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Dandahra picnic area

Natural Attractions

Dandahra picnic area

Situated right on the doorstep of iconic Gibraltar Range and Washpool World Heritage Area, Dandahra picnic area is a perfect pit stop on a driving tour of NSW North Coast. Located halfway between Glen Innes and Grafton, right next to Gwydir Highway, it’s also a convenient spot for nature-lovers and bushwalkers keen to explore the lush rainforests protected in this region. Unpack a picnic at the picnic tables, or spark up a barbecue and enjoy a leisurely lunch in this scenic bushland setting. There’s lovely scenic views and interesting local native wildlife to watch while you eat. If you’re keen to step out, try Little Dandahra Creek walking track. If you like birdwatching, keep an eye out for the glossy black cockatoos that call this area home. You might even hear the call of the endangered giant barred frog.

Gibraltar Range NSW

0.1 km away

Little Dandahra Creek Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: Rob Cleary

Natural Attractions

Little Dandahra Creek Walking Track

Little Dandahra Creek walking track is the ideal way to get acquainted with the landscape of Gibraltar Range National Park. This superb walking track leads you past enormous granite outcrops, through montane heathlands and alongside pristine waterways. Take a break and soak in the cool running waters and natural pools of Little Dandahra Creek, where you’ll feel dwarfed by the magnificent rocky landscape. Keep your binoculars close for birdwatching, there are many birds that feed and breed in the area. This track is great for those looking to go hiking for the first time as it is quite an easy day’s trek. Mulligans campground awaits you at the other end where you can set up a tent and put the billy on to boil.

Gibraltar Range NSW

0.2 km away

Platypus Picnic Area — Image credit: Photo: Rob Cleary

Natural Attractions

Platypus Picnic Area

Not far from the popular Dandahra picnic area, Platypus Picnic Area is a quieter alternative for travellers on the Gwydir Highway who want to get a sense of Gibraltar Range National Park without driving too far off the road. A good pit stop for a leisurely lunch, Platypus picnic area allows you to see wildflowers in spring like the famous Gibraltar waratah. Native birds roost in the trees overhead, making this a tidy spot for birdwatching too. Plus, it isn’t called Platypus for nothing: you might glimpse one of these elusive creatures swimming in Little Dandahra Creek. Platypus picnic area has wood barbecues and plenty of table space – all the basics for an enjoyable afternoon. But if this small taste of the park has you intrigued, try the short hike to Anvil Rock, with superb scenic views over the surrounding area. Alternatively, pack the bicycle and hit the service trails.

Gibraltar Range NSW

0.3 km away

Dandahra Crags Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: Rob Cleary/Seen Australia

Natural Attractions

Dandahra Crags Walking Track

With its crags and swamps, Dandahra Crags walking track is a unique track within Gibraltar Range National Park. Through spring and summer, the wildflowers are on display around Surveyors Swamp, which the track skirts. In winter, get up early and watch the sun rise over the frost-covered swamp from the top of the crags. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts. Bring your camera along to record the experience. The area, with its montane swamps, huge granite outcrops and wildflowers, is quite a photographer’s paradise. Binoculars will also come in handy for birdwatching. Dandahra Crags walking track is great for people looking for a moderately-challenging hike with a bit of a climb at the end. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the scenic views out towards Raspberry lookout and Mann River Valley from the top of the crags.

Gibraltar Range NSW

3.0 km away

Granite picnic area

Natural Attractions

Granite picnic area

Granite picnic area is a lovely lunch spot just a stone's throw from the stunning views of Granite lookout. Located just 1km from the Gwydir Highway off Coachwood Drive, it makes for an enjoyable stop-off if you're passing by, or an impressive launching pad for your exploration of Washpool National Park. With picnic tables and a well-equipped barbecue shelter, settle in for an ambient lunch in a pleasant, all-weather setting among the eucalypt trees. After your barbecue, why not enjoy an easy amble along the 400m Granite lookout walk through forest and rocky granite outcrops to the lookout, where you'll be rewarded with picturesque views across the south-eastern forests of this spectacular World Heritage-listed landscape. On a clear day you can see all the way to Wollumbin-Mount Warning.

