Werakata National Park
Visitor info
All the practical information you need to know about Werakata National Park.
Getting there and parking
From Cessnock:
- Follow Maitland Road (B68) towards Abermain
- Turn left on Old Maitland Road at East Cessnock
- Turn left on Ironbark Lane
- Follow the signs to Astills picnic area
Parking
- Astills picnic area See on map
By bike
Check out the Bicycle information for NSW website for more information.
By public transport
For information about public transport options, visit the NSW country transport info website
Best times to visit
There are lots of great things waiting for you in Werakata National Park. Here are some of the highlights.
Autumn
The days are cooler but still sunny in autumn, making it a fabulous time for hitting the cycle trails of Werakata National Park. The Deadmans Loop trail and Astills trail offer easy flat, fun rides for the family.
Spring
There are more than 200 different types of animals recorded in Werakata National Park and the nearby State Conservation Area. Spring is a great time to see them. The wildflower displays during spring are a sight to behold .
Summer
Pack a picnic lunch and head for the Astills picnic area with its beautiful canopy of gums.
Winter
Winter is a great time for bird watching in the park. Werakata is blessed with a huge number of spotted gums, one of only a few winter-flowering eucalypts found near the New South Wales coast.
Facilities
Maps and downloads
Prohibited
Illegal dumping is prohibited and penalties apply. If you see illegal dumping activity please help NPWS by reporting it to Environment Line: 131 555.
Pets
Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.
Smoking
NSW national parks are no smoking areas.
Contact
- in the North Coast region
Werakata National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
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Newcastle office
02 4946 4100
Contact hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm. - 1 Wetlands Place, Shortland NSW 2307
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Email: npws.lowerhunter@environment.nsw.gov.au
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Newcastle office
Nearby towns
Cessnock (6 km)
Some of the finest wines in the world are created in the Hunter Valley and its towns, gourmet food is acclaimed and luxury, boutique accommodations are matched by the most beautiful natural scenery.
Lovedale (6 km)
As a major Hunter Valley wine-producing area, Lovedale dates back to the early 1800s, when local wheat and general produce farmers turned to grape growing. The Lovedale Long Lunch is a two-day eating and drinking extravaganza. Sample gourmet foods from local restaurants and wines from Lovedale wineries and vineyards. Even if you miss the annual event, there's nothing stopping you from embarking on your own Lovedale long lunch!
Newcastle (49 km)
Newcastle is a harbour city surrounded by amazing surf beaches that are linked by a great coastal walk, the Bathers Way. The walk from Nobbys Beach to Merewether Beach takes about three hours and is a great way to explore the city.