Abercrombie River National Park

Abercrombie River National Park is a beautiful and remote park located in the Central Tablelands region of New South Wales, approximately 220 kilometers west of Sydney. Though not directly in Sydney, it is close enough to be a great weekend escape from the city. Known for its rugged wilderness, deep gorges, and the tranquil Abercrombie River, the park is a perfect spot for camping, hiking, 4WD adventures, and spotting native wildlife.

How to Reach Abercrombie River National Park, Sydney

Abercrombie River National Park is most easily reached by car. From Sydney, take the Great Western Highway to Oberon, and then head south via Abercrombie Road toward Goulburn. The most commonly used access point is via Bummaroo Ford campground, which is signposted and suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry weather. However, many of the internal roads within the park require a 4WD vehicle, especially after rain.

There is no direct public transport to the park, so self-driving is necessary. Visitors are advised to carry detailed maps or GPS navigation because some areas can have poor mobile reception.

Weather

The climate in Abercrombie River National Park varies by season:

• Summer (Dec–Feb): Warm to hot, with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 35°C. Great for swimming in the river but watch for heat and bushfire warnings.
• Autumn (Mar–May): Mild and dry weather makes this a popular time for hiking and camping.
• Winter (Jun–Aug): Cold and frosty, with night temperatures often dropping below 0°C. Snow is rare but possible in higher elevations.
• Spring (Sep–Nov): Pleasant and fresh, with wildflowers in bloom and active wildlife.

Timings

The park is open all year round and accessible at any time. However, weather conditions such as heavy rain can make some roads impassable, particularly for non-4WD vehicles. Always check the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service website for alerts or closures before your visit.

Why Famous for Sydney?

While Abercrombie River National Park is not in Sydney, it is a popular destination for Sydneysiders looking for an outdoor adventure. It's famous for offering one of the most rugged wilderness experiences close to the city. The park is known for its remoteness, starry night skies, and the Abercrombie River—the largest continuous waterway in the NSW tablelands.

The park is also home to one of the largest populations of platypus in New South Wales, making it a draw for nature lovers and wildlife watchers.

Entry and Visit Details

Entry to Abercrombie River National Park is free. There are several campgrounds within the park, including:

• Bummaroo Ford: Accessible by 2WD, this is the most visited and well-equipped campground with toilets and picnic areas.
• Silent Creek, The Beach, and The Sink: More remote, suited for 4WD vehicles and those looking for a true wilderness experience.

There are no shops or fuel stations in the park, so visitors must bring all supplies including water, food, and fuel. Fires are only allowed in designated areas and during low fire risk times.

History and Architecture

The area has long been significant to the Wiradjuri and Gundungurra Aboriginal people, who lived and traveled through the region. You may find ancient cultural sites if you're lucky, but many are unmarked to protect their integrity.

During the 1800s, gold was discovered near Mount Gray within the park. Remnants of gold diggings, old water races, and sluices can still be seen along the walking trails. This mining history adds another layer of interest to the park, especially for history buffs.

Things to Do

• Hiking: Several short and moderate walking tracks offer scenic views of the gorges, creeks, and forests.
• Camping: Camp under the stars at remote bush camps or established sites like Bummaroo Ford.
• Fishing: The Abercrombie River is a popular spot for freshwater fishing, especially for trout.
• Swimming: Swim in deep natural pools during warmer months.
• 4WD Adventures: Explore challenging fire trails that run deep into the park’s terrain.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and platypus, especially around dawn and dusk.

Interesting Facts

• Abercrombie River is one of the last remaining free-flowing rivers in New South Wales.
• The park is home to over 50 species of birds and several rare animals.
• Mount Gray was once a bustling gold mining town in the 19th century, though little remains today.
• The park is known for having one of the darkest skies near Sydney—perfect for stargazing.

Tips for Visiting

• Bring plenty of water, food, and fuel—there are no shops nearby.
• Mobile phone reception is poor; download offline maps or carry a GPS.
• Always check weather and fire danger alerts before heading into the park.
• Use a 4WD for exploring the interior of the park, especially after rain.
• Take rubbish with you—there are no bins in the park.
• Be respectful of Aboriginal sites and do not disturb any cultural artefacts.