Experience the grandeur and wonders of outback NSW
In the semi-arid backblocks of far western New South Wales, about half way between Broken Hill and White Cliffs, lies Mutawintji National Park – 690 sq. km of rugged, mulga-clad ranges dissected by sinuous gorges and creek beds lined with red gums. Beyond the ranges, wind-blown saltbush plains stretch to the horizon in a classic outback landscape steeped in the culture of the Wiimpatja Aboriginal people.
The Silver City Highway winds north from Broken Hill and Mutawintji-bound travellers should follow this for 52km, then turn northeast at the signpost to White Cliffs. From there, an unsealed road crosses open country for 61km to a junction with a minor gravel road that leads to the park entrance 9km away, on the western edge of the Byngnano Range.
Beyond the entrance, the park access road enters Homestead Valley, where the majority of visitor attractions and facilities are located. The first of these, adjacent to the road, is an open-air unstaffed visitor centre, which is accessible at all times to provide general information and brochures for self-guided exploration of the park. There are also picnic facilities here with toilets, tables, water and free gas barbecues.
About 2km further on, visitors come to the Homestead Creek campground, a large open camping area set among tall river red gums beside the creek. It is the only place to camp within the park but is well-equipped with picnic tables, barbecues, showers, toilets, fireplaces and water, and is suitable for caravans, camper trailers and motorhomes. This peaceful bushland venue makes a great base from which to explore the surrounding ridges and gorges.
Another kilometre to the north, linked to the campground by a walking track along the creek, is the picturesque Homestead Creek day use area, perfect for a picnic or barbecue lunch. It is also the starting point for several walks of varying lengths and standards, which may be combined into an 8-km loop that explores the splendid gorge-riven ranges of this ancient Mutawintji landscape.