Campbell Rhododendron Gardens
Blackheath NSW
In the heart of the Blue Mountains, just outside of Sydney, lies a unique garden filled with vibrant colour.
The sign said “Watch out for snakes”.
As soon as I saw it I could feel my heart rate go up. I’m terrified of snakes. Even the itty bitty garter snakes common on Vancouver Island (where I used to live) make me nervous. But this is Australia, where the snakes are not to be trifled with.
So there I was, standing at the entrance of a garden I’d long wanted to visit, wondering what the odds were I would encounter a snake. As other people wandered by me, apparently unafraid, I was fighting a battle between abject terror and the excitement of seeing a garden filled with one of my favourite flowers.
Fortunately the garden won. Mustering my courage, I paid my $5 entry fee and walked through the entrance. It was, I rationalized, one of those lovely misty, cool and overcast mountain days – not generally “snake weather”.
A Town in the Heart of the Mountains
You’ll find the Campbell Rhododendron Gardens in the town of Blackheath, in the Blue Mountains, just west of Sydney. The entire region is a UNESCO World Heritage site – and with good reason. It’s known for its unique natural features including dramatic escarpments and spectacular gorges.
The mountains are a favourite getaway spot for Sydney-siders, and also attract millions of visitors from all over the world. The main tourist hub is Echo Point in Katoomba which can get insanely busy. But fortunately there are plenty of other places for those of us who prefer to stay as far from the madding crowd as possible.
One of my favourite flower photography techniques is “shooting through”
And one of those is the pretty town of Blackheath, about 15 minutes west of Katoomba. While not as famous as Leura or Katoomba, its definitely worth a visit if you love flowers and gardens. Well-known for it’s rhododendrons, the town celebrates these luscious blooms each November with a week-long festival.
And the jewel in the crown of the festival is the Campbell Rhododendron Gardens.
A unique blend of cold climate flowers and native Australian bushland
The first thing you notice about this garden is the unique mix of old world plantings and native bushland.
Campbell Rhododendron Gardens is a unique blend of Australian native plants and exotics
Towering eucalypts provide the backdrop for over 2,000 rhododendrons as well as azaleas, camellias, kalmias and forsythia. The muted greens and browns of the native plants make the vibrant colours of the flowers absolutely sing.
Meanwhile, the sound of native birds fills the air, with the occasional flash of colour as mountain parrots and rosellas fly between the trees.
The sensory experience is completed by the fresh mountain air with its characteristic aroma of eucalyptus.
Formal meets natural
Near the lodge (at the entrance), the garden has easy, paved trails that zig zag through the garden beds that are filled with rhododendrons and azaleas.
Eventually, as you descend down into the valley, the formal paths give way to natural trails, and the garden beds are less structured. Here the rhodo shrubs are tucked in among the gum trees and the whole vibe is one of informal beauty.
Native Australian wildflowers also grow here, including New South Wales’ state flower – the waratah (Telopea speciosissima).
Waratah in bloom
The walking trails extend into the surrounding bushland if you want to take a longer walk.
A garden for all seasons
Given its elevation, this cold climate garden is also the perfect spot for flowering cherry trees, maples and conifers. Although it wasn’t in flower when I visited, there is also a wisteria walk....otherwise known as an excuse for me to visit again!
In autumn the garden’s maple trees put on a show that is rare at this latitude. Down in Sydney we don’t really see much of the seasonal change, but here in the mountains the trees turn vibrant shades of orange and crimson. Just the thought of crunching through the fallen leaves on a cold autumn day brings a smile to my face and reminds me of gorgeous fall days living in Canada.
Things to look out for
If you want to view the gardens without the walking, the Dick Harris Lookout overlooks the valley and gives you a panoramic view of the gardens. It’s not far from the entrance and easily accessible from the car park, so it’s perfect for anyone who is less mobile. It’s a lovely spot to just absorb the garden’s atmosphere.
For those who do want to go for a walk, the paths through the garden switchback down into the valley. Here the main lake is a peaceful spot to sit and just enjoy the beauty of this garden. It also provides some beautiful reflections of the colourful blooms that makes for some great photos. There are other ponds and quaint bridges throughout the garden. From here you can also explore the longer bushland trails.
