Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area

National Parks and Reserves

The majestic Mount Canobolas is a dormant volcano that formed millions of years ago when Australia was sitting over a hotspot in the earth's crust. It is part of the Brigooda-Oberon chain that stretches 800km from southeast Queensland to near Oberon in NSW and last erupted 11 million years ago, spewing lava from the main vent and up to 30 vents in the surrounding area. With its rich soil, high altitude and cool climate, it's the perfect environment for a range of plants and animals.
Views towards Mount Canobolas, Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area. Photo credit: Boris Hlavica
A blue-faced honeyeater perches on a broken tree branch. Photo credit: Ken Stepnell © DPIE
Orange View picnic area, Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area. Photo: Steve Woodhall © DPIE
A twisted snow gum next to boulders in Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area. Photo credit: Boris
Funghi grow at the base of a tree in Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area. Photo credit: Boris
There are great places to picnic and a number of walking tracks, plus the park is only a short drive from Orange so it makes for a great daytrip. If you feel like a weekend getaway, there's also a campground that offers basic facilities in a pretty setting, right near the start of the Federal Falls walking track.