Washpool National Park Park

Address: Washpool National Park, New South Wales, Australia

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

Hours: Park open daily (daylight hours); visitor facilities have seasonal openings

Admission: Park fees vary by state rates - typically AUD$8-$15 for day entry; camping fees extra

Washpool National Park is a protected area in northern New South Wales that conserves pockets of rainforest, eucalypt forest and rugged sandstone country. It is recognised for its relatively remote and intact vegetation.

The park offers walking and bushcraft opportunities across forested ridges, river valleys and gorges rather than developed recreational infrastructure. Birdwatching and remote bushwalking are common activities in the park.

The park was established to protect significant natural communities and remains managed for conservation and low-impact recreation. Over time it has been incorporated into broader regional conservation planning.

Washpool National Park lies inland in northern New South Wales among dissected sandstone country and forested ridgelines; access is by rural roads and forest tracks from nearby regional towns.

• Access and walking: Remote walking tracks and rugged forest terrain mean many visitors plan multi-day trips and take suitable maps and supplies.

Washpool lies northwest of Grafton and is accessed from roads around Glen Innes and Gibraltar Range depending on the route. The park’s entrances are remote; a map and planning are needed. From Grafton it is a few hours’ drive; 4WD may be required for some park tracks.

• Take the Cathedral Rocks walking trail for dramatic granite tors and panoramic valley views - it's one of the park's best short hikes.
• Avoid the hottest months for extended hikes; wet eucalypt forests can be slippery and some tracks are remote.
• If aiming for rare fauna like the Hastings River mouse, book guided walks with park rangers or local eco-guides.