Itineraries Home » New South Wales Itineraries » Sydney Itineraries » A weekend in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park: Nature's Retreat Near the Bustling City
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, nestled in the heart of Sydney, is a breathtaking natural haven that offers respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its diverse range of ecosystems, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, this national park is a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and history buffs alike. The park covers an expansive area of approximately 15,000 hectares, making it one of Australia's largest metropolitan national parks! Whether you seek captivating landscapes, outdoor adventures, or a deeper understanding of Aboriginal heritage, this national park has something to offer everyone. So, with our itinerary for a weekend in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and serene ambience of this national park, and discover the natural wonders that lie just beyond the city's bustling streets.
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Getting there
We started our day at the Resolute Picnic Area. Below is the Google Maps location for reference. It takes slightly over an hour to reach Resolute Picnic Area from Sydney CBD. Ample car parking is available at the site however do note that it gets really busy over weekends and public/school holidays. The Resolute Picnic Area offers several picnic tables and toilet facilities are available within a short walk.
Note: You will also need to pay park entry fees to enter Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Visit NSW National Parks' website for more information about the park entry fees and options.
It is also worth noting that Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park does not have any restaurants or cafes located within the park itself. If you do not have your own packed food, you will need to drive at least 30-45 minutes one-way to access any restaurants or cafes outside of the park. Therefore, it is recommended to plan and bring your own food and beverages for your visit to the park to ensure you have sustenance during your time there. If you're following this itinerary, you will need to pack lunch and dinner for Day 1, as well as breakfast for Day 2. Make sure to pack enough food and beverages to keep you fueled and hydrated during your time in the park. Drinking water is plentiful in the park; there are water fountains/taps located in Resolute Picnic Area as well as the Basin campground. Additionally, consider packing snacks and any other necessary food items to suit your dietary preferences and needs.
Note: You will also need to pay park entry fees to enter Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Visit NSW National Parks' website for more information about the park entry fees and options.
It is also worth noting that Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park does not have any restaurants or cafes located within the park itself. If you do not have your own packed food, you will need to drive at least 30-45 minutes one-way to access any restaurants or cafes outside of the park. Therefore, it is recommended to plan and bring your own food and beverages for your visit to the park to ensure you have sustenance during your time there. If you're following this itinerary, you will need to pack lunch and dinner for Day 1, as well as breakfast for Day 2. Make sure to pack enough food and beverages to keep you fueled and hydrated during your time in the park. Drinking water is plentiful in the park; there are water fountains/taps located in Resolute Picnic Area as well as the Basin campground. Additionally, consider packing snacks and any other necessary food items to suit your dietary preferences and needs.
Day 1: Stop #1 - Resolute Picnic Area, for the Aboriginal Heritage Walk
In the morning, we embarked on the Aboriginal Heritage Walk in the national park, delving into the rich cultural heritage of the Aboriginal people in the Sydney region. This immersive walk offers a journey through time, allowing visitors to explore significant sites, learn about ancient rituals, and develop a deep appreciation for the Aboriginal history and connection to the land. For more information about this fascinating walk, please refer to our post below.
The Aboriginal Heritage Walk in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park: A Journey Through Indigenous Culture
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Day 1: Stop #2 - The Basin Aboriginal Art Site
After lunch, we drove to The Basin Trail Carpark to begin our overnight stay at The Basin Campground.
While the details about the campground itself will be provided shortly in this post, it's important to note, at this point, that The Basin campground is not accessible by car. Visitors should park at the location indicated on the map above and embark on a 2.8km walk to reach the campground. Please be aware that during this walk, you will need to carry your camping gear!
We gathered our camping backpacks and embarked on The Basin Trail towards the campground, with a stop at the Basin Aboriginal Art Site, approximately 350m from the carpark.
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The Basin Aboriginal Art Site showcases ancient rock engravings created by the Aboriginal people, specifically the Guringai people, who have a deep historical connection to the land. These engravings depict various symbols and figures that hold cultural and spiritual significance. These engravings also provide insights into the rich Aboriginal history, stories, and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
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Day 1: Last Stop - The Basin Campground
We then continued on The Basin trail to The Basin Campground. The AllTrails Map for the one-way walk from the carpark to the campground is provided below as well as some key facts about the walking trail.
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Please note that the walk to the campground involves a very steep downhill section. If you prefer not to undertake the hike, especially considering the uphill return with a total elevation gain of 167m, including a significant 150m elevation gain in the first 1.5km, while carrying your camping gear, there is an alternative option available. The campground is also accessible by ferry, departing from Palm Beach Wharf. If you choose to arrive by ferry, you can drop off your camping gear at the Palm Beach wharf and park your car in the seasonal carpark at the Careel Bay Sporting Fields. From there, you can easily catch the 199 bus back to the wharf. The 199 bus operates at 15-minute intervals, providing a short 5-minute ride.
