Southern Inland parks and forests Contents Welcome to Southern Inland Queensland Parks at a glance...... 2 Crows Nest National Park...... 13 Welcome to Southern Inland Queensland...... 3 Bunya Mountains National Park...... 14 Share Make memories!...... 3 and Yarraman state forests...... 16 stunning sunsets with a friend and Map of Southern Inland Queensland...... 4 The Palms National Park...... 18 Make memories! your camp site with parrots, Track and trail classification...... 5 Boat Mountain Conservation Park...... 19 possums and Map legend...... 5 Lake Broadwater Conservation Park...... 20 other colourful and curious Plan your escape...... 6 Barakula State Forest...... 21 creatures of the Australian bush. Choose your adventure...... 7 Have a safe and enjoyable visit. Packing checklist...... 22 A ...... 8 Do the right thing. Be safe...... 23 ...... 10 Connect with Queensland National Parks. Useful contacts...... 24 Travel Ravensbourne National Park...... 12 ancient pathways tread by Aboriginal peoples to sacred mountain-top B meeting places. Connect with an Parks at a ancient landscape,

Wheelchair access Toilets Camping Wood barbecues/ open fires Picnic/day-use area Short walks Long walks Dogs (on leash) Scenic lookout 4WD access Stop with nature and glance with yourself. and smell the wildflowers—wattles, C daisies, banksias, bottlebrush, Girraween National Park * orchids and more. Let your thoughts wander as you rest beside a trickling Crunch Sundown National Park * stream or gaze across mountains and fallen leaves and sometimes frost valleys far away from the everyday. beneath your feet. Turn a corner Ravensbourne National Park and catch sight of a balancing Photos: boulder, wondrous panorama, (A) Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt Crows Nest National Park (B) Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt soaring eagle, towering forest giant (C) © Tourism and Events Queensland or delicate fungi, fruit or frond. (D) Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Bunya Mountains National Park * D

Benarkin State Forest * Season Yarraman State Forest your escape. Breathe crisp cold air beneath clear winter skies. Witness The Palms National Park colourful autumn leaves or stunning spring-time wildflowers. Stroll through Boat Mountain Conservation Park the rainforest or refresh in a rock pool on a scorching summer’s day. Lake Broadwater Conservation Park

Barakula State Forest *

*in some sections of the park or forest If you are chasing variety, coupled with beauty, our parks and forests are the place to be. Boulders and wildflowers of the are absolutely spectacular while the giant bunya pines, and picture- postcard views from mountain ranges are nothing but impressive. From parks brim-full of incredible birdlife, to little-visited hidden gems and extensive forests, you’ll find much to admire and the perfect spot to relax or be active—no matter the season. Ranger Claire, on behalf of the Park Rangers of Southern Inland Queensland

This page: Eastern grey kangaroo at Lake Broadwater Conservation Park Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Front cover photo: Crows Nest Creek, Crows Nest National Park Robert Ashdown © Tourism and Events Queensland © Qld Govt Bald Rock Creek, Girraween National Park 2 © Sarah Haskmann 3 Parks and forests of Southern Inland Queensland Track and trail classification Class Symbol Suits Track description

No bushwalking experience required. The track has a To Munduberra To To Taroom 2 compacted surface and may have gentle incline sections, Boat Mountain Families with young children. Conservation Park Easy some steps and a ramp. May be suitable for wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. To Barakula 3 Well-defined tracks may have short steep hill sections, a rough Most ages and fitness levels. State Forest y Easy to surface and many steps. Tracks may have obstacles and be a Some bushwalking experience. w h moderate partly overgrown. Ankle-supporting footwear required. g i

H

t

t Tracks may be long, rough, very steep and potentially e

n r overgrown. Caution is needed on creek crossings, loose u 4 Experienced bushwalkers with B surfaces, steep rock inclines, cliff edges and at exposed Miles Moderate moderate levels of fitness. Bunya Mountains naturally-occurring outlooks. Directional signs may be limited. National Park Ankle-supporting footwear required. To Yarraman Roma Kumbia Chinchilla State Forest Beginner mountain bikers with Wide trail with gentle gradient and some obstacles such as Easy Yarraman Benarkin basic mountain-bike skills. roots, logs and rocks. W S tate Forest a rr y eg a D’Aguilar Hwy Trail with moderate gradients, variable surface and obstacles. o hw Bell Blackbutt Intermediate Skilled mountain bikers. Hi ig May have steep sections. gh H w Cooyar ay a y

n

u The Palms B National Park Maclagan Esk Crows Nest Dalby National Park Legend for publication Crows Nest Accredited visitor ighway National park Car camping H Hampton information centre ie n Ravensbourne o State forest Wi-Fi access Camper trailer o Lake Broadwater Jondaryan National Park M Conservation Park Parking Motorhome/campervan Oakey Lockyer Conservation park

National Park Restricted access area Toilets Caravan Gatton do not enter

Toowoomba Park office Showers

Water

N Information Accommodation Moonie e Waterway Pittsworth w

ay E Short easy walks Restaurant hw n Cliff line Hig g l e a or Longer, more difficult walks Telephone G n d Highway Millmerran H 4WD access Boat ramp i g

h Sealed road y a w Allora Wheelchair access Mines w a h y Unsealed road g i Water— H Interpretive trail

t ay Main Range 4WD road treat before drinking d w r igh a H National Park Dogs on leash permitted h m Shallow water h a Warwick Class 2 walking track c h i g Horses permitted

e in

L n Unstable cliff

n Class 3 walking track u C Killarney Fishing permitted Inglewood Class 4 walking track Diving prohibited Swimming Queen Shared trail Jumping prohibited Stanthorpe Mary Canoeing/kayaking Falls State boundary Camping prohibited Picnic area QUEENSLAND Town Fishing prohibited NEW SOUTH Sheltered picnic table WALES Rail Trail Drive Queensland routes Barbecue—wood Ballandean Bicentennial Warrego Way Texas Girraween ay National Trail Barbecue—electric or gas hw Sundown Bru ig National Park Leichhardt Way y xner H National Park a Gate Natural viewpoint w rux Wallangarra h B ner H g i i g way Mountain peak Constructed lookout H h Tenterfield ll Mingoola Australia’s Country Way we Waterfall (Top): Wyberba Walk, Girraween e Scale Camping N Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt 0 25 50 75 100km

