Explore Australia’s only Dark Sky Park in Warrumbungle National Park this Autumn

Warrumbungle National Park hosts Australia’s very own internationally recognised Dark Sky Park and you’re invited to experience it in all its glory during International Dark Sky Week.

International Dark Sky Week runs from Monday 21 to Monday 28 April and is a global celebration of the night.

From the darkness that supports a restful night’s sleep to the wonder we experience beneath starry skies, the night plays a vital role in our health, the well-being of wildlife, scientific discovery, cultural heritage and more.

Dark Sky Week is the best time to visit our popular Dark Sky Tours in the north-west region of NSW and we’re inviting everyone from astronomers, couples, kids and families to book ahead to avoid disappointment of the frequently sold-out tour.

Warrumbungle National Park is home to one of the darkest and clearest skies in the Southern Hemisphere. The night sky will be exceptionally dark during the evenings in the week leading up to the new moon, which occurs on Monday 28 April.

Visitors can witness the pristine night sky above the volcanic landscape, unimpeded by artificial light and providing jaw-dropping views of the Milky Way, constellations and planets.

If you love the night, the outdoors and gazing at the constellations, then consider booking a dark sky Discovery Tour.

While tours run all year round, NPWS is running extra tours until Friday 25 April, so no one misses out. Dark Sky Tours start at 6.30pm from the Warrumbungle Visitor Centre and run for 1.5 hours.

If the skies are cloudy, we have you covered with all things about the night sky and Coonabarabran Visitor Information Centre has an ongoing exhibition from the ‘Capture the Cosmos’ competitions of night sky photography. The exhibition is on view for both locals and travellers to the area.

Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a beginner, Warrumbungle National Park offers a truly remarkable experience under the stars and includes other activities like hiking in the Warrumbungle NP, visiting the Siding Spring Observatory and exploring the Pilliga Forest and Mt Kaputar.

For further information and to book, visit the NPWS website https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/guided-tours/explore-the-dark-sky