Australia’s National Parks: A Natural Wonder
Australia boasts an incredible diversity of landscapes, featuring sheer cliffs, rolling desert dunes, wetlands, dense forests, and majestic mountain ranges. With more than 500 national parks, it can be overwhelming to choose where to visit. Here are some standout national parks you shouldn’t miss.
Note: During COVID-19, be aware that travel restrictions may apply and park hours can vary. Please check the latest regulations in Australia before planning your adventurers.
Freycinet National Park, Tasmania
Nestled between stunning beaches and low mountains, Freycinet National Park on the Freycinet Peninsula is a picturesque destination with its pink granite mountains and white-sand beaches. Enjoy breathtaking bushwalking on trails ranging from short walks to the three-day, 18.6-mile Freycinet Peninsula Circuit. One must-see location is the Wineglass Bay Lookout, offering scenic views. The park is also home to a vibrant array of wildlife, including black cockatoos and wallabies, making it a true ecological treasure.
Coorong National Park, South Australia
Coorong National Park, a 90-mile lagoon landscape stretching from Lake Alexandrina to Kingston SE, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding here, as over 200 species of waterbirds thrive in the area. Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails and 4WD routes while enjoying peaceful camping experiences under the starry sky.
Port Campbell National Park, Victoria
Home to the famous Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell National Park provides stunning coastal views along the Great Ocean Road. Visitors can explore the iconic rock stacks, as well as take in breathtaking scenery at locations like the Bay of Islands. Be sure to take time for cliffside walks to appreciate the geological wonders and local wildlife.
Grampians National Park, Victoria
The Grampians, with its rich diversity of wildlife, unique rock formations, and Aboriginal rock art, is a must-visit for nature lovers. Home to stunning viewpoints and extensive hiking trails, visitors can enjoy breathtaking sights like MacKenzie Falls and Boroka Lookout. The Grampians hold significant cultural relevance, with approximately 20,000 years of Aboriginal history embedded in the landscape.
Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory
Renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity, Kakadu National Park features ancient rock art, diverse ecosystems, and stunning wetlands. Opportunities for exploration abound through guided tours led by Indigenous experts, or visitors can traverse the park’s walking trails and 4WD tracks. Must-see highlights include Ubirr and Nourlangie rock art sites, Jim Jim Falls, and the rich wildlife found at Yellow Water.
Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, South Australia
This national park, located at the southern tip of the Yorke Peninsula, showcases breathtaking cliffs, hidden coves, and sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching and can even catch sight of southern right whales during winter. Various beach and bush camping sites provide excellent options for immersing oneself in nature.
Karijini National Park, Western Australia
The spectacular Karijini National Park features dramatic gorges, hidden pools, and breathtaking waterfalls, making it one of Western Australia’s premier destinations. Visitors can explore its unique flora and fauna, including kangaroos and rock wallabies, amidst the stunning backdrop of the Hamersley Range. While summer can bring heat, the park’s beauty shines through year-round.
Moreton Island National Park, Queensland
Moreton Island is the third-largest sand island in the world, boasting pristine beaches, lush bushland, and stunning lagoons. The national park covers over 95% of the island, providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Blue Lagoon and explore the historic Tangalooma Wrecks.
Mungo National Park, New South Wales
Mungo National Park is celebrated for its rich cultural history, with evidence of over 400 centuries of human habitation. Visitors can explore the famous Walls of China, a striking formation of sand dunes that reveal ancient Indigenous artifacts. Enjoy short walks and trails that connect to the park’s diverse landscapes