Blackbutt Reserve

Blackbutt Reserve is a 182-hectare urban nature reserve in New Lambton, City of Newcastle, New South Wales, managed by the City of Newcastle. It protects remnant blackbutt eucalypt forest and rainforest gullies. Notable for free wildlife exhibits featuring native Australian animals, 16 kilometres of walking trails, picnic areas, and the Richley Reserve recreation precinct, it serves as a major conservation, recreation and environmental education site within Newcastle.

Visitors can expect an extensive urban bushland reserve with shaded walking trails and boardwalks through blackbutt forest and rainforest, open picnic lawns, and dedicated wildlife exhibit areas displaying koalas, wombats, reptiles, birds and other native animals. The reserve includes the Richley Reserve area with playgrounds, barbecues and shelters, interpretive signage, and natural gullies and lookouts. The setting is tranquil and family-oriented with opportunities for walking, wildlife viewing and picnicking.