Tea and Blooms
One of my favourite treats when I’m in the Blue Mountains is a traditional Devonshire Tea. Fresh, warm, home-made scones dripping with jam and smothered with cream, accompanied by a hot cup of tea is the PERFECT way to relax and enjoy the mountain ambience.
So I was thrilled to discover that the Rhodo Tea Room was open and serving traditional cream teas during my visit. They’re open Thursday to Sunday during the Spring Welcome weeks (late September to early November). With a verandah that overlooks the garden, you can sit and enjoy the serenity as you sip your tea. It’s a lovely way to end your visit.
A Brief History of the Campbell Rhododendron Gardens
The idea for the gardens was born in 1969 when the Blue Mountains Nurserymen’s Association initiated the formation of the Blue Mountains Rhododendron Society. By March 1970, thanks to the efforts of local politicians and community members, 18.3 hectares of Crown land in Blackheath were allocated for the development of the gardens
The gardens were designed to harmoniously integrate exotic plants within the existing native bushland which is a concept that remains unique in the world. Over the years, new features such as the McCullough Bridge (built in 1974), the Dr. A.L. North Conifer Garden (established in 1984), and the Centenary Walk (opened in 1985) have been added, enhancing the garden's charm.
The gardens were renamed in honour of Norm and Olive Campbell, whose dedication was instrumental in their development and management.
The Heartbeat of the Gardens: Volunteers
The Campbell Rhododendron Gardens thrive thanks to the unwavering commitment of volunteers. Every Monday, a group affectionately known as the "MonVols" gathers to undertake tasks ranging from planting and weeding to general maintenance.
During the vibrant Spring Welcome Weeks, volunteers also assist in serving teas at the Lodge and greeting visitors at the Information Booth. Special events, like the annual Easter Gnome Convention, see volunteers organizing activities such as gnome painting and sausage sizzles, fostering a sense of community and fun.
Importantly, the gardens receive no government funding and rely entirely on donations and the dedication of volunteers for their maintenance. This community-driven model ensures that the gardens remain a cherished space for all to enjoy.
How to get to Campbell Rhododendron Gardens
Blackheath is an easy two hour drive from central Sydney. Head for the M4 and follow it all the way. It eventually becomes the A32 as it heads up into the mountains.
If you’re travelling by train, you can catch a mountain train from Central Station. Be sure to get one that goes to Lithgow as some trains terminate in Katoomba. From Blackheath train station it’s a 20 minute walk to the gardens.
The colour is so vibrant my camera sensor can barely handle it!
Practical Information
Location: Bacchante Street, Blackheath, NSW
Opening Hours:
Pedestrian Access: Daily, all year round
Car Park: March – August: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm | September – February: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Entry Fee: $5 donation per adult; free for children under 18 and members of the Blue Mountains Rhododendron Society
Facilities: Toilets, picnic benches, shelters, and parking available
Accessibility: The gardens feature easy walking tracks and an accessible lookout near the Lodge
Pet Policy: Dogs are welcome on a leash
Best Time to Visit: Late September to mid-November for blooming rhododendrons and azaleas; mid-April for autumn foliage
Special Events: The Rhodo Tea Room operates during peak blooming season, offering Devonshire teas and souvenirs
What else is nearby?
You’re in the heart of the Blue Mountains so there is plenty to do. Another garden that’s definitely worth your time is the Everglades in Leura. And if you haven’t seen them, then the Three Sisters at Echo Point is a must-see (despite the hordes of tourists).
The mountain towns are great places to wander...stop in at art galleries, antique stores and cute boutiques. There are plenty of food choices as well, that range from cafes to pubs to upscale restaurants.
And for the outdoor adventure lovers, you’ll never run out of options.
To find out more about what’s on offer in the region check out Blue Mountains tourism.
Is Campbell Rhododendron Gardens worth visiting?
If you love gardens with lots of colour then you’ll love this one. The unusual way they’ve integrated exotic plants with natural bushland offers inspiration for every gardener and the huge variety of rhododendrons and azaleas were just magnificent. I also really enjoyed seeing Australian natives flowering in the mix. This somewhat eclectic garden that strikes (for me anyway) the right balance between structured and wild, was well worth seeing. I’ll definitely be visiting again in the future – particularly to see the autumn colours and the Easter Gnome Convention. And despite the sign, I’m happy to report there wasn’t a snake to be seen.
Seriously, who could resist a Gnome Convention???