Gibraltar Range NSW

3.3 km away

Gibraltar-Washpool World Heritage Walk — Image credit: Photo: Koen Dijkstra

Natural Attractions

Gibraltar-Washpool World Heritage Walk

Within the mountainous Northern Tablelands, high above Clarence River Valley, a very special track links Gibraltar Range and Washpool National Parks. Gibraltar-Washpool World Heritage walk passes through dramatic and ever-changing natural environments with numerous side track options for further exploration. Dry eucalypt forests, set amidst ridges and granite tors, are surrounded by sub-alpine swamp. Lush rainforests hold the largest tract of coachwood trees in the world. Waterfalls plummet from a lacework of streams and wild rivers. In the 1880s, tin mining took place around Grassy Creek and remains of an ore crusher can still be seen along the eastern side of this waterway. O’Hara’s Rock marks the spot where, in 1873, a grazier by that name camped and tried to figure out a faster stock route over Gibraltar Range. Wades Mill, at Boundary Falls campground, dates back to historic logging days. You can add any or all of the 13 adjoining walks and routes along the way and increase your walking adventure to up to 100 kilometres.

Gibraltar Range NSW

3.3 km away

Gibraltar Range National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Gibraltar Range National Park

Home to remarkable plants and animals that have evolved since the age of dinosaurs, Gibraltar Range is a special place that forms part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. This series of parks and reserves stretches from Barrington Tops to southern Queensland. Strike out on a mountain biking track past huge granite outcroppings that overlook ancient rainforest. Swim in creeks surrounded by remnants of early colonial history. Camp in fragrant woodlands and listen to giant barred frogs during their nightly chorus. Take a morning walk for the waratahs and Christmas bells, or load up your backpack and embark on a rugged multi-day hiking adventure. There are sweeping lookouts and swooping yellow-bellied gliders, a comfortable cottage for hire and plenty of picnic spots to settle down with the family on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Gibraltar Range National Park is a rarity; historic and appealing to a modern audience, a treasure trove for heritage buffs, naturalists, adventure junkies, and people just looking for a quiet place to appreciate the natural wonders of NSW.

Gibraltar Range NSW

3.5 km away

Washpool National Park — Image credit: Photo: Rob Cleary

Natural Attractions

Washpool National Park

Washpool National Park, north-west of Grafton or east of Glen Innes, offers wilderness walks and camping in stunning World Heritage surrounds. Take time out to explore the unparalleled landscapes of Washpool National Park, a place of steep gorges, clear waters and magnificent tracts of ancient rainforest. You’ll find some of the most varied and least-disturbed forest in NSW, including the world’s largest stand of coachwood trees and extraordinary specimens of giant red cedar. Washpool and adjacent Gibraltar Range National Park are part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, and offers wonderful wilderness walks lasting half an hour to several days, along with simple, miles-from-care camping and picnicking opportunities in gorgeous surrounds. It’s also a natural haven for an incredible diversity of plants, mammals, amphibians, reptiles and birds, including some of Australia’s rarest and most unusual creatures, like the once thought to be extinct parma wallaby, the pouched frog, the long-nosed potoroo, and the beautiful, cat-like spotted-tailed quoll.

Gibraltar Range NSW

3.6 km away

Coombadjha Nature Stroll — Image credit: Photo: Rob Cleary

Natural Attractions

Coombadjha Nature Stroll

Whether you’re picnicking, camping or just passing by, the Coombadjha nature stroll is a Washpool National Park must-do. From Coachwood Picnic Area, the 400 metre bitumen track takes you through World Heritage listed Rainforest to a viewing platform on the pretty Coombadjha Creek. Return the same way or continuing along the loop walk on a delightful journey along the banks of the pretty Coombadjha creek and through a variety of forest types. You’ll find track posts along the easy walk offering insights on the flora and fauna of this special place. The creek viewing platform is a great spot to pause and refresh, while the fern-fringed, shallow Coachwood pool below is an inviting opportunity to cool off with a swim.

Gibraltar Range NSW

4.4 km away

Coachwood picnic area — Image credit: OEH

Natural Attractions

Coachwood picnic area

Coachwood picnic area is a scenic retreat in a rainforest clearing near the Coombadjha creek. Pack a picnic hamper and settle in with the sounds of the forest as your lunchtime soundtrack. When the gourmet goodies have been devoured, why not savour the sensory treats of the Coombadjha nature stroll, which starts at the picnic area? This short walk through World Heritage-listed rainforest will lead you to a viewing platform and a shallow pool perfect for a splash on a warm day. There's also an information display at the picnic area and explanatory signs along the walking track offering insights into this pristine world.

