Opening hours
The Reserve is open from 7:30am to 6:00pm during Non-Daylight Savings Time (Winter), and from 7:30am to 8:00pm during Daylight Savings Time (Summer), every day except Christmas Day (closed).
The Reserve may be closed on days of total fire ban, severe weather events or for management requirements.
The Temporary Visitor Centre is now open from 9:00am to 5:00pm every day except Christmas Day (closed).
Entry fees
Entry fees will not be taken until further notice.
More information
Information brochures are available outside the Visitor Centre.
Getting here
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is located on Tidbinbilla Reserve Road, Paddys River, about 40km from the centre of Canberra.
Nestled within the Tidbinbilla Valley and surrounded by Namadgi National Park, both the drive and destination are experiences in themselves.
Please note: A taxi is not recommended as, although they may drop you at the Visitor Centre, they may not be willing to return to pick you up. The majority of the experience also requires further driving, with a 15km ring road providing access throughout the reserve.
By car
Tidbinbilla is an easy 45-minute drive south-west from the centre of Canberra.
Access is off Paddys River Road, via Cotter Road (from North Canberra) or via Drakeford Drive, Woodcock Ave and Point Hut Crossing (from South Canberra).
Driving tips
Fill your car with fuel before you begin your journey. The closest petrol station is located at Lanyon Marketplace (18km away).
If using a GPS for directions, just enter 'Tidbinbilla Visitor Centre' to get the most accurate directions. Please remember that mobile reception may be limited on the drive to Tidbinbilla and within the Reserve.
Watch out for wildlife. Native wildlife is abundant in the ACT and many species are most active at dawn and dusk. Take extra care when driving at these times.
Reserve Map and Visitor Guide
Tidbinbilla offers outstanding wildlife and natural experiences. Enjoy the range of walking trails, meander through the Sanctuary wetlands, find a koala in the Eucalypt Forest or relax with a picnic or barbecue amongst the kangaroos and emus.
Download the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve: A Brief Guide to help plan your visit.
During your visit
Please remember:
- Respect the natural environment and other visitors
- Do not feed or touch any animals
- There are no bins at Tidbinbilla, please take your rubbish with you
- Leave your pets at home. All domestic animals are prohibited (Assistance Dogs exempt)
- Only light fires in authorised fireplaces
- Cycling is allowed on formed roads and fire trails only
- No camping in the reserve
- Drive carefully for both your safety and our wildlife
- Please observe the 35 kilometres speed limit for both your safety and our wildlife
- Camping, fishing, horse riding, off-road 4WD activities and trail bike riding are not permitted at Tidbinbilla
- Please note that mobile reception may be limited throughout the drive to Tidbinbilla while at the reserve
Please also read about Safety in ACT Parks and Reserves.
Facilities
A variety of purpose-built visitor facilities are available throughout Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve including:
- free gas and electric BBQs
- designated fire pits for wood BBQs (BYO firewood or purchase at Visitor Centre)
- picnic tables and covered shelters
- Nature Discovery Playground
- over 20 fully marked walking trails
- drinking water refills at the Visitor Centre
- free WIFI at the Visitor Centre and Vet Centre (Sanctuary)
- Ribbon Gum Theatre
Ribbon Gum Theatre
Ribbon Gum Theatre is a purpose built outdoor theatre located in the Sanctuary. It offers a wonderful natural surrounding for meetings or presentations. It has tiered seating for approximately 70 people, a small drop down stage over a sand floor and AV facilities, a small lock-up area and sink.
The outstanding feature of the theatre, apart from its outdoor location, is the artwork by renowned Ngunnawal artist Jim Williams and other local community artists.
Accessibility
Tidbinbilla offers mobility access to many popular locations including The Sanctuary, the Eucalypt Forest and Sheedys Picnic Area. These locations have accessible toilets, designated parking areas and paved footpaths allowing independent wheelchair access.
The Nature Discovery Playground has a birds nest swing suitable for very young children and people with limited mobility.
Wheelchair hire
A heavy-duty wheelchair is available for free day hire upon request. Phone 02 6207 7921 for more information.
TrailRider hire
The TrailRider was presented to the ACT Government by the National Parks Association in April 2012. The TrailRider is a great way for mobility-impaired visitors to explore the natural environment and enjoy all that is on offer in the bush capital.
The TrailRider is available for use at Tidbinbilla and can be booked for use in other ACT parks and reserves.
Two or three 'Sherpas' (not supplied) are required to guide the chair. The chair is easy to manoeuvre, can travel on semi-rough tracks and can be easily disassembled to fit in the back of a large car. Riders will need to supply their own cycling helmet and, with their Sherpas, are required to undertake a short induction session before venturing out.
For more information watch this short video.
Phone 02 6207 7921 for more information or to make a booking.
What to bring
Tidbinbilla offers opportunities for short walks, a day-hike or simply enjoy a coffee and take the kids to the Nature Discovery Playground.
As we are located close to sub-alpine environments and most of your visit will be spent outdoors. These simple preparations before you arrive will help you have a safe and enjoyable visit:
- Check the weather
forecast before your visit and dress for the conditions
- Dress in comfortable layered clothing
- Wear comfortable covered shoes
- Pack sunscreen and a hat
- Bring a raincoat
- Bring a water bottle which can be refilled at the Visitor Centre
Mobile reception may be limited throughout the drive to Tidbinbilla and while at the reserve.