Tucked away in the heart of the Watagans, the Boarding House Dam picnic area and walking track is a peaceful spot where families can enjoy waterfalls, creeks and cool rainforest surroundings – plus the famous moss wall!
It’s an easy escape from the busier parts of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, offering a short walk, natural rock formations and plenty of native wildlife.
The name comes from the boarding house that originally accommodated the longest-serving and largest logging camp in the area.
As you follow the loop track, you’ll hear cicadas humming, spot moss-covered boulders and wander beneath tall trees that create a true rainforest feel. It’s a great place to introduce kids to bushwalking or simply enjoy some time outdoors together.
Located 55km from Newcastle and just over an hour’s drive, it is perfect for a day trip with family or friends. There are also places to camp throughout the Watagans region if you would prefer to stay overnight.
Plan ahead by having the directions saved prior as there is very limited to no reception once you enter the Watagans. Also, be mindful of the weather conditions and the type of car you are driving.
You can use a 2WD in dry conditions. In wet conditions after a lot of rain a A 4WD vehicle is required as the drive in will be very muddy and slippery.
When you reach the car park, see if you can spot the enormous tree stump. There’s a hidden face that has been carved out of it.
Follow the dirt path and enter the rainforest area.
Continue until you come to a split in the path and then turn right onto the timber boardwalk. This path crosses straight over the dam itself.
You can follow the leafy path as it winded deep into the rainforest up and down rocky stairs, past moss green trees, and tree stumps until you reach the creek.
If you feel like going off-track, you can follow the creek along the water’s edge to explore a bit more, finding lots of hidden treasures on our way.
You can then head back and cross over a beautiful wooden bridge to an amazing 120m green moss wall that overlooks and leads you back around to the other side of Boarding House creek.
You really need to see the moss wall in person as the photos just don’t do it justice.
It is magnificent and the perfect place to stop for a photo!
On our way back, stop to look at a large waterfall and the view of the creek leading back to the dam wall, before following the path back to the car park.
The entire circuit spans only 700m in total, making it a perfect nature walk for all ages, particularly the little ones. Expect to spend an hour or more here depending on how much exploring you want to do.
Please ensure that you dress appropriately for a bush walk and wear enclosed walking shoes as there are a lot of rough and slippery surfaces, and there may also be also leeches around.
There are no eating facilities in the Watagans, however, you will find some picnic tables and BBQ areas where you can stop for lunch or to simply rest your legs.
We recommend taking some snacks or a packed lunch which you can enjoy before or after your walk.
There are also toilet and handwashing facilities adjacent to the car park, but make sure you take plenty of drinking water with you.
Whether your goal is to get active or to simply immerse yourself in nature, this is a wonderful place to get outside and enjoy a family day out in the Watagans National Park.
Tip: Arrive early as parking can be limited especially on weekends. It’s a popular spot for families.
Want a more challenging walk in the Watagans? Explore Gap Creek Falls at Watagans National Park. If you have adventuresome kids, they will love the fun hike down to the waterfall. (GAP CREEK FALLS AREA IS CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO MAINTENANCE)
Good to Know
Boarding House Dam picnic area and walk is in northeastern section of Watagans National Park. Take Cessnock (Freemans Waterhole) exit off the F3. Turn right into Freemans Drive then right onto Mount Faulk Road (unsealed after 3kms). Turn left into Watagan Forest Drive. Turn right into Boarding House Dam Road. The picnic area is at the end of the road. For more information, visit the National Parks & Service website.
No. There is no entry fee to access Watagans National Park, including the Boarding House Dam picnic area and walking track.
All ages, with parent supervision. The loop track is short and relatively easy, though some sections can be uneven or slippery after rain.
Yes. There are non-flush toilets and handwashing facilities adjacent to the car park,
No. There are no drinking water facilities. Bring enough water for your walk and any time spent exploring.
Yes. There are picnic tables at Boarding House Dam, making it a good base before or after walking.
Yes. There are free gas/electric barbecues.
No. There are no shops or cafés inside the Watagans. Bring all food, snacks and drinks with you. The nearest options are in Cooranbong or Freemans Waterhole.
Yes. Download the NSW National Parks App and save the map and track information for the Watagans. There is limited or no phone reception in this area, so offline access is essential.
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