Warrumbungle is a Gamilaraay word meaning crooked mountain
The Warrumbungle National Park landscape has been shaped by thousands of years of volcanic activity.
Warrumbungle National Park is one of the top adventure areas in the country. Catering for every style of visitor, whether remote walk-in camper, tent or caravan. Inclusive options for young or old, and it even has a wheelchair-accessible track and lookout, with views that are a jaw-dropper.
It goes without saying that photography and artistic fodder is a plenty. Strongly recommend Camp Blackman with PowerPoints in the Amenities block and powered sites to recharge camera and phone batteries(peek season may be a challenge). Also, grassed and paved areas for camping, keeping equipment cleaner.
Note: Camp Blackman has 3 causeways to cross in wet weather to get access to good walks. Was almost trapped… but what a place to be trapped
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring (none school holidays)
CREATIVE INSPIRATION
Chunky rock escarpments, fast-flowing creeks, diverse wildlife, dark night skies, and at the moment the blackened trunks from the bushfires contrast beautifully with the lush green foliage from the very wet conditions of 2022. Whitegum lookout would be my pic for En Plein Air as its a short walk to carry your gear(path is even good enough for a trolly) and their is room to find a shaded spot withought getting in everyone's way.(Tap icon for up to date info)
PHOTOGRAPHY
Along the axcess road (John Renshaw Pkwy) there are several advantage points for capturing the large area from a distance including the viewing platform just sth of Tooraweenah. Only had time to do Fans Horizon and Whitegum walks but both had the most stunning views. (Tap icon for up to date info)
GALLERYs
SPACE Social Enterprise Gallery and Creative Space: 41 Dalgarno St, Coonabarabran NSW 2357 www.creativespace.org.au (Tap icon for up to date info)
WALKS
BEST WALKS AND VIEWS - Easy/short 30min rtn: Whitegum lookout. Medeium fitness 3hr rtn: Fan Horizon. Hard/long 6hr loop: Breadknife & Grand High Tops (depending on number of photo stops) (Tap icon for up to date info)
*FREE
$6 - SCULPTURES IN THE SCRUB PICNIC AREA AND CAMPING Pilliga Forest. 1hr 35min from Warrumbungle NP and take the short walk to the sculptures FIRE PIT. TABLES . CREEK . CARAVAN . TENT . SHADE . FREE BBQ . **NO RECEPTION
***BUDGET
CAMP WAMBELONG. 5min from Warrumbungle Visitor Centre. A peaceful campground with great views of Belougery Split Rock and close to many great walking tracks TOILET . TENT . CARAVAN . CREEK . BBQ . TABLES 4001 John Renshaw Parkway, Warrumbungle, NSW, 2828 (Tap icon to visit website)
****UNIQUE
Camp Blackman in the Warrumbungles National Park - 40min from Tooraweenah POWER . CARAVAN . TENT . HOT SHOWERS . FIRE PIT . FLUSH TOILETS . PHONE . WALKS . KANGAROOS . (Tap icon to visit website)
****OMG
Dark Sky Eco Resort at The Emu Hive. 22min from Warrumbungle ivisitor centre. Everything about this place says WOW Coonabarabran NSW. Carmichaels Lane, Coonabarabran NSW 2357 (Tap icon to visit website)
Interacting with Wild Animals in Australia
Can be an incredible experience, but it’s crucial to do so safely and responsibly, both for your own well-being and the animals’ welfare. Here are some tips:
Observe from a Distance: Always maintain a safe distance from wild animals. Use binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to observe them without getting too close.
Respect Their Space: Remember that wild animals are just that—wild. They need their space and shouldn’t be approached or disturbed. Avoid cornering or startling them.
Do Not Feed Wildlife: Feeding wild animals can disrupt their natural behavior, make them reliant on humans, and can be harmful to their health. Additionally, feeding can make them aggressive or associate humans with food, leading to potentially dangerous encounters.
Stay Informed: Learn about the local wildlife and their behavior. Some animals might be more active or defensive during certain times of the day or year. Understanding their behavior can help you avoid risky situations.
Follow Signage and Guidelines: Many areas in Australia have specific guidelines or signs posted regarding interacting with wildlife. Always follow these instructions.
Stay Vigilant: When hiking or walking in nature, remain vigilant. Always watch where you’re stepping and be mindful of your surroundings. Stick to designated paths and trails.
Be Prepared: If you’re exploring areas where wildlife encounters are possible, carry essentials like a first aid kit, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.
Avoid Dangerous Encounters: Certain animals can be particularly dangerous. For example, Australian snakes, spiders, and marine animals can pose significant risks. Educate yourself about the specific dangers in the region you are visiting.
Do Not Attempt to Touch or Handle Wildlife: Even seemingly harmless animals can carry diseases or become agitated if handled. This is particularly true for snakes, spiders, and marine life.
Stay Calm and Quiet: If you encounter an animal unexpectedly, try to remain calm and move away slowly and quietly. Sudden movements or loud noises can startle the animal and provoke defensive behavior.
Seek Professional Guidance: If you’re interested in a closer encounter with wildlife, consider guided tours led by experts who know how to interact with animals safely.