Between the rugged beauty of the Blue Mountains National Park, the rich and varied offerings of the Royal National Park, and the sublime stargazing wonders at the Warrumbungles, it is easy to forget the quiet and underrated Conjola National Park. But it’s well worth remembering, specifically for nature lovers looking for a quick and accessible break from Sydney and other urban centres. It’s where you’ll find an appealing mix of natural wonders: turquoise lakes, near-empty beaches, bushwalking, dense forests, and abundant local wildlife. Rich in ancient Indigenous heritage, this is the perfect spot if you’re looking to escape the crowds at the more well-known parks and enjoy some tranquility this summer. Below, we’ve outlined some of the best things you can do on a trip to Conjola National Park.
Conjola National Park
Conjola may be one of NSW’s smaller and more underrated national parks but don’t let that fool you. Covering 11,060 hectares, the park offers lakes, cascading creeks, the ocean, and dense forests all in one. It’s also a wildflower haven in the warmer seasons and home to a variety of native flora and fauna. In-the-know residents are aware of its many charms but it often flies under the radar. Read on for the best things to do at this family-friendly national park near Sydney.
1. Explore Lake Conjola
The national park’s main attraction is the beautiful Lake Conjola, an excellent starting point to take in the many serene surroundings. Eucalypt forests fringe the lake with crisp, cool air and beautiful vistas to boot. The spot is perfect for families with plenty of outdoor adventures on offer and a nature lover’s paradise with fishing and boating particularly popular in this part of the national park. You can also find golden sand beaches here like Bendalong Beach with very few crowds along with caravans, cabins, and BBQ areas. It’s also a brilliant spot to catch the sunset.
2. Dive into exciting water sports
Visit NSW describes this spot as “an aquatic playground” so it’s the perfect place to beat the heat. You can take a dip in the sparkling blue waters, hire a pedal boat for a leisurely ride, or try your hand at water skiing. For those seeking something more relaxed, take a refreshing swim in the beautiful Berrara Beach, seek out a secluded swimming spot, or sit back and enjoy the lovely scenery.
3. Discover the local wildlife
Conjola National Park offers a rich array of native wildlife so don’t be surprised if you spot kangaroos grazing in the open fields, or hear the distinctive call of kookaburras through the trees. Noisy black cockatoos are a highlight and with a bit of luck, you might also catch sight of Eastern grey kangaroos, echidnas, owls, and black swans, all of which are frequently spotted throughout the park. The park is a recognised biodiversity hotspot, home to an impressive 429 species of plants and animals making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
4. Go on a coastal walk
While Conjola National Park is mainly known for its forests and lakes, the park also offers beautiful walks along the water specifically around Conjola Creek and Berrara Beach and through the lush forests. The walks are short and generally easy, ideal for a relaxing stroll but if you’re looking for longer trails, head to the nearby Booderee National Park which offers a picture-perfect blend of bush and coastal beauty.
5. Explore the nearby towns
Prefer to stay within close proximity of shops and restaurants? Consider the nearby coastal towns like Milton and Ulladulla, where you can enjoy the local shopping, and heritage streetscapes, dine at waterfront cafes and restaurants, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere and excellent harbour views. It’s the ideal pairing for your Conjola National Park itinerary, providing a mix of outdoor adventure with culture and coastal beauty.
What is the best time to visit Conjola National Park?
The national park is excellent to visit all year round. The months of September to November and March to May offer mild weather and wonderful foliage while the summer months are excellent for water activities. Winter offers crisp, fresh air and even fewer crowds and the forested areas of the national parks are excellent to explore this time of the year. Read more about Conjola National Park here.
Getting there
Conjola National Park is a protected area situated on the mid-south coast of New South Wales. It is a short 2 to 2.5-hour drive from Sydney making it an easy drive for a weekend getaway. To get there, take the Princes Highway or A1 South from Sydney, once you reach the area follow the signs to the park. The park is around the same distance from Canberra and can be reached via the Kings Highway. Find parking information and other facilities on the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.