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Oakvale Wildlife Park

4.6
·2k reviews·Salt Ash, Australia

A 25-acre wildlife park in Port Stephens offering close encounters with kangaroos, koalas, and farm animals, plus playgrounds and a water park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Animals are active, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Koala

Oakvale Wildlife Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Animals are active, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 25-acre wildlife park in Port Stephens offering close encounters with kangaroos, koalas, and farm animals, plus playgrounds and a water park.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A brilliant day out for 3 generations, with hand-feeding baby farm animals being a big win!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Active Animals

See kangaroos and koalas at their most active by arriving at opening time.

🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch

You can bring your own food, or purchase coffee and lunch on-site.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kangaroo & Koala Encounters

Kangaroo & Koala Encounters

Various enclosures

Feed kangaroos and get up close with koalas, including opportunities to see them with joeys.

Instagram+1
Farm Animal Hand-Feeding

Farm Animal Hand-Feeding

Farmyard area

Bottle-feed lambs and goats, milk cows, and interact with other gentle farm animals.

InstagramReddit
Playgrounds & Water Park

Playgrounds & Water Park

Designated areas

Spacious playgrounds for kids and a seasonal water park offer fun breaks from animal viewing.

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Tractor Trailer Rides

Tractor Trailer Rides

Park grounds

Enjoy free tractor trailer rides that offer a scenic tour of the wildlife facility.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit: Best Times & What to Expect

Oakvale Wildlife Park is a 25-acre sanctuary perfect for families. Arrive early to see animals at their most active, especially kangaroos and koalas. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid larger crowds, as weekends can get busy with families enjoying the playgrounds and animal encounters. Instagram

Animal Encounters & Activities

Get up close with Australian wildlife! Oakvale offers unique opportunities for hand-feeding kangaroos and koalas, milking cows, and interacting with farm animals. The park also features a water park (seasonal) and extensive playgrounds, making it a full-day adventure for all ages. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Animals are active, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon (cooler months)
Why
Animals may be more active
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (peak season)
Why
Lively atmosphere, but busy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

It is so depressing… #Fable #Fable2 #Oakvale #meme #sad #fyp #xbox
@fable_peak
3.2K likes • 90.3K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Active Animals

See kangaroos and koalas at their most active by arriving at opening time. InstagramReddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch

You can bring your own food, or purchase coffee and lunch on-site. Reddit

POV you purchased a family annual membership to Oakvale Wildlife Park and now your weekends look like this 🐪 🦎 🐨 #feelNSW #PortStephens #HunterValley #familyfun
oakvalewildlifepark
37 likes • 1.2K views
🤍 Oakvale Wildlife Park, Salt Ash, NSW A great day out, bottle feeding the lambs and goats, koala sanctuary, massive playground, tractor rides and animal feedings. We look forward to visiting once again to the water park when the weather warms a little more than 15c. 🥶 #oakvalewildlifepark #oakvalefarm #visitnsw #kidsactivities #campinglife #adventuretime
van_lovin_fam
27 likes • 505 views

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the 25-acre park. Instagram

💧 Water Park Fun (Seasonal)

Don't forget swimwear if visiting during warmer months for the water park. Instagram

Exploring the wonders of Oakvale Wildlife Park 🐨🦘 📷@newytour.co #portstephens #incrediblebynature #wildlifeexperience #familyfun
portstephens
95 likes • 3.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Active Animals

See kangaroos and koalas at their most active by arriving at opening time. InstagramReddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch

You can bring your own food, or purchase coffee and lunch on-site. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the 25-acre park. Instagram

💧 Water Park Fun (Seasonal)

Don't forget swimwear if visiting during warmer months for the water park. Instagram

📸 Capture the Moments

Plenty of photo opportunities with animals and family fun. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Oakvale Wildlife Park for its refreshing, family-friendly atmosphere and excellent hands-on animal encounters, particularly hand-feeding kangaroos and farm animals. The park is noted for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and ample amenities like playgrounds and BBQ facilities. Some guests expressed a desire for even more diverse animal species and interactive experiences beyond feeding. Reddit

"Refreshing experience, nice place for kids and families. Clean bathrooms and great coffee. Parking was sufficient and spacious. Staff was friendly. Would love to see more animals and more hands on experiences apart from feeding, milking etc."

