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Guide to Mungo National Park

Welcome
Getting to Mungo National Park
When to visit

Explore one of the world's most significant archaeological sites while discovering a rich First Nations history.

You won't see many places on Earth quite like Mungo National Park, a lunar-like landscape made up of dried-up lake beds and sand dunes. This New South Wales national park is steeped in Aboriginal history; it was here that the remains of Mungo Lady and Mungo Man (said to be roughly 40,000 years old) were discovered. Tour this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site with a First Nations guide and open a window into Australia’s past.

Mungo National Park is in a remote area of New South Wales. It’s an 11-hour drive from Sydney, a six-hour drive from Adelaide and a 6.5-hour drive from Melbourne. The trip is possible in a two-wheel drive vehicle, but driving on dirt roads is required, so check your hire car policy.

Mildura Airport (MQL) is the nearest airport to Mungo National Park at 120km (75mi) away. Rental cars are available here
Roads into Mungo National Park may close in heavy rain, so check conditions before you go
Planning ahead is vital, as food, fuel and equipment are not available near Mungo National Park; the closest town for food and fuel is Pooncarie, located 81km (50mi) away

Mungo National Park experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and temperatures varying greatly between day and night. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Mungo National Park, as these seasons tend to have mild weather.

High season: Australian school holiday periods
Low season: Autumn (March to May)

Top things to do in Mungo National Park

Walls of China, Mungo National Park, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Witness the Walls of China

While it’s been 14,000 years since water filled Lake Mungo, the long chain of white sand dunes that once surrounded it is a sight to behold. Known as the Walls of China, they can be viewed from the boardwalks or up close on a guided tour.

Mungo National Park, NSW © Destination NSW

Uncover history with an Aboriginal guide

Take the Aboriginal Discovery Tour to hear first hand about the local Aboriginal culture and Dreaming stories, and to learn about 50,000+ years of Indigenous history of the Willandra Lakes Region World Heritage Area.

Mungo National Park, Willandra Lakes World Heritage Region, NSW © John Spencer/DPE

Learn about Mungo Lady and Mungo Man

Particularly special to their Aboriginal descendants, Mungo Lady and Mungo Man are 42,000-year-old human remains that were discovered in the 1960s/70s. Learn about their interesting history and how the discovery put Lake Mungo on the world map.

Mungo National Park, Outback NSW @ Destination NSW

Spend the night under the stars

Fancy a night under the stars? There are two main places you can pitch your tent; Main Camp is the main base for campers and caravans with barbecues and wood fireplaces, and Belah Camp, for those looking for a more secluded campsite.

Mungo Lodge, Mungo National Park, Outback New South Wales © Destination NSW

Stay at an eco-lodge

For those who prefer a hot shower and a comfortable bed after a day of exploring, base yourself at Mungo Lodge. This outback property, located just outside the park, offers warm hospitality and is committed to eco-tourism.

Moon lit sky, Walls of China, Mungo National Park, Outback NSW © Destination NSW

Experience the park under a full moon

Making for the perfect photo opportunity and an experience you’ll never forget, take this eight-hour tour (all meals included) to experience this Mars-like landscape under the light of a brilliant full moon.

See it from above on a scenic flight

One of the best ways to fully appreciate the size and amazing landscape of Lake Mungo is from the air. You’ll get great views of the Walls of China, the Lake Mungo lunette, Vigar’s Well, Zanci Homestead, Mungo Woolshed and more.

Mungo National Park, Mungo, NSW © Destination NSW

Meet the local wildlife

With any Aussie adventure, meeting the local wildlife is a must. The park's sandy landscape is home to an array of animals, birds and plant life, including emus, wedge-tailed eagles and red kangaroos.

Mungo Visitor Centre, Mungo National Park, Outback NSW @ Destination NSW

Visit the Mungo Visitor Centre

Pop in to find out more about the area’s significance to its Traditional Owners and learn about the vastly different landscape when Lake Mungo was full. Next to the visitor centre is the historic Mungo Woolshed and Mungo Shearers' Quarters.

Mungo National Park, Belah Campground, Willandra Lakes World Heritage Region, NSW © John Spencer/DPE

Drive or cycle your way around

For an in-depth exploration of Lake Mungo’s main attractions, take the Mungo Track circuit. Hop in the car or mount your bike and set off on an adventure – you can even take your tent and stop overnight at Belah Camp.