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Darling River drive

Toorale National Park

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Overview

Darling River drive showcases the natural beauty of meandering Darling River as well as Toorale National Park and State Conservation Area – perfect for 4WD adventurers and independent travellers.

Distance
41km loop
Time suggested
1hr 30min
Grade
Medium
What to
bring
Drinking water
Please note
  • Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go birdwatching.
  • The weather in the area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you’re well-prepared for your visit. Check the weather before you set out as the road to Toorale National Park can become impassable when it rains.
  • This park or attraction is in a remote location, so please ensure you’re well-prepared, bring appropriate clothing and equipment and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.
  • Ensure you bring plenty of water for drinking and cooking.
  • There is limited/no mobile reception in this park.
  • Please respect the wishes of Kurnu-Baakandji People by protecting the natural and cultural features of the park.

Whether you know this scenic car touring circuit as Darling River drive or Yuthuru Paaka Thuru, the expanse of floodplain is just as awe-inspiring. After rain, the waterways come to life, providing excellent opportunities to go fishing and catch yellow belly and cod. You’ll travel through coolabah woodlands interspersed with lush wetlands, ideal for birdwatching, so pack your binoculars and look out for kookaburras calling the area home.

Enjoy a relaxing picnic or camp overnight and enjoy the vast star-filled sky as it fills with stars. In spring, masses of tiny white sunray daisies appear, and after the rains you’ll be treated to colourful wildflower displays of pigweed, native peas and bluebells.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

 

Google Street View Trekker

Using Google Street View Trekker, we've captured imagery across a range of NSW national parks and attractions. Get a bird's eye view of these incredible landscapes before setting off on your own adventure.

Google Trekker at Cape Byron State Conservation Area. Photo: J Spencer/OEH.

Conservation program:

Warrumbungle National Park after-fire program

The 2013 bushfires were the largest and most intense on record for Warrumbungle National Park. Almost 90 per cent of the park was burnt, but conservation programs and research have helped us better understand the impact of fire and how the park has recovered.

Views looking towards the Grand High Tops, Warrumbungle National Park. Photo: John Spencer

General enquiries

Operated by

Park info

  • in Toorale National Park in the Outback NSW region
  • Toorale National Park and SCA is always open, but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

See more visitor info

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