National Falls

Overview

National Falls is a quick, pretty stop on the Waterfall side of the park. Expect a short stroll from the roadside to a fenced viewing platform and a small but graceful drop over sandstone. It’s a low‑effort photo stop that shines after rain; in dry spells the flow shrinks and the experience is more about the tranquil setting than spectacle.

What You’ll See

• A compact waterfall with a short drop and a broad rock lip.
• Steps lead down from the lookout; when conditions allow, some visitors continue to reach the rock ledge and even slip behind the curtain for a front‑row view. Respect fences and your footing—sections are steep and signed/cordoned.
• A generally quiet nook compared with busy coastal spots, great for a breather and a few quick photos.

Getting There & Parking

Approach via the McKell Avenue/Waterfall entry. Roads here are sealed and fine for 2WD. Parking is limited to a small dirt pull‑in along the road; think brief stop, not a picnic car park. The broader park operates roughly 7:00am–8:30pm and may close in bad weather or extreme fire danger. A per‑vehicle day fee applies.

Best Time to Visit

• Right after rain for the best flow and photographs.
• Early mornings on weekends/holidays to snag a spot at the pullout.
• Midweek is typically quieter.

Pair It With

If you’ve got more time on the southern side, combine this stop with a longer walk nearby, such as Uloola walking track, Couranga walking track, or a separate waterfall outing like Winifred Falls.

Nature Notes

You’re on the edge of sclerophyll forest and creek gullies—listen for small heathland birds like honeyeaters and look for eucalypts, banksias, and melaleucas along the approach.

Need‑to‑Know

• Park rules apply: no pets (assistance animals excepted), no wood fires, and recreational drones aren’t permitted.
• Mobile reception can be patchy—download a map before you go.
• Check official park alerts the morning of your visit for any closures or changed conditions.