Located one hour from Newcastle is the Watagans National Park, offering an array of opertnties for hiking, biking, lookouts, and quiet campgrounds for longer escapes.

For those seeking an itinerary for some mild 4WDing, you can journey from Pokolbin to Watagans National Park with a route that offers the perfect blend of rugged terrain, breathtaking lookouts, and your choice of secluded campgrounds. Whether for an overnighter or long weekend this trip is a must for outdoor lovers.

The Route: From Vineyards to Wilderness

Starting in Pokolbin, the heart of Hunter Valley wine country, you'll swap rolling vineyards for winding forest trails in no time. Begin your journey via Broken Back Road, a scenic and rugged 4WD route that leads to Pokolbin Lookout. This stunning vantage point offers panoramic views of the Hunter Valley and is an excellent place to start your adventure.

From Pokolbin Lookout, continue along Broken Back Road towards the Transmission Towers, a high point with impressive views over the valley. After taking in the scenery, backtrack on Broken Back Trail to Broken Back Roas which will lead you towards Yellow Rock Lookout, dont forget to turn off on Yellow Roack Road .

From Yellow Rock Lookout, traverse towards Cedar Creek via Sawpit Road, enjoying the rugged bushland and occasional wildlife sightings. Once in Cedar Creek, take a short stint on the tarmac for a few kilometers before turning right at Millfield. From here, head up into the Watagans via Hayes Road, which winds through dense forest before reaching the next stunning vantage point: Flat Rock Lookout.

For those keen on some 4x4 action turn off Langdans Road onto Harris Trail - This route includes steep descents and rocky sections, making it a thrilling challenge for off-road enthusiasts. Be sure to have adequate recovery equipment as it may be required (Speaking from personal experience).

This is a fun little Moderate 4WD track that includes a short steep descent, tricky rock sections, and a few bog holes that can become impassable after heavy rain. If conditions allow, making it through the Harris Trail is an exhilarating experience. From here you will enter Bowmanns Rd in the Watagan National Park where you can look to find a camp for the evening.

Drive Distance: 87km

Time: 7 Hrs including stops, short hikes and lunch.

Highlight - Yellow Rock Lookout

MAP

Useful Links

Olney State Forest

Youtube

Scott’s video highlights our adventure

Campgrounds

If you're planning to extend your stay overnight , the Watagans have plenty of peaceful campgrounds ideal for a multi-night escape. Here are some of the best options:

Casuarina Camping Area

Located along the challenging Harris Trail, Casuarina Camping Area is a fantastic remote site for those who manage to complete the track. This site offers a true wilderness experience, surrounded by towering trees and a peaceful bush setting.

The Pines Campground

Nestled among towering pine trees, this campground offers a tranquil atmosphere with basic amenities, including fire pits and picnic tables. It's a great base for further exploring the park’s many trails.

Bangalow Campground

For those looking for a more secluded experience, Bangalow Campground is a lesser-known option. Surrounded by lush rainforest, it's the perfect spot to unwind and immerse yourself in nature.

Gap Creek Campground

Located near the beautiful Gap Creek Falls, this site is an excellent choice for those wanting to combine their camping adventure with a short hike to one of the Watagans' best waterfalls.

Tips for the Trip

Check the conditions: Some 4WD tracks in the Watagans can become impassable after heavy rain. Always check local reports before heading out.
Pack recovery gear: Tracks can be steep and slippery, so having recovery gear like traction boards, a snatch strap, and a winch can be a lifesaver.
Respect the environment: The Watagans are a pristine natural area. Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep them that way for future explorers.
Plan fuel stops: The last reliable fuel stops are in Cessnock or Cooranbong, so ensure your tank is full before venturing into the park.

Final Thoughts

A 4WD adventure from Pokolbin to Watagans National Park is an unforgettable experience for those who crave exploration. With stunning lookouts, challenging tracks, and quiet campgrounds, it's the perfect destination to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature. So pack your gear, air down your tires, and get ready for an off-road adventure you won’t forget!

Pokolbin to the Watagans