Best Brisbane National Parks You Need To Visit
Even if most of us enjoy spending a lazy Sunday morning in bed, there are times when you just have to feel like going on an adventure. You need to leave the house so that you can get your blood flowing and your legs moving. Additionally, you need an update on outdoor living for your Instagram feed. And when talking about national parks around Brisbane there are endless options.
If you're looking for some of the best Brisbane National Parks, look no further!
We've compiled a list of some of the most popular and beautiful parks in and around Brisbane. They offer something for everyone, from hiking and camping to fishing and picnicking. So pack your baggage, boots, water bottle and gear, and get ready to explore the enchanting beauty of the wilderness!
Our top picks include Mount Coot-tha Forest Park, Gondwana Rainforest Park, and Enoggera Reservoir. But there are plenty of other parks to choose from, so be sure to explore them all!
List of Top National Parks in Brisbane
#1: The Lamington National Park, Brisbane
Lamington National Park is one of the best national parks near Brisbane. It is a beautiful park that is home to a range of different wildlife species. There are also plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas, making it the perfect place to spend a day out with family or friends.
It's the scenery, the unique animals that you won't see anywhere else, and the opportunity for exploration that comes with heavily forested mountains, thundering waterfalls, and walking trails that connect them all. Although Brisbane to Lamington National Park, has a stellar reputation, the actual enchantment of this location can only be experienced while strolling through the forest.
You will understand its importance as a result of the brief moments you spend here. So when looking for and counting how many national parks in Australia, you'll surely come across The Lamington National Park, Brisbane. One last thing to know- The park is located in the mountains, so be sure to pack some warm clothes if you plan on visiting in the winter months.
#2: D' Aguilar National Park, Brisbane
The second national park near Brisbane on the list that you can visit is the breathtaking D' Aguilar National Park. It is located right in Brisbane's backyard and full of eerie sensations. This park begins about 10 km from Brisbane's city centre. The park is home to secluded gorges, pristine swimming holes, and breathtaking views of the mountains.
From lonely canyons, rainforests, and vast eucalyptus forests, to several walking routes and endless things to do - one can engage in so many things here in this popular national park in Brisbane.
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You'll find Platypus in the Park |
You can keep an eye out for the elusive platypus which is found in D' Aguilar National Park. Well, that is something every animal enthusiast would appreciate.
#3: Tamborine National Park, Brisbane
Tamborine National Park comes next in the list that lies on the Gold Coast. To reach here, a short drive is all one needs. This national park close to Brisbane is enormous and has 14 sections that offer views of both the Lamington National Park and the Pacific Ocean on two sides. Though this park does not allow camping options, there are several wonderful shorts for hiking routes to explore.
Other than that, this national park around Brisbane hosts numerous activities for the tourists which they can engage in spending some quality time with their loved ones. Simply put, this green oasis features cliffs, rocky outcrops, waterfalls, basalt columns, beautiful botanic gardens, lush rainforests, and many more. If nothing else seems to be interesting, then tourists can enjoy the fantastic view besides witnessing the variety of plants and animal options available.
#4: Fort Lytton National Park, Brisbane
On the banks of the Brisbane River, you would discover this popular Fort Lytton National Park. Inside the park, you will get a chance to discover an 1881-constructed pentagonal castle. It was built to defend Brisbane until the end of World War II. There is plenty of space to move around. However, military history buffs will be thrilled on Sundays when the entire site is made accessible.
The fort is made open to the public and free guided tours are frequently offered in this Brisbane national park. Additionally, a wide range of activities are available to engage in here including cannon firings, exploring colonial prisons, being a part of annual festivals, checking out the forts, and more. Furthermore, a picnic area is also made available where one can barbecue and spend some quality time with their friends and family members.
#5: Main Range National Park, Brisbane
For an unforgettable experience, visit Main Range National Park in Brisbane. This beautiful park is home to stunning waterfalls, lush greenery, and unique wildlife – perfect for a day of exploring and adventure. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun family outing, this park has something for everyone.
Even if only for a day, surely it is the ideal location to get away from city life. Over the Great Dividing Range, The Main Range National Park spans more than 34,000ha from Mount Mistake to Springbrook. Camping and walking are the two main activities in the Main Range National Park. Talking about Brisbane Range National Park walks, the Main Range National Park has more than 20 different walking trails.
