Overview
The Budawangs (Morton National Park) area is about three hours south-southwest of Sydney near a town called Nowra.Once a very popular bushwalking area, it had fallen into decline but it seems to have gained popularity again in recent years. Even on popular weekend there are places in the park that you can have all to yourself.
A rugged region with steep conglomerate cliffs.
Best hiked in Winter as there is a distinct lack of water in summer and temps can reach 40 degrees celsius.
In summer, the campgrounds near the river at the south end of the park are very popular.
Getting There
The trip does involve a lot of driving on dirt road through state forest land, but it is well worth it.Red Tape
The NPWS are now asking people to fill in a trip intention form before going (refer npws link below).Nothing else that I know of.
External Links
http://www.wises.com.au/bud.htmhttp://www.flickr.com/photos/apurdam/sets/72157594197829888/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Budawang_Range
http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/403871326
http://www3.environment.nsw.gov.au/npws.nsf/Content/dec_media_070806_02
Camping
Car camping is available straight off the access roads. Back country camping is available in a large number of areas.There are also quite a number of camping caves in the park which make for a very comfortable camping experience (some can hold up to 20 people).
Suggested Hikes
Pigeon House - a popular tourist daywalk with some exposed sections. East end of the park.Hidden valley - 2 day walk, accessed from north end. This is a great basic hike with most of it on old 4WD tracks.
The Castle - accessed from the south end. This is a great mountain in any sense of the word, cliffs on 3 sides and an exposed but easy scramble on the 4th side with summit views well worth it. There is also some adventure rock climbing on this too.