“Locals have been coming to this spot for years.” These words echo through the trees here at Blue Hole. Blue Hole is a popular swimming spot. It is nestled in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park near Armidale.
When it’s time for a day with the family, pack up the car. Head to Blue Hole picnic area for a relaxing day in the bush. You’ll know why locals love it when you arrive.
Bring your swimmers and head towards The Weir at Blue Hole. Also check out the nearby historic hydro-electric scheme on the Threlfall walking track.
Don’t forget barbecue food and cool drinks. Cook up a feast in the shade of ribbon gums and river oaks. The sounds of the bush will serenade you as you relax.
Blue Hole picnic area is a scenic bush setting. It offers swimming and walking. Remember your binoculars if you want to bird watch here at Blue Hole.
Oxley Wild Rivers National Park is always open. But it may close due to poor weather or fire danger. There are areas where you need day use vehicle permits. These include Halls Peak campground, Riverside campground, and Youdales Hut campground. Buy permits online or by calling 1300 072 757. Permit fees are included in the campground fee if camping.
Nearby is the Threlfall walking track. It takes in the Gara Gorge wilderness. Enjoy scenic views and see the historic hydro-electric scheme. Also nearby is Threlfall picnic area on Gara River. It offers scenic views, walking, and swimming. It’s just off Waterfall Way near Armidale.
You can enjoy birdwatching and wildlife encounters here. Fishing is also an option. Explore the historic heritage or have a picnic. Go for road trips and sightseeing. Swimming and walking are popular. Don’t miss the waterfalls and wildflowers.
Another Blue Pool exists in Budderoo National Park. It is less than two hours drive from Central Sydney. Don’t confuse this with the Blue Pool Walking Track in the Blue Mountains. The Blue Pool glows with a striking blue hue. The light conditions have to be right for it to do so. You can also spot black water beetles and huge tadpoles.
Budderoo National Park has many convenient walking tracks. These include the popular Carrington Falls walking track. The easiest way to get there is via Jamberoo Mountain Road. Look for the sign for The Blue Pool on your right. There’s also parking at the Blue Pool Carpark, just 100-metres from the pool.
While visiting Budderoo National Park, check out Nellies Glen. It is a beautiful swimming spot. It connects Carrington Falls to a secluded rock pool. It’s perfect for a dip or to soak up the natural surroundings. The Carrington Falls drops over 50 metres into the Kangaroo River. It’s one of the best waterfalls in the area.
Other highlights include the Minamurra Rainforest area. This area is perfect for bushwalks and hikes. Visit the Warris Chair Lookout Track. It begins at the Nellies Glen picnic area. The Carrington Falls Campground is the only campground in the national park.