Just 35 minutes from Heatherbrae Accommodation Village, Blackbutt Reserve offers the perfect mix of bushland beauty, native wildlife, and family-friendly adventure — right in the heart of Newcastle. Spanning over 180 hectares, this much-loved reserve is a local favourite for picnics, bushwalks, and up-close encounters with Australia’s native animals.
Discover the Reserve
Blackbutt Reserve is more than just a park — it’s a pocket of wilderness where you can escape the city and reconnect with nature. The reserve features an extensive network of walking tracks that wind through lush eucalypt forest, leading to shaded picnic areas and scenic lookouts. The well-maintained boardwalks make exploring easy for visitors of all ages, and the sound of native birds fills the air year-round.
Meet Australia’s Native Wildlife
One of the highlights of a visit to Blackbutt Reserve is the Wildlife Exhibits, where you can see kangaroos, wombats, emus, koalas, and colourful birdlife in natural bushland enclosures. The free-entry exhibits are open daily and offer an excellent introduction to Australia’s incredible fauna — making this a must-do for families and international visitors alike.
There are also regular feeding sessions and wildlife talks run by passionate park rangers, who share insights into local conservation efforts and the important role the reserve plays in protecting native species. Kids will love spotting reptiles, wallabies, and the cheeky cockatoos that often swoop by for a hello.
Perfect for Families and Picnics
With playgrounds, open lawns, BBQ facilities, and shaded picnic shelters, Blackbutt Reserve is tailor-made for relaxed family outings. Pack a picnic or grab a takeaway coffee from one of the nearby cafés and enjoy a leisurely afternoon surrounded by trees and wildlife.
For those keen to stretch their legs, the Richley Reserve walking circuit is a local favourite — a gentle loop that takes you through bushland and past duck ponds, perfect for a morning walk or bike ride.
A Local Gem Worth the Drive
Blackbutt Reserve is one of those places where you can spend a few hours or an entire day. It’s beautifully maintained, easy to access, and offers something for everyone — from wildlife enthusiasts and photographers to families looking for a peaceful day outdoors.
There's so much more to explore...
You've only just scratched the surface!
Skip the Tourist Trail — This Is Heatherbrae, the Local Way.
On the hunt for the best roadside eats, a peaceful bushwalk, or a scenic drive that’s off the tourist trail? This guide is your go-to for exploring Heatherbrae and its surrounds like a local...
Day trips from Heatherbrae
Nestled in the heart of the Hunter, Heatherbrae is the perfect base to explore the best of New South Wales — from coast to countryside.
Family Activities near Heatherbrae
Perfectly placed for families, Heatherbrae is where adventure, learning, and relaxation come together.
Things to Do in Heatherbrae
Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Region, Heatherbrae is your perfect gateway to the coast, the countryside, and a world of things to see and do.
Where to Eat in Heatherbrae
In the heart of the Hunter, Heatherbrae serves up a delicious mix of local flavours and dining spots to suit every taste.
