Walking tracks and campsites in the Pilliga Forest and Warrumbungles National Parks re-opened yesterday after last week's hot and windy weather subsided.

Now Warrumbungle Council is urging visitors to get out and enjoy the region’s natural beauty before the hot weather returns.

With relatively mild temperatures, especially in mornings and evenings, and vibrant wildflowers in full bloom, they say the current season is the ideal time for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, bushwalking, and camping beneath the spectacular night skies. 

“Spring in the Warrumbungle Region is truly enchanting,” Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor, Kathryn Rindfleish said.

“The pleasant weather and unique landscapes provide an incredible opportunity to connect with nature before the summer heat sets in.

"We encourage everyone to explore our national parks, including the iconic Warrumbungle National Park and the tranquil Pilliga Forest and Coolah Tops.” 

Visitors are being urged to visit the Warrumbungle region to enjoy the spring blooms. Photo: Supplied.

Jeffrey Woo, Manager Economic Development and Tourism backed those sentiments, and said the promotion of Council’s natural assets was a significant focus for his department.

“Spring and autumn are the peak tourism seasons, offering mild weather that’s ideal for travel and camping. Promotional efforts, whether through media outlets or local events, are strategically centred around these seasons to maximise visitor interest and engagement,” Mr Woo said.

“Currently, there isn’t a comprehensive system in place to track all visitor numbers, but insights gathered from major tourism operators, such as National Parks and Siding Spring Observatory (SSO), as well as general foot traffic at the Coonabarabran Visitor Information Centre, indicate a gradual decrease in visitor numbers as we head into the summer months.

“Summer is traditionally a quieter period for the region due to high temperatures deterring travel. Year-to-date figures, however, show the region tracking slightly above average overall, which is consistent with the pre-Christmas period, where numbers typically rise again in December,” he said.

According to Council figures, the majority of travellers to the region come from NSW, followed by Queensland and Victorians. International visitor numbers remain low.

“Tourism is extremely important to the Warrumbungle Region. While REMPLAN data shows the region is heavily reliant on agriculture, particularly in fibre and livestock production, tourism plays a vital role in supporting the local economy, especially in towns like Coonabarabran and Coolah,” Mr Woo said.

“For smaller towns that lack strong internal manufacturing or direct highway connections, tourism provides essential economic activity, primarily driven by grey nomads, campervan and caravan enthusiasts, and travellers seeking unique, off-the-beaten-track experiences,” he said.

Activities to plan in the Warrumbungle Shire:

• ·         Hiking and Bushwalking: Discover the scenic trails of Warrumbungle National Park, known for its breathtaking rock formations and panoramic views. 

• ·         Wildflower Viewing: Marvel at the stunning wildflowers blooming throughout the parks and trails, creating a beautiful backdrop for outdoor adventures. 

• ·         Camping: Experience the joy of camping in cooler evenings, with perfect daytime weather for exploring the region’s attractions. 

For those planning a camping trip, Council reminds visitors to pack essentials to accommodate changing weather conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. 

For more information, visit the Warrumbungle Region website, or stop by the Information Centre in Coonabarabran, or call (02) 6849 2144.