I didn’t get to explore too much of the Kangaroo Valley region, but I’ve got to give a shout-out to the Bendeela Recreation Area, it’s an excellent spot for encountering wild wombats! Located along the Kangaroo River, this place has expansive grassy fields, hiking trails, and the option to camp for just $6 a night.

This was my first experience seeing wombats which are fascinating creatures, known for their burrowing habits and robust build. These marsupials are nocturnal, so they’re most active around dawn and dusk. They spend most of their time digging elaborate burrow systems, which can be quite extensive. Their powerful claws and sturdy limbs make them exceptional diggers. 

I visited Bendeela around 4 pm, hoping to catch a glimpse of these nocturnal critters. To my delight, this spot didn’t disappoint! As the sun began to set, the wombats started making their appearance. They’re pretty relaxed, so if you stay still and quiet, they might even stroll right by you, munching on the grass. I ended up seeing about ten of these adorable animals, along with a bunch of kangaroos. It felt like I had front-row seats to a wildlife show!

For the best chance to see these fuzzy friends, aim to hang out at dusk or dawn. And remember, being patient and still is key, these wombats are surprisingly comfortable around humans plus I'm an animal whisperer ahah. Either way, it’s a fun spot to try your luck and see some native Australian animals.