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Kids’ and family activities

Looking for something to do with the kids? NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service has plenty of family-friendly events and tours on offer during school holidays.

Become a junior ranger for the day, get inside the tallest lighthouse in NSW, or check out a historic gaol or a gold mine.

Children can join a spotlight tour after dark, or learn to find bush tucker with an Aboriginal Discovery Ranger. 

We offer tours across many NSW regions so you’re bound to find something fun near you.

Family enjoying a guided tour of Copeland Tops State Conservation Area. Credit: Destination NSW

Book an activity near you

North Coast NSW

An NPWS ranger and a young woman and man look at the Gondwana circle map on the ground, Dorrigo National Park. Photo: 'And the trees’ Photography © NPWS

Dorrigo rainforest ranger-guided tour

Experience the rainforest like never before, on a ranger-guided walk through World Heritage-listed Dorrigo National Park. It's only 1hr from Coffs Harbour, but you'll feel worlds away.

Price
Fees apply. Park entry fees apply.
When

Tours run Monday to Saturday in NSW school Holidays. No tours on Wednesdays or public holidays.

April 2024:

Monday 15 April to Saturday 20 April 2024.

Monday 22 April to Saturday 27 April 2024. No tour on Thursday 25 April (Anzac Day).

July 2024:

Monday 8 July to Saturday 13 July 2024

Monday 15 July to Saturday 20 July 2024

Tour times:

10.30am to 11am; 11.30am to 12pm; 12.30pm to 1pm; 2pm to 2.30pm

Where
Dorrigo Rainforest Centre, Dorrigo National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
An Indigenous education ranger shares her local cultural knowledge of the rainforest. Photo: Karina Davila-Otoya ©DPIE

Sea Acres Aboriginal culture tour

Join this ranger-guided Aboriginal cultural tour along the rainforest boardwalk in Sea Acres National Park. You’ll go on a unique journey of discovery and learning.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

The 1st and 3rd Friday of each month, 10am to 11.30am. There is no tour on Friday 7 June 2024.

Additional school holiday dates: Friday 26 April and Friday 12 July 2024, 10am to 11.30am.

Where
Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, Sea Acres National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Aboriginal education ranger sharing her cultural knowledge of Sea Acres Rainforest. Photo credit: Karina Davila-Otoya. © DPIE

Sea Acres Aboriginal coastal tour

Take a walk to Shelly Beach in Sea Acres National Park on this Aboriginal ranger-guided activity. Discover bush tucker and medicine in the rainforest as you learn about Birpai culture.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

The 1st and 3rd Friday of each month, 2pm to 3.30pm. There is no tour on Friday 7 June 2024.

Additional school holiday dates: Friday 26 April and Friday 12 July 2024, 2pm to 3.30pm.

Where
Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, Sea Acres National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Visitors and ranger examine strangler vine, along Sea Acres Rainforest boardwalk. Photo: John Spencer © OEH

Sea Acres rainforest boardwalk tour

If you’re near Port Macquarie, come along to this unique ranger-guided tour in Sea Acres National Park. You’ll enjoy a walk under the lush canopy of this rare and spectacular coastal rainforest.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Tour dates: Tuesday 16 April, Thursday 18 April, Tuesday 23 April, Tuesday 9 July, Thursday 11 July, Tuesday 16 July and Thursday 18 July 2024.

Tour times: 10am to 10.40am, 11am to 11.40am and 12pm to 12.40pm.

Where
Sea Acres Rainforest boardwalk, Sea Acres National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Smoky Cape Lighthouse tour, Hat Head National Park. Photo: And the trees photography © DPE

Smoky Cape Lighthouse tour

Walk alongside an NPWS ranger on an intimate tour of Smoky Cape lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in NSW. Take in the stunning coastal scenery, in your own small group.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Tour dates:

Second Saturday of every month and every Wednesday in April 2024. Additional dates: Wednesday 10 and 17 July 2024.

Tour times: 8.30am, 9am, 9.45am, 10.15am, 11am and 11.30am.

Each tour runs for 30 minutes. Arrive at least 10 mins before your tour starts, to give yourself time to walk up to the lighthouse.

Where
Smoky Cape Lighthouse, Hat Head National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Sunset above the Trial Bay Gaol walls, Arakoon National Park. Photo: Carolyn McPhee © DPIE

Trial Bay Gaol twilight tour

Explore Trial Bay Gaol by twilight with an NPWS guide by your side. Discover what life was like for prisoners as you watch the sun set in beautiful Arakoon National Park, South West Rocks.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Friday 7 June, 5 July, 12 July and 19 July 2024, 4.30pm to 6pm.