(Above): On the Peak Trail, Girraween National Park © Jolene McLellan

4 5 6 be unreliable. unreliable. be may they as navigation for GPS or phone mobile your on rely don’t journey—please your plan help to brochure this in provided details access and itineraries map, the a4WD. Use require areas some car, but a in accessible are parks Most drive. country ascenic of freedom the Enjoy waysBest to visit likely. is less rain and clear are skies when September to April from months cooler the in is best Walking birds. migrating of songs the with ring woodlands and forests the and fall may leaves autumn, into shorten days as Then, streams. and creeks down rushing water send that storms heavy as often March, to November from falls rain Most prospect. enticing an tops mountain and rainforest-clad streams cool to make escaping 35-40°C reaching days summer Simmering spring. in blossom into bursting wildflowers colourful of promise the and skies blue clear by followed freezing, below fall temperatures mornings winter icy On visit. to time agood always it’s seasons, distinct four experiences that aregion In timeBest to visit along meandering lakes and streams or to waterholes. unexpected tumbling past through towering waterfalls, forests, across grasslands, rainforest-clad peak or beneath awe-inspiring balancing boulders. Venture air and stunning locations inspiration that delight Find the senses. on a of country Swap for the ataste of Queensland’s bustle south-east busy escape your Plan In thewild at Girraween National Park All the family will love walking at at walking love will family the All Bunya Mountains National Park © Tourism and Events Queensland

southernqueenslandcountry.com.au at more out Find everyone. for something there’s culture, and shows country rodeos, arts, and food featuring calendar festival ayear-round With stay. farm or B&B cottage, holiday retreat, mountain at a fire awood beside up Snuggle sights. the out check and producers local from shop chat, a for stop and towns country peaceful to farmland through route a meandering Take region. food fresh and premium Queensland’s of tastes the Savour flavour local some Add Maxime Coquard ©QldGovt tracks forest meandering Stroll

Photo: © Lachlan Gardiner surrounding the picturesque Severn River. River. Severn picturesque the surrounding country range rugged and rough of isolation and views the enjoy simply or Hike, 4WD fish. or camp to spot a quiet Find seclusion. find and track beaten the off head to place is the Stanthorpe Park National Sundown everyone. for something there’s scrambles, rock fun and hikes challenging to strolls sedate From wildflowers. colourful and creeks cascading forests, eucalypt boulders, balancing the amid wild go or Relax other. any unlike landscape Park National Girraween to Tenterfield and Stanthorpe between Highway England New the off Turn experiences. off-park and on tempting of abundance an sampling adventure weekend or aday-trip on nature of flavours the Taste produce. grown locally and wineries its for is renowned region this seasons, distinct four to addition In Belt. Granite and Downs Southern the to you entice birds woodland autumn of chorus the and pools rock summer tantalising wildflowers, spring-time vibrant winters, icy-cold of promise the Let border the along Wildflowers and wilderness Queensland. into Inland road adventuresAmazing park trip await Southern on an easy a new favourite destination or bump along 4WD roads. rough or stroll longthe hike, bush on on amountain ashort take bike off to trail picnic quiet spot, that camp perfect Find or secluded fishing Explore hole. adventure your Choose Robert Ashdown ©QldGovt Park National Mountains Bunya sunset, See Mt Kiangarow splashed with colour at at colour with splashed Kiangarow Mt south-west of of south-west and a stunning astunning and of unexpected beauty and diversity. diversity. and beauty unexpected of Park National Palms The to side-trip aquick take can Cooyar near Highway England New the on Travellers views. the admire to and walk picnic, Park Conservation Boat to in Mountain Stop region? Bay Wide the and Gympie from Heading and Bicentennial National Trail. Trail Rail Valley the of sections ride or walk and Benarkin, at camp Benarkinand state forests Yarraman at pine hoop of rows straight long admiring drive scenic or a picnic for Highway D’Aguilar the off Detour way. the along foothills the in forests and parks other at in Stop enthral. will birdlife colourful cheeky, and walks winding spots, picnic shady sites, camp Mountain-top ‘balds’. grassy open on lookouts at or pines bunya ancient amid spirit your Park National Mountains Bunya at views panoramic and rainforests lush cool, to escape and Downs Darling or Burnett South the from Drive Bunya Take Great the the Great Divide andHigh country foothills of . Connect with nature and and nature with . Connect near Murgon for a for Murgon near —a hidden gem gem hidden —a . You can

in the creek. the in frogs and birds forest of sounds and sights Tune the to in walks. rainforest shady and lookout scenic hills, rolling lush its for is loved Park National Ravensbourne rock-wallaby. abrush-tailed spot even You might months. warmer in off cooling for and wildflowers seasonal bushwalking, for is popular It waterfall. 20m and gorges cliffs, pools, rock with creek ameandering has Park National Nest Crows . from north country high the in wander (and thoughts) legs your Let pines, forest birds and wildflowers. and birds forest pines, cypress and eucalypts with brimming forest state working this to bush head you when crowds or facilities You’llno find forest. state largest Queensland’s Barakula to gateway is the Chinchilla camp. or apicnic savour birds, watch water), the on or in (either wet get lake-side, Relax Downs. Darling the on water of body occurring naturally largest Broadwater to Lake flock people and Waterbirds coast. the and cities from far adventures wild to lead towns country Highway, Warrego the along West downs western Woodlands and wetlands in the Karen Smith ©QldGovt Ravensbourne at aview with apicnic Enjoy © Lachlan Gardiner stars the see and city the Escape south-west of Dalby—the Dalby—the of south-west — 7 Places to go Eastern and southern tracks Creek Trail Wyberba walk Dr Roberts Waterhole 3.5km circuit. 280m one-way (15mins). 1.2km return (30mins). Take a leisurely cycle or walk discovering Stroll by the creek admiring wildflowers, Contemplate nature reflected in still, spring-time wildflowers and views of views to The Pyramid, reflections in the deep water. Discover ground orchids, Bald Rock Creek. water and maybe even a shy Bell’s turtle. conesticks, geebungs and banksias. Peak Trail Granite Arch Underground Creek 10.6km return. 1.6km return (30mins). 2.8km return (1–1.5hrs). Use your off-road cycling skills or hike Cross Bald Rock Creek, wind through Be mesmerised by burnished-gold, water- this rough trail with stunning vistas of woodland and under a natural stone sculpted rocks where Bald Rock Creek Mount Norman. archway. Perfect for families or if time disappears mysteriously underground. Combine several tracks or trails for is short. Castle Rock outstanding, longer journeys in nature.

