Namadgi National Park
Australian Capital Territory
Namadgi National Park is a vast protected area located approximately 40 kilometres southwest of Canberra, occupying about 46% of the Australian Capital Territory. Established in 1984, it is part of the Australian Alps National Parks and Reserves and is listed on the Australian National Heritage List. The park features diverse habitats ranging from grassy plains and snow gum forests to alpine meadows and wetlands. It is home to native fauna such as eastern grey kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and endangered species like the northern corroboree frog. The park holds significant cultural importance with Aboriginal presence dating back over 21,000 years, including rock paintings at Yankee Hat. Namadgi also serves as a crucial water catchment area supplying approximately 85% of Canberra’s water. The landscape includes the highest peak in the ACT, Bimberi Peak, at 1,911 metres. In 2020, the park was severely impacted by the Black Summer bushfires, burning around 80% of its vegetation. Despite challenges, Namadgi remains a vital natural and cultural sanctuary offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and limited cross-country skiing in winter.
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Tip: Visit Namadgi National Park during the warmer months for safer access and to enjoy its diverse flora and fauna. Check the park's official website or contact the visitor centre for updates on trail conditions and any fire recovery restrictions. Consider purchasing park passes or permits in advance if required. Winter visitors interested in snow activities should be aware that alpine skiing facilities are limited and conditions can change rapidly. Guided tours and Aboriginal cultural experiences may be available-booking ahead is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •Namadgi National Park covers approximately 46% of the Australian Capital Territory’s land area.
- •The park supplies about 85% of Canberra’s water through its catchment areas.
- •It contains the highest peak in the ACT, Bimberi Peak, at 1,911 metres.
- •The park is home to the endangered northern corroboree frog, found in its sphagnum moss bogs.
- •A new species of spider wasp, Epipompilus namadji, was discovered in the park in 2018.
- •About 80% of the park’s vegetation was burnt during the 2019–20 Black Summer bushfire season.
History
The region now known as Namadgi National Park has been inhabited by Aboriginal peoples for at least 21,000 years, with evidence such as rock art dating back 800 years.
European settlers arrived in the 1830s, clearing valleys for farming while leaving mountain forests intact.
The park was officially established in 1984 to protect its natural and cultural heritage.
In 2001, an agreement recognized the Ngambri community’s traditional custodianship, though the Ngunnawal people are currently acknowledged as the traditional owners.
The park suffered extensive damage during the 2019–20 Black Summer bushfires, which burned about 80% of its area.
Place Guide
Yankee Hat Rock Art Sitecirca 1200 AD
A significant Aboriginal cultural site featuring rock paintings estimated to be at least 800 years old, offering insights into the region's Indigenous heritage.
Bimberi Peak
The highest mountain in the Australian Capital Territory at 1,911 metres, offering panoramic views and alpine environments within the park.
Namadgi Visitor Centre
Located 2 km south of Tharwa, the centre provides educational exhibits about the park’s natural environment, Aboriginal culture, and current conservation efforts.
Contact
Phone: (02) 6237 5307