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The Basin campground in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is one of Sydney's most popular beach camping spots and is the only place you can camp in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Bookings are essential and can be made through NSW National Parks' website. This large, grassy area overlooks Pittwater, offering lovely surroundings and views. It’s easy to see why this waterfront campground is so popular. The campground accommodates up to 350 campers!
At The Basin, you’ll find great facilities including an amenities block with drinking water, public phone and paid phone charging station, coffee vending machines, showers and toilets, picnic tables and barbecue facilities, a sheltered beach and an inland lagoon. Pitch your tent in a shady spot, enjoy a swim and see if you can spot local wildlife such as, the swamp wallabies or kookaburras.
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Please be aware that due to the large size of The Basin campground, there is a possibility of noise from neighboring tents that may disturb your sleep. While this may not always be the case, we recommend bringing earplugs for a more comfortable rest. Furthermore, the campground's bathroom facilities offer coin-operated hot water showers. To ensure a warm shower, it is advisable to have some gold coins ($1 or $2) with you. If you do not have any coins, the park rangers are available to assist you in exchanging notes for coins. Feel free to approach them for assistance.
Note: If you're looking for a convenient and stress-free getaway, particularly if you're an interstate or international visitor and prefer not to invest in camping equipment, the EcoTreasures' camping setup service is an excellent option. With their service, you can have your tent set up at The Basin campground and receive all the necessary gear for a tranquil and enjoyable nature retreat. It's a hassle-free solution that ensures a seamless experience. For further details about their service, you can find more information here.
Day 2: Stop #1 - Explore The Basin Campground
In the morning, we explored and enjoyed the beautiful surroundings of The Basin Campground. The campground provided a perfect setting for relaxation and fun. We spent quality time at the beach, soaking up the sun and playing in the crystal-clear waters. The kids were particularly thrilled and had a great time splashing around.
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Note: For those who prefer a day visit to The Basin Campground, there is a dedicated day use area that provides an opportunity to experience the beauty of this stunning location without the need for overnight camping. The day use area offers convenient access to picnic tables, a toilet block, and a secluded beach, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable day trip for visitors.
After enjoying our time at The Basin, it was time to pack up our tent and prepare for the next adventure. We made our way back to the carpark via the strenuous Basin Trail. If you're a group, we'd recommend that only one person heads back to the carpark to get the car to Palm Beach while the others in the group take the ferry along with the camping gear. That way, you won't need to undertake this uphill return walk while carrying your camping gear.
Day 2: Stop #2 - Barrenjoey Lighthouse in Palm Beach
We then headed to Governor Phillip Park Carpark in Palm Beach for an exhilarating walk to Barrenjoey Lighthouse. For more information about this fascinating walk, please refer to our post below.
Captivating Serenity: Unveiling the Splendor of Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk in Palm Beach
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With hearts full of cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the natural wonders we had encountered, we reluctantly bid farewell to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, carrying the essence of its beauty and adventures with us as we made our way back home.
Note: If you're following this itinerary during the summer months when the sunset occurs around 9 PM, you can take advantage of the extended daylight and explore The Basin Campground on the evening of Day 1 itself. In that case, you can begin Day 2 by embarking on the Barrenjoey Lighthouse walk in the morning. After enjoying a leisurely lunch, consider indulging in a delightful river cruise along the renowned Hawkesbury River. Boathouse Ferry Co. is a well-known and reputable ferry operator in the region.
Here’re a few additional things to note:
- Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is renowned for its diverse range of walking tracks, catering to all levels of hikers. From leisurely strolls to challenging hikes, the park's trails offer breathtaking panoramic views as a rewarding experience. Detailed information about the various walks can be found on the NSW National Park's website, including distances, durations, difficulty levels, and any track closures or advisories. It is important to note that track conditions and accessibility may vary, so staying updated with the latest information from the National Parks and Wildlife Service is recommended.
- One of the park's highlights is Bobbin Head, a picturesque area situated along the shores of Cowan Creek. Bobbin Head is a popular recreational spot, offering amenities such as barbecues, picnic areas, and a marina. Families and friends can enjoy leisurely walks along the foreshore, rent paddleboats for a delightful experience on the water, or indulge in a delicious meal at the charming Bobbin Head Inn, which boasts stunning water views.
- Lastly, organized day tours to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park offer a convenient and stress-free option for those who prefer not to drive or do not have access to a car. With these tours, you can leave the logistics and transportation in the capable hands of experienced tour operators, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the park's wonders and enjoy a memorable experience in comfort. To book your day tour to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, please follow the link below for more information and options.
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