The Sphinx towers above Girraween © Qld Govt Jew Darren Photo: The Pyramid 5.2km return (1.5–2hrs). 3.6km return (1.5–2hrs). Class 3 to base. Class 4 to summit. Class 3 to base. Class 4 to summit. Rise above the tree-line for spectacular Be safe Girraween National Park If the climb up the final rock face doesn’t 360 degree views and great birdwatching. Supervise children closely. take your breath away, the unforgettable The Sphinx and Turtle Rock views will. Only for the brave and sure- Watch your step. Longing for a nature escape? Precariously balanced granite boulders, 7.4km return (3–4hrs). footed—wear shoes with good grip and Granite rocks become very slippery Must dos mesmerising rock pools and spectacular spring-time wildflowers create a take time to rest and soak up the scenery. Mostly Class 3. Class 4 at very end. when wet and decomposed granite • Stroll to Granite Arch or hike stunning backdrop for many memorable adventures. See for yourself if a towering pinnacle on tracks can also be slippery. through jaw-dropping scenery of Bald Rock Creek circuit with balancing rock, and a huge granite Stay well back from rock edges rocky outcrops amid forests 2.2km return (1hr). monolith, resemble their name-sakes. and cliff faces. Set your heart racing, or simply relax! possums, tiny sugar or feathertail of eucalypts. Drink in the sights and sounds of the Laze by the creek or climb a granite gliders, and maybe a well-camouflaged Mount Norman Take care near water. • Climb The Pyramid cascading creek—sun-seeking lizards, and snap monolith to gaze over rugged scenery leaf-tailed gecko. Never dive or jump into the water butterflies, bush birds, and the swirling 11km return (4–5hrs) from visitor centre. a photo beside Balancing Rock. eroded by water, wind and ice. Discover as it may be shallow or have hidden From wattles to banksias, pea-flowers to eddies of a rock pool. 4km return (1.5–2hrs) from Mount Norman • Dip your toes in or laze like a sunlit outcrops, deep waterholes and flannel flowers, be enthralled by displays day-use area. Class 3 to base. Class 4 to rocks or objects. lizard beside Bald Rock Creek . countless feathered, furred and scaled of more than 700 species of wildflowers. The Junction final approach. creatures of woodland and forest. 5.2km return (2hrs). • Stop in at the visitor centre Trek through Girraween’s heart to this Golden to learn about the nature, history Visit in spring and early summer when Follow Bald Rock Creek to its junction imposing granite monolith. Reaching everlasting Bushwalking and mountain biking daisy and walks of Girraween. wildflowers set Girraween’s forests, Take a short or long walk or challenging with Ramsay Creek. A must for wildflower the absolute top requires rock climbing © Qld Govt woodlands and heathlands ablaze overnight hike. Feel the freedom of lovers in spring. experience—never rock climb alone. with colour. pedalling through the forest along shared Getting there trails and rough tracks. Girraween is on the Queensland– Girraween is an Aboriginal word Stanthorpe 20km Stanthorpe 23km border 260km meaning ‘Place of Flowers’ and its via Storm King Dam south-west of Brisbane. changing seasons will lure you back Places to camp Underground The Pyramid Creek time and time again. Book well in advance for school holidays Granite Arch ek Turn off the and long weekends to make sure you don’t Cre Bald Rock 26km south of Stanthorpe (or 30km miss out on a site (see page 22). north of Tenterfield) and follow the Things to do The Dr Roberts Bald Rock Creek camping area Junction Waterhole sealed road 9km east to the park Picnicking Castle visitor centre. Bald Rock Creek day-use area Rock Choose a shady or sunny camp site from has free electric barbecues close to d which to explore the creek nearby. ds Roa walking tracks and the visitor centre. mi Bald Rock ra y The Secluded Mount Norman day-use area Castle Rock camping area P

Turtle Sphinx Girraween M

is set deep in the forest and reached via Bald Rock o Rock Mount National Park u unsealed roads. Norman National Park n t Share the large, open camping area with Scale (NSW) L 0 5km i Mount n woodland birds and grazing kangaroos. d

New England Highway s

Wildlife spotting Norman a

Granite Arch y

day-use area

Spot wrens, robins, thornbills, firetails, Start of Northern walking tracks H Remote bush camping i

Start of Southern walking tracks Road g

honeyeaters, warblers, parrots and an h

Several remote, walk-in bush camping Start of Eastern walking tracks m w

r (pit) flycatchers. Come face-to-face with a o

sites without facilities are available y N Cunningham’s skinks on sunlit rocks Bald Rock Creek for fit, experienced and well-equipped t n day-use area and eastern water dragons by the creek. QUEENSLAND u bushwalkers. Pack a topographic map or o By night, shine a light on bold brushtail M GPS, camping permit, plenty of water and Bald Rock Creek a fuel stove. camping area Visitor centre Granite Arch Wallangarra Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt

Castle Rock Tenterfield NEW camping area 17km Qld Govt SOUTH WALES

8 Tenterfield 18km 9 Places to camp Places to go The Broadwater camping area Western circuit Did you know? 4.5km return (1.5hrs). Tin, copper, arsenic and other Ramble along an open ridge for extensive minerals were mined sporadically in Find individual sites and a large group views up the valley. Keep watch for golden the Sundown area from the 1870s to area close to a waterhole. Use the donkey whistlers, spiny-cheeked and yellow-faced the 1950s. You can see remains of heater to warm water for showers. honeyeaters and other woodland birds. mines from the 4WD track—but stay Red Rock Gorge camping area safe and keep out of fenced areas. Permanent Waterhole 2km return (1hr). Capture the changing hues of sunset from Even in the driest of times, Permanent cliffs near this small camp site surrounded Waterhole is a haven for wildlife and by fragrant eucalypt forest. perfect for a swim. Spot wildlife coming to drink at dawn or dusk. Reedy Waterhole camping area

Red Rock Gorge Lookout © Ben Blanche Photo: Red Rock Gorge Lookout Devour your freshly-caught fish then sleep 500m return (15mins). under the stars beside the Severn River. Gaze to granite cliffs stained red by Sundown National Park lichen. Listen out in winter for the Burrows Waterhole camping area mimicking calls of superb lyrebirds in the © Qld Govt Sundown means seclusion. Few facilities, few people—just rugged thick vine scrub in the gorge far below. Must dos ranges, meandering watercourses and space to escape and breathe in Rugged ranges clothed in woodland Be safe • Drop a line into the Severn River the sights and sounds of the bush. surround this attractive river flat. and catch a yellow-belly or eel- Relax or wander downstream to Rats BYO drinking water. tailed catfish for dinner. Castle—a distinctive granite outcrop. River water is not suitable for • Rock-hop along the river, delve Surrounded by hillsides clothed in Four-wheel driving drinking without purification. into a gorge or take a refreshing eucalypts, the Severn River and its Engage 4WD for the narrow 20km track Never drink from watercourses rock pool dip. tributaries carve away at wild ‘traprock from Sundown’s eastern boundary near Sundown’s old mines. • Imagine stories behind the old country’ along the Queensland–New (via Ballandean) to Red Rock Gorge mines, scattered diggings, wells, Take care near water. South Wales border. Drift off to sleep near and camp sites along the Severn River. fences, yards and other remains Never dive or jump into the water as the river under twinkling stars and wake of past mining and pastoral eras. You’ll need a high clearance 4WD vehicle it may be shallow and have hidden with the morning chorus of woodland • Marvel at the view and watch and to check the weather first as creeks rocks or objects. birds. You’ll feel like you’re ‘out west’ even peregrine falcons soaring over rise rapidly after rain. The track is very Red Rock Gorge . though you are only a few hours’ drive rough with steep, single-lane sections. Cunningham’s skink Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt from the coast. It is not suitable for trailers. To Stanthorpe–Texas Road Nundubbermere Falls Getting there Adventurous mountain bikers experienced Sundown is about 250km south-west Things to do in remote terrain sometimes cycle these of Brisbane and has three entrances Severn River tracks. Riders must watch for and give via unsealed roads. Jibbinbar Mountain Wildlife spotting way to vehicles. k e The Broadwater is accessible by car. Look along the river for turtles, e r