Where
Trial Bay Gaol, Arakoon National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
View through bars at Trial Bay Goal. Photo: Kim Payne Photography © DPE

Trial Bay Gaol: Life behind bars kids tour

Come along and find out what life behind bars was really like for the prisoners at Trial Bay Gaol, in Arakoon National Park near South West Rocks. Explore the gaol on this action-packed family tour.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Every Monday and Wednesday, from Monday 8 to Wednesday 24 April 2024.

Every Monday and Wednesday from Monday 8 July to Wednesday 17 July 2024.

Tour time: 4pm to 5.30pm.

Where
Trial Bay Gaol, Arakoon National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo

Central Coast and Hunter region

Arial shot of The Ruins campground in Booti Booti National Park, between Wallis Lake and Seven Mile Beach. Photo credit: John Spencer © DPIE

Junior ranger: Booti Booti coastal adventure tour

Join us for a Junior ranger adventure, as we traverse the shores of Seven Mile Beach. Walk alongside a Discovery Ranger to find out what plants and animals live here, and how they survive in this magical environment.

Price
Fees apply. Park entry fees apply.
When

Tour dates: Wednesday 10 January, Friday 19 January, Friday 19 April, Friday 12 July and Thursday 10 October 2024.

Tour time: 10am to 12pm.

Where
The Ruins campground and picnic area
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
A NPWS ranger and 2 park visitors take in the view from a coastal lookout in Tomaree National Park. Photo: John Spencer © DPE

Tomaree coastal walking tour

Explore Tomaree National Park near Port Stephens and discover it's spectacular coastline and incredible Australian wildlife on this 2 hour guided walk.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Friday 19 April, Thursday 11 July and Thursday 10 October 2024, 9.30am to 11.30am.

Where
Tomaree National Park in North Coast
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
A grey-headed flying fox hanging from a tree branch. Photo: Jaime Plaza © Botanic Gardens Trust

Wingham Brush twilight tour

Experience the magic of Wingham Brush Nature Reserve at twilight. Soak in breathtaking scenery as we meander along the boardwalk while the sun sets over a canopy of flying foxes.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Friday 19 April, 6pm to 8pm and Thursday 10 October 2024, 7pm to 9pm.

Where
Wingham Brush Nature Reserve in North Coast
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
A NPWS Aboriginal Discovery ranger teaching a child abut traditional tools. Photo: Adam Hollingworth/DPE

Glenrock Aboriginal cultural tour

Join an Aboriginal Discovery ranger on a cultural journey you won’t forget in Glenrock State Conservation Area, near Newcastle. Connect with this beautiful country and listen to cultural stories as on you walk on the lands of the Awabakal people.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Tour dates: Friday 12 January, Thursday 18 April, Thursday 11 July and Thursday 3 October 2024.

Tour time: 10am to 12pm.

Where
Glenrock State Conservation Area in North Coast
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Family walking over a footbridge in the forest on a tour of Copeland Tops with a ranger. Photo credit and copyright: Destination NSW

Copeland Tops twilight tour

Experience the magic of Copeland Tops at twilight. Explore Hidden Treasure track and the historic buildings of Mountain Maid gold mine on this evening tour near Gloucester.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Tours run on the first Friday of the month.

Tour times:

  • 7pm to 9pm (October 2023 to March 2024)
  • 6pm to 8pm (April to September 2024)
  • 7pm to 9pm (October to December 2024)
Where
Mountain Maid gold mine, Copeland Tops State Conservation Area
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Walkers enjoying view from the rock platform at Tomaree National Park. Photo: John Spencer © DPE

Ocean rockpool nature tour: Tomaree

Discover the amazing world of rockpools along the rocky shores of Fishermans Bay on the Tomaree National Park coastline. See what you can find below the surface, not far from Nelson Bay.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Thursday 18 April 2024, 10am to 12pm.

Wednesday 2 October 2024, 1pm to 3pm.

Where
Tomaree National Park in North Coast
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo

Blue Mountains

Visitors enjoying a tour with an NPWS ranger on Grand Cliff Top Walk. Credit: Remy Brand © Remy Brand/DCCEEW

Grand Cliff Top Walk guided tour

Join a National Parks ranger on a guided tour along part of the newly completed Grand Cliff Top Walk. We’ll start at Wentworth Falls picnic area and learn about the cultural heritage and fragile ecosystems in Blue Mountains National Park

Price
Fees apply. Price includes park entry fee.
When

Saturday 6 July, 13 July, 20 July, 3 August, 17 August and 31 August 2024, 9.30am to 12.30pm.

