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Dharawal National Park: A Bushland Escape

Explore Dharawal National Park: Bushwalking, Waterfalls & Aboriginal Culture South of Sydney.

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Discover Dharawal National Park, a diverse bushland paradise south of Sydney, offering walking tracks, waterfalls, and Aboriginal heritage. Explore its ancient landscapes and enjoy a refreshing escape into nature.

A brief summary to Dharawal National Park

  • Monday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Wear sturdy footwear suitable for hiking to navigate the varied terrain comfortably.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The most convenient way to reach Dharawal National Park is by car. From Campbelltown, follow Appin Road south, then turn left onto Woodland Road. Turn right onto Karrabul/Wedderburn Road and follow for 5km, then turn right onto Minerva Road which becomes Lysaght Road. After 2.5km, turn left onto Victoria Road until you reach the park entrance. Parking is free at the end of Victoria Road.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Dharawal National Park via public transport, take a train from Wollongong Station to Campbelltown Station. This trip usually takes about 40 minutes. From Campbelltown Station, catch a bus (Route 887) towards Appin. Get off at the Appin Park Road stop. The park entrance is a short walk from there. Make sure to check the bus schedules as they may vary on weekends. Single fares for the bus will cost approximately $2.20 - $4.60 [NSW]

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Discover more about Dharawal National Park

Dharawal National Park, located approximately 70km south of Sydney, offers a diverse bushland experience steeped in Aboriginal history and natural beauty. Proclaimed a national park in 2012, it protects significant Aboriginal sites and a unique network of creeks, including the ecologically-important O'Hares Creek catchment. The park's 6,500 hectares encompass tall eucalypts, heaths, swamps, waterfalls and rockpools, providing a haven for native wildlife. The park is the traditional land of the Dharawal Aboriginal people, who have lived in the area for over 15,000 years. Their connection to the land is evident in the ancient Aboriginal sites found within the park, including drawings and axe-grinding grooves. Visitors can learn about the Dharawal culture and heritage through guided Indigenous walks. Dharawal National Park offers a range of activities for nature lovers. Several walking tracks cater to different fitness levels, from the easy stroll to Maddens Falls to the more challenging Jingga Track. Highlights include Maddens Falls, Minerva Pool, and O'Hares Creek Lookout, each offering stunning views and unique experiences. The park is also ideal for birdwatching, cycling, and picnicking. Prior to becoming a national park, the area was a state conservation area and, before that, a water catchment area managed by Sydney Water. Seventy years of restricted public access have kept the area largely undisturbed, preserving its pristine surroundings. Today, Dharawal National Park provides a refreshing escape from city life, inviting visitors to connect with nature and learn about the rich Aboriginal heritage of the region.

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