Apsley Falls New South Wales
Dramatic gorges and powerful waterfalls in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, offering stunning views and accessible walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Most impressive falls!
Apsley Falls New South Wales
Best Time
Most impressive falls!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic gorges and powerful waterfalls in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, offering stunning views and accessible walks.
"This place is absolutely breathtaking. The waterfall viewing platform is easily accessible and just a short walk from the car park."
Pack Warm Layers 🥵
Winter can be very cold here, so dress warmly for your visit.
Combine with Tia Falls 🌊
Tia Falls is just a short 15-minute drive away and equally beautiful.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Apsley Falls (Upper & Lower)
Oxley Wild Rivers National Park
Witness dramatic cascades plunging into deep gorges with sheer slate cliffs. Stunning after rain!
Gorge Lookouts
Various viewpoints
Take in panoramic views of the vast gorges and rugged landscapes. Perfect for photography.
Slate Walls Lookout Walk
Southern part of Oxley Wild Rivers NP
A rewarding 1-hour return walk crossing a suspension bridge to the lower falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Accessibility & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Warm Layers 🥵
Winter can be very cold here, so dress warmly for your visit.
Combine with Tia Falls 🌊
Tia Falls is just a short 15-minute drive away and equally beautiful.
Allow Time for the Drive 🚘
The journey from Sydney is about 5 hours, so make it a proper road trip.
Check Firewood Supply 🔥
If camping, ensure enough firewood is available, especially around holidays.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Warm Layers 🥵
Winter can be very cold here, so dress warmly for your visit.
Combine with Tia Falls 🌊
Tia Falls is just a short 15-minute drive away and equally beautiful.
Allow Time for the Drive 🚘
The journey from Sydney is about 5 hours, so make it a proper road trip.
Check Firewood Supply 🔥
If camping, ensure enough firewood is available, especially around holidays.
Bring Your Camera 📷
Spectacular scenery and waterfalls make for incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Apsley Falls for its breathtaking natural beauty, dramatic gorges, and impressive waterfalls, especially after rain. The accessibility of the main viewing platform and the well-maintained facilities are highlighted as major positives. Some minor issues with campground amenities like firewood have been noted, but overall, it's considered a must-visit for its stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
"This place is absolutely breathtaking. The waterfall viewing platform is easily accessible and just a short walk from the car park, making it suitable for most visitors. There are plenty of parking spaces and toilet facilities available, which adds to the convenience.
Once you arrive, it feels like you’ve entered a different world – peaceful, natural, and full of beauty. The drive from Port Macquarie takes about 2 hours, winding through hilly terrain and scenic bends, making the journey part of the experience. Be prepared for cold weather in winter, so dress warmly!
If you’re in the area, don’t miss Tia Falls, just a 15-minute drive from here. Both spots offer fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to connect with nature."
Justin Joy
"Falls are amazing, rock formations on the gorge are really interesting. Well maintained walking track (Bitumen), suspension bridge, great look outs, flushing toilets. Definitely worth a visit. Good for a quick stop or 3km walk."
Joshua Bowman
"Wow! What an amazing campground!! The gorge is astounding.. and a flush toilet for a National Park 🎉🎉
The 4 days we were there (just before Easter weekend) there wasn't enough firewood supplied which led to almost every other camping retrieving wood from the forest. Also 2/4 of the BBQ's weren't working. I did provide feedback to NSWPW and they did come to fix that the day we were leaving."
Emma Sunbeam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Apsley Falls is approximately a 5-hour drive from Sydney. The route typically involves heading north on the M1 and then west towards Walcha via the Oxley Highway.
Public transport options to Apsley Falls are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider carpooling or joining a guided tour if you don't have your own transport.
The drive from Port Macquarie to Apsley Falls takes about 2 hours and is characterized by scenic, hilly terrain and winding roads.
Yes, Apsley Falls is easily accessible by a standard 2WD vehicle. The roads leading to the main viewing areas and campground are well-maintained.
