Reptiles, birds, amphibians, insects, bush tucker, and yes, plenty of mozzies, call Hunter Wetlands home. So pack your gumboots, hat, mozzie spray (a must!), and your love of the outdoors, then bring the family along for an adventure at Hunter Wetlands.
Getting to the wetlands
The animal house & reptile encounter 🦎🐢🐍
Come say hello to some scaly, slithery, and slippery friends! In the Animal House, you’ll meet blue-tongue lizards, snakes, turtles, bearded dragons, eels, and frogs. For extra fun, join the Reptile Encounter on weekends or during the holidays—it’s only a couple of dollars for kids (over 2 years) with an adult.
Bird watching 🦆🔭
Bird watching at the wetlands is fun for all ages! With four purpose-built hides, it’s the perfect spot to set up with your binoculars. Kids (and adults too!) can look out for birds of prey, diving birds, ducks, geese, rails, herons, egrets, perching birds, and even cranes and swans.
Dip netting 🪣🐟🐛
Dip netting is a hands-on adventure kids will love! Grab a bucket and net, then head to the jetty to scoop up and discover the tiny water bugs living in the ponds. Kids will learn how these little critters are an important food source for fish, frogs, and birds. Just a gold coin donation to join in the fun!
Canoeing 🚣♀️🌿
Canoeing is the perfect family adventure! Paddle along the picturesque Ironbark Creek beneath a canopy of lush rainforest. The peaceful surroundings are simply priceless. Hire a two- or three-person canoe (life jackets included), and don’t forget closed-in shoes are a must.
Walking & bike trails 🚴♀️🌿👟
With plenty of walking and bike trails to choose from, Hunter Wetlands is made for exploring! Bring your bike and helmet (mandatory), slip on your gumboots/closed-in shoes, and get back to nature. All trails are graded ‘easy,’ making them perfect for all ages. Don’t forget to hunt for the fairy door trail and spot the hand-carved totem poles along the way!
Orienteering 🗺️✨
Orienteering at the wetlands is an adventure for all ages and abilities! Test your skills as you combine map reading, decision-making, and navigation to find checkpoints (called controls). Download a map from the website or grab one from reception to get started.
Playground & BBQ 🎠🌳
The playground is perfect for little climbers, and a great spot for a rest during your walk. Across the pond, kids can enjoy nature-based play spaces, including a fun build-your-own teepee area.
Scattered throughout the wetlands, you’ll also find BBQs, picnic areas, and bench seats, ideal for a family day out. Planning something bigger? Some areas can even be booked in advance for groups.
Café, gift shop & plants ☕🛍️🌱
After your adventure, take a break at the café and enjoy a cuppa, tasty lunch, and the beautiful view. The menu has something for everyone, including kids!
Next door, browse the gift shop and art exhibition, where you’ll find unique souvenirs and local creations to take home.
You can also purchase native plants at the centre. Tube stock and small pots are just a few dollars. Plant something special in your garden as a living memory of your visit.
Accessibility & visitor info ♿🌿
Hunter Wetlands is accessible for all, featuring sealed disability parking, a set-down zone, a lift to ground level, wheelchair-friendly paths, ramp access to meeting rooms, and always welcome guide or assistance dogs.
Opening Hours: 9 am – 4 pm daily (closed on some public holidays)
Cost: Family of four $25* (check website for additional pricing)
Website: wetlands.org.au
Facebook: Hunter Wetlands
*Prices subject to change; see website for full details.
