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Gardens of Stone National Park

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Gardens of Stone National Park.

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    From Lithgow:

    • Head north on the Castlereagh Highway to Ben Bullen
    • Turn right for the 4WD road to Baal Bone Gap picnic area

     

    From Lidsdale:

    • Follow the Wolgan Valley Road towards Newnes. The valley road descends below the cliffs of Gardens of Stone and Wollemi National Parks. Donkey Mountain is just past the Wolgan valley resort, great for climbing and views. The road ends at Newnes Historic Site and Newnes camping area in Wollemi National Park.

    Park entry points

    Parking

    Road quality

    • Unsealed roads

    Vehicle access

    • All roads require 4WD vehicle

    By bike

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

    Best times to visit

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

    Spring

    Experience the wonder of the spring bird migrations and enjoy the flowering season for many of the plant species of the park.

    Summer

    Though you need to be prepared for hot weather, this can be a great time to explore the pagodas as deep shade falls between them and in the canyons, making for dramatic photographs.

    Winter

    The light in the mountains is beautiful in winter. Take crystal clear scenic photos from your vantage point on the cliff tops or just marvel at how far you can see from up here.

    Weather, temperature and rainfall

    Summer temperature

    Average

    8°C and 25°C

    Winter temperature

    Average

    0°C and 9°C

    Rainfall

    Wettest month

    January

    Driest month

    April

    The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

    135mm

    Facilities

    Picnic tables

    Barbecue facilities

    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.

    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

    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.

    Gardens of Stone National Park

    Contact

    Links

    Nearby towns

    Lithgow (28 km)

    Hassans Walls Lookout, near Lithgow, is the highest in the Blue Mountains. Admire Mt Wilson, Mt York, Mt Tarana and Mt Blaxland as well as the pretty Hartley Valley below. To the south are the Kanimbla and Megalong valley and Mt Bindo. While there, go for a walk or ride around the lookout.

    www.visitnsw.com

    Hartley (65 km)

    The small village of Hartley features one of the finest collections of historic buildings in Australia, providing a captivating look into the country's colonial past.

    www.visitnsw.com

    Katoomba (69 km)

    Katoomba is at the heart of most of the stunning natural attractions that make up the Blue Mountains National Park. You can admire deep valleys, sandstone plateaus, waterfalls and native animals from the many walking trails and lookouts near Katoomba.

    www.visitnsw.com