Aerial view of Parkes township and nearby canola fields (Destination NSW)
Parkes is just the beginning — explore Central West NSW with quirky attractions, wide-open landscapes, art trails and relaxed country charm.
Resting between the rolling Blue Mountains and the red-dirt plains of the outback, Central West NSW is often thought of as a drive-through region. I’m just as guilty — with my homebase in Melbourne and family in Dubbo, the roughly 10-hour trip turns towns into quick fuel stops. Yet every so often, I’ll glimpse something that reminds me of slower trips — the jet beside Lake Forbes where my gran and pa would make us stop for a thermos cuppa every road trip, a flash of paper daisies we’d stop to pick or an old cottage or quirky mailbox begging for a photo.
It's often little things like this that can make you slow down and truly experience a region, and the Central West has a rich story to tell, one full of goldmining relics, quirky sculptures, bushranging legends, calm lakes, national parks and welcoming communities. There’s always something to tempt a detour if you’re willing to take it.
As we showcased in part one, the Parkes Elvis Festival in January is the perfect excuse to hook up the van and head inland. But there’s no need to rush home once the costumes are packed away. Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, country pubs or the easy charm of small towns, Central West NSW has days — even weeks — worth of attractions to explore. Start in Parkes and then branch out to discover the landscapes, art and heritage that make this part of Australia so unique.
Visit for the Parkes Elvis Festival and stay on to explore the best of Central West NSW
The best things to see and do in Parkes
Parkes has long been more than a country town; it’s a hub of history, science and quirky attractions. At the heart of it all is the CSIRO Parkes Observatory, more commonly known as The Dish. Standing at 64m tall, this single-dish telescope is famous for helping broadcast the Apollo 11 moon landing, is one of the largest telescopes in the southern hemisphere and — most importantly, of course — star of the 2000 movie The Dish. A visit to Parkes isn’t complete with checking out this iconic attraction and its accompanying Discovery Centre with its range of interactive astronomy and space science displays, an educational 3D theatre, souvenirs, science toys and books.
The CSIRO Parkes Observatory and Discovery Centre
For lovers of history, vehicles and The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, the Henry Parkes Centre is a must-visit. It combines the Parkes Visitor Information Centre with four small museums, including the Parkes Antique Motor Museum and the King’s Castle Elvis Exhibit, which houses a collection of Elvis memorabilia. Aviation buffs will enjoy the Parkes Aviation Museum, with free tours bringing you up close to historic aircraft.
The King’s Castle Elvis Exhibit in the Henry Parkes Centre (Destination NSW)
Parkes’ landscape is dotted with reminders of its rich and cultural history. Bushman’s Hill tells the story of the 1861 gold rush, while the Wiradjuri Amphitheatre nearby shares the history and culture of the local Traditional Owners. For a panoramic view of the town, head to Memorial Hill Lookout, which features a remembrance walk and sweeping views over the town, farmland and distant mountains.
Other spots worth a visit include:
- Kelly Reserve with its picnic facilities, birdwatching at Bushman’s Dam, playgrounds, toilets and old steam engine
- Johnson’s Bakery, serving classic country pies and treats since 1933
- Parkes Courthouse and St George’s Anglican Church, for a bit of historical architecture appreciation
- Railway Hotel for a quintessential country pub experience
The historic brick Parkes Courthouse
For somewhere to stay with your caravan, the Parkes Showground has more than 300 powered sites with modern amenities and a convenient dump point. It’s also pet-friendly (must be kept contained or on a lead) and close to the centre of town.
Spicer Caravan Park is another great option, with plenty of grassy sites, only a 10-minute walk from the shops.
If you’re planning to attend the Parkes Elvis Festival, be aware that accommodation in and around Parkes fills up quick, so book early or plan to stay further afield.
A tour through nearby towns
The real charm of Central West NSW is often found when you slow down, explore the smaller towns and head off the highway to drive the road less travelled. Forbes, Condobolin, Peak Hill and Lake Cargelligo are just a handful of the great spots to visit when in the area, each offering a mix of heritage, art and natural beauty that rewards those willing to explore.
Forbes
Sitting along the Lachlan River, Forbes is a lovely blend of historic architecture and has most recently made it onto road-tripper’s radars as one of the starting points of the Sculpture Down the Lachlan art trail that stretches 100km between Forbes and Condobolin, with more than 25 large-scale outdoor artworks and sculptures scattered across the landscape. Make sure you check out the giant steel Varanus Goanna and the 3m tall ‘Amazing Sign’, all located near Forbes and perfect for a photo op.
Varanus Goanna by Glen Star (Monique Lovick Photography – Forbes Art Society)
Victoria Park in Forbes with its Grecian rotunda built in 1891 (Destination NSW)
Starting at the heritage-listed Forbes Railway Station, follow the Forbes Heritage Trail to explore 18 historic sites, including locations featured in The Dish movie.