C k

e

From Stanthorpe: take Texas Road frogs, water dragons, waterbirds and y e l r Fishing and paddling i C Red Rock Gorge for 62km, then Glenlyon Dam Road honeyeaters feasting on colourful m e You can fish in the Severn River. Deeper Burrows Waterhole makes a peaceful E g t r camping area for 14km. Turn left at the park signs bottlebrush flowers. Sundown is known camping spot n o Red Rock u e waterholes are also great for canoeing, © MJL Photography o R into unsealed Permanents Road and G Waterhole M e for its woodland birds, so listen for d (pit) continue 4km to the camping area. kayaking and swimming. Burrows R white-throated tree-creepers, spotted o To From Tenterfield: head north for 5km QUEENSLAND Waterhole c Mount Lofty k C re Ballandean along the New England Highway, pardalotes and red-capped robins. Nundubbermere Falls camping area Donovans Pump e Blue Gorge Creek k Waterhole Waterhole then west along the Watch red-winged and turquoise parrots (pit) 52km to Mingoola. Turn right and in southern areas. See grey kangaroos, Reedy Admire views from your peaceful, semi- Waterhole Red Rock travel 12km to the park turn-off Back Creek wallaroos on steep slopes and if you’re shaded tent site set a safe distance back Gorge Lookout (Permanents Road). The lucky, brush-tailed rock-wallabies hiding from the steep drop into the Severn Rats Sundown Hell Castle Mine Sundown’s eastern entrance is 16km among rocks near Nundubbermere Falls. River. Keep watch for brush-tailed rock- Ooline Creek Hole k west of Ballandean via Curr Road and Severn River e wallabies living among the cliffs. There is no road through Beecroft re C Sundown Road. From there you need Sundown between Mine n Burrows Waterhole and Sun w a high clearance 4WD for the rough do Remote bush camping Broadwater camping area 20km (allow 2 hours) drive to camp Stony Creek sites along the river. Some opportunities for remote, walk-in bush camping are available. Permanent Mount To reach Nundubbermere Falls, There are no facilities and walkers Mount Donaldson Waterhole Donaldson travel 8km along Texas Road from need to be well-equipped, Creek Western Stanthorpe, then 20km along physically fit, have a camping NEW SOUTH WALES Nundubbermere Road before circuit permit, topographic map and McAllisters Creek following Falls Road for 4km in your (Above): Severn River carry plenty of water. 4WD to the park entrance. © Ben Blanche Please use fuel stoves and The Broadwater camping area (Left): Eastern grey kangaroos Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt leave no trace of your visit. (pit) (boil your Scale To Mingoola own hot water) 0 2 4km 10 11

Buaraba Creek Roberts © Brett Photo: © Qld Govt Ashdown Robert Photo: Bottlebrush Pool

Ravensbourne National Park Crows Nest National Park

Be enticed from a sunny hill-top picnic spot into cool, lush rainforest Boulder-strewn cascades, a waterfall, tranquil waterholes and a gorge Must dos teeming with birds. Wander amid ancient forest giants, past palm groves Must dos rimmed by towering granite cliffs are just some of the reasons to visit. • Be mesmerised as water plummets • Take in the splendid panorama and trickling streams. from Gus Beutel Lookout . 20m over Crows Nest Falls . See water and rock battle for supremacy. • Let your spirits soar like an eagle at Places to camp • Linger in cool, shaded rainforest Tiny jewelled fungi, ferns and birdsong Together they create a magnificent Places to go Koonin Lookout when you gaze Crows Nest camping area where dangling palm fronds from the canopy help us to appreciate the landscape of exposed cliffs, meandering Gus Beutel Lookout across the Valley of Diamonds. reach down to embrace you. little that is left of the remnant rainforests streams, moist shaded gullies and Gaze over the Lockyer Valley towards bottlebrush-fringed rock pools. Walk to • Spot topknot pigeons feeding on and wet eucalypt forests along the Great • Chill out on a granite boulder Spot possums and gliders at night and listen Brisbane and the Scenic Rim. lookouts, explore the creek, spy turtles, piccabeen palms or in the huge Dividing Range. See how rainforest is watching brush-tailed rock- for a male koala calling in the eucalypts. birdwatch and admire wildflowers in spring. Bring a bucket for use at the ‘boil-your-own- fig tree at Cedar Block . slowly taking over the open forest: gullies Cedar Block circuit wallabies watching you. are moist and inviting, while exposed 500m return (15mins). water’ bush showers. Getting there ridges are warm and dry. Learn about the rainforest and its use Getting there Things to do Aboriginal people gathered food, by Aboriginal people and timber-getters Crows Nest National Park is about Places to go Ravensbourne is 50km north-east Picnicking lived and travelled through here for long ago. 56km north of Toowoomba. Turn of Toowoomba. Cook lunch on the gas barbecue or savour Crows Nest Falls Lookout generations. In the 1860s logging of off the New England Highway at the Rainforest circuit a sandwich on the grassy creek bank. 2.1km return (45mins). Travel 17km east of Hampton (32km rainforest hardwoods, red cedar and other Crows Nest Police Station and take 1.7km return (40mins). Witness water tumbling over 20m high north of Toowoomba) or 33km west timbers began, followed by the clearing of the sealed road 6km to the park. Admire ferns, vines, epiphytes and giant granite cliffs into the dark pool below. of Esk via the Esk-Hampton Road, scrubs for farming and grazing from 1889. Wildlife spotting Sydney blue gums emerging above the Be deafened by the summer-time chorus of then turn south at the sign and rainforest canopy. Crows Nest Falls via continue 1.3km to the park. cicadas and enthralled by the ‘tock, tock, tock’ calls of striped marsh frogs echoing Kauyoo Loop Things to do Palm Creek circuit around boulders. Watch birds of prey 2.7km return (1hr). Class 3 to The Cascades. 3.6km return (1.5hrs). To Crows Nest Class 4 to Kauyoo and Bottlebrush Pools. 6km soaring above cliffs, lizards scrambling Wildlife spotting Descend into a steep, palm-filled creek Buaraba over rocks, and honeyeaters, thornbills and Wander along the creek, stopping to refresh Creek Ravensbourne is known for its birdlife. Esk 33km then out into the open forest. Don’t miss robins flitting among the trees. Sit quietly with a swim at Bottlebrush Pool. Take care Hear green catbirds, wompoo fruit-doves, the side-track to a sandstone overhang. and your patience might be rewarded with exploring as steps, rocks and stepping- noisy pittas and eastern whipbirds in the Picnic area glimpses of rock-wallabies, echidnas, stones can be slippery—especially after rain. rainforest. Watch for wrens in sunny open Buaraba Creek bandicoots and lace monitors. Toowoomba forest; see red-tailed black-cockatoos 6.2km return (2-2.5hrs). Camping area Koonin Lookout 50km and glossy black-cockatoos feeding on Birdlife is most abundant where rainforest (pit) 4.5km return (1.5-2hrs). casuarina seeds in winter. merges with open eucalypt forest as you (pit) Crows Enjoy a bird’s-eye view over the Valley of Blackbean descend towards the creek. Carry drinking Nest (boil your Diamonds—a 100m deep gorge glistening day-use water for the climb back up hill. Creek own hot water) Scale area Picnicking with mineral-flecked granite. Spread out your picnic rug at Cedar Block 0 200 400m Creek in the shade of a giant fig or in a sun- The Cascades Palm