Where
Wentworth Falls picnic area, Katoomba area
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Cups of paint on fabric. Photo: Dylan Jones © DPIE

Exploring Aboriginal art group workshop

Gather a group of friends or family and learn about the connection between Aboriginal art at this hands-on workshop in Blue Mountains National Park.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When
Available on request, 7 days per week.
Where
Katoomba area
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo

South Coast NSW

An Aboriginal elder leads a group on a guided walk, as part of the traditional bushcraft workshop in Mimosa Rocks National Park. Credit: Jessica Taunton © DCCEEW

Traditional bushcraft workshop: Mimosa Rocks

These school holidays, join a senior Aboriginal Discovery ranger on a guided walk and traditional bushcraft workshop at Gillards campground in Mimosa Rocks National Park, near Tathra. For all ages.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Thursday 10 October 2024, 2pm to 4pm

Where
Gillards campground
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Aerial view of Green Cape Lighthouse, Beowa National Park. Photo: Jessica Bray © the photographer

Green Cape Lighthouse tour

Uncover the history of Green Cape Lighthouse on this guided tour in Beowa National Park, near Eden. Hear stories of disaster and survival and enjoy shore-based whale watching and breathtaking views.

Price
Fees apply. Park entry fees apply.
When

Thursday 3 October and Tuesday 8 October 2024, 10am to 11.45am

Where
Green Cape Lighthouse, Green Cape area
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
A close-up look at a cast of bright blue soldier crabs. Photo: Anthony Belton © DPE

Merimbula Lake Boardwalk adventure tour

Are you ready to become an estuary expert? Join this family-friendly nature tour at Merimbula Lake Boardwalk these school holidays to discover a thriving coastal ecosystem.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Tuesday 1 October 2024, 2pm to 3.30pm.

Where
Merimbula Lake boardwalk
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
NPWS guide demonstrating some traditional Aboriginal weaving techniques, Beowa National Park. Photo: Jessica Taunton

Traditional weaving workshop: Beowa

Get creative on a traditional weaving workshop in Beowa National Park, halfway between Pambula and Eden. Learn Aboriginal weaving techniques and see how these ancient skills carry a strong connection to Aboriginal culture.

Price
Fees apply. Park entry fees apply.
When
Available on request.

Wednesday 2 October 2024, 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 4pm.

Where
Haycock Point picnic area, Pambula-Haycock area
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
A woven coaster in progress, made during a traditional weaving workshop at Bournda National Park. Photo: Jessica Bray © the photographer

Traditional weaving workshop: Bournda

Get creative on a traditional weaving workshop in Bournda National Park, near Bega and Merimbula. Learn Aboriginal weaving techniques and see how these ancient skills carry a strong connection to Aboriginal culture.

Price
Fees apply. Park entry fees apply.
When

Thursday 10 October 2024, 10am to 12pm.

Where
Hobart Beach campground
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Teacher's hands demonstrating the start of weave, Bournda National Park. Photo: Jessica Bray © the photographer

Traditional weaving workshop: Killalea

Join this weaving workshop at Killalea Regional Park these school holidays. It's a great introduction to Aboriginal culture. You'll have the privilege of being taught by a senior Aboriginal NPWS guide.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Wednesday 9 October 2024, 10.30am to 12.30pm

Where
Killalea Regional Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo

Minnamurra rainforest

A man walks along Lyrebird loop walk in Budderoo National Park. Photo credit: Elinor Sheargold © DPIE

Minnamurra Rainforest ranger-guided tour

These school holidays, experience the rainforest like never before. Join this ranger-guided walk through Minnamurra Rainforest in Budderoo National Park, west of Kiama on the NSW South Coast.

Price
Fees apply. Park entry fees apply.
When

Monday 15 April, Monday 22 April, Monday 30 September, Friday 11 October 2024.

Tour times: 10am to 10.30am; 11am to 11.30am; 12pm to 12.30pm

Where
Lyrebird loop walk, Budderoo National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Family enjoying a guided tour of Copeland Tops State Conservation Area. Credit: Destination NSW

Kids’ and family activities

Looking for something to do with the kids? NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service has plenty of family-friendly tours and events across the state. Check the list to find something fun near you.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.

Snowy Mountains

Country NSW

'Deep Space' - the night sky over Warrumbungle National Park, filled with stars and constellations. Photo: B Heaton © the photographer

Explore the Dark Sky

These school holidays, experience the wonders of the night sky at Warrumbungle National Park, near Coonabarabran. It's Australia’s first officially accredited Dark Sky Park.

Price
Fees apply. Park entry fees apply.
When

Every Monday and Tuesday, from Monday 24 June to Tuesday 23 July 2024.

Time: 6.30pm to 8pm, arrive at 6.15pm.

Where
Warrumbungle Visitor Centre, Warrumbungle National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Two cyclists and a third in the background ride along a red dirt road through the Pilliga Forest in the Tour de Gorge. Photo: John Spencer © DCCEEW

Tour de Gorge

Pump up your tyres and gear up for the annual Tour de Gorge bike ride. Pedal through the remarkable Pilliga Forest and Timmallallie National Park, near Baradine.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Saturday 7 September 2024. Briefing 8.30am. Ride 9am to 1pm.