Motorheads should visit the McFeeters Motor Museum located just off the Newell Highway, with its massive collection of restored classic cars.
Vintage cars on display at the McFeeters Motor Museum in Forbes (Destination NSW)
The De Havilland D.H. 100 Vampire jet next to Lake Forbes (Destination NSW)
Lake Forbes is great for a spot of rest and relaxation, offering walking paths, free water spray park, picnic areas, opportunities for fishing and water sports and the iconic De Havilland D.H. 100 Vampire jet.
For caravan-friendly camping, head to Forbes Showground or Wheogo Park Forbes Rest Area (max 48hr stays). If you aren’t towing or simply want a unique experience, Top Paddock Silo Stay offers overnight accommodation in converted grain silos.
Condobolin
Heading further west, Condobolin is a peaceful town also set on the Lachlan River. Its claim to fame is the quirky Utes in the Paddock outdoor gallery celebrating rural country life through painted Holden utes.
For a bit of history and culture, visit the Wiradjuri Study Centre to learn more about Indigenous history, and follow the Condobolin Heritage Walk to see some of the town’s best architectural displays and find out more about the town’s early colonial history.
‘Ute of Arms’ by Brad Brown and Scott Edwards, part of the Utes in the Paddock outdoor gallery (Lachlan Shire Council)
Sun rising over the Lachlan River in Condobolin (Destination NSW)
And don’t miss the heart of Country warrior, part of the Sculpture Down the Lachlan art trail, located on the Lachlan Valley Way just a 15-minute drive southeast of Condobolin.
Heading a bit further afield, a climb up Mount Tilga will reward those who make the effort with sweeping 360-degree views over the surrounding plains. Gum Bend Lake, just west of town, is a popular spot for swimming and water sports, with areas for picnics and a caravan-friendly camping area nearby.
‘Heart of Country’ by Damian Vick (Monique Lovick Photography – Lachlan Shire Council)
Peak Hill
Just a 35-minute drive north of Parkes, Peak Hill is a historic gold mining town. To immerse yourself in its past, head to the heritage Peak Hill Open Cut Mine where gold was first discovered in 1889. Wander the self-guided walking trails and cross a section of the old mine on a bridge leading to a viewing platform that looks out over the open cuts.
Peak Hill Open Cut Mine (Destination NSW)
To enjoy some local community spirit and hospitality, add the Peak Hill Country Crafts and Visitor Information Centre to your itinerary. This community hub showcases handmade crafts, antiques, local produce and tourist information.
Nature lovers will enjoy the 1.4km Peak Hill Flora and Fauna Nature Trail, where you can often spot rock wallabies and kangaroos.
Nearby Bogan Weir and Goobang National Park (more on this one later) provide plenty more opportunities for picnics, birdwatching and bushwalking.
Lake Cargelligo
This town is nestled on the edge of an inland lake of the same name (worth clarifying, as I know of at least one road named after a lake with nary a water source in sight). The 8km-long lake is perfect for kayaking, boating, waterskiing and birdwatching, with brolgas and white-bellied sea eagles commonly sighted.
A walking and cycling track that runs along the foreshore, and for beautiful lakeside camping head to Frog’s Hollow and Dead Man’s Point for free, caravan-friendly options with picnic tables, barbecues and basic amenities. Donations are welcome, as is paying it forward by checking out stores in town.
Camp next to the serene Lake Cargelligo
Step back in time with a visit to Larne Draught Horses, where seasonal guided tours showcase horse-drawn machinery, or explore the Lake Cargelligo & District Historical Society & Museum, which preserves and displays the region’s farming and cultural heritage.
Dubbo
Dubbo is the hub of the Central West, a regional crossroad that has grown (and continues to grow) into a bustling regional city. The Taronga Western Plains Zoo is its biggest and most well-known attraction, and a fun visit for travellers of all ages. The zoo features more than 5000 animals from 350 species. You can drive your car along the driving loop next to the enclosure, walk it, cycle it or hire a safari car for the full (well, not into the enclosure kind of full) safari experience. Visit during feeding times for the best viewing, and don’t miss the new Wildlife Hospital (completed in 2022).
Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo (Destination NSW)
Other Dubbo attractions include:
- The Old Dubbo Gaol, built in 1847, where you can step inside cells, try out the stocks and don’t think too hard about the gallows.
- The Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Experience, which highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of this iconic service.
- Dubbo Observatory for stargazing and astrophotography
- Western Plains Cultural Centre — part gallery, part museum
- Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden, which includes Shoyoen Japanese Garden
- Terramungamine Rock Grooves, with more than 150 ancient grooves created by the Tubbegah people while creating weapons and tools
- Dundullimal Homestead, a heritage-listed former pastoral station with an Australian colonial slab hut-style homestead
Old Dubbo Gaol (Destination NSW)
The scenic Shoyoen Japanese Gardens in the Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden (Destination NSW)
For classic pub grub, The Commercial is the oldest pub in town while the Pastoral Hotel is a grand old lady that was renovated a handful of years ago and has covered seating on the balcony overlooking the street, an enclosed indoor kids play area, cocktail bar and function spaces.
