Summary

Warrumbungle National park is an area of former volcanic activity. Its landscape includes forested ridges, barren spires and deep gorges. the park was added to the National Heritage List in 2006. It is an ideal destination for the bushwalker, pack camper, photographer, birdwatcher or those who simply enjoy watching sunlight change the colours on a cliff face. The park is also Australia's only Dark Sky Park. Nearby Siding Spring Observatory is a worthwhile stop and stargazing is fantastic from the park or one of the nearby public observatories.

Articles

History

John Oxley was the first European to explore the area in 1818. Oxley named the range the Arbuthnot Range but the Gamilaroi name, Warrumbungles meaning "crooked mountains" became the most common name.

In 2013 the park was ravaged by a massive bushfire. The Visitor Centre has details on the fire and explanations of the research and regeneration afterwards.

Features

The Siding Springs Observatory is adjacent to the park but only open during the day (at night it's busy doing research!) There are a number of public observatories nearby which offer nighttime shows.

The park is popular with rock climbers. Climbing routes can be found at the crag.

Access

Access to the park is along John Renshaw Parkway from Coonababran on the east or Tooraweenah on the west. The route is signposted from Coonababran. 

As you drive in from the east, entertain the children as you follow the 'Virtual Solar System' that leads to Siding Spring Observatory at the Park entrance - Virtual Solar System Drive.

Accommodation

The park has 8 campgrounds, many of which are walk in. Camp Blackman provides vehicular camping and is a popular base for walkers with barbecues, picnic tables and hot showers.

Contact details

https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/warrumbungle-national-park