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National Park · QLD

Auburn River National Park

Auburn River National Park protects rugged river gorges and diverse forest landscapes, offering opportunities for hiking, swimming, and exploring caves in central Queensland.

National Park3,940 acres4+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

3,940 acres

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Auburn River National Park

Auburn River National Park protects rugged river gorges and diverse forest landscapes, offering opportunities for hiking, swimming, and exploring caves in central Queensland.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Auburn River National Park is located approximately 95 kilometers northwest of the town of Mundubbera in Queensland, Australia. The park features steep sandstone gorges carved by the Auburn River, surrounded by dry rainforest, eucalypt forests, and open woodlands. Its geography includes dramatic cliffs, creek pools, waterfalls, and caves formed from the natural erosion of sandstone rock. The park provides habitat for a variety of native fauna including wallabies, possums, and numerous bird species such as the rare black-breasted button-quail and peregrine falcon. Aboriginal cultural heritage is present in the park area, with traditional sites and evidence of ancient use. Visitors to Auburn River National Park enjoy activities such as bushwalking along trails following the riverbanks, swimming and canoeing in deep waterholes, and fishing for species like Australian bass. Popular landmarks include the impressive Auburn River Gorge and various rock formations within the park. Camping is available, allowing immersive nature experiences in a remote setting. The park appeals to visitors seeking both adventure in rugged terrain and opportunities for wildlife observation in a less crowded natural environment. The combination of scenic river systems and natural biodiversity makes Auburn River National Park a notable destination for outdoor recreation and conservation in Queensland.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Auburn River National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover the Wonders of Bunya Mountains National Park★ 8.5⌖ 94 miHiking
Bunya Mountains National Park

Discover the Wonders of Bunya Mountains National Park

Explore Bunya Mountains National Park, a serene escape near Brisbane, Queensland. Enjoy hiking and camping among ancient pines and vibrant wildlife. Best visited in spring or fall for mild conditions. Great for adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Enchanting Wilderness: Bunya Mountains★ 8.2⌖ 94 miHiking
Bunya Mountains

Enchanting Wilderness: Bunya Mountains

Explore the enchanting Bunya Mountains in Queensland with diverse trails for hiking. Known for its lush forests and cultural history, it's a serene spot for bird watching and camping. Best in spring and fall, 3 hours' drive from Brisbane.

Dazzling Waters of 1770 Reef - Great Barrier Reef Eco Tours★ 9.6⌖ 107 miSnorkeling
1770 Reef - Great Barrier Reef Eco Tours

Dazzling Waters of 1770 Reef - Great Barrier Reef Eco Tours

Explore the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Seventeen Seventy, with snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in dazzling clear waters. Boat access only and ideal for families, with the best experience in the dry season. Enjoy vibrant reefs and marine life off the Queensland coast.

SnorkelingView Details→
The Dunes of Great Sandy National Park★ 8.5⌖ 123 miHiking
Great Sandy National Park

The Dunes of Great Sandy National Park

Explore Great Sandy National Park, where expansive sand dunes meet lush rainforests. Perfect for hikers and campers, spring and fall provide ideal conditions. You can spot kangaroos and koalas amidst the scenic landscape. Access requires no permit, making this a tranquil yet accessible destination.

Nature's Mirror: Everglades Eco Safaris in Boreen Point★ 8.2⌖ 123 miEco Safari
Everglades Eco Safaris

Nature's Mirror: Everglades Eco Safaris in Boreen Point

Explore Everglades Eco Safaris in Boreen Point, Queensland, within Great Sandy National Park. Enjoy eco-safaris, canoeing, hiking, and bird watching. Ideal for photographers and nature lovers seeking tranquility in a unique ecosystem.

Eco SafariView Details→
Adventure Awaits at K'gari★ 8.8⌖ 125 miHiking
K'gari

Adventure Awaits at K'gari

Explore K'gari, the world's largest sand island, with hiking, 4WD adventuring, and cultural tours. Enjoy iconic Lake McKenzie and spot dingoes. Best from May to October for the ideal experience.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Auburn River Gorge – dramatic sandstone cliffs and river views✦ Deep swimming holes and natural rock pools along the Auburn River✦ Ancient limestone caves with significant geological features✦ Diverse native wildlife including rare bird species
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Auburn River National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Canoeing

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Auburn River National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Auburn River National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access, no entrance fees or permits required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Auburn River National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Auburn River Camping Area

Basic campsite located near the river with limited facilities, ideal for tent camping and close access to swimming holes.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Auburn River National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Mundubbera
⌖ 8.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mundubbera, Queensland

A relaxed rural town known as Queensland’s 'Citrus Capital,' offering river-based adventures and peaceful natural surrounds ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Autumn and SpringExplore Town
Eidsvold
⌖ 14.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Eidsvold, Queensland

A rural Queensland town offering a peaceful gateway to outback landscapes with diverse outdoor recreation suited for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Winter (June to August)Explore Town
Gayndah
⌖ 27.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gayndah, Queensland

A peaceful rural town known for its rich agricultural history, offering relaxing outdoor activities along the Burnett River and nearby natural bushland.

Autumn and SpringExplore Town
Booyal
⌖ 59.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Booyal, Queensland

A quiet rural town offering tranquil outdoor experiences with focus on paddling, birdwatching, and low-impact hiking in natural Queensland landscapes.

Winter and Spring (May to September)Explore Town
Gin Gin
⌖ 63.32 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gin Gin, Queensland

A rural Queensland town offering access to lush river landscapes, forests, and easygoing outdoor activities in a tranquil country setting.

Spring and AutumnExplore Town
Murgon
⌖ 66.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Murgon, Queensland

A rural Queensland town offering peaceful nature escapes with access to forests, waterways, and open countryside for outdoor enthusiasts.

Winter to SpringExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Auburn River National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Mystery Craters: Private Crater Walk and Blind-Portrait Earth Room in South KolanSouth Kolan, Queensland · 74.65 mi away
All Adventures· Mystery Craters

Mystery Craters: Private Crater Walk and Blind-Portrait Earth Room in South Kolan

Take a private walk across ancient crater rims outside South Kolan, then return to the Earth Room for a guided blind-portrait exercise that turns shared attention into keepsake art. This low-impact pairing of nature and creative practice is designed for small groups seeking a reflective, connective outing.

2–3 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.