Gibraltar Range NSW

4.6 km away

Washpool Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: Rob Cleary

Natural Attractions

Washpool Walking Track

Immerse yourself in the timeless wonder of the warm temperate forests of Washpool National Park, near Glen Innes. This moderately challenging loop offers the rare opportunity to experience the ancient stands of World Heritage Gondwana Rainforest. Leading from Coombadjha campground, it's an ideal hike for experienced walkers who enjoy birdwatching and wildlife spotting in pristine wilderness. Winding through gentle hills, this clearly sign posted walking track leads to one of the largest stands of coachwood forest in NSW. You’ll see picturesque waterfalls and spectacular views, with a chance to spot rainforest locals such as satin bower birds and lyrebirds. Summit Creek is a great spot for a break and the beautiful surrounds make for some superb nature photography. Picnic along the way or head back for a barbecue lunch at the campground, where you might be tempted to camp overnight.

Gibraltar Range NSW

4.7 km away

Lyrebird Falls Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: Rob Cleary / Seen Australia

Natural Attractions

Lyrebird Falls Walking Track

For a delightful in Gibraltar Range National Park that all the family will enjoy, follow Lyrebird Falls walking track through open forest to the edge of the steep-sided valley cut by Boundary Creek. The forest, dominated by tall eucalypts, is also home to grass trees, tree ferns and wattles. The scenic lookout at the end of the track offers views onto gorgeous little waterfalls and over Boundary Creek. As the name suggests, lyrebirds inhabit the forest areas that this track passes through, so keep an eye out and the binoculars handy. Wedge-tailed eagles can also often be seen soaring above on the thermals. The trailhead for Lyrebird Falls is at Boundary Falls picnic area, which is just off the highway. So, if you're passing on a road trip through northern NSW, take a break from the road, make a cuppa and stretch your legs along this track.

Moogem NSW

6.6 km away

Mann River

Natural Attractions

Mann River

Jackadgery's Nymboida/Mann River system, on the north coast NSW, is a great, remarkably underrated freshwater camping, fishing and canoeing destination. A beautiful riverside spot for picnicking, Mann River offers scenic views, swimming and fishing. If you're heading west, pack the lilo, boogie board, and floaties. Before you head up the range, take the five-minute detour off the Gwydir Highway to Cangai Bridge for a quick refresher in the clear, cool waters of the Mann or cruise the river in your kayak or canoe. The Mann River makes up the middle stage of the Longest Whitewater Trail in Australia. It's advised that you first contact one of our experienced local operators before hitting the rapids. Remember, preparation is key when choosing to adventure on the great whitewater trail. Your safety is number one. You'll love this place, it's perfect for the whole family.

Cangai NSW

14 km away

Nymboida National Park — Image credit: Photo: D Parkin

Natural Attractions

Nymboida National Park

Trek in the wilderness, canoe the rapids, explore the region’s history and camp in pristine bush along Nymboida and Mann rivers at Nymboida National Park. If you want complete immersion in nature, Nymboida National Park gives you the chance to canoe the rapids on Nymboida and Mann rivers, 4WD into the wilderness, and camp in pristine bushland. You’ll be rewarded with views of the dramatic rock formations, excellent birdwatching opportunities, challenging white-waters, and an unbeatable feeling of being a long way from day-to-day life. Self-reliant hikers can bushwalk and camp, while those who like to take things at a more relaxed pace can lay back and watch the white-bellied sea eagles soaring above the river. This can all be done at the very pretty campground on the bank of the Nymboida. In summer, there’s nothing better than a swim in the cool, clear waters of the river. Pick a safe spot and revel in the tranquillity of this unspoilt place.

Jackadgery NSW

19 km away

Tommys Rock Lookout and Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Tommys Rock Lookout and Walking Track

For unending scenic wilderness views over The Great Dividing Range, head for Tommys Rock lookout and walking track, in beautiful Mann River Nature Reserve, near Glen Innes. The imposing rocky knob, a short drive from Mann River campground and picnic area, is accessible by a short walk. However fit bushwalkers will love the challenge of the steep walking track to the summit. Whichever way you get there, the crisp mountain air and panoramic views will take your breath away. Named after Tommy McPherson, a remarkable Aboriginal man who, legend suggests, was a skilled stockman, bushranger, escaped fugitive and gold digger. If you’re walking the steep track, pause to catch your breath and keep your eyes peeled for signs of Tommy’s secret gold mine. Brush-tailed rock wallabies, with their distinct cheek stripe, live around the rocks near the lookout. You might also hear the raucous glossy black cockatoos feasting on the nearby she-oaks.

