When you think of the Hawkesbury, the first thing that comes to mind is the Mooney Mooney Bridge that we cross on our way to Sydney. As a child, this was always a highlight on our road trips down south and a well-known landmark of familiarity. However, upriver in the Hawkesbury Shire, you’ll discover five giant National Parks and the Hawkesbury River, which runs for 120km from Yarramundi to Broken Bay. Amongst this spectacular landscape is a small town called Wisemans Ferry. Camping, caravanning, or cabins, there are so many options available for an awesome family holiday with kids.
Getting to Wisemans Ferry
When we discovered it was 2 hours from Lake Macquarie, we were excited to explore somewhere new. Head down the M1 to the Central Coast, take the Peats Ridge exit, and continue along Peats Ridge Road to the Wisemans Ferry Road.
Wisemans Ferry Road is a windy narrow road through the countryside. You’ll find its descent is gradual as you weave your way through the picturesque scenery down along the water’s edge to the actual Wisemans Ferry.
You’ll cross the Hawkesbury River with up to 24 cars on this ferry, and it takes about 4 minutes.
If you’re heading over to Del Rio Riverside Resort, where we stayed, you’ll turn right on River Road, which will take you to the queue for the 2nd ferry, which is Webb Creek Ferry.
*NOTE: Check Webb Creek Ferry to find out when it’s closed for maintenance, and avoid this time. Also if you have one of the supersized caravans, timing your crossing with a high tide will take the stress out of entering and exiting the ferries.
Del Rio Riverside Resort
After a lot of research on the area and the best options for kids, we settled on Del Rio Riverside Resort. For primary school-aged kids, who love all the big park benefits this place had it all. However, there are loads of riverside options and places to explore for accommodation. Check out some ideas here: Explore the Hawkesbury.
Del Rio catered for families with its spacious riverside position, boat ramps, cafe, golf course, and activities for the kids; it has something for every member of our family.
Kids activities
A big splash park always rates high with kids, but this park has so much more. Every day is a new adventure, and if you’ve got a boat, then the river and mountains are breathtaking from the water.
Some things for the kids to get excited about:
- Pedal carts
- Basketball & netball court
- Putt-putt golf
- Tennis
- Giant & mini jumping pillow
- BMX track
- Volleyball court
- Toddlers-specific wading pool
- Swimming pool
- Massive water park
- Great playground
- Kids Club (peak times)
For the adults
Definitely bring your boat, and explore this amazing river. Pack your waterskis, tubes, wakeboards, or anything that sounds fun. This river is very tidal and moves fast, so time your activities and make the most out of your stay.
A 9-hole golf course is nestled on the grounds of Del Rio, so if golf is your thing, make the most of it and bring the clubs along. You’ll also find a small club at Del Rio for a cold one at the end of your day, plus a cafe for that early morning coffee or a bite to eat. Both are open Friday-Sunday.
A picnic rug is a must, to enjoy a lazy afternoon riverside with friends. It’s the perfect weekend getaway to celebrate something special or come during the week for a peaceful break with the family.
Places to visit
Back over the Webb Creek Ferry, you’ll find a snippet of history in the township of Wisemans Ferry. Learn about Solomon Wiseman and his role as the ferry master and pioneer back in the late 1700s to early 1800s. Enjoy a coffee & lunch at Heritage Valley Cafe, their milkshakes are to die for. Book in for dinner at Wisemans Inn Hotel and grab a seat on the veranda so you can watch the kids explore a grass area interacting with their resident chickens. Amazing food!
There are loads of amazing bushwalks to explore in the area, some from the back of Del Rio. Grab a walking map from reception. If you’re up for a drive, head to the town of St Albans and stop for lunch at the Settlers Arms Hotel. It’s supposed to be delicious food.
We really only experienced a small part of this region and would love to return again to a new area. Loved boating up and down the river, fishing, and just immersing ourselves in quiet. It’s one amazing landscape that has completely changed our perception. With plenty for the kids to enjoy, our holiday was a hit with the entire family.
