Nellies Glen – Budderoo National Park
Nellies Glen: The Enchanting Swimming Hole of Budderoo National Park
If you are looking for a swimming hole that feels like it was plucked straight from a fairy tale, Nellies Glen is it. Located in the Southern Highlands near Robertson, this spot offers a stunning contrast to the dramatic, thundering heights of the nearby Carrington Falls.
At Nellies Glen, the water cascades gently over a rock shelf into a deep, emerald-green pool surrounded by lush ferns and colorful orchids. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful and accessible wild swimming spots in New South Wales. For more Illawarra waterfalls, explore Gerringong Falls in Budderoo National Park or discover Macquarie Pass Cascades.
Quick Stats
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Distance: 100m from the car park (extremely easy)
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Time: 5 minutes walking
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Grade: Easy (Flat, well-maintained path)
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Best For: Families, picnic lovers, and those who want a "high reward" swim with "low effort."
How to Get to Nellies Glen (Carrington Falls)
Nellies Glen is located within the Budderoo National Park, just a short drive from the village of Robertson.
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The Drive: Follow Cloonty Road toward the Carrington Falls precinct.
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The Turnoff: Don't go to the main Carrington Falls lookout car park. Instead, follow the signs specifically for the Nellies Glen Picnic Area.
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Parking: There is a dedicated car park with picnic tables and toilet facilities, making it a perfect base for a day trip.
The Secret Grotto & The Waterfall
While the main pool is easy to find, the magic of Nellies Glen is in the details.
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The Main Pool: The water is deep enough for a proper swim, and the rock ledge behind the waterfall creates a natural "grotto" you can sit behind.
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The Rock Formations: The area is famous for its colorful sandstone. After rain, the moss-covered rocks turn a vibrant green that looks incredible in photos.
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Birdwatching: Keep an eye out for the Satyr Tragopan or the Superb Lyrebird—the mist from the falls creates a perfect microclimate for these spectacular birds.
Expert Tips for Your Visit
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The "Two-for-One" Hike: After your swim, take the short walk over to the Carrington Falls lookout or Blue Pool. Blue Pool is just a few hundred meters away and offers a different, rockier swimming experience.
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Timing your Visit: Because it is so accessible, Nellies Glen can get crowded on summer weekends. Arrive before 10:00 AM to secure a picnic table and a peaceful swim.
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Water Temperature: Being in the Highlands, the water is always fresh (read: cold!). It's the ultimate way to cool off during a NSW heatwave. Discover more NSW swimming spots in our complete guide.