Diehard NSW

31 km away

Mann River Nature Reserve — Image credit: NSW Government

National Parks and Reserves

Mann River Nature Reserve

Nestled amongst the magnificent mountain range of northern NSW lies a tranquil riverside setting. With loads of natural beauty and historic significance, Mann River Nature Reserve is perched on the eastern edge of the New England Tablelands, near Glen Innes. With superb scenic views across The Great Dividing Range, it's ideal for camping or stopping for a picnic on a car tour. Nature lovers will revel in the abundant wildlife, crystal clear waters and clear mountain air. Historically, the area would have been a popular gathering place for local Aboriginal groups. Ngarabul People from the northern tablelands as well as the coastal Gunbaynggir would have made the most of the abundant wildlife and natural beauty. Once popular with bushrangers, it's now filled with self-sufficient campers who enjoy swimming and rock-hopping along the majestic Mann River. If you're after something more leisurely, make like a lizard and sun yourself on the smooth boulders along the river's edge.

Kingsgate NSW

33 km away

Uki Mountain Bike Park

Natural Attractions

Uki Mountain Bike Park

Set amongst the stunning backdrop of Wollumbin / Mt Warning in the Tweed Valley, the Uki Mountain Bike Park covers more than 6.4 kilometres and includes eight mountain bike trails and a pump track. All trails have been constructed to International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) trail construction standards. There is one climbing trail (green) and seven descending trails. Three green trails (beginner) Three blue trails (more difficult) One black diamond trail (very difficult). The pump track is for all ages but specifically designed for kids aged 5 – 12 years. The network includes natural terrain, constructed technical features, obstacles, drop-offs, bridges and steep land. Always ride within your abilities and start on green trails. Only progress to the blue and black trails if you have the skills and experience to ride them. The Tweed Shire Council community facility is operated in partnership with Tweed Valley Mountain Bike Riders (TVMTBR) and located on Council-owned operational land. The Uki Mountain Bike Park is built and maintained by volunteers. The facility is part of Council’s commitment to providing our community with opportunities to be active and healthy, as well as ensuring the Tweed is a vibrant place to live and visit.

Smiths Creek NSW

41 km away

Boyd River

Natural Attractions

Boyd River

Step back in time along the winding Boyd River, northern NSW, as it makes its way towards the east. Driving along the Old Glenn Innes Highway you can follow this river along its banks from Buccarumbi through to the turn off the Newton Boyd as you head up the range. Watch the water glisten in the sun as it flows swiftly over shallow rocky bottoms and through intermittent deep pools. Spot some of the area's wildlife including kangaroos, echidnas, wombats and lyrebirds. Keep an eye out for the golden, blue and red dragonflies too. Despite coming from the mountains six months of the year, the water was the perfect temperature for swimming making it a beautiful place to visit any time of the year.

Dalmorton NSW

41 km away

Copmanhurst Saddlery Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Copmanhurst Saddlery Museum

Nestled in the rural heartland, the Copmanhurst Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into life in the Clarence Valley during the early 1900s. The museum houses a rich assortment of historical photos, vintage saddles, bridles, utensils, household items, and period clothing, all generously donated by local families. This collection weaves a vivid tapestry of the valley’s agricultural past, giving visitors an intimate look at the everyday life of the community’s early settlers. Open the fourth Sunday of each month.

Copmanhurst NSW

46 km away

Old Glen Innes Road and the Historic Tunnel Grafton

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Old Glen Innes Road and the Historic Tunnel Grafton

For those who want to explore a place out of time, the Old Glen Innes Road, between Grafton and the tablelands, northern NSW, offers tourists a rare view. This is the land of flowing waters and steep escarpments, dry ridges and lush, dark valleys. The Orara, Nymboida, Boyd, Guy Fawkes, Henry and Mann rivers all cross this historic route before they feed into the mighty Clarence. The Old Glen Innes Road was constructed using civilian labour during the 1800s. One highlight is the short tunnel carved out of the rock a few kilometres west of Dalmorton. Scrawled upon its ceiling is graffiti dating from the 1880s, written in black paint, each figure finished with a curl so typical of the era. Heading west out of South Grafton puts you onto the Gwydir Highway. Travel about seven kilometres along until you reach the top of the hill and take the left-hand turn onto the Old Glen Innes Road. Follow this road for 40 kilometres until it turns to gravel at the locality of Buccurumbi. Cross the low-level bridge that sits beside the remains of its flood-stricken predecessor at the picturesque junction of Nymboida and Boyd Rivers. It is recommended for four-wheel drives and take the narrow road slow.

