Gundabooka National Park, NSW: Walks, wildlife & camping

Gundabooka National Park, NSW: Walks, wildlife & camping

Gundabooka National Park near Bourke, NSW, offers outback landscapes, walks to Aboriginal rock art, plenty of wildlife and a basic campground.

Where is Gundabooka National Park?

Gundabooka National Park is in outback New South Wales, a 52km drive south of Bourke. You’ll pass by on the Kidman Way on the drive from Bourke to Broken Hill or Melbourne to Cairns.

Walking in Gundabooka National Park

Gundabooka National Park offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels of fitness. The Mulgowan (Yappa) Aboriginal Art Site Walk is the most popular trail, taking hikers to ancient rock art.

The Mulgowan (Yappa) Aboriginal Art Site Walk is 1.5 km round-trip walk that takes visitors to an ancient Aboriginal rock art site.

The trail is suitable for most ages and fitness levels. It takes approximately one hour to complete. The trail is well-marked and has information boards that explain the history and cultural significance of the site.

The rock art features a range of images that depict animals, human figures, and symbols. The art is believed to have been created by the Ngemba and Paakantji people, who have a long-standing connection to the land and the surrounding area.

The Mulgowan (Yappa) Aboriginal Art Site is a significant cultural and historical site. Visitors are asked to stick to the viewing platform, and treat the site with respect and not to touch or disturb the rock art in any way.

Camping in Gundabooka National Park

Gundabooka National Park has one campground – Dry Tank – with basic facilities like toilets, picnic tables, and barbecue facilities. Camping is a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park. Alternative accommodation is available at the Belah Shearers Quarters.

For more information, visit the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.

Wildlife watching in Gundabooka National Park

The park is home to a diverse range of native wildlife, including kangaroos and emus. Birdwatchers can also spot numerous bird species in the park.

Stargazing in Gundabooka National Park

Gundabooka National Park is located in a remote area with minimal light pollution, making it a great place to observe the stars. The clear night skies offer a mesmerizing view of the Milky Way.

Photography in Gundabooka National Park

The park’s towering rock formations, rugged hills, and sweeping views provide a great backdrop for photographers. It’s an ideal location for those seeking to capture the natural beauty of the Australian outback.

Kangaroos grazing in Gundabooka National Park
Kangaroos grazing in Gundabooka National Park. Photo courtesy of Destination NSW.

Top Bourke accommodation options

There’s not a great array of accommodation in Bourke, but these are the best bets in order of preference:

More New South Wales travel

Walk to West Head Beach and Resolute Beach from the West Head Lookout.

What to do on a Sydney to Eden road trip.

Where to stop on the drive from Wagga Wagga to Mildura.

Sydney Olympic Park ferry – timetable and fare prices.

What to see on the drive from Scone to Tamworth.