincham car park will reward you with a stellar view!

3. Belougery Split Rock

Distance: 4.6km
Time: 2 hours

Belougery Split Rock is a deceptive 4.6km trek with plenty of elevation, including an optional scramble to the very pinnacle if you’re feeling brave – you’re virtually rock climbing when it comes to the really steep bits, with the aid of metal handles hammered into the rock – trust in the metal, hold on tight and don’t look down!

4. Sundowners at Whitegum Lookout

Distance: 500m
Time: 10 minutes

Once you’re back down from cloud nine, make a stop at Whitegum Lookout to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Take a moment to appreciate this epic nature playground at 60bpm as the sky spills into all kinds of firey red and orange hues. Big ups planet earth!

 

Warrumbungles Camping

Warrumbungle National Park offers a variety of campgrounds for amidst its natural splendor. It is important to note that all the campsites within the park require an online booking through the NSW National Parks website.

The campsites offer a unique and immersive experience, allowing you to fully embrace the essence of nature. Whether you prefer setting up a tent, parking your camper trailer, bringing along a caravan, the campgrounds have something for every camping experience.

If you’re looking for the ultimate wilderness experience, there are remote campgrounds for self-sufficient hikers along some of the trekking routes – check out Dows Camp on the Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk. 

 

1. Camp Blackman

If you’re in a campervan or looking to pitch a tent, Camp Blackman is a kilometre down the road and offers that feeling of remoteness with the added bonus of toilets and hot showers. The campground has a number of powered and unpowered sites available to book.

2. Camp Walaay

Nestled alongside the serene Wambelong Creek, offering breathtaking vistas of Belougery Split Rock, Camp Wambelong presents an idyllic setting for relaxation and an immersive encounter with nature.

This haven serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the extensive network of walking and biking trails that crisscross the enchanting landscapes of the Warrumbungles.

Grab a pack and embark on a journey to behold the scenic wonders along the Belougery Split Rock circuit, the captivating Burbie Canyon walking track, or the invigorating Mount Exmouth walking track.

Tips for Visiting Warrumbungle National Park

  • Book campsites ahead on the NSW National Parks website.
  • Take plenty of supplies as the nearest shops are in Coonabarabran
  • It can get pretty cold at night in the winter. Make sure your sleeping bag is warm!

So what are you waiting for? Whether hiking along the various trails, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna, or simply taking in the sweeping vistas, the Warrumbungle National Park is the place to be!