Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a spectacular natural playground just north of Sydney, offering families endless opportunities for bushwalking, wildlife spotting, and cultural discovery. With ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, calm waterways perfect for kayaking, and gentle trails suitable for little legs, this 15,000-hectare wonderland provides an authentic Australian wilderness experience without venturing far from the city.

• ✓Ancient Aboriginal rock engravings and art sites, some dating back thousands of years
• ✓Safe swimming beaches at The Basin and Bobbin Head with calm, protected waters
• ✓West Head Lookout offering breathtaking panoramic views of Broken Bay and the Hawkesbury River
• ✓Wildlife spotting opportunities including wallabies, echidnas, and colorful native birds
• ✓Easy kayaking and canoeing in sheltered waterways, with rental options available at Bobbin Head

1. 1.Download the National Parks NSW app before you go, as mobile reception can be patchy throughout the park. Offline maps are essential for navigation.
2. 2.Start with the Basin Track (accessible from West Head Road) for an easy 45-minute walk to a protected beach with calm swimming, perfect for families with younger children.
3. 3.Visit the Bobbin Head area for the easiest access with toilets, picnic facilities, and a visitor center. Arrive early on weekends as car parks fill quickly.
4. 4.Bring insect repellent year-round, especially during warmer months. Ticks can be present in bushland areas, so check children carefully after walks.
5. 5.The Aboriginal engravings near West Head are stunning and educational. Pick up the heritage walk brochure at visitor centers to help children understand the site's cultural significance.

Visit during autumn and spring (March to May, September to November) for mild temperatures perfect for hiking. Arrive early morning on weekdays to avoid crowds and spot more wildlife. Summer mornings are ideal for water activities before the heat peaks.

Entry to the park is free, but vehicle entry fees apply at some locations (around AUD $8 per day). Limited food options exist within the park, so pack a picnic, plenty of water, and snacks. Some walking tracks may close during extreme fire danger days in summer.

Summer (December to February) can be very hot, so plan water-based activities and early morning hikes. Some tracks may close during total fire ban days. Spring brings wildflowers and comfortable temperatures. Winter (June to August) is cooler but still pleasant for walking, though swimming may be too cold for young children.

Head to Pymble village (10 minutes drive) for family-friendly cafes and restaurants including The Little Prince Deli for fresh sandwiches and kid-friendly meals, or Turramurra (15 minutes away) for a wider range of family dining options including pizza and Asian cuisine.