With picnic and camping areas, walking trails, and spectacular views, there’s no shortage of things to do. So make sure to add Main Range National Park to your "Brisbane National Parks" list.
#6: Bunya Mountains National Park, Brisbane
Located in South East Queensland, the Bunya Mountains National Park is an iconic tourism spot for Brisbane locals and visitors alike. With its lush rainforest, stunning views, and rich Aboriginal history, it's no wonder why people flock to this picturesque destination. This famous national park of Brisbane is home to a variety of wildlife, like the rare Bunya Pine, and it also offers a range of activities such as bushwalking, camping, and fishing.
People in search of a perfect Brisbane National Park camping spot can surely head over to this place. To keep in mind- be sure to bring your tent since camping is permitted there. There are numerous walking pathways to explore, just the same way how it happens in all the best national parks near Brisbane. Take on the Eastern rainforest circuits by walking one of the six paths, which range in length from 500 meters to 10 kilometres, and pass through the gorgeous Bunya Pine Woods.
The five various western hikes, which range in length from 2.3 to 12 kilometres, start from the Paradise or Dandabah parking lots. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a fun day out, the Bunya Mountains National Park turns out to be a great choice.
#7: Bribie Island National Park, Brisbane
Bribie Island National Park is a stunning Brisbane tourism spot located in the Moreton Bay region. It's an island paradise with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear ocean waters, and lush green forests. Explore the wild and rugged dunes, climb sandstone cliffs, and swim in the aquamarine waters.
The popular national park in Brisbane provides a wide range of activities, including walking trails, camping sites, kayaking, and fishing. You can also spot some of Australia’s unique wildlife and take in breathtaking views of Moreton Bay. With its spectacular scenery and rich cultural heritage, Bribie Island National Park is a must-see destination for any traveller to Brisbane.
For QLD National Parks Bribie Island is beautiful, sandy beaches are a major lure, and its lovely lagoons are the ideal place to float all of your worries away.
#8 Kondalilla National Park, Brisbane
Next on the list of the most popular Brisbane national parks is the National Park called Kondalilla which is found 91 kilometres north of Brisbane. While looking for his herd of missing cattle, William Skene found this land. It was formally protected as a recreational area until 1906 and was transformed into a National park in the year of 1945. The park was given the name Kondalilla by Bon Accord which comes from an aboriginal word for running water. There are many walking trails in this park, a swimming hole at the higher falls, besides bottom pools which is unsuitable for swimming, and a sizable picnic area as well. Furthermore, camping is not permitted in this location, though you can be a part of the hiking. Tourists and locals visit here for picnics or to enjoy a day's eating while listening to the water creeks.
#9: Venman Bushland National Park, Brisbane
Venman Bushland National Park, located in Brisbane, Australia, is an ideal tourist spot for nature lovers. It is the best national park in the north of Brisbane. It offers a wide variety of flora and fauna and is a great place to explore and experience the beauty of the Australian bush. This famous national park of Brisbane is home to over 400 species of plants and animals, making it a great place to observe the local wildlife in its natural habitat. The open forest is home to melaleuca and eucalyptus trees, as well as a spring-blooming understory of flowering shrubs.
Even better, you're sure to run across some furry friends in the park because it is home to animals like koalas, wallabies, possums, and sugar gliders. Therefore, it is the best Brisbane water national park for dogs. In addition to the natural beauty of the park, visitors can also enjoy camping, picnicking, fishing, walking trails, and more. Venman Bushland National Park is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Australia's natural beauty.
#10: Springbrook National Park
Springbrook National Park, which is located in the Gold Coast's hinterland, is a fantastic day trip from Brisbane. This national park is among the better ones close to Brisbane and is only 1.5 hours from the city centre of Brisbane. The Gondwana Rainforests are a section of Springbrook National Park.
The species found in this group of rainforests would have been present on the Gondwana supercontinent 550 million years ago. Wondering how many national parks are there in Queensland? One of the five World Heritage Areas in Queensland, the World Heritage Area is made up of many national parks in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales.
The magnificent waterfalls at Springbrook National Park are well-known, as is the thick rainforest that envelops them. There are numerous hiking routes to explore waterfalls in Springbrook National Park. No doubt it is one of the best Brisbane national parks.
