Mount Kaputar National Park

Erupting volcanoes created the Nandewar Ranges and the magnificent Mount Kaputar National Park (Cap–you–tar) between 17 and 21 million years ago. The skeleton of these volcanoes now provides a picturesque background for the residents and visitors of Narrabri Region and a magnificent attraction beckoning exploration.

From the 1512-metre summit of Mount Kaputar, 52km east of Narrabri, you will be treated to panoramic views encompassing a staggering 10 per cent of NSW. This rugged wilderness rises spectacularly from the surrounding agricultural plains. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, bushwalker, camper or simply seeking a little solitude, prepare to be spellbound by the grandeur of this landscape of lava terraces and volcanic plugs.

The National Park protects a wide variety of plant communities, including semi–arid woodlands, wet eucalypt forests and subalpine heaths. It’s also home to a host of animal species and provides a haven for many threatened species – including bats, birds, wallabies and quolls. Keep an eye out for the native giant pink slug! It often appears after rain, and is unique to Mount Kaputar National Park.

Mount Kaputar has a range of walks to suit all tastes, from pleasant bush ramblings to strenuous climbs. A guide for the marked walking tracks is available from the Narrabri Region Visitor Information Centre or NPWS office in Narrabri.

For more information on some of the most popular attractions within Mount Kaputar National Park please click on the links below.

• Sawn Rocks
• Waa Gorge

Camping & Accomodation

Two campsites are available in Mr Kaputar National Park at Dawsons Spring and Bark Hut. Both have gas barbecues, hot showers and toilets. Caravans are not allowed in the park, however box trailers are permitted.

The park also has three cabins, each with a minimum two-night stay. They are fully self contained, sleep up to six people, have a slow combustion heater for winter (wood provided) and are cool in summer. The cabins also contain limited cooking facilities including a microwave, refrigerator, toaster, crockery, cutlery and kitchen utensils, hot showers and tea and coffee facilities, and environmentally friendly septic toilets.

Cabin bookings are essential and may be made up to six months in advance. Bookings can be made through the National Parks and Wildlife Service website. At 1500 metres above sea level, the cool sub-alpine environment of Mt Kaputar is a stark contrast to the hot dry plains below.

Pets are not allowed in the National Park.