drenched spot near the lookout. Relax

sandstone Kauyoo Pool

(pit)

to the notes of birdsong in the dappled

overhang Be safe

1 shade at Blackbean day-use area . 7 Koonin M Serious injuries and deaths have i Lookout le Bottlebrush Crows Cressbrook happened here. Please obey safety R o Scale Pool Nest Creek a 0 200 400m Places to stay Restricted signs—never dive or jump into d Falls Valley of access area waterholes and take care near cliff You can’t camp in this park. Diamonds edges. For your safety, stay out of Cedar Block day-use area Visit southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Topknot pigeons Gus Brush-tailed rock-wallaby the restricted access area around for places to stay nearby. savour forest fruits Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Beutel © Bruce Thomson Lookout (pit) Crows Nest Falls. Perseverance 12 Creek 13 Things to do Places to go Picnicking Eastern rainforest tracks Laze over lunch and enjoy the scenery. Bunya Bunya track Dandabah has electric barbecues 500m return (10mins). Satin bowerbird and is close to walking tracks, the Stroll the fern-carpeted forest and be © Qld Govt visitor centre and cafes. For less crowds humbled by ancient forest giants. and more sun head to Westcott , Scenic circuit Cherry Plain and Burtons Well . 4km return (1hr 20mins). Dandabah to Paradise 3km one-way (1hr 15mins). Wildlife spotting Be enticed into the rainforest, past Experience arguably the best bunya pine See brush turkeys and satin bowerbirds. trickling streams and waterfalls beneath enormous bunya pines, hoop pines and forest on the planet. Do just this walk Be enchanted by the sights and sounds of strangler figs. Take in picture-perfect (6km return) to experience their

Bunya pines emerge above the rainforest canopy © Qld Govt O’Connor Michael Photo: green catbirds, noisy pittas and eastern views to the east at Pine Gorge Lookout. magnificence, or continue around whipbirds in the rainforest; red-browed Barker Creek circuit (10km). finches, grey fantails and fairy-wrens in Barker Creek circuit Western walks Bunya Mountains National Park the open forest; and wedge-tailed eagles 10km return (3–4hrs). and peregrine falcons soaring at the Wind through magnificent rainforest and Paradise to Westcott Enter the world’s largest stand of bunya pines and feel renewed. mountain edge. eucalypt forest, then onto a sunny, grassy 3.2km one-way (1hr 15mins). bald. Take the side track to Big Falls and Admire rainforest and Little Pocket (a small Your senses will be nourished here, as will your spirit. Spot the huge brown tadpoles of great Barker Creek lookouts. grassy bald) on the way to views over the barred frogs in rainforest rock pools. . Arrange to be picked up or Encounter carpet pythons, Burton’s Queensland’s second-oldest national Barker Creek Lookout retrace your steps (6.4km return). Must dos park is home to towering forests and legless lizards and endemic Bunya 5.4km return (2hrs). ancient grass trees, delicate orchids, Rainforest discoveries on the Scenic Circuit sunskinks on sunny grassy balds. Keep Follow tree identification signs past Koondaii circuit • Enjoy a mountain-top stroll or © Tourism and Events Queensland picnic at the forest edge; apply paradise riflebirds, flickering fireflies and watch at dusk in warmer months for tiny Paradise Falls and Little Falls to Big Falls 2.5km return (1hr). the brakes and relish the scenery. all things large and small clinging to the chocolate wattled bats emerging from the and Barker Creek lookouts. Big Falls is at Zigzag downhill to a lookout giving views • Catch brilliant flashes of colour as moist and fertile mountain slopes. Seek old timber school house at Dandabah. its best after heavy rain. towards Bell, Dalby and the open plains. king parrots and crimson rosellas refuge from a busy world or the heat of a Did you know? Open forest merges into rainforest as you swoop to a nearby branch. summer’s day—wander through mist- The Bunya Mountains are a spiritual climb steadily back uphill. gathering place for Aboriginal • Reconnect with family, friends filled rainforest, soak in views from high To Kingaroy peoples from near and far. Inset To Paradise Falls Westcott to Cherry Plain and nature where countless altitude grassland ‘balds’ or sleep atop 5 Dandabah 1 To Tim 4.8km one-way (1.5–2 hrs). generations of Aboriginal people the mountain under a blanket of Edible bunya nuts were, and 10 Shea Falls have been gathering for feasts, Shady rainforest gives way to sunny twinkling stars. remain, a ceremonial food of great ceremonies and to receive Mount To Festoon Falls eucalypt-clad ridges and views. Marvel at significance. Bunya pines produce Kiangarow strength. Museum 2 the yellow blossoms of king orchids along fruiting cones from mid-summer to 1135m Burtons Well Places to camp autumn. Coinciding with extra large cliffs in spring. Retrace your steps (9.6km B u return), get picked up or continue to a Getting there Dandabah crops every few years, Aboriginal n y a Bunya Mountains National Park people travelled hundreds of M linking track. o (boil your Scale is about 200km north-west of u 0 100 200m kilometres along traditional n own hot ta water) Cherry Plain to Burtons Well Brisbane and 125km north-west Share the grass with red-necked wallabies pathways to take part in what is in s 6km one-way (2hrs). of Toowoomba. and let the kids birdwatch or play while today known as the ‘Bunya Festival’. R Ghinghion o a you unwind. Close to walks, a small Sometimes lasting several months, Lookout d Cherry Plain Wind in and out of rainforest, vine scrub Follow the signed Great Bunya Drive: 9 Bunya Mountains and open forest along the mountain edge. from the west via Jondaryan (65km) general store, restaurants and a public this was a time for ceremonies, National Park Bottle Admire soaring birds of prey as well as the or Dalby (55km); from the north via phone. to share customs, trade, settle Tree Bluff Kingaroy (50km); or from Nanango disputes, arrange marriages and be view. Get picked up, retrace your steps Westcott 8 Barker Creek (55km) and Yarraman (57km) in the nourished by Mother Earth. Lookout (12km return), or link with another walk. Cherry Plain east via Maidenwell. Some routes ii Lookout Big Falls da 7 Westcott Mount Kiangarow have short unsealed sections. on Big Lookout o ek Pitch your tent at the forest edge and K re Falls 4 2.3km return (1hr). All access roads to the Bunya C Little Pine Gorge watch the sun set over distant plains. Falls Lookout Emerge from an avenue of grasstrees on Mountains are steep, winding and Koondaii See all three of the mountain’s fairy-wren Paradise k Bunya Mountains’ highest peak. Perfect at narrow and not suitable for long Lookout 6 3 C Falls ee species—variegated, red-backed and le-tr sunrise or sunset. Westcliff Tim Shea dd and/or heavy vehicles. Discretion a superb blue. Lookout Falls S is urged with respect to caravans, Festoon motorhomes and buses. Burtons Well 5 2 Falls Paradise 1 Dandabah Be safe Ticks are active all year round and a e Wake to spectacular sunrises and y u (see Dandabah un n can cause allergic reactions or B ve Rangers tip the morning chorus of birds sharing inset) A serious illness. Wear insect repellent Learn more about the park at the your hillside camp site near towering Scale Mount Mowbullan 1101m and check yourself and children visitor centre and interpretive Bunya cones can be the size of soccer balls 0 1 2km stringybarks and ancient grasstrees. Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt To Dalby, Nanango and Yarraman regularly for ticks. displays at Dandabah.

