The park contains significant Aboriginal rock engravings, including the famous 'Stairway to the Stars' site.
The landscape features unique 'hanging swamps' that occur on the sandstone plateau due to low-permeability rock layers.
Geologically, the park sits on Hawkesbury Sandstone, which was deposited approximately 200 million years ago.
The park encompasses part of the 'Great North Walk', a 250km trail stretching from Sydney to Newcastle.
Woy Woy Bay and the surrounding inlets were key historical maritime areas for early colonial timber cutting.
It provides one of the few remaining corridors for biodiversity between the northern Sydney basin and the Central Coast.
Brisbane Water National Park is a protected area on the Central Coast of New South Wales, characterized by steep sandstone escarpments, deep gullies, and extensive Aboriginal rock art sites. The park spans over 12,000 hectares and sits between the M1 Motorway and the Hawkesbury River. It provides critical habitat for native species including swamp wallabies, lace monitors, and diverse honeyeater bird populations. The Hawkesbury Track, starting from Kariong, is the primary gateway for hikers accessing ancient petroglyphs and engravings. The landscape is dominated by dry sclerophyll forests and heathlands that bloom prominently during late winter and spring. Visitors can access panoramic lookouts over the Brisbane Water estuary and the surrounding river systems. The park protects fragile archaeological heritage sites that provide insight into the Guringai and Darkinjung people's historical use of the land.
The Bulgandry Aboriginal Art Site, specifically near the well-preserved rock engravings.
Download offline maps before arrival, as mobile reception is inconsistent or unavailable within the deeper valleys.
Wear high-traction footwear as the sandstone tracks are uneven, steep, and can be slippery when damp.
Carry at least two liters of water per person, as there are no potable water stations inside the park.
Attempting remote trails without a compass or GPS, as dense bushland makes navigation difficult if trails are overgrown.
Park may be temporarily closed during total fire ban days or extreme weather events; check NSW National Parks service alerts before departure.
Do not touch, walk over, or outline Aboriginal rock engravings as oils from skin cause permanent damage. Keep all pets at home to protect local wildlife.
