Warrumbungle National Park

Warrumbungle National Park is located in New South Wales, Australia, in the state's central-western region. The park lies approximately 500 kilometers northwest of Sydney, with nearby towns including Coonabarabran and Gilgandra. Covering an area of 23,311 hectares, it is renowned for its rugged volcanic landscape, dramatic peaks, and clear night skies, making it a haven for both nature lovers and stargazers. The park was established in 1953, becoming Australia’s first designated Dark Sky Park in 2016 due to its exceptional stargazing conditions. Warrumbungle's volcanic origins, dating back around 13 million years, have shaped its unique and iconic landscapes, including the jagged spires of the Breadknife and the towering Bluff Mountain. The park also has cultural significance, being part of the traditional lands of the Gamilaroi people. Parking is available at several key areas throughout the park, including at the Visitor Centre, Camp Wambelong, and popular trailheads like the Breadknife and Grand High Tops. Parking is free for campers, while day-use visitors are required to pay a vehicle entry fee, typically around AUD $8 per day. Warrumbungle National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including eastern grey kangaroos, emus, and wallabies. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species recorded, including wedge-tailed eagles and the rare turquoise parrot. Koalas, though elusive, also inhabit the park’s eucalypt forests. The park’s flora includes open woodlands of cypress pine, casuarina, and eucalypts, along with pockets of rainforest species in sheltered areas. In spring, wildflowers such as orchids and wattles bloom across the landscape. Notable features include the iconic Breadknife, a 90-meter-high volcanic dyke, and the Grand High Tops trail, offering panoramic views of the park’s dramatic rock formations. The Siding Spring Observatory, located near the park, further enhances its reputation for astronomy. Public transport to the park is limited, with no direct bus or train services. Visitors typically drive from nearby towns like Coonabarabran, which is about 35 kilometers away, making private vehicle access the most convenient option. Photo Credit: Rob Cleary and Simone Cottrell