14 15 Things to do Wildlife spotting Emu Creek camping area Picnicking Hear the distinctive calls of rufous (cold) Picnic surrounded by pine plantations whistlers and eastern whipbirds ringing through forests and plantations. Dense Unwind with family and friends under at Rogers Park in Yarraman State Forest, shady trees on a grassy bank overlooking under tall stringybark and ironbark vine scrub hosts green catbirds, paradise riflebirds, noisy pittas and shy black- Emu Creek. Cool off in the waterhole if trees at Benarkin day-use area or conditions are right. at a peaceful creek-side spot 16km into breasted button-quails. Benarkin State Forest at Emu Creek day- Spot waterbirds, water dragons, use area . freshwater turtles and maybe even a platypus at the deeper pools of Emu Did you know? Visiting with dogs Creek. Watch kingfishers waiting patiently Benarkin was once considered one You can take your dog to Clancys camping on overhanging branches, honeyeaters in of the finest ironbark stands in area , Emu Creek day-use area the bottlebrush and furred and feathered Queensland. But timber-getting and

Emu Creek runs according to the season © Qld Govt Smith Karen Photo: and Rogers Park providing it remains on a residents coming in for a drink. fires led to their demise. leash and under control at all times. Dogs Re-afforestation began about 1920 are not permitted in any other parts of Places to camp and experiments determined that hoop Benarkin and Yarraman state forests Benarkin or Yarraman state forests. Clancys camping area pine was the best species to plant. Using seedlings grown at Benarkin,

Drive, ride or trot through impressive hoop pine plantations, towering Walking, cycling, Blackbutt and Yarraman, hoop pine Must dos eucalypt forests and dense vine scrubs. Find a quiet spot to linger over a horse riding and driving Create camping memories in an open plantations were established by 1926 • Kick back at your creek-side picnic, camp by a refreshing stream or simply unwind. Walk, ride a horse or cycle along logging grassy area beside Emu Creek and the and expanded to comprise, at one camp site. Relax and watch the tracks, or follow the Brisbane Valley Rail Bicentennial National Trail. This is an ideal point, 35 percent of Queensland’s total kids playing in nature. Trail or Bicentennial National Trail. spot for families as the creek is shallow. hoop pine plantation. Hoop pines grow naturally along the • Get active and have an You can also ride a trail bike or drive Blackbutt Range and rolling hills at the If you have horses, you must tether or adventure—saddle up or jump on a 4WD along formed roads through head of the Brisbane River, emerging above yard them uphill from the fenced area your bike to explore forest trails. the forests providing you are licensed the canopy of subtropical rainforest and and water them downstream or carry and using a road-registered vehicle. • Sneak up on platypus in a vine forests. Since the 1920s, hoop and water to them. il Remember the give-way code: vehicles il Tra rock pool or skinks and lizards other pines have also been planted here Ra ley basking on warm, sunlit rocks. and bicycles give way to horses and al in tall straight rows alongside eucalypt V walkers; and walkers give way to horses. ne forests containing blackbutt, tallowwood, ba Beware of logging trucks. ris Getting there white mahogany, gums and ironbarks. B You are not permitted in harvesting D’Aguilar Benarkin and Yarraman state As well as growing timber, these state Blackbutt areas—heed the signs and stay on tracks. Highway forests are 150km north-west forests are home to possums and of Brisbane. pademelons, birds and butterflies and Benarkin are great places to visit—even just for a For Benarkin State Forest: turn off Shady Rogers Park is not far off the highway Benarkin Karen Smith © Qld Govt the D’Aguilar Highway at Benarkin quick look! day-use area Brisbane Yarraman 140km Wall (3.5km east of Blackbutt) and follow 18km ab y

the scenic, winding gravel road C Nanango 15km Benarkin r eek 16km down the range. The road is State Forest T steep and narrow, so take care— a k r e N S o e ta n Weatherh r especially after rain. A 4WD or high O g ead C tio P n P U o h clearance vehicle is recommended. B R w Scale nc L o e a I a r 0 1 2 3km r C d k south b A ree Yarraman State Forest is just off C C l C i E y a the D’Aguilar Highway, 1.5km north S D b la r S ’ l T A Wa l of Yarraman. g ntennial N na u ice atio i l B a Trailer Hill Beware of logging trucks using r

Yarraman H roads through these working ig h State Forest w state forests. a y E m u Creek (Above): Lewin’s honeyeater Scale 0 2 4km © Robert Ashdown Rogers Park (Left): Hoop pines Clancys dominate the skyline ay Yarraman Karen Smith © Qld Govt hw camping area ig H d n a gl n E Emu Creek camping w Toowoomba 110km e and day-use areas N Blackbutt 12km Enjoy a scenic drive through pine plantations Brisbane 165km Karen Smith © Qld Govt

16 17 (cold) A huge strangler fig towers over piccabeen palms Ashdown © Robert Photo: Smith © Karen Photo: Rest and enjoy the view

