Rocky Crossing Walk – Swimming on the Williams River, Barrington Tops
Rocky Crossing: Where the Williams River Meets the Rainforest
In Barrington Tops National Park, north of Dungog, the Rocky Crossing walk is one of the most beautiful river walks in NSW. The track winds through subtropical rainforest along the Williams River as it tumbles over boulders, forming natural swimming holes, mossy cascades and the rocky crossings the area is named for. For more Barrington Tops swimming spots, see Ladies Well or Danger Falls.
Find this and dozens more in Swim New South Wales: directions, access notes and safety tips. Printed guides include 12 months of the Explorer app free. Get the guide →
Whether you're here for a cool swim, a long walk or just the atmosphere of running water under a canopy of ancient trees, Rocky Crossing is one of the most peaceful wild-water spots in the region.
You'll find Rocky Crossing in Swim New South Wales, our guide to the state's best swimming spots, from coastal ocean pools to deep forest waterfalls.
A Walk Through Rainforest and River
The Rocky Crossing walk offers everything you want in a big day out in nature:
- A rainforest canopy of sassafras, red cedar, ferns and towering eucalypts
- A constantly changing river soundtrack
- Rock-hopping, mudstone terraces and shallow crossings
- Crystal-clear pools for cooling off
The trail is mostly shaded and follows the river valley, passing through the Blue Gum loop before dropping down to Rocky Crossing itself. Watch for eastern water dragons sunning themselves on the rocks.
Swimming at Rocky Crossing
The Williams River forms several natural swimming spots along the way, with the best pools around the main crossing and the cascades. Expect refreshing, clear water and deep green reflections from the rainforest above.
- Best time to swim: Spring to autumn.
- Water clarity: Clear in dry weather, brown and fast after rain.
- Safety: Strong currents can be present along the Williams River. All river sites are very slippery, with deep pools and rapids, so take great care, supervise children closely, and never jump or dive in. Stay out of the water when levels are high.
This is the kind of place where you spend hours swimming, poking around rock shelves and listening to the water echo through the trees.
How to Get to Rocky Crossing
- Location: Barrington Tops National Park, north of Dungog.
- Getting there: From Dungog, take Chichester Dam Road for about 10 km, then turn left onto Salisbury Road for about 30 km to the Williams River picnic area.
- Trailhead: Williams River picnic area, where there's parking.
- Distance: 16 km return.
- Time: Allow 6 to 8 hours.
- Difficulty: Grade 4: rough terrain with some very steep sections and wet rock.
Mobile reception is limited, so download the Emergency Plus app and check the NSW National Parks Rocky Crossing walk page for current alerts before you go.
Tips for Visiting Rocky Crossing
- Start early: this is a full-day walk.
- Wear shoes with excellent grip, as the rocks are slippery.
- Bring a towel and swimmers if you plan to hop in the river, plus plenty of water and food.
- Pack insect repellent: the forest can get buggy.
- Avoid visiting after heavy rain, when river levels rise quickly.
- Leave no trace and take all rubbish home.
Rocky Crossing FAQs
How long is the Rocky Crossing walk?
It's 16 km return from the Williams River picnic area. Allow 6 to 8 hours.
Can you swim at Rocky Crossing?
Yes, there are clear swimming holes along the Williams River. Take care: currents can be strong, and the rocks are very slippery with deep pools and rapids.
Where does the Rocky Crossing walk start?
It starts at the Williams River picnic area in Barrington Tops National Park, about 40 km by road north of Dungog via Chichester Dam Road and Salisbury Road.
How hard is the Rocky Crossing walk?
It's rated grade 4, with rough terrain and some very steep sections.
More Swimming Spots Near Barrington Tops
If you're heading to Rocky Crossing, don't miss these:
- Ladies Well: boulders, cascades and emerald pools on the Allyn River.
- Danger Falls: one of NSW's most dramatic hidden waterfalls.
- Macquarie Pass Cascades: rainforest cascades and pools in the Illawarra.