For finer tastes, there’s Red Earth Estate — the only commercial vineyard in the area.
Caravanners can stay along the Macquarie River at NRMA or Discovery Parks caravan parks.
Or if you want something a bit more rustic, check out Terramungamine Reserve, a short drive north of Dubbo. Camping at the reserve is free, with basic amenities, plenty of shade and river access — just be prepared for the mozzies. Please note, the entrance to the reseve is next to a curve on Burraway Road where there is little visibility and a 100km/h speed limit, so take care when pulling out. And if you find someone on your tail on this often narrow winding road, please do the kind thing and keep to the left or pull over to let them overtake. Everyone will thank you.
For some more Dubbo inspiration, check out Miriam Blaker’s recent trip there.
Nature and outdoor adventures
For those wanting to stretch their legs during a road trip, Manna Mountain near Burcher offers a short 400m walk to a summit with breathtaking views. The area has picnic and barbecue facilities, walking tracks and a recreated Aboriginal campsite with billabong, campfires and gunyah huts. The mountain is sacred to the Wiradjuri people, with visible axe-grinding grooves left on the rocks.
Goobang National Park, lying between Peak Hill, Parkes and Molong, is a haven for bushwalkers, cyclists and 4WD enthusiasts. The Burrabadine Walking Track winds 4km through Sawpit Gully to the top of Burrabadine Peak, while Greenbah and Wanda Wandong campgrounds offer caravan-friendly sites (powered options available) with picnic tables, toilets and abundant wildlife.
Further afield, Warrumbungle National Park, about two hours north of Dubbo, is a highlight for anyone who loves hiking and stargazing. As Australia’s first Dark Sky Park, it offers crystal-clear night skies over volcanic ranges, perfect for camping, bushwalking, stargazing and astrophotography. Hikes range from the challenging 14.5km loop of the Breadknife and Grand High Tops — offering epic views of the jagged formations — to shorter family-friendly walks like Burbie Canyon (4.6km loop) and Whitegum Lookout (2km). Campgrounds including Camp Blackman, Camp Walaay and Camp Wambelong provide basic facilities, caravan-friendly sites and stunning vistas or the park’s dramatic landscapes. For true insight into the park’s stargazing potential, head to the nearby Siding Spring Observatory for a daytime tour of the largest telescope in the southern hemisphere and then to Milroy Observatory for stargazing opportunities.
The Bread Knife rock formation in Warrumbungle National Park
Siding Springs Observatory near Warrumbungle National Park (Destination NSW)
Driving trails and silo art
If you’re town-hopping, there are plenty of road trip itineraries available. An easily achievable one is the Newell Gold Trail, which covers 185km from West Wyalong to Peak Hill, taking in Barmedman, Lake Cowal, Forbes, Parkes and Tomingley. Along the way, you can discover historic gold sites, bushranger stories and Indigenous heritage. Highlights include:
- Replica gold mining poppet head and miners hut in West Wyalong
- Barmedman Mineral Pool
- Working gold mine in Lake Cowal
- The site of Ben Hall’s demise and his gravesite in Forbes area
- Working gold mine and the Henry Parkes Historical Museum in Parkes
- Peak Hill’s abandoned open cut mine
It’s a great route for those who want to combine short stops, scenic drives and a taste of gold-rush history.
The NSW Silo Art Trail is a feast for the eyes and a perfect excuse to wander off the main highways. Central West NSW has nine silo art installations, five of which are within 200km of Parkes, each telling a story of local life, culture and history. Highlights include murals in Dunedoo, Grenfell (home to the beautiful Weddin Mountains National Park), Murrumburrah, Portland and Weethalle.
The large-scale artworks are a favourite among road trippers and caravanners alike, and often offer a great opportunity to stop, grab a cuppa in town and help keep small country communities thriving.
Weethalle Silo Art by Heesco Khosnaran (Destination NSW)
The best of rural NSW awaits
From Parkes to the surrounding communities, Central West NSW shows there’s more to discover when you slow down, with heritage, nature and quirky attractions that capture the best of rural life at every turn.
Looking to start planning your Central West NSW adventure? Here are some great maps and guides to help:
- Hema New South Wales State Map
- NSW Explorer Pack
- New South Wales Silo & Water Tower Art Regional Guide
- The Silo Art Ultimate Guide
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Related articles:
Parkes Elvis Festival returns 7–11 Jan 2026
Discover Dubbo, NSW: Best things to see and do
Gems of Far North NSW: Exploring iconic outback destinations
Explore Parkes and beyond: The best of Central West NSW