Set in rugged sandstone country, Brisbane Water National Park is a great place to see wildflowers and Aboriginal engravings, and to go bushwalking, birdwatching and sightseeing. Brisbane Water National Park is located in the lower reaches of Mooney Mooney Creek, which enters the Hawkesbury estuary from the north. The creek is ideal to explore by canoe, through beautiful mountainous wood country, with semi rainforest coming right down to the waters edge.

A number of historic places in the park are associated with the Sydney to Newcastle rail link, completed in 1899. Places include remains of workers camps, shops and public houses. For further information contact the Gosford Area Office on 02 4320 4200.

Two picnic areas within the park close of an evening:
Girrakool picnic area is open 9am to 5pm every day
Somersby Falls picnic area is open 8am to 8pm during daylight savings and is open 8am to 5pm at other times
Other areas of Brisbane Water National Park will be open at all times, however may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

Girrakool Picnic Area

Girrakool Picnic Area
Girrakool picnic area is well equipped with free barbecues, picnic tables and plenty of parking and it is conveniently located for those travelling from Sydney or Newcastle, all together making it a great for a family gathering. The main picnic ground next to the carpark is a large grassy area with plenty of room to kick a ball around with the kids, while a bushland picnic area at the far end of the carpark provides a more rugged bush setting for those who like to get in the thick of it. You might be lucky enough to share the experience with a wallaby or two, and if you feel like stretching your legs, try the easy Girrakool loop walk that takes you past Aboriginal rock engravings, through forest and past waterfalls.�� Make sure you stop at Illoura lookout and the shady waterfall at Andamira lookout for a photo or two. The track starts at Girrakool picnic area. Crossing the carpark from the information sign you will see signposts for the track. Follow the track across a large rock platform. Walk down steps and wind through the bush where you can catch a glimpse of Piles Creek. Follow the signs for the Girrakool Loop and enjoy the beautiful bushlands. The track finishes at the other end of the picnic area; follow the fenceline back to the carpark.

Somersby Falls

Somersby Falls picnic area
Wheelchair accessible toilets are available. Picnic tables are located along stone pathways or relatively flat grassy areas. A stone pathway leads to the edge of Floods creek, just before it descends over the first waterfall and provides views of the creek. Somersby Falls picnic area is the perfect place to escape from everyday life. Enjoy your meal amidst lush rainforest that feels a million miles away but in reality is so close to home.