The Palms National Park Boat Mountain Conservation Park

Detour for a surprising nature discovery in a small but rich remnant of Climb through thick scrub to stand at the edge of a distinctive flat- Must dos easily-accessible subtropical rainforest. Picnic with the birds or take an Must dos topped basalt ridge taking in charming views over the farmland below. • Snack at the forest edge then head • Feel re-invigorated as you stretch easy stroll—breathe deeply and enjoy the moment. your legs through shady, densely- off to explore. Shaped like an upturned boat, this local packed piccabeen palms. • Gaze to the horizon from 2 Daniels Lookout What this aptly-named park lacks in size landmark is only 80ha in size but has at • Be amused by the antics of noisy Walking Braithwaites 1 or Daniels 2 2.6km return (1–1.5hrs). is made up for in the diversity of nature least 130 plant and 60 bird species. flying-foxes in summer. 1 The Palms circuit lookouts and feel like you are on Once on top, walking is easy and the within its cool, moist and shady gully 650m return (15mins). top of the world. Have the park to yourself as you venture stunning 270 degree panoramic views are filled with piccabeen palms and towering This short track with boardwalks encircles up steep stairs through dry rainforest, worth the hike. Look up—you might spot a Getting there fig trees. Discover wildlife taking refuge Getting there the palm forest—palms one side, dry vine then into sunny eucalypt woodland koala snoozing in a gum tree. The Palms is about 200km north- where it is moist and thriving at the scrub on the other. Admire piccabeen Boat Mountain is about 260km towards the mountain edge. Hoop pines west of Brisbane. Turn off the New junctions between rainforest, dry vine 3 Silburns vine scrub walk palms, a large strangler fig, bunya and north-west of Brisbane. Access is grew here before they were logged; but England Highway just north of scrub and eucalypt forest in this tiny 940m loop off main track (40mins). hoop pines, buttressed trees and more. not suitable for buses, caravans now you see mostly leopard ash, native Cooyar (94km north of Toowoomba, 12.4ha patch of paradise. and trailers. holly and small-leaved tuckeroo in the Meander through dense softwood scrub 28km south-west of Yarraman) and Head north out of Murgon along softwood scrubs and vine thickets to the calls of eastern whipbirds and follow the signs 8km along a sealed Places to stay Gore Street (which becomes winding surrounded by mostly cleared farmland. thuds of startled black-striped wallabies. but narrow road to the park. Things to do You can’t camp in this park. Boat Mountain Road) turning right Wildlife spotting Visit southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Rangers tip after 9km into Levers Road. Turn left Things to do Listen for the calls of frogs and birds, and for places to stay in the local area. after 0.6km into Daniels Road, right Add Jack Smith Scrub Conservation watch creatures coming to the spring-fed after 1.4km into Hebbel Drive and Wildlife spotting Park to your itinerary and enjoy creek to drink. More than 90 species of continue 1.4km to the park. Meet the locals: white-browed scrubwrens another short nature walk. Rangers tip and eastern yellow robins in the dense, birds live here. Hear the repetitive calls of From Goomeri, take the Bunya Summer is the best time to see grey- prickly vine scrubs; and double-barred wonga pigeons and brown cuckoo-doves Highway for 6km towards Murgon, Places to stay headed flying-foxes resting by day in finches and red-backed wrens in sunny, echoing through the forest. Be enchanted and turn right into Road. You can’t stay overnight here, but a range the park before taking to the skies open woodland. See conical diggings of by rose-crowned fruit doves and green After 4.5km veer right into Reifs Road, of accommodation options are available at dusk to feed on forest fruits in the bandicoots and the dish-shaped scrapes catbirds feeding in the canopy on the travel 3.5km then turn right into nearby. Visit southernqueenslandcountry. surrounding hills and valleys. made by black-breasted button-quails fruits of piccabeen palms and figs, while Daniels Road and follow the signs com.au for details. spinning on the spot as they feed on ants, eastern yellow robins and white-browed 2.8km to the park. scrub wrens flit through the shaded beetles and seeds. 1 understorey. In sunny patches at the forest edge you might spot buff-rumped Picnicking and brown thornbills, honeyeaters or Just add food—we’ve provided tables Daniels Lookout even a barking owl at rest. Encounter red- in a quiet, sunny spot. Scale necked pademelons and swamp wallabies 0 200 400m thumping noisily along. Places to go Picnicking 1 Braithwaites Lookout Scale 500m return (30mins) 0 200m Say hello to the resident brush turkeys while you picnic in the patchy shade. Climb stairs hewn into rich, red volcanic soil for expansive views To the New England 3 Highway (Cooyar) 8km Palm fronds droop under the south over Murgon and towards weight of sleepy flying-foxes Eastern yellow robin Bunya Mountains in the distance. Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt © Ken Chapman Braithwaites Lookout 18 Murgon 12km 19 Water levels fluctuate at Lake Broadwater AShdown © Robert Photo: Ashdown © Robert Photo: Watch for logging trucks on forestry roads

Lake Broadwater Conservation Park Barakula State Forest

Watch waterbirds and feel the breeze at the largest natural lake on the Head bush to the largest state forest in the southern hemisphere. Must dos Darling Downs. Linger over a picnic, cool off with a swim or enjoy a day of Must dos Find peace amid towering trees, spot birds and delight in an abundance • Picnic at the lake edge under a activity out on the water. • Catch reflections at seasonal of wildflowers from late winter to spring. huge old river red gum. waterholes on meandering forest creeks. • Watch water and woodland birds River red gums fringe this 350ha tadpole- Places to camp • Tick speckled warblers, yellow- Barakula—an Aboriginal word meaning from the cover of the bird hide. shaped lake which fills to a mere 3m depth Camp sites at Lake Broadwater are tufted honeyeaters and crested ‘Place of Tall Timber’—aptly describes Be safe • Get out on the glistening water in only after heavy rains. It often dries out— managed by Western Downs Regional hawks off your must-see list. these 283,000 hectares of towering This is a working state forest. your canoe, kayak or boat. sometimes for lengthy periods. Cypress Council. You can pay fees and get your • Reflect on more than a century of eucalypts, cypress pine forests and Beware of logging trucks and wildlife pine, eucalypt and brigalow woodlands camping permit from self-registration logging history at rusting remains brigalow scrubs. Naturalists and lovers of on roads. Drive with care—turn your surrounding the lake are remnants of stands when you arrive. the bush will feel right at home here! Getting there vegetation once widespread across this of old fire towers, tramways, headlights on and be cautious at bridges, and former sawmills, Lake Broadwater is 240km north- now mostly cleared agricultural region. Wilga Bush camping area corners, on narrow roads and when west of Brisbane (113km from forestry camps and school sites. Things to do visibility is low due to dust. Toowoomba). Things to do Escape the crowds at shady, individual Plan your route before you leave camp sites set amid eucalypt woodland. Getting there Wildlife spotting home. It is very easy to get lost and Drive 20km west from Dalby along Picnicking Barakula State Forest is 45km north Barakula has more than 200 bird communication is limited here. the . Turn left into Find a shady spot under a tree or shelter. Lake Broadwater camping area of Chinchilla (about 335km west species—you might spot a powerful owl, Broadwater Road and continue 9km Wood barbecues, play equipment, a boat of Brisbane). turquoise parrot or glossy black-cockatoo. to the lake. ramp, toilets, showers and small community The large, open grassy area beside the lake Wildflowers attract honeyeaters and hall are all nearby. To hire the hall phone Head west from Chinchilla along the Places to camp can be popular in warmer months when the butterflies while tree hollows are home (07) 4663 3555. for 500m, turn Dogwood Creek camping area lake is full. right into Auburn Road and follow to bats, possums and squirrel, sugar and yellow-bellied gliders. Look for yakka To Moonie Swimming and boating the signs. Places to go skinks on logs and golden-tailed geckoes Relax beside a seasonal waterhole 19km Highway Wilga Bush camping area Chill out on a warm summer’s day—swim, Dalby 30km Unsealed gravel and sandy roads on trunks of cypress pines. north of the Barakula Forest Station. kayak or canoe. You can use a motorised 1 Wilga campground track are suitable for conventional There are no facilities. 1 (pit) boat and water ski when the lake is full, 4.4km return (1hr 30mins). vehicles in dry weather only. providing you have a permit and stay out of Walk between camping areas, passing Beware of logging trucks. Driving, riding Recreation area and the ‘neck’ area which is a waterfowl refuge. and walking 2 Lake Broadwater remains of a dingo fence built in the 1860s. camping area Drive, ride, cycle or walk To Auburn Contact the Lake Broadwater caretakers on 2 Red gum track 1 2 roads criss-crossing (07) 4663 3562 to check if conditions are 3km return (1hr). suitable for boating, and for details of how Barakula. Stay out of Wander along the lake edge spotting birds Dogwood Creek to obtain boating permits. harvesting areas—heed the on the water and in the bush. camping area Limit of signs and keep to tracks. boating Fishing is not permitted. The ‘neck’ of the 3 Bird hide If driving, or riding a trail bike, Simons Mill 3 lake is closed to 200m return (15-30mins). you must be licensed and (heritage site) Broadwater RoadBroadwater bird boating at all times Wildlife spotting Gully Grazing grey kangaroos have a registered vehicle. hide More than 230 bird, 30 mammal, 22 frog, Barakula watch unconcerned as Forest 55 reptile, numerous fish species and you pass through Station invertebrates are on record here. Garrulous eucalypt woodland to galahs and corellas live here, and you might an elevated bird hide

