Mummel Gulf National Park

Mummel Gulf National Park is located in the Northern Tablelands region of New South Wales, Australia. It lies approximately 70 kilometers southeast of the city of Walcha and 135 kilometers northwest of the coastal town of Port Macquarie. The park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, known for its ancient and pristine landscapes. Established in 1999, Mummel Gulf National Park preserves a vital portion of Australia’s unique wilderness. It played an important role in conserving the habitat for endangered species and the park's establishment followed decades of advocacy to protect the region's old-growth forests from logging. The park offers two main parking areas: one at New Country Swamp and another at the Mummel Forest Road campground. There are no parking fees, but visitors must adhere to environmental guidelines, such as no littering and respecting the designated camping areas. Mummel Gulf is home to a variety of native wildlife, including the spotted-tailed quoll, eastern grey kangaroo, red-necked wallaby, and the rare powerful owl. Birdwatchers may also spot species like the wedge-tailed eagle and lyrebird. The dense forests provide a sanctuary for a wide array of plant species, including towering eucalyptus trees, acacias, and pockets of ancient rainforest. Key landmarks within the park include the Mummel River and the stunning Mummel Gulf Lookout, which offers sweeping views over the surrounding landscape. There are no public transport services directly to the park, so access is primarily by private vehicle. However, nearby towns like Walcha are accessible by bus or train, from where visitors can arrange further transport. Photo Credit: John Spencer