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We visited Mount Kaputar National Park over the Easter long weekend and had a lot of fun hiking and camping. Before getting into the itinerary, one very important thing to know: it’s a long drive from the coast. Don’t pick this destination if you’re not ready to spend hours on the road and drive around 650 km to reach it.
This itinerary is not exactly what we did. We had an extra day, which gave us more flexibility, and we also learnt a few things along the way that we’d do differently. This is the version I’d recommend if you want to make the most of a four-day long weekend.
Day 0: drive after work and sleep on the way
To make a 4-day weekend work, I’d highly recommend leaving after work and driving a few hours before stopping for the night.
We slept at a rest area, which worked well, but always check the latest reviews before you go. Rules change, and some places may no longer allow overnight stays. While these places allow free camping, it’s always a nice gesture to buy something nearby to support the local community. Staying in hotels or motels along the way can also be an option, but it’s less flexible and not as budget-friendly.
Where to sleep on the way (if you’re camping)
From Brisbane, these are a few options we had shortlisted:
- Karara Recreation Grounds (around 2h45)
- Gore Rest Area (around 3h, near the Shell roadhouse)
- Texas Donation Camp (self-contained only)
- Bonshaw Weir Campground (small detour, around 4h)
- Coolatai Hall (around 4.5h – our recommended stop)
From Sydney, you could break the drive around the Burning Mountain Nature Reserve.
Day 1: Sawn Rock and Waa Gorge
Mount Kaputar National Park is divided into three sections: Waa Gorge and Sawn Rock in the north, and the main section with most walks and campgrounds. It takes a while to drive between them (around 1.5 hours to Sawn Rock and 2 hours to Waa Gorge), so it’s best to visit these first before heading to the main park area. If you started driving the night before and stopped on the way, you’ll likely arrive around midday. If you only start driving on Day 1, you’ll probably only have time for a quick stop at Sawn Rock if you’re coming from Brisbane.
Sawn Rock
Sawn Rocks is a quick and easy stop. The walk to the lookout is short and flat, and 30 minutes is plenty. It’s worth it for the unique basalt rock formations, but don’t expect to spend long here.
Waa Gorge (only if conditions are right)
Waa Gorge is much more of a commitment. The access road is long and unsealed, and while it was no problem with an AWD with some clearance, it would feel long and tiring in a low-clearance 2WD. Waterholes were almost dry at Easter, so I’d only go if you’re keen to do the longer unmarked gorge walk (around 2 hours return). Consider doing it first to increase your chances of having the sun lighting the gorge.
Where to stay
If you’re self-contained, you could look for private camping options nearby (we had spotted a farm stay in Couradda on Hipcamp).
If you’re new to Hipcamp, here’s a coupon code that will give you (and me!) $10 credit for your first stay: ELOISET668EFD.
Otherwise, I’d recommend staying in Narrabri to start fresh the next day. We chose to drive up to one of the Mount Kaputar campgrounds, but as wildlife is very active at dusk and at night, we had to drive very slowly and with the winding road, it might not be your preferred option after already driving for hours.
Day 2: the best walk in the park
Yulludunida walking track
Yulludunida Walking Track was my favourite walk in the park. I’d recommend doing it early in your stay so you don’t miss it if the weather changes.
- 2 to 3 hours return
- Quite steep with some scrambling
- Not ideal if you’re uncomfortable with heights or uneven terrain
Scenic lookouts
Then, take it easier with a few lookouts along the scenic drive: Euglah Rock Lookout (short walk), Doug Sky Lookout and Mount Kaputar Summit (closed when we visited).
If you’re staying at Dawsons Spring campground, you can also add the short nature trail.
Where to stay
It takes around 1 hour to drive from Narrabri to the park. The best option is to stay inside the park. There are two campgrounds with excellent facilities. We tried both and here are our tips to pick the best campground for your trip.
If you don’t camp, staying in Narrabri is still manageable if the national park cabins are full.
Planning a camping trip? I’ve put together a detailed guide to the camping gear we use and recommend after years of camping around Australia – a great place to start if you’re preparing your setup or upgrading your gear.
Day 3: shorter walks
Bundabulla Circuit
Bundabulla Circuit Walking Track is a good loop with a mix of easy walking and big views over the plain – not my favourite part of the park, but still worth doing.
- Around 7 km loop from Dawsons Springs campground
- Around 2 hours
- Mostly easy, with side tracks connecting to viewpoints across the plateau, including Lindsay Rock Tops and Eckford Lookout.
The Governor
The Governor Summit Walk is a short but very rewarding: quick, fun, and definitely worth it!
- 2 km return
- Some stairs and light scrambling
- Big views at the top
Mount Coryah walking track
Mount Coryah Walking Track is a good add-on if you still have energy. The section near the rocky outcrop with grass trees was one of my favourite parts.
- Around 2 km loop
- About 1.5 hours
- Easy overall, with some stairs and an exposed path
Day 4: drive back
Time to head back after a packed long weekend. It’s a long drive either way, so plan a few stops and take your time.
Is Mount Kaputar National Park worth it for a long weekend?
I’ll be honest – this isn’t the first destination I’d recommend. The drive is long, and there aren’t many standout stops on the way. There are closer national parks that are easier to access.
But if you don’t mind driving and want fewer crowds and something different with wide open landscapes and volcanic formations, then we found Mount Kaputar National Park to be a really rewarding destination. It’s fun to explore, and the many short walks make it easy to stay flexible and keep everyone happy – you can split up for a hike and still spend most of the day together.
Important things to know
- There’s no drinking water in the park – bring plenty
- It’s at altitude, so it can be cold – pack warm clothes
- The sun is still strong even when you’re not hot – bring sun protection
- Always check park alerts before you go (walks can close depending on conditions)
Have you visited Mount Kaputar National Park? Share your experience in the comments below!
Map of this four-day itinerary in Mount Kaputar National Park
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