Surveyors also spot a visiting white-bellied sea-eagle Gully over-looking the ‘neck’ ad Warrego H ndai Ro or black-necked stork. Glimpse rainbow- ighw illa Wo of the lake. ay Chinch skinks scurrying under leaves or logs, and Female orchard swallowtail To Miles To Dalby 1 Lace monitor sips nectar from a blossom burrowing frogs after rain. Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Chinchilla

20 21 22 southernqueenslandcountry.com.au visit options accommodation other For • • • To make abooking: advance. in well book to best It’s holidays. school and weekends long as such periods peak during demand great in are parks popular in sites Camp arrive. you before site, caravan or camper tent, your for permit camping a purchase to need you forests and parks Queensland’s in overnight To stay overnight Stay and prepared. be natural environments and conditions can be unpredictable, take so care are Make and forests your visit memorable Parks for all reasons. the right How to have asafe and enjoyable visit Pine Gorge Lookout, Bunya Mountains National Park 13 QGOV (1313 QGOV 74 68). phone counter, or kiosk self-service a via or online book can’t you if offices/ recreation.npsr.qld.gov.au/booking- at listed are Locations kiosk. self-service a use or office booking permit over-the-counter an visit qld.gov.au/camping at online go

Robert Ashdown ©QldGovt longistyla Grevillea (Left): • • • • check: regularly so rapidly, change can Conditions informed Stay 13 19 40. qldtraffic.qld.gov.au at information condition road and travel bans fire and danger fire at qfes.qld.gov.au alerts bushfire bom.gov.au at heights river and conditions weather forecast and current closures and conditions for qld.gov.au/park-alerts at alerts park Bunya Mountains National Park Circuit, Scenic (Above): or phone phone or for for

Robert Ashdown ©QldGovt Packing checklist Packing

Girraween National Park National Girraween area, camping Creek Rock Bald personal locator beacon (PLB). beacon locator personal and compass map, topographic a need walkers distance Long contacts. emergency of list and equipment Communication GPS. than reliable more are maps printed and Signs distances. and routes travel showing map Detailed memories. wonderful recording for a camera and wildlife amazing observing for Binoculars provided. are bins No containers. animal-proof and/or bags sealable, rubbish Sturdy firewood.free and/or weed- stove clean, Portable order. working good in gear camping and walking Reliable protection. insect and sun Include kit. first-aid Well-stocked stranding. of case in days 3–4 for supply emergency extra an areas remote more in plus washing) limited and cooking drinking, (for day per person per water of 7L least at You’ll need supplies. emergency and food water, drinking Adequate

Photo: © Tourism and Events Queensland • • • • • • • • • • theDo thing right details. for daf.qld.gov.au/fisheriessee apply, Regulations Park. National Sundown at River Severn the Youin fish can Fishing unregistered vehicles. unregistered or chainsaws firearms, use Don’t toilets. park in tanks toilet chemical of contents or rubbish place Never sites. camp and tracks waterways, 100m from least at 15cm and paper deep toilet and waste human bury bush, the in ‘go’ must you If areas. camping and picnic at toilets Use detergent. and soap of use the minimise and watercourses and gullies streams, from away well Wash rubbish. your with in placing before well, them wrap and remove found, seeds—if for regularly Check weeds. and organisms harmful of spread the stop to help and visit you after and before seeds and soil of equipment and clothes boots, your Clean park. the from firewood collect never firewood; insect-free and weed clean, own your Bring rings. fire and barbecues existing within only campfires light permitted, Where stove. aportable Use signs. obey and tracks to Keep wildlife. feed don’t Please home. at pets your Leave items). sanitary and stickers fruit butts, cigarette scraps, food (including out it take in, it Rubbish—bring © Lachlan Gardiner National Park Girraween Exploring

• • • • • • safe Be swimming. Never swim in flood waters. flood in swim Never swimming. before conditions water check Always lakes. or waterholes creeks, into jump or dive Never water. Take near care weather. rainy or windy in care Take alone. extra walking Avoid are. they where of unsure or lost become they if put stay to and turn; awrong take don’t they so junctions track at wait to children Remind sight. of out ahead run not do they ensure and closely children Supervise waterfalls. and lookouts natural edges, cliff from back well Stay stings. and scratches bites, avoid to repellent insect and clothing protective on Put sunscreen. and ahat thongs), (not shoes walking sturdy Wear season). any (in cold be can nights and hot be can days conditions: weather all for Prepare • • • • • • • • visiting remote locations. remote visiting when (PLB) beacon locator personal or phone asatellite carrying Consider is unreliable. coverage phone Mobile return. to expect you when and going are you where someone tell Always it! forget flooded, it’s Remember—if unsealed. be may roads conditions; the to and safely Drive weather. extreme in visiting Avoid time. any at occurlandslips and naturally flooding flash branches, and trees Falling bite. or sting scratch, could that animals for lookout the on and times all at surroundings your of aware Be use. before taps) from (including Treat water all water. drinking Carry dark. before destination your reach to time of plenty Allow signs. all Heed roads. and trails tracks, marked on Stay Robert Ashdown ©QldGovt Bunya Moutains National Park area, camping Well Burtons 23 Connect with Queensland National Parks Useful contacts

qld.gov.au/nationalparks Emergencies: Dial Triple Zero (000) Road conditions: Visit the Department of Transport and qld.gov.au/camping Main Roads at qldtraffic.qld.gov.au or phone 13 19 40. qld.gov.au/park-alerts (access, closures and conditions) Regional Council southburnett.qld.gov.au qldnationalparks Southern Downs Regional Council @QldParks; #QldParks sdrc.qld.gov.au southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au For help planning a holiday, visit queensland.com and southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Toowoomba Regional Council tr.qld.gov.au This brochure is also available online at qld.gov.au/parkbrochures Western Downs Regional Council wdrc.qld.gov.au

Back cover photo: Pausing to reflect, Girraween National Park © Tourism and Events Queensland ©State of Queensland 2018. Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Environment and Science. BP1863 October 2018. Printed on eco-friendly paper to save energy and resources.