Nymboi-Binderay

Nymboi-Binderay National Park is a remote river gorge and rainforest park in the Clarence Valley hinterland of New South Wales, located in the ranges between Grafton and Dorrigo. Covering approximately 23,940 hectares, the park protects the dramatic gorge systems of the Nymboida River and Binderay Creek as they descend through subtropical and warm temperate rainforest from the tableland escarpment. The park encompasses one of the finest subtropical rainforest river experiences in NSW and protects important habitat for diverse wildlife including several threatened species.

Nymboi-Binderay National Park supports exceptional subtropical rainforest wildlife along its river systems. The platypus is abundant in the clear, permanent pools of the Nymboida River. The Albert's lyrebird inhabits the dense forest. Endangered koalas are present in the ecotone woodland. The Hastings River mouse, a threatened small mammal, has been recorded. Eastern water dragons inhabit the river margins. Diverse rainforest birds including the Wompoo fruit-dove and regent bowerbird are present.

Subtropical rainforest dominates the sheltered gullies and lower slopes, featuring bangalow palms, hoop pines, and diverse vine forest species. Warm temperate rainforest with coachwood occurs on cooler aspects. Tall wet sclerophyll forest with blue gum and tallowwood forms the transition to open forest. The river gorges are dramatically scenic, with the clear green water of the Nymboida contrasting with the lush subtropical vegetation.

The park is underlain by metamorphic rocks and granites of the New England Fold Belt, carved by the deeply incised gorges of the Nymboida River system. The gorges descend from the New England Tableland to the Clarence Valley, creating dramatic topography and diverse microclimates.

The park has a warm subtropical to warm temperate climate. Annual rainfall is approximately 1,200 to 1,800 millimetres. Summers are warm and humid. Winters are mild at lower elevations. The river gorges can be hot in summer but are pleasant in autumn, winter, and spring.

The Gumbaynggirr people are the traditional custodians of the Clarence Valley hinterland. The Nymboida River provided abundant fish and other resources. The river gorges were used for seasonal movement between the coast and the tableland.

Nymboi-Binderay National Park was established to protect the river gorge and rainforest communities of the Clarence Valley hinterland. The park's establishment preserved significant subtropical rainforest from timber operations.

Kayaking and canoe camping on the Nymboida River through the gorge is an outstanding multi-day adventure, with clear water, subtropical rainforest, and abundant platypus sightings. The walking tracks along the river provide access to rainforest and swimming holes. Birdwatching is excellent throughout.

The park has camping areas at the river access points. Access is via roads from Grafton and Dorrigo. Those communities provide visitor services. A national parks pass applies.

Protecting water quality in the Nymboida River from agricultural runoff and upstream activities is a priority. Lantana control in the riparian zones is ongoing. Managing recreational use of the river to protect the platypus and aquatic ecosystem is important.