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National Park · Queensland

Mary River National Park

Mary River National Park in Queensland offers outstanding riverine ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and diverse recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, and hiking along the scenic Mary River corridor.

National Park59,000 acres4+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

59,000 acres

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Mary River National Park

Mary River National Park in Queensland offers outstanding riverine ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and diverse recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, and hiking along the scenic Mary River corridor.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Mary River National Park stretches along the Mary River in Queensland, Australia, protecting a diverse floodplain ecosystem characterized by wetlands, billabongs, and riverine forests. This park plays a critical role in conserving one of the largest remaining free-flowing river systems in South East Queensland. The park provides vital habitat for several rare and threatened species, including the Mary River turtle, lungfish, and a variety of waterbirds. Visitors can experience excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, birdwatching, and camping amidst tranquil natural surroundings. The terrain is generally flat, dominated by wetlands and open water, making it accessible for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. The park also includes cultural heritage sites significant to the Butchulla Aboriginal people, whose connection to the land is recognized and respected in park management. Several designated camping areas and boat ramps serve as base points for exploring the waterways and trails. Like many Queensland parks, seasonal weather influences access and conditions, with warmer months bringing lush growth and rainfall, while drier months offer clearer skies and easier hiking. Mary River National Park is appreciated for its peaceful environment and spectacular wildlife encounters, providing a valuable escape into nature within relatively easy reach of nearby towns and communities.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Mary River National Park

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

Nature's Mirror: Everglades Eco Safaris in Boreen Point★ 8.2⌖ 18 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→
Sunshine and Serenity at Noosa Heads Main Beach★ 8.5⌖ 23 miSurfing
Noosa Heads Main Beach

Sunshine and Serenity at Noosa Heads Main Beach

Discover Noosa Heads Main Beach, a prime spot in Queensland for surfing, hiking, and kayaking. Perfect for families, this coastline is busy in summer. Enjoy swimming and wildlife in nearby Noosa National Park.

Nature's Retreat: Noosa National Park★ 8.8⌖ 24 miHiking
Noosa National Park

Nature's Retreat: Noosa National Park

Explore Noosa National Park in Queensland with its moderate trails offering coastal views, wildlife spotting, and serene beaches. A perfect getaway for adventure seekers, best enjoyed in spring and fall.

Coastal Paradise: Sunshine Coast★ 8.5⌖ 32 miSurfing
Sunshine Coast

Coastal Paradise: Sunshine Coast

Explore Sunshine Coast for water sports and hiking. Enjoy Glass House Mountains for breathtaking views and Noosa National Park for seaside trails. Year-round opportunities for surfing, kayaking, and spotting local wildlife like koalas. Busy in summer, best visited in spring or fall.

The Dunes of Great Sandy National Park★ 8.5⌖ 33 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.

Sun, Sand, and Serenity at Mooloolaba Beach★ 8.6⌖ 35 miSwimming
Mooloolaba Beach

Sun, Sand, and Serenity at Mooloolaba Beach

Experience the family-friendly shores of Mooloolaba Beach. The gentle waves make it perfect for swimming and paddling. Don't miss snorkeling at the HMAS Brisbane Wreck nearby. Accessible year-round, it's busier during summer with stunning views early morning or late afternoon.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mary River – a major undammed river offering scenic river cruises and fishing spots✦ Habitat of the iconic Mary River turtle and Queensland lungfish✦ Extensive wetlands supporting diverse birdlife and wildlife viewing✦ Campgrounds and boat ramps providing easy water access for recreation
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Mary River National Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Mary River National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Mary River National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Mary River National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Mary River National Park
Park Recreation

Boating

Available in Mary River National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Mary River National Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Mary River National Park
Park Recreation

Kayaking

Available in Mary River National Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Mary River National Park
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Mary 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 Mary River National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee; camping requires permits obtainable through Queensland National Parks system.

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 Mary River National Park

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

Wolvi Campground

Riverside camping area offering basic facilities and direct water access, ideal for fishermen and boaters.

Miva Campground

Well-maintained campground located near Miva, featuring picnic areas and proximity to hiking trails and boat ramps.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Mary River National Park

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

Amamoor
⌖ 2.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Amamoor, Queensland

A peaceful rural town offering access to lush national parks and serene waterways, perfect for nature-focused outdoor adventures in subtropical Queensland.

Winter and Spring (May to September)Explore Town
Imbil
⌖ 9.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Imbil, Queensland

A charming rural town gateway to lush forests and rolling countryside, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and quiet nature escapes.

Autumn to SpringExplore Town
Gympie
⌖ 10.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gympie, Queensland

A historic gold rush town offering relaxed outdoor activities amid rolling hills, river landscapes, and nearby forests, perfect for nature lovers and casual adventure seekers.

Autumn to SpringExplore Town
Boreen Point
⌖ 17.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Boreen Point, Queensland

A tranquil waterside haven perfect for paddlers, hikers, and nature lovers keen on peaceful outdoor escapes just north of Australia's Sunshine Coast.

Spring and AutumnExplore Town
Como
⌖ 18.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Como, Queensland

A tranquil riverside retreat offering laid-back paddling and biking adventures with rich natural beauty and close access to coastal wetlands and forest trails.

Autumn and SpringExplore Town
Curra
⌖ 19.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Curra, Queensland

A quiet rural town offering access to diverse bushwalking trails, river paddling, and wildlife experiences amidst Queensland’s subtropical landscape.

Autumn and SpringExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Mary River National Park

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

12 bookable experiences

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