Dunggir National Park

Dunggir National Park is located in New South Wales, Australia, about 480 kilometers north of Sydney and 45 kilometers inland from the coastal city of Nambucca Heads. The park is situated near the small towns of Macksville and Bowraville in the Mid North Coast region, offering a secluded and scenic experience for nature lovers. Established in 1997, Dunggir National Park was created to protect its rich biodiversity, including both subtropical rainforests and eucalyptus forests. The park's name comes from the local Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal people, meaning “koala,” reflecting the area’s significance to Indigenous culture and the presence of koalas in the region. Parking facilities are available at several points within the park, with main parking areas located near the major walking trails. There are no entry or parking fees, but visitors are encouraged to use designated parking spaces to minimize their impact on the environment. Dunggir National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the koala, common ringtail possum, sugar glider, and several bird species such as the glossy black cockatoo and rose-crowned fruit-dove. The park’s forests provide important habitats for these species, some of which are considered vulnerable or endangered. The flora of the park is equally varied, with dense sections of rainforest dominated by species like the white booyong, corkwood, and red cedar. The park also features dry sclerophyll forests with tall eucalypts and patches of native grassland. A notable feature of Dunggir National Park is its mountainous terrain, including Mount Dunggir, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The park’s walking trails take visitors through the lush forest and offer a peaceful, remote experience. Public transport options to the park are limited. Visitors typically need a car to access Dunggir National Park, with the nearest bus services available in nearby towns like Macksville and Nambucca Heads. Photo Credit: Robert Cleary