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Werakata National Park

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Werakata National Park.

Getting there and parking

From Cessnock:

Follow Maitland Road (B68) towards Abermain
Turn left on Old Maitland Road at East Cessnock
Turn left on Ironbark Lane
Follow the signs to Astills picnic area

Parking

Astills picnic area See on map

By bike

Check out the Bicycle information for NSW website for more information.

By public transport

For information about public transport options, visit the NSW country transport info website

Best times to visit

There are lots of great things waiting for you in Werakata National Park. Here are some of the highlights.

Autumn

The days are cooler but still sunny in autumn, making it a fabulous time for hitting the cycle trails of Werakata National Park. The Deadmans Loop trail and Astills trail offer easy flat, fun rides for the family.

Spring

There are more than 200 different types of animals recorded in Werakata National Park and the nearby State Conservation Area. Spring is a great time to see them. The wildflower displays during spring are a sight to behold .

Summer

Pack a picnic lunch and head for the Astills picnic area with its beautiful canopy of gums.

Winter

Winter is a great time for bird watching in the park. Werakata is blessed with a huge number of spotted gums, one of only a few winter-flowering eucalypts found near the New South Wales coast.

Facilities

Picnic tables

Astills picnic area

Drinking water

Forestry Hut

Maps and downloads

Safety messages

However you discover NSW national parks and reserves, we want you to have a safe and enjoyable experience. Our park and reserve systems contrast greatly so you need to be aware of the risks and take responsibility for your own safety and the safety of those in your care.

Bushwalking safety

If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

Cycling safety

Hundreds of cyclists head to our national parks for fun and adventure. If you're riding your bike through a national park, read these mountain biking and cycling safety tips.

Mobile safety

Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

Prohibited

Illegal dumping is prohibited and penalties apply. If you see illegal dumping activity please help NPWS by reporting it to Environment Line: 131 555.

Pets

Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

Smoking

NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

Contact

in the North Coast region
Werakata National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
- Newcastle office
  02 4946 4100
  Contact hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm.
- 1 Wetlands Place, Shortland NSW 2307
- Email: npws.lowerhunter@environment.nsw.gov.au
More

Nearby towns

Cessnock (6 km)

Some of the finest wines in the world are created in the Hunter Valley and its towns, gourmet food is acclaimed and luxury, boutique accommodations are matched by the most beautiful natural scenery.

www.visitnsw.com

Lovedale (6 km)

As a major Hunter Valley wine-producing area, Lovedale dates back to the early 1800s, when local wheat and general produce farmers turned to grape growing. The Lovedale Long Lunch is a two-day eating and drinking extravaganza. Sample gourmet foods from local restaurants and wines from Lovedale wineries and vineyards. Even if you miss the annual event, there's nothing stopping you from embarking on your own Lovedale long lunch!