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National Park · NSW, QLD

Border Ranges National Park

Border Ranges National Park is a lush subtropical rainforest preserve in New South Wales, Australia, famed for its spectacular volcanic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and extensive hiking trails.

National Park47,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

47,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Border Ranges National Park

Border Ranges National Park is a lush subtropical rainforest preserve in New South Wales, Australia, famed for its spectacular volcanic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and extensive hiking trails.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Border Ranges National Park encompasses a stunning portion of the Mount Warning caldera rim, featuring rugged cliffs, deep gorges, and ancient volcanic peaks. Located along the border of New South Wales and Queensland, this park is part of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, which protect one of the most significant remnants of subtropical rainforest on Earth. The park's geography includes steep ridges, waterfalls, and vast wilderness areas that provide sanctuary to many rare and endangered species such as the Albert’s lyrebird, red-legged pademelon, and sooty owl. Established in 1969, the park covers diverse ecosystems ranging from warm temperate to subtropical rainforest, fostering extraordinary biodiversity. Visitors are attracted by the panoramic views from lookouts like The Pinnacle and Blackbutts, along with extensive walking tracks through lush forest. Popular activities include birdwatching, bushwalking, and camping, with well-maintained facilities and campgrounds offering easy access to nature. The park’s history is deeply connected to the Bundjalung people, traditional custodians of the land who have lived here for thousands of years. For outdoor enthusiasts, Border Ranges offers a combination of tranquil rainforest immersion and challenging hikes in an unspoiled natural setting, making it a must-visit destination in Australia's New South Wales region.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Border Ranges National Park

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

Tropical Wilderness: Lamington National Park★ 8.8⌖ 3 miHiking
Lamington National Park

Tropical Wilderness: Lamington National Park

Explore the diverse landscapes of Lamington National Park, Queensland. This area offers exciting hiking trails through subtropical rainforests with stunning waterfalls and abundant wildlife sightings. Ideal for adventure seekers, with travel best in spring and fall.

Waterfall Wonders: Morans Falls★ 8.5⌖ 5 miHiking
Morans Falls

Waterfall Wonders: Morans Falls

Explore an 80-meter waterfall in Lamington National Park on this 4.4 km round trip hike. Moderate difficulty with stunning views and birdwatching opportunities. Best visited in spring and fall to avoid crowds.

Twin Falls: A Gem in Springbrook, Australia★ 8.7⌖ 5 miHiking
Twin Falls

Twin Falls: A Gem in Springbrook, Australia

Explore Twin Falls in Springbrook National Park, featuring a 4-km moderate hiking loop. Highlights include cascading waterfalls and swimming opportunities. Best enjoyed in spring, this spot is busy in summer with adventure seekers.

Natural Wonder: Springbrook National Park★ 9.2⌖ 6 miHiking
Springbrook National Park

Natural Wonder: Springbrook National Park

Visit Springbrook National Park near Gold Coast, Queensland. Explore moderate trails, with stunning waterfalls like Natural Bridge. Ideal for hiking, birding, and photography. Not wheelchair accessible and busy in summer.

Nature's Majesty at Wollumbin / Mount Warning★ 8.9⌖ 12 miHiking
Wollumbin / Mount Warning

Nature's Majesty at Wollumbin / Mount Warning

Experience Wollumbin, a challenging hike within the stunning landscapes of NSW, Australia. Known for its cultural significance and sunrise views, this peak is a favorite for adventurous travelers.

Coastal Bliss at Burleigh Head National Park★ 8.2⌖ 19 miHiking
Burleigh Head National Park

Coastal Bliss at Burleigh Head National Park

Explore Burleigh Head National Park's coastal trails with stunning ocean views. Ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. Busy in summer; visit early for solitude. Accessible by car with activities like surfing also available.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Pinnacle Lookout with panoramic views over the Tweed Valley and Mount Warning✦ Diverse subtropical rainforest ecosystem featuring rare bird species like Albert's lyrebird✦ Historic walking trails such as the Border Track, traversing volcanic caldera remnants✦ Serene camping sites nestled within towering rainforest trees and nearby creeks
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Border Ranges National Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Border Ranges National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Border Ranges National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Border Ranges National Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Border Ranges National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Border Ranges National Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Border Ranges National Park
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Border Ranges National Park
Park Recreation

Trail Running

Available in Border Ranges National Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Border Ranges National Park
Park Recreation

Botanical Observation

Available in Border Ranges 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 Border Ranges National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entry fees; some campgrounds require booking and permits

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 Border Ranges National Park

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

Featherdale Campground

A quiet campground located in the heart of the rainforest with bush amenities, ideal for tent camping and nature immersion.

The Pinnacle Camping Area

Located near The Pinnacle Lookout, offering picnic tables, toilets, and close proximity to hiking trails.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Border Ranges National Park

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

O'Reilly
⌖ 4.72 miles
Gateway Basecamp

O'Reilly, Queensland

A serene retreat in the heart of Lamington National Park, ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking rainforest adventures.

Springbrook
⌖ 4.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Springbrook, Queensland

A lush subtropical rainforest retreat offering scenic hiking, waterfalls, and impressive volcanic landscapes for nature enthusiasts and adventure travelers.

Autumn to SpringExplore Town
Bonogin
⌖ 12.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bonogin, Queensland

A lush hinterland escape offering verdant trails, creekside adventures, and a tranquil outdoor setting just minutes from the Gold Coast bustle.

Autumn to SpringExplore Town
Murwillumbah
⌖ 13.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Murwillumbah, New South Wales

A vibrant community surrounded by lush landscapes, offering adventurous access to UNESCO-listed Gondwana Rainforests and the Tweed River.

Spring and AutumnExplore Town
South Murwillumbah
⌖ 13.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

South Murwillumbah, New South Wales

A quiet rural retreat framed by lush subtropical landscapes and proximity to breathtaking natural reserves, ideal for outdoor lovers seeking calm adventure off the main tourist tracks.

Autumn and SpringExplore Town
North Tumbulgum
⌖ 15.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Tumbulgum, New South Wales

A peaceful rural riverside haven offering laid-back paddling and birdwatching adventures within lush wetland surrounds.

Spring and AutumnExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Border Ranges National Park

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

12 bookable experiences

Koalas, Glow Worms & Kangaroos: Nocturnal Rainforest Walk in the Gold Coast HinterlandSpringbrook, Queensland · 7.43 mi away
All Adventures· Gold Coast Rainforest Tours

Koalas, Glow Worms & Kangaroos: Nocturnal Rainforest Walk in the Gold Coast Hinterland

Spend dusk among grazing kangaroos, search canopy forks for koalas, then follow a torchlit trail to see glow worms cling to cave walls. This guided evening walk in the Gold Coast hinterland pairs easy hiking with prime wildlife viewing and practical guidance for first-time nocturnal explorers.

4–5 hours

Check dates & book

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