Goobang National Park Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Goobang National Park with this comprehensive travel guide, including information on attractions, activities, food, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Goobang National Park

Goobang National Park is a beautiful natural wonder in the Central West region of New South Wales, Australia. The park covers an area of over 44,000 hectares, and it offers visitors a diverse range of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenic views. The park is home to an array of unique flora and fauna, and it boasts fascinating cultural and historical attractions that are a must-see for any visitor. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about your visit to Goobang National Park.

List of Places to Visit in Goobang National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Caloma Trig Historical Site - Explore the ruins of the Caloma Homestead, which dates back to the early 1900s.
  • Ben Hall’s Cave - This cave was once used as a hideout by the infamous bushranger, Ben Hall.
  • Peak Hill Gold Mine Historic Site - Learn about the gold mining history of the region at this fascinating museum.

Natural Attractions of Goobang National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Lewis - Hike to the top of this mountain to take in panoramic views of the park.
  • Yellow Rock Lookout - Enjoy stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside from this popular viewing spot.
  • Goobang Creek - Go fishing or take a dip in the freshwater pools of this picturesque creek.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Goobang National Park

  • The Escarpment Walk - This challenging 6 km walk takes you to the top of Mount Calarie, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • The Pagoda Lookout - A scenic 8 km hike that takes you through stunning rock formations and offers breathtaking views from the lookout point.
  • The Bumberry Dam Loop Walk - This easy 5 km walk meanders around the Bumberry Dam, offering fantastic birdwatching opportunities along the way.

Best Things to Do in Goobang National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Stargazing - With low light pollution and clear night skies, Goobang National Park is one of the best spots for star-gazing.
  • Wildlife Watching - Spot kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and an array of birdlife throughout the park.
  • Cycling - The park has a network of cycling trails suitable for both beginners and experienced cyclists.

Week-Long Itinerary for Goobang National Park

Day Activity
1 Explore the Caloma Trig Historical Site
2 Walk the Escarpment Walk
3 Go fishing at Goobang Creek
4 Visit the Ben Hall’s Cave
5 Enjoy a picnic at Yellow Rock Lookout
6 Cycle through the park
7 Hike to the Pagoda Lookout

Food and Drink Scene of Goobang National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lamb Roast - A classic Australian dish that is a must-try in the region.
  • Meat Pies - These savory pies are a staple in Australian cuisine.
  • Grilled Kangaroo - For a unique culinary experience, try this lean meat, which is native to Australia.

Local Beverages

  • Australian Wine - The region is known for its award-winning wines, particularly Shiraz and Chardonnay.
  • Craft Beer - The microbrewery scene is growing in New South Wales, and many of the beers are crafted using locally-sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay in Goobang National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Bushland Village - This modern eco-lodge is located in the heart of the park, surrounded by pristine bushland.
  • Forbes Victoria Inn - This historic hotel is located in the nearby town of Forbes and offers comfortable accommodation for visitors.
  • Orange Motor Lodge - This budget-friendly motel is located just outside the park and offers easy access to all the attractions of the region.

What to Buy in Goobang National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Aboriginal Art - Many local artists sell their work in galleries in nearby towns.
  • Gold Panning Kit - Learn about the gold rush history of the region by trying your hand at panning for gold.
  • Local Wines - Take home a bottle of award-winning wine from a local vineyard.

Local Culture and Customs of Goobang National Park

The region has a deep and rich Indigenous history, and visitors should be respectful of the traditional custodians of the land, the Wiradjuri people. It’s important to recognize and respect the cultural significance of the area and to practice responsible tourism.

Best Time to Visit Goobang National Park

The best time to visit Goobang National Park is during the autumn months (March to May) when the weather is mild, and the leaves on the trees are changing colors. The park is also beautiful in the spring (September to November) when the wildflowers are in bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Goobang National Park

Do:

  • Take plenty of water and snacks on hikes.
  • Leave no trace - take all rubbish with you.
  • Respect the environment - stick to designated trails, and don’t disturb any wildlife.

Don’t:

  • Light fires outside of designated areas.
  • Disturb any Aboriginal cultural heritage sites.
  • Take any plants or wildlife from the park.

Safety and Health

Safety in Goobang National Park

  • Stick to designated trails and avoid unsafe areas, such as rock ledges.
  • Always let someone know your intended route and expected return time.
  • Be aware of Australian wildlife – don’t approach or feed them.

Health in Goobang National Park

  • The park has limited medical facilities, so it’s important to bring any necessary medication with you.
  • Protect yourself from the sun and heat by wearing protective clothing and sunscreen.

Getting to Goobang National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Goobang National Park

The nearest major airport is Sydney International Airport, which is approximately 4 hours drive from the park.

Bus Stations Near Goobang National Park

The nearest bus station is in Forbes (30 minutes drive from the park).

Other Options

The park is accessible by car via the Mitchell Highway, which runs through the park.

How to Get Around in Goobang National Park

The park has a well-maintained road network, and most attractions can be reached by car. Cycling is also an excellent way to explore the park.

Where to Go Next from Goobang National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Orange - This vibrant wine town is just an hour’s drive from the park and offers visitors fantastic food, wine, and art.
  • Forbes - Explore the history of gold mining in this charming town located just half an hour from the park.
  • Parkes Radio Telescope - Fans of astronomy will love seeing one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks in nearby Parkes.

Conclusion

Goobang National Park is a hidden gem in the Central West region of New South Wales and offers visitors an incredible experience of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your visit to this unique destination and provided you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip. Enjoy your stay in Goobang National Park!

The view from Caloma lookout The view from Caloma lookout