Barrington Tops National Park is a destination for lovers of the great outdoors. The most popular activity here is hiking, but you can also fish, camp, mountain bike and bird watch.

The park stretches out across 184,259 acres (74,567 hectares) in the lush Hunter Region. Forming part of the protected Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, Barrington Tops is one of the most scenic national parks in the state.

While Barrington Tops National Park is large enough to spend a few days exploring, visitors with less time can see many attractions in a day.

Barrington Tops is the extinct volcano from which the park takes its name. The national park surrounding this peak has an extensive network of trails. Hike to the 4,921-foot (1,500-metre) high plateau of Barrington Tops for stunning views across the rainforest canopy. The Careys Peak walking track is a 4-mile (7-kilometre) trail that passes snow gum forests and a historic hut. Look out for the local fauna, with echidnas, eagles and kangaroos all common on the trail.

Go fishing for brown trout in one of the six rivers that run through the park. Fishing gear can be obtained from the gas stations in the area. A number of tour operators also offer canoe trips down the rivers. Bring your bicycle to explore the many mountain bike trails that are features of the park.

Camping is a popular activity in the park. While there are no powered sites, many feature amenities including hot showers and gas barbecues. Food and water cannot be purchased within the park so visitors are advised to plan carefully.

Barrington Tops National Park is located near Dungog, 1.5 hours north of Newcastle by car. There is free car parking and no admission fee for the park.

Note that for safety reasons the park is sometimes closed during poor weather or if there is a fire danger.