Where
Timmallallie National Park in Country NSW
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
A group of people on a tour at Mutawintji Historic Site. Photo: Otis Filley © DCCEEW

Mutawintji cultural tour

Join this special tour in Mutawintji National Park in the NSW outback and hear Aboriginal guides share their connection to their Country.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Tours run daily Wednesday to Sunday. No tour Christmas Day. Tours run 7 days a week during school holidays.

Tour time:

10am to 2.30pm EST. Please note the time difference between Mutawintji Eastern Standard Time and Broken Hill Central Standard Time.

Where
Mutawintji National Park in Outback NSW
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
A tent, vehicle and campfire under the starry night sky. Photo: Ryan Heldoorn © DCCEEW

Wiimpatja campfire yarn in Mutawintji

Gather around the campfire under the desert sky in Mutawintji National Park. Listen to your Aboriginal guide's stories while tasting bush tucker.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Tours only run in school holidays on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Tours do not run during summer school holidays.

Tour time:

6pm to 8pm EST. Please note the time difference between Mutawintji Eastern Standard Time and Broken Hill Central Standard Time.

Where
Mutawintji National Park in Outback NSW
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Walk on the wild side tour Warrumbungles. Photo: Leah Pippos © DPE

Walk on the wild side at the Warrumbungles

Join an experienced National Parks guide and explore the beauty of Warrumbungle National Park. This tour is designed to bring your senses alive as you explore the sights, sounds and smells of this beautiful area.

Price
Fees apply. Park entry fees apply.
When

Wednesday 26 June and Thursday 11 July 2024, 2pm to 4pm.

Thursday 27 and Friday 28 June. Friday 12 and Saturday 13 July 2024, 10am to 12pm.

Where
Wambelong Nature walking track, Warrumbungle Visitor Centre, Warrumbungle National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Mungo lunette (Walls of China), Mungo National Park. Photo: John Spencer/NSW Government

Mungo lunette guided tour

Take a guided tour of Mungo lunette (Walls of China) with an NPWS Aboriginal guide. It's one of the most spectacular outback landscapes in NSW and a must-do when visiting Mungo National Park.

Price
Fees apply. Park entry fees apply.
When
Available on request.

Tours run most days. Dates and times are displayed when making an online booking.

Tour takes 2 hours. Meet behind Mungo Visitor Centre 15 minutes before the start of the tour.

Where
Mungo National Park in Murray-Riverina
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo

Greater Sydney

A child peeking over a pair of binoculars on a NPWS Discovery tour. Credit: Simone Cottrell/OEH © Royal Botanic Gardens.

Junior ranger: Royal National Park

Discover the Royal National Park these school holidays as a newly appointed ‘junior ranger’. This interactive guided activity is designed for children aged 6 to 14 years.

Price
Fees apply. Park entry fees apply.
When

Tour dates: Wednesday 17, Friday 19, Monday 22, Wednesday 24 and Friday 26 April 2024. Monday 8, Thursday 11, Monday 15 and Thursday 18 July 2024.

Tour times: 11am to 12.30pm. Meet at 10.50am.

Where
Ironbark Flat picnic area, Royal National Park Visitor Centre, Royal National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo
Walkers taking in panoramic coastal views from the cliff edge at Cape Solander, Kamay Botany Bay National Park. Photo: John Spencer © DCCEEW

Whales and wildflowers: Cape Solander

Walk alongside a NPWS Discovery Guide on a 2hr tour along the magnificent sandstone cliffs in Kamay Botany Bay National Park, Kurnell.

Price
Fees apply. Park entry fees apply.
When

Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 June. Saturday 6, Wednesday 10, Saturday 13, Wednesday 17, Saturday 20 and Saturday 27 July 2024, 9am to 11am. Arrive at 8.45am.

Where
Cape Solander, Kurnell area
Barrenjoey Lighthouse, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Photo: David Finnegan

Barrenjoey Lighthouse tour

Enjoy a Barrenjoey Lighthouse tour any Sunday afternoon. It stands at Sydney's northern-most point. The views of Broken Bay, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and the mighty Pacific are unforgettable.

Price
Fees apply. Free park entry.
When

Tours generally run every Sunday. Exceptions below.

Additional school holiday tour dates: Friday 19 April 2024.

Tour times: 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm. Tours run for 30 mins.

No tours on: Sunday 19 May 2024 and 20 April 2025 (Easter Sunday).

Where
Barrenjoey Lighthouse, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Operated by
Image of: NSW National Parks logo