Visit the Sanctuary. A unique bushland sanctuary in Lithgow, home to more than 200 native animals from the Blue Mountains and Central West.
Animals at the Sanctuary
Secret Creek Sanctuary is home to Eastern Quolls, Dingoes, Koalas, Mountain Pygmy Possums, Tasmanian Devils, Long‑nosed Potoroos, Rufous Bettongs, Spotted‑tailed Quolls, Brush‑tailed Rock‑wallabies, Cream‑striped Red‑necked Pademelons, Swamp Wallabies, Emus, Brush Turkeys, Cape Barren Geese — and a wide range of native birds, reptiles, fish and amphibians.
About the Sanctuary
Secret Creek Sanctuary sits in a tranquil bushland gully just five minutes from the centre of Lithgow. Surrounded by natural vegetation and protected habitat, the sanctuary feels peaceful, secluded and far removed from the busy world outside.
As a conservation sanctuary, our habitats are designed first and foremost for the wellbeing of the animals who live here — especially the endangered species we work to protect. This means Secret Creek isn’t set up like a zoo, and you may not always see every animal during your walk. Many of our residents are shy, nocturnal, or prefer to stay tucked away in natural hides.
For visitors who move quietly and take their time, the sanctuary offers something special: the chance to glimpse more than 200 native animals living in an environment created for their comfort, safety and natural behaviours. Every sighting is a privilege.
Plan your Visit
Getting Here
Driving
Secret Creek Sanctuary is located at 35 Crane Road, Lithgow.
We’re just 5 minutes from Lithgow town centre, around 40 minutes from Katoomba and 2 hours from Sydney. There is free on‑site parking at the Gardens of Stone Visitor Centre.
Public Transport
Catch the Blue Mountains train from Sydney to Lithgow Station. From there you can:
Walk - around 2 km (about 25 minutes)
Taxi - call 131 008 (usually a 5-minute trip)
Cycle - bicycles are allowed on the train and it’s only a 10-minute ride
Entry tickets
Tickets can be purchased at the Gardens of Stone Visitor Centre when you arrive.
Adult - $25
Child - $15
Family - $75 (2 adults + 2 children)
Senior, Pensioner or Carer - $20
Children under 4 are free.
Annual Visitor Passes
Annual Visitor Passes can be purchased from the link below or at the Visitor Centre.
Adult - $80
Child - $50
Family - $230 (2 adults + 2 children)
Senior, Pensioner or Carer - $65
Children under 4 are free.
Why Choose an Annual Visitor Pass?
An Annual Visitor Pass is the best value option for people who love visiting the sanctuary. If you plan to visit more than three times in a year, the pass pays for itself — and gives you the freedom to drop in anytime we’re open.
Pass holders also receive a 5% discount at the kiosk and gift shop, making each visit even better value. Many locals choose an Annual Visitor Pass simply because they enjoy the peaceful bushland walk, love checking in on their favourite animals, or want a relaxing place to bring family and friends.
If your main goal is to support the ongoing care of the animals and you don’t expect to visit often, a tax‑deductible donation to AEFI (a registered charity with DGR status) may be a better option for you, as donations can be claimed in your tax return.
Check in at the visitor centre when you arrive. Grab a map and enjoy your day!
Learn about some of our animals.
click on an image to download a factsheet to learn more
