Mutawintji National Park (formerly Mootwingee National Park), 130km northeast of Broken Hill in the Bynguano Ranges, has totally different and perhaps even more fascinating scenery to offer: secluded gorges and quiet waterholes that attract a profusion of wildlife.
The main attractions of the park are the ancient galleries of Aboriginal rock art in the caves and overhangs; you can only visit these accompanied by an Aboriginal tour guide (Wed & Sat 11am Eastern Standard Time; no bookings required; $15; 2hr; special tours by arrangement tel 08/8088 7000) – there are no tours in the hot summer months. While on the tour you get to visit the Mutawintji Cultural Resource Centre, with brightly painted murals depicting Aboriginal myths.There’s a camping area at Homestead Creek, among river red gums at the entrance to Homestead Gorge (camping is payable on site; $5) and a number of walking trails (including the short wheelchair-accessible Thakaaltjika Mingkana Walk). Access to and within the park is via unsealed gravel roads, and you’ll need to bring extra fuel as none is available here. It’s normally fine for 2WD vehicles, but check locally, as the roads can quickly become impassable after even a light rain; bring extra food just in case.
The NPWS office in Broken Hill can provide other information. You can also get here from Broken Hill with Goanna Safari; a bushwalk (2hr 30min) is part of their excellent tour.
