Dharawal National Park, Illawarra Travel Guide

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.