Boasting five freshwater lakes and many native Australian plant species, this is a wonderful place to come all year round. Along the lakes, you’ll discover amazing aquatic plants including the rare frogmouth waterlily, with its unusual bright yellow flowers, and a variety of colourful ground orchids in the spring.

For birdwatchers, visiting Thirlmere Lakes is a must. Taking a walk along three of the lakes on the terrific Thirlmere Lakes track, you’ll see some of the 140 birds that inhabit the park, including the white-faced heron, musk duck, and white-bellied sea eagle.

When the water levels are high, you can swim or canoe in the lake. Pack a picnic, relax by the water and be sure to make use of the free barbecues to cook up a feast while enjoying the fresh Wollondilly Shire air.

Thirmere Lakes is open from sunrise to sunset but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.