#11: Noosa National Park
Without Noosa National Park, the list of the top national parks near Brisbane would fall short. Ensure that you schedule a visit to this unique location if you're considering a weekend break from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast. The 4,000-hectare Noosa National Park is located on the Noosa Headland and provides access to some of the world's most magnificent beaches and headlands via a variety of Brisbane National Park walk trails.
The well-known Coastal Walk is the most well-liked stroll. You will pass gorgeous stone-strewn bays, white sand beaches, and lovely vistas of the spectacular coastline framed by coastal woodland on this breathtaking 5.4-km one-way walk.
#12: Glass House Mountains National Park
You must have pictures of the Glass House Mountains dominating the surroundings west of the Sunshine Coast. Haven't you? About an hour's drive north of Brisbane, the breathtaking location offers guests a range of walking trails and breathtaking vistas. Glass House Mountains National Park offers a radically diverse landscape with rocky peaks and pavements, steep hill slopes and gullies, and swampy coastal plains.
Surely it is one of the best national parks in Brisbane. As a result, some difficult hikes are best suited for people with a moderate degree of fitness. The park is the ideal location for adventure lovers because it offers a variety of running trails, mountain biking tracks, abseiling options, and rock climbing opportunities.
#13: Allawah Gardens Nature Reserve, Brisbane
Allawah Gardens Nature Reserve is a stunning Brisbane tourist spot that offers a unique experience. Located on the north side of Brisbane, the reserve is near the city centre, making it an ideal day trip destination. This Brisbane National Park is home to a variety of native wildlife, as well as a wide range of native plant species. There are numerous walking trails and picnic areas, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The reserve also has an abundance of scenic views and is a great place for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
#14: Mount Coot-tha Forest Park, Brisbane
Mount Coot-tha Forest Park is a stunning national park near Brisbane that should be on the second top of your list when visiting the city. The nearest mountain to the central business district of Brisbane, it offers a sweeping vista of the area, fun activities, and the ideal location for sudden picnics. Transport yourself to Brisbane's western suburbs for an adventure that includes bushwalking, breathtaking views, and an abundance of gardens at Mt. Coot-tha. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding city and mountains, as well as a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.
There are numerous walking trails, picnic areas, and even a botanical garden- all in all, a heaven for nature lovers. There is also a lookout tower, offering visitors a breathtaking view of the city skyline. All in all, Mount Coot-tha Forest Park is an ideal spot for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Brisbane. Visit there in the morning to witness the city radiate a golden glow as the day begins, during the day to enjoy the scenery, or at night to experience a romantic wonderland of sparkling city lights and starry skies. It is not merely that backpackers consider it the best national park in Brisbane.
#15: Gondwana Rainforest Park, Brisbane
Gondwana Rainforest Park is a stunning national park around Brisbane that attracts tourists from around the world. Located on the banks of the Brisbane River, this park is made up of lush rainforest and provides visitors with breathtaking views. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll through the park or go for a more adventurous hike, Gondwana Rainforest Park has something for everyone. This is an ideal tourist spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. It is yet another best national parks close to Brisbane.
#16: Enoggera Reservoir, Brisbane
Enoggera Reservoir is one of the most popular Brisbane national parks in the city. It is a stunning spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding area and provides a haven for wildlife. The area is great for walking, cycling, and picnicking, and it has a variety of picnic areas, shelters, and other amenities. There are also plenty of places to fish, kayak, and swim. A paddle craft launch site and a designated swimming area are also located at the beach. Along with the majority of swimmers, the dawn also attracts a variety of paddlers, fitness swimmers, hikers, and mountain bike riders.
However, swimming is prohibited outside of the designated area. Fishing is allowed both from the water and from the paddle craft. Besides, on the reservoir, motorized vessels are not authorized. Enoggera Reservoir is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature.
Conclusion
There are plenty of great national parks near Brisbane, and each one has its own unique charms that make it worth a visit. Whether you're looking for a park with stunning mountain views, dense rainforest, or serene lakes, there's definitely a park near Brisbane that's perfect for you. Make sure you visit as many of these parks as you can to get a well-rounded view of the natural beauty that Queensland has to offer!
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