The closest town to Apsley Falls is Walcha, located about 15-20 minutes away. Walcha offers amenities like accommodation and dining options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Apsley Falls is located within Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, and typically there are no entrance fees for day visitors. However, camping fees apply if you plan to stay overnight.
Apsley Falls and Oxley Wild Rivers National Park are generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, it's always a good idea to check the NSW National Parks website for any temporary closures or alerts.
As there are typically no entrance fees for day visits, advance booking is not required. If you plan to camp, it's advisable to book your campsite in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Apsley Falls, including near the main viewing platform. This makes it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, flushing toilet facilities are available at Apsley Falls, which is a welcome amenity for visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main viewing platform is a short, easy walk from the car park. For a more immersive experience, the 1-hour return walk to Slate Walls Lookout is recommended, crossing a suspension bridge and offering views of the lower falls.
Yes, Apsley Falls is suitable for families. The main viewing platform is easily accessible, and the surrounding natural beauty provides an engaging experience for children.
While not guaranteed, you might spot native Australian wildlife in the park. Keep an eye out for birds and other small creatures in their natural habitat.
Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted directly at the falls or in the gorge due to safety concerns and the steep, rocky terrain. Stick to designated viewing areas.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting for photography, especially with the dramatic gorge landscapes. After rain, the waterfalls are at their most spectacular.
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Facilities
Yes, there is a campground located at Apsley Falls, offering a chance to stay overnight amidst the stunning natural surroundings.
The campground typically offers flushing toilets and BBQ facilities. However, some reviews mention occasional issues with firewood supply or BBQ maintenance.
Campsites at Apsley Falls can usually be booked through the NSW National Parks booking system. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
Bring all your camping essentials, including food, water, warm clothing, and any personal items. If planning to use BBQs, check if cooking fuel is provided or bring your own.
Mobile reception can be patchy in national parks. It's advisable to download any necessary maps or information offline before you arrive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While swimming isn't advised, the well-maintained paths and picnic areas provide space for families to relax and enjoy the scenery. Consider bringing binoculars for wildlife spotting and snacks for a pleasant day out. The nearby town of Walcha offers additional amenities if needed.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
The scenic drive through the New England High Country adds to the adventure. For those on a day trip, it's easily accessible from towns like Walcha (15-20 mins) or even as a longer excursion from Port Macquarie (approx. 2 hours).
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Slate Walls Lookout walk, in particular, offers unique angles and perspectives of the lower falls and the gorge's intricate rock formations. Visiting after rain will yield the most dramatic shots of the cascading water.
Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for softer light and dramatic shadows. Remember to bring a tripod for long exposure shots of the waterfalls to capture that silky smooth effect. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of the Gorges
Visitors often describe the feeling of entering a different world upon arrival, a place of profound peace and natural beauty.
For those seeking a more adventurous perspective, the walk to Slate Walls Lookout provides an intimate encounter with the gorge's edge and the lower falls. This well-maintained track, complete with a suspension bridge, allows you to truly immerse yourself in the environment.
Chasing Waterfalls: Best Viewing Times
Many visitors recommend timing your visit following periods of rain to witness this spectacular display. While the falls are impressive year-round, their intensity varies. During drier months, they might be less dramatic, but the sheer scale of the gorges remains a captivating sight.
Even in winter, the crisp air and dramatic landscapes offer a unique beauty, though visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures. For photography enthusiasts, the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon can provide stunning light for capturing the falls and gorges. However, the raw power of the waterfalls after rain is often the most sought-after experience.
Camping at Apsley Falls
The campground is situated within the national park, offering a close connection to the natural environment. Facilities at the campground include flushing toilets and BBQ areas, adding a level of comfort to your stay.
Camping here provides an excellent base for exploring the falls, surrounding lookouts, and nearby attractions like Tia Falls. It's an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the rugged beauty of the New England High Country.
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