Exploring a national park in summer is a rite of passage, but for those who crave adventure, solitude, and nature, winter might just be NSW’s best-kept secret. Say goodbye to crowds and hello to wide-open spaces in these expansive playgrounds that come into their own in cooler weather. Some of these parks transform into snowy wonderlands in winter, others offer a respite from the cold, others offer rainforest trails best explored without the summer heat, and a few promise thermal pools for a therapeutic winter swim. Whatever your interest, NSW national parks have varied landscapes and offerings, perfect for nature lovers, photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and more. Here are our top picks for NSW national parks that are even better in winter.
Before you plan your winter getaway, don’t forget to check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website for any alerts or closures in the area.
1. Kosciuszko National Park
For: Snow, skiing, and epic scenery
As the largest national park in NSW, Kosciuszko will not leave you wanting for adventure. Spanning 673,542 hectares, the park offers a striking mix of landscapes and adventures. It’s home to Australia’s highest peak, the southern hemisphere’s largest ski resort, the country’s highest ski runs, an iconic thermal pool well worth the hike, ancient caves, and mountain vistas at every turn. In winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland. Tackle the Snowies Alpine Walk, explore the charming small towns of Tumut or Jindabyne, or explore the fascinating Yarrongobilly Caves. Find a full itinerary for Kosciuszko National Park here.
2. Blue Mountains National Park
For: Walking trails and natural wonders
With crisp mountain air and expansive views, winter is the perfect time to visit the Blue Mountains National Park. Just a short drive from Sydney, it makes for an excellent day trip idea with beautiful alpine climate, perfect for exploring the walking trails and the potential for light snowfall. There are miles and miles of trails here, historic attractions, and iconic lookouts throughout the park, best explored in mild weather and low humidity. Traverse the Grand Cliff Top walk, spot glowworms after dark, explore the quaint towns of Katoomba and Blackheath, or embark on an after-dark adventure through world heritage listed sites.
3. Warrumbungle National Park
For: Stargazing and camping
For a national park so rich in natural wonders, Warrumbungle surprisingly still flies under the radar. Physically, it has it all: majestic bushland, beautiful rock formations, and beautiful views. Plus, as Australia’s first Dark Sky Park, it’s a stargazer’s dream, with high altitude, minimal light pollution, and magical night skies. To make the most of your trip, book an overnight camping trip and sleep under the stars — just pack plenty of warm layers, as it gets chilly out here. But the views are well worth it. If you want to get off the beaten path and try something new, you can certainly do so in this wild and wonderful part of the state.
4. Sydney Harbour National Park
For: Picnic areas and coastal trails
Sydneysiders looking for adventure can find it in droves in their backyard at the Sydney Harbour National Park. A picturesque blend of harbour islands, secluded beaches, gorgeous lookouts, and rugged sandstone cliffs, this is the place to be in winter. Sunny days are the norm, and coastal walks are particularly beautiful under the soothing winter sun with beautiful turquoise water views that stretch for miles. Plus, there are ample opportunities for whale watching in winter. Don’t miss the iconic red and white Hornby Lighthouse and the ever-famous Spit to Manly walk. It’s now home to a brand new walking track, so there’s even more reason to explore.
5. Dorrigo National Park
For: Atmospheric waterfalls and ancient rainforests
Dorrigo National Park is the place to be if you’re chasing waterfalls. From the picture-perfect Dangar Falls to the fascinating Crystal Shower Falls, it’s a playground for nature lovers. Although it’s most popular in summer, winter is the time to go for fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere. Plus, the rainforests are lush and misty in the winter fog and beautiful to walk through, and the waterfalls are perfect for a dramatic photo op after a day of seasonal rainfall. Another reason to go: you can camp just steps away from one of the most iconic waterfalls in the national park.
6. Mungo National Park
For: Unique landscapes and outback adventure
NSW is home to over 200 national parks, each better than the last, but Mungo is easily one of the most fascinating. This is where the oldest human remains in Australia — and some of the oldest anywhere else in the world — were discovered, making it a site of immense cultural significance and Aboriginal history. Just as striking are the almost lunar landscapes of the park, made up of sculpted sand dunes and ancient, dried-up lake beds. In winter, visitors are also treated to incredible stargazing and mild temperatures ideal for outdoor exploration. Plan your trip with our guide to Mungo National Park.
7. Barrington Tops National Park
For: Overnight hikes and snowy landscapes
This protected national park in the Hunter Valley region often flies under the radar, but it’s a true hidden gem for nature lovers. In summer, you can dive into the emerald swimming holes and discover the tumbling waterfalls. In the cooler months, the rugged landscapes transform into a frosty playground with a real chance of snowfall between June to August, rainforest walking tracks, scenic drives and cosy accommodation surrounded by ancient landscapes. Plus, with the promise of far fewer crowds than the summer months, you might get many of its most scenic spots to yourself.
8. Wollemi National Park
For: Local wildlife and beautiful drives
World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park is best known for its scenic walks and wild landscapes — well, that and its dinosaur trees. This is where the last of the Wollemi pines were discovered — one of the world’s oldest and rarest trees that dates back 91 million years. If you’re visiting in winter, make sure to stop by the famed glow worm cave (just keep your torch pointed at the ground), set up camp beneath dramatic escarpments, or take a quiet, picturesque drive through the vast wilderness, with barely another soul in sight.