Family Adventures Await in North Coast National Parks These Winter School Holidays

2 days ago
2 min read

Updated: 13 hours ago

Photos supplied by NSW National Parks

Guide points to giant fern as family with two small children stands on a forest boardwalk in sunlit rainforest at Sea Acres Port Macquarie — Sea Acres Port Macquarie

Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained these winter school holidays? Across the North Coast, NSW National Parks is offering a wonderful range of ranger-guided experiences that encourage families to step outside, explore nature and discover some of the region's most remarkable places.

From World Heritage-listed rainforests and colourful birdlife to rockpools, historic lighthouses and fascinating heritage sites, these guided activities are designed to spark curiosity while creating lasting family memories.

North Coast National Parks

Become a Junior Ranger at Dorrigo National Park

Young adventurers aged between 5 and 12 can immerse themselves in the incredible World Heritage-listed rainforest at Dorrigo National Park. Guided by Discovery Rangers, children will enjoy games, wildlife encounters and sensory activities while learning about one of Australia's most spectacular natural environments.

Dates: 8 and 15 July.

Park ranger in wide-brim hat shows a family with toddler a plant in a sunlit rainforest, everyone smiling at Dorrigo National park — Dorrigo National Park

Discover the Birds of the Rainforest - Dorrigo National Park

Bird-loving families can join an experienced ranger to learn how to identify some of the rainforest's colourful birdlife by both sight and sound. It's a wonderful opportunity to slow down, listen carefully and experience the rainforest from a different perspective.

Dates: 6, 7, 13 and 14 July.

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Wander Beneath the Rainforest Canopy at Sea Acres Port Macquarie

The elevated boardwalk through Sea Acres National Park is one of the Mid North Coast's most accessible rainforest experiences. Guided walks allow families to discover the sights, sounds and scents of this beautiful coastal rainforest while learning about the wildlife that calls it home.

Dates: 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15 and 16 July.

Explore Shelly Beach's Hidden Rockpools

There's always something fascinating hiding beneath the surface of a rockpool. During the guided Rockpool Ramble at Shelly Beach, children can discover colourful marine life, shorebirds and, if they're lucky, even spot dolphins while learning about the importance of protecting coastal ecosystems.

Dates: 10 and 17 July.

Step Inside Historic Smoky Cape Lighthouse

Standing proudly within Hat Head National Park, Smoky Cape Lighthouse is the highest lighthouse in New South Wales. Families can join a ranger-led tour inside the lighthouse, hear stories from its maritime past and enjoy spectacular views along the coastline from the balcony.

Dates: 1, 4, 8, 11 and 15 July.

Smiling group with lanterns talks at a stone prison doorway, lit warmly in a dark cell with barred window and worn walls at Trial Bay Goal. — Triall Bay Gaol

Travel Back in Time at Trial Bay Gaol

History comes alive at Trial Bay Gaol, where children can discover what life was like behind the prison walls through engaging storytelling, games and treasure hunts. Located within Arakoon National Park, it's an experience that combines education with plenty of fun. You will most likely come across kangaroos as well.

Dates: 1, 7, 8, 14 and 15 July.

Whether your family enjoys wildlife, history or simply spending time outdoors, these guided experiences are a fantastic way to discover the beauty of North Coast national parks this winter.

Bookings are recommended as many activities have limited places.

View all North Coast school holiday tours in NSW national parks: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/kids-tours-north-coast