Watagan Mountains

The Watagan Mountains are a pristine natural wilderness area combining national park and state forest. This mountain range is situated west of Lake Macquarie separating the Hunter River catchment and the Tuggerah Lakes system.

In the state forest areas of the Watagan Mountains, visitors can enjoy: 

• A BBQ lunch in the Pines picnic area
• Easy walking trails like the Boarding House Dam moss wall walk
• Waterfalls, such as the Gap Creek Falls
• Lookouts, like Heaton, which offer scenic views of the lower Hunter and Pacific Ocean
• Bushwalking and hiking, with appropriately graded walking trails
• Scenic forest drives, looping the mountains
• Camping areas, which are well maintained and offer firewood, tap water, BBQs and toilets

Best access to the Watagans via Martinsville Road from Cooranbong or Watagan Road from Quorrobolong. The Watagans are approximately a one hour and 15 minute drive from northern Sydney, a 30 minute drive from the central coast, 45 minutes from Newcastle or 25 minutes from Cessnock.

Lake Macquarie Visitor Information Centre is the place to go to book your Bed and Breakfasts, self contained apartments, hotels, motels, holiday parks & other holiday accommodations. Keep updated to take advantage of last minute rates & hot deals for weekend getaways or family holidays. Explore our comprehensive attractions & activities information guide for what to see & do in Lake Macquarie, from golf, galleries to beaches, scenic walks and all sorts of boating & water based activities. Discover all about the city of Lake Macquarie & download detailed maps so you're prepared for the best holiday ever.