Overview
Muogamarra Nature Reserve, a hidden oasis of native wildflowers located near Cowan, is closed to the public for most of the year in order to protect its fragile ecosystem and its First Nations cultural heritage. But every now and then, it opens for everyone to enjoy for a limited time. That time is about to arrive for 2024, with the reserve welcoming guests for six weeks from Saturday, August 17–Sunday, September 22.
The reserve is a thing of beauty, playing home to more than 900 species of native wildflowers that fill the area with a sea of vibrant colours when they bloom. Waratahs, angophoras, old-man banksias, pink boronias and native orchids — they're all here among the site's expansive bushlands and rainforests.
J Spencer
You can also catch a glimpse of First Nations rock engravings, and take in expansive views of Hawkesbury River, Berowra Creek, Bar Island, Milson Island and Spectacle Island.
If this all sounds right up your alley, you've got a couple of options when planning a trip to Muogamarra Nature Reserve. You can book one of four different guided tours led by experienced NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) volunteers, who will take you through the reserve, teaching you about the floral wonders surrounding you.
Pan Goldie
The tours each cover different sections of the park, and range from three to ten kilometres of walking. Or, if you want to tackle the reserve by yourself, you can also reserve a time slot for a self-guided tour.
Slots for both are limited, so the NPWS is encouraging anyone keen to explore the wildflower haven to get in quick. Each of the four guided tours and the self-guided tours are available to book at different dates and times. Head to the NSW National Parks website to see the selected dates and to make a booking.
J Spencer
Muogamarra Nature Reserve is located three kilometres north of Cowan Station, on the western side of the Pacific Highway. It will reopen to the public for 2024 across selected dates between Saturday, August 17–Sunday, September 22. Head to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website for more details.
Top image: J Spencer.