Fast facts
- Oberon was proclaimed a village in 1863
- Popular area for trout fishing, bushwalking and fossicking for sapphires.
- 180 km west of Sydney, population 2,700
Why go there
The highest town in the Blue Mountains region and some 30 km from the world-renowned Jenolan Caves. Oberon supports a strong rural community producing lambs, beef cattle and a wide range of vegetables. It is particularly delightful in spring, when the appearance of bulbs and colourful wildflowers joyfully greet the season.
History
The traditional owners of the land where Oberon now stands were the Wiradjuri people. Settlement commenced along the Fish River after the discovery of gold in 1823. The town was first known as Bullock Flats, but when it was proclaimed a village, it became Oberon.
Things to do
- Oberon is a perfect base for visits to Jenolan Caves, Kanangra Boyd National Park, Blue Mountains National Park and Abercrombie River National Park.
- There’s a busy program of events in the town throughout the year and Oberon has a number of restaurants, cafes and takeaways catering to visitors. Lake Oberon is noted for its stock of brown trout for fishing.
- The area is immensely popular for the exotic mushrooms found in the State Forests, with the picking season running from late January to early May. The Oberon Visitor Information Centre has a pamphlet and advice for the safe harvesting of mushrooms.
Events
- Oberon Show, second weekend in February.
- The Daffodil Festival, last weekend in September.
- The Oberon Community Art and Craft Exhibition, mid-November.
Don’t miss
- Tour the Museum in the old 1920s Railway Station.
- Play golf on the scenic local course with kangaroos for company.
- Fossick for gold in designated spots.
- Explore Jenolan and Abercrombie caves.
- Cycle through spectacular scenery at Kanangra Boyd National Park.