Grafton NSW

51 km away

Beardies

Natural Attractions

Beardy Waters Dam and Woodlands

Beardy Waters Dam and Woodlands is one of the best bird-watching areas in the district. The site supports a great diversity of waterfowl and there is always a chance of something unusual stopping over. To view the entire dam, go to both Shannon Vale bridge and the Beardy Woodlands Reserve. To get to Shannon Vale Bridge from the Glen Innes Visitor Centre/northern roundabout - travel 1.6 kilometre east on the Gwydir Highway towards Grafton, then at the top of the hill turn right into the Shannon Vale Road and then 2.2 kilometre to Shannon Vale Bridge. To get to Beardy Waters Woodlands, travel 5 km east of Glen Innes. From the Glen Innes Visitor Centre/ northern roundabout - travel 5 km east on the Gwydir Hwy towards Grafton, turn right into the Beardy Waters Woodlands 190 m east of Beardy Bridge. There are no toilets, picnic tables, shelters, and barbecue facilities. Visit the Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre to pick up a bird-watching brochure before heading out.

Shannon Vale NSW

56 km away

Chaelundi National Park — Image credit: NSW Government

National Parks and Reserves

Chaelundi National Park

You'd be forgiven for thinking the great outdoors' actually meant the rugged landscape of Chaelundi National Park. Bike and walking trails zigzag across spectacular views to the river. Crisp, fresh scents soak the air as you approach sparkling waterfalls and creeks. In the afternoon, a spacious camping area provides the perfect spot for a sausage sizzle by the pretty riverbank. You're never really alone either - the forest echoes with wildlife curious enough to join your exploration of deep gullies and old forests that scratch their way through the terrain; frogs, rock wallabies, owls and koalas all add to this diverse forest experience. The park includes important uses by past communities; scattered artefacts map the ridgelines as traditional travelling routes of local Aboriginal people. Evidence also remains of the bygones of gold and timber industries. For those keen and prepared, Chaelundi National Park offers unforgettable experiences.

The Gulf NSW

56 km away

Nymboida River

Natural Attractions

Nymboida River

Ever wondered where the Longest Whitewater Trail in Australia starts? Well, that would be on the Nymboida River. The Nymboida River is a great place for canoeing, rafting, and swimming. Swimming in a massive waterhole. Flat-water paddling at the waterhole and upstream. Whitewater paddling downstream. And if you love fishing, they hear that folks have caught or at least seen Australian Bass, Brown Trout, and Macquarie Perch in the river but if you are heading out there to catch your fill just remember some native fish are protected and may not be taken. There are great camping spots available along the river. Pack a picnic, everything you could need is available at Grafton. The crystal clear river water is suitable for drinking, but bring your own if you have any doubts. Bring your firewood and don’t forget water playthings (canoes, kayaks, tubes, lilos) and freshwater fishing gear.

Nymboida NSW

57 km away

Retro Room

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Remember When Cottage Museum

Remember When Cottage is a one hundred year old cottage, relocated from Grafton and placed at picturesque Waterview Heights, a short ten minute drive from South Grafton. The cottage has been lovingly restored and transformed into a delightful museum to help preserve the rich history of the Clarence Valley. The cottage contains displays of interesting photographs, artworks, documents, tools and agricultural artefacts displaying rich dairy history. A highlight is the collection of artworks and photographs featuring Grafton businesses from past decades. They have a retro room full of crazy items and fashions from the 60's and 70's which often cause much laughter. Light refreshments are available for purchase and can be eaten in the kitchen while guests check out how people cooked and did things without electricity or on verandas, outside or in the main room which features photographs, radios, vintage games and displays of interesting objects. Remember When is a great venue for tourists, schools, people with disabilities and groups and offers good country hospitality. Visitors can take a stroll around the gardens and walkways, feed the friendly goats, play quoits, marbles, horse shoe throw and more.

Waterview Heights NSW

57 km away

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