Syed Ahmed Shah

"We had a brilliant day here, 3 generations of family.
Clean, well kept amenities including BBQ s, children's playgrounds, and best of all handfeeding baby farm animals was a big win.
The free tractor trailer rides really showcase this Wildlife facility, highly recommended for younger kids and primary age.
You can purchase coffee and lunch, or bring in your own food ✅️"

Wendy Winsome

"Haven't been to Oakvale farm for years, and thought I'd take my grand daughter. She, and I both loved it. The animals are well looked after and very gentle."

Lee Petrie

What People Like

Hands-on animal feeding
Family-friendly atmosphere
Clean facilities and playgrounds

What People Dislike

Desire for more animal variety
Wish for more interactive experiences

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Oakvale Wildlife Park is located in Salt Ash, Port Stephens, NSW. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. If coming from Sydney, it's approximately a 2-hour drive. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended. Instagram

Yes, there is sufficient and spacious parking available at the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Absolutely! Oakvale Wildlife Park is a popular day trip destination from Sydney, offering a great escape into nature and animal encounters. Instagram

The most common route from Sydney involves taking the M1 Motorway north and then following signs towards Nelson Bay/Port Stephens. Oakvale is well-signposted once you enter the Port Stephens area. Instagram

Yes, the Port Stephens region offers a wide range of accommodation, from hotels and resorts to holiday parks and camping, making it easy to extend your visit. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Oakvale Wildlife Park is typically open daily from 10 AM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening hours, especially during public holidays or seasonal changes. Reddit

Admission prices vary for adults, children, and families. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the gate. Consider an annual membership if you plan to visit multiple times. Instagram

Yes, tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate upon arrival. However, booking online in advance might sometimes offer discounts or guarantee entry during peak times. Instagram

Discounts may be available for seniors, students, or group bookings. Keep an eye on their website or social media for any special offers or promotions. Instagram

Generally, re-entry policies vary. It's best to inquire at the entrance or customer service desk upon arrival if you anticipate needing to leave and return later in the day. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Oakvale is home to a diverse range of animals, including kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, wombats, emus, various farm animals like sheep and cows, and reptiles. Instagram+1

Yes, Oakvale is renowned for its hands-on experiences. You can hand-feed kangaroos, bottle-feed lambs and goats, and even milk cows. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! It's a fantastic destination for families with young children, offering interactive animal encounters, playgrounds, and tractor rides. InstagramReddit

The park features spacious and well-maintained playgrounds, providing ample space for children to play and burn energy. InstagramReddit

Yes, Oakvale has a water park that is open seasonally. It's a great way to cool down during warmer months. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy picnics within the park grounds. There are also BBQ facilities available. Reddit

Oakvale offers a cafe where you can purchase coffee, lunch, and snacks. The menu typically includes items suitable for families. Reddit

While specific menus can change, cafes at attractions like Oakvale often have a selection of vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly or check their current menu if you have specific dietary needs. Reddit

Yes, there is a cafe on-site that serves a variety of food and beverages. Reddit

Oakvale is a popular spot for children's birthday parties, offering a fun and memorable experience with animal interactions and play areas. Contact the park directly for party packages. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The kangaroo and koala enclosures offer fantastic photo opportunities. The farmyard and tractor rides also provide charming backdrops for family photos. Instagram+1

Yes, photography is encouraged! However, always be mindful of the animals' well-being and avoid using flash photography directly at them, especially during shows or close encounters. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. Professional photography or filming for commercial purposes may require prior permission. Instagram

A camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing wildlife from a comfortable distance. However, a smartphone is perfectly adequate for most visitors. Instagram

Selfies are possible in designated areas, particularly during supervised animal encounters where staff can guide you on safe and appropriate interactions. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

Oakvale Wildlife Park is a dream destination for families with young children. The hand-feeding opportunities with lambs, goats, and kangaroos are a huge hit, creating unforgettable moments. InstagramReddit The extensive playgrounds offer plenty of space for kids to burn off energy, and the tractor trailer rides provide a fun, relaxed way to see the park. InstagramReddit

Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the biggest crowds and ensure more personal interaction time with the animals. The park's layout is generally easy to navigate with strollers, and the on-site cafe offers kid-friendly options. Reddit Don't forget swimwear for the seasonal water park if the weather is warm! Instagram

🇦🇺 Wildlife Enthusiasts & Photographers

For those passionate about Australian wildlife and photography, Oakvale offers unique opportunities. The close-up encounters with kangaroos and koalas are exceptional for capturing candid shots. Instagram+1 The park's commitment to a more naturalistic environment means animals are often more active and visible. Instagram

Arriving early is key to catching animals at their most active, especially kangaroos during their morning grazing. InstagramReddit While professional photography may require permission, amateur photographers will find plenty of stunning subjects. Remember to be patient and respectful of the animals' space to get the best shots. Instagram

🎒 Budget-Conscious Travelers

Oakvale Wildlife Park offers good value, especially for families. You can bring your own picnic lunch and utilize the BBQ facilities, significantly cutting down on food costs. Reddit The free tractor trailer rides are a great included activity that adds to the overall experience without extra charge. Reddit

Consider purchasing an annual family membership if you live locally or plan to visit multiple times, as this can be more cost-effective than individual day tickets. Instagram Weekday visits often mean fewer crowds and potentially a more relaxed experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Oakvale: Animal Encounters

Oakvale Wildlife Park prides itself on offering intimate and educational animal encounters. Visitors can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, providing a truly memorable experience. The park also offers opportunities to bottle-feed young lambs and goats, and even milk cows, giving a hands-on glimpse into farm life. InstagramReddit These interactions are carefully managed by staff to ensure the safety and comfort of both the animals and visitors. Instagram

Beyond the farm animals, Oakvale is a sanctuary for native Australian wildlife. You can get up close with koalas, often seeing them with their joeys, and learn about their conservation from knowledgeable keepers. Instagram+1 The park's commitment to providing a naturalistic environment allows animals to roam freely, enhancing the visitor experience and promoting a deeper appreciation for wildlife. Instagram

While the focus is on interaction, Oakvale also emphasizes education. Reptile shows and keeper talks provide fascinating insights into the lives and behaviors of the animals. Reddit This blend of fun and learning makes Oakvale Wildlife Park an engaging destination for all ages, fostering a connection with the natural world. Instagram

Family Fun Beyond the Animals

Oakvale Wildlife Park is designed with families in mind, offering a variety of attractions to keep children entertained for hours. The park boasts extensive and well-equipped playgrounds, providing ample space for kids to run, climb, and play. Instagram These play areas are a great way for children to expend energy and enjoy a break from animal viewing. Reddit

During warmer months, the seasonal water park becomes a major draw for families looking to cool off. With slides and splash zones, it’s a perfect spot for kids to have a refreshing adventure. Instagram Complementing these attractions are the free tractor trailer rides, which offer a relaxed and scenic tour of the park's grounds, allowing visitors to see more of the wildlife and enjoy the picturesque setting. Reddit

The combination of interactive animal experiences, engaging play areas, and seasonal water fun makes Oakvale Wildlife Park a comprehensive destination for a family day out. Instagram+1 It’s a place where both parents and children can create lasting memories. Reddit

A Glimpse into Oakvale's History and Ethos

Oakvale Wildlife Park has a rich history, established in 1979 as a family-owned business. Instagram Its foundation was built on a deep love for animals and a desire to share the excitement of close encounters with them. This ethos continues to guide the park's operations today, focusing on providing authentic and memorable experiences for visitors. Instagram

The park spans 25 acres in the beautiful Port Stephens region, offering a spacious and natural environment for its diverse animal inhabitants. Instagram The emphasis is on allowing animals to roam freely, fostering a more naturalistic setting that benefits both the animals and the visitor experience. This approach sets Oakvale apart, offering a more immersive and less restrictive environment compared to some other wildlife parks. Instagram

Oakvale's commitment extends beyond just entertainment; it aims to educate and inspire visitors about wildlife conservation and the importance of respecting the natural world. Instagram+1 Through its hands-on approach and dedication to animal welfare, Oakvale Wildlife Park has become a cherished destination for locals and tourists alike. Instagram

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