New South Wales · Attraction
Oakvale Wildlife Park
25 acres of Australian wildlife
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Set on 25 acres of natural bushland at Salt Ash near Anna Bay, Oakvale Wildlife Park is home to more than 110 animal species including kangaroos, wombats, koalas, Tasmanian devils, and crocodiles. The park's open format lets visitors wander through animal habitats rather than past cages, with keeper talks, feeding shows, and hands-on animal encounters available every day.
Oakvale is structured to feel like a bushwalk rather than a traditional zoo, with animals free-roaming in open areas alongside the paths. Highlights include hand-feeding kangaroos and wallabies, watching the bilby habitat, and the daily keeper talk schedule covering different species throughout the day. Splash Bay, a small water park included in general admission, provides a cooling break during summer visits.
The park also offers premium wildlife encounters for an additional fee, including koala, meerkat, echidna, and reptile experiences that give visitors dedicated time with a single species. These must be booked in advance as places are limited.
Oakvale is located about 25 minutes from Nelson Bay and 30 minutes from Newcastle, making it an easy day-trip addition. The park closes on Christmas Day, with last entry at 4pm on all other days.
Where to stay
Holiday parks near Oakvale Wildlife Park.
3 options via our booking partner
Thou Walla Sunset Retreat
13km away
Halifax Holiday Park
18.6km away
Shoal Bay Holiday Park
19km away
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