An entrance to Budawang National Park but much more besides, Long Gully picnic area is your first glimpse of the wilderness within. Facilities are basic, but all you need for a terrific picnic is a packed lunch and an appreciation for nature. This is a remote and secluded spot for people wanting to break away from civilisation for a day. The nearby campground lets you stretch it out to a long weekend if you’d prefer.

Settle down beneath a blackbutt tree and watch the wallabies go by, foraging in the undergrowth. Bring a ball and take advantage of the open space beside Yadboro River.

This is also a good jumping-off point for the advanced hiking opportunities into the Budawangs area of Morton National Park, including the Castle; the trail leaves from here. Day walks in the national park should only be attempted by well-equipped, experienced walkers. Don’t forget to tell somebody where you’re going.