The waterfall is fed by the Kangaroo River, which originates in the Robertson area and drains into the Shoalhaven River catchment.
The drop of the main waterfall is approximately 50 meters, but the total height including the cascading levels is significantly greater.
The site is located on the edge of the Illawarra Escarpment, which separates the coastal plain from the Southern Highlands plateau.
The surrounding Budderoo National Park protects a mix of cool temperate rainforest and dry eucalypt forest communities.
The area was historically used for timber extraction before being gazetted as a national park.
The rock shelves at the top of the falls are formed by Hawkesbury Sandstone, prone to weathering by the river's flow.
Carrington Falls is a prominent multi-tiered waterfall in Budderoo National Park, featuring a 50-meter drop into a deep rainforest-clad gorge. The Kangaroo River flows over the escarpment edge, forming the primary waterfall and several secondary cascades. Visitors access the site via a paved loop track from the designated picnic area. Multiple steel-fenced lookouts provide perspectives of the falls and the surrounding Illawarra Escarpment. The site includes extensive picnic facilities integrated into the native eucalypt forest setting. Geologically, the area consists of sedimentary rock formations that characterize the southern edge of the Sydney Basin. The park is managed by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. The area is part of a larger protected landscape that supports diverse flora and fauna, including rare bird species.
The Carrington Falls Lookout, which offers an unobstructed, head-on view of the main cascade.
Bring a windbreaker or warm layer, as temperatures drop significantly on the escarpment compared to the coast.
Stick strictly to the fenced lookout paths, as the cliff edges are unstable and steep.
Carry your own drinking water, as there are no potable water taps available at the picnic site.
Attempting to find unauthorized trails to the base of the falls, as these are unmaintained and pose severe safety risks.
Park access may be restricted during periods of extreme fire danger or severe weather events.
Stay behind safety barriers; do not attempt to swim or wade in the river above the waterfall due to dangerous currents and slippery rocks.
