Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Sydney, NSW

National Parks

5 (5 reviews)

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Where are we going?

Address: Bobbin Head Rd, New South Wales, Australia _{How do we get there?} Number: 02 9472 8949

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Attractions in Sydney

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About this activity

Who's ready to get out into nature! We love just turning those computers and televisions off to spend a day with the family, checking out wildlife and enjoy the Australian wilderness!

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is Australia's second oldest National Park (That's pretty impressive!) and has been a family favourite for years!

This park is located in Sydney's north, and really lets you feel completely immersed in nature so close to the metropolitan area of Sydney itself.

The Discovery Centre is a great area to start because you can chat to the friendly staff and really plan you trip, asking all the questions you might have. There is also a ton of fascinating information you can check out before you venture out into the park. There are displays on the Australian fauna, as well as Aboriginal heritage (which is very important to the region) as well as a 3-D slide show!

The Discovery Trail (which is wheelchair accessible) can start off your day with stunning views of Cockle Creek, where you might even spot local wildlife such as wallabies!

Then, your nature day begins! Explore and play around the winding creeks and check out where the stretches of ocean meet the rainforest! There are rock cliffs, eucalyptus and mangroves to enjoy too!

Fancy a spot of camping? Then head to The Basin where you can set up your family camp before taking on the walking tracks, mountain biking trails and incredible lookouts, as well as the significant Aboriginal sites. Take some time to get to know the history there!

You will still have plenty of time to enjoy the areas marinas, cafes, kiosks and of course picnic areas! Why not bring your own picnic and enjoy a family feast out with the wallabies!

If that wasn't enough, there are a ton of activities to keep the whole family entertained. Swimming, sailing, horse riding, fishing, cycling, and driving tours, as well as exploring the nearby Barrenjoey Lighthouse. There are a number of tour operators so there is always a good chance you will find one that match what your kids love.

After your time in the wilderness make the most of the marina’s great facilities and bring your picnic hamper!

Activity location

Directions

If you are coming from Terrey Hills or Church Point, just enter the park from McCarrs Creek Road. This will lead you to Liberator General San Martin Drive, where you'll find the picnic areas and facilities of Illawong Bay and Akuna Bay. It also gives access to West Head Road, West Head and The Basin.

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How much does it cost?

Adults

$11 per vehicle per day parking.

Last Updates

2023

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park FAQ’s

The public barbecue and seating area is a lovely, family-friendly space with shaded tables. Or, if you feel like letting someone else prepare your breakfast or lunch, pop into the marina’s Akuna Cafe on the Bay. The Akuna Cafe is closed on Tuesdays.

If you're arriving by bus or taxi you'll need to pay daily entry fees of $4.40 adults, $2.20 children.

All outdoor learning experiences are based on key learning areas and are led by experienced and knowledgeable Discovery Guides. Subjects can include National Parks, the Natural Environment and Cultural Heritage and all excursions are tailored to your individual lesson plans.

The Akuna Bay area is fully wheelchair accessible. Access is also available from the carpark to the Marina and Cafe, and there is a wheelchair accessible Discovery trail from the visitor centre.

Barrenjoey Lighthouse is reached by a 1km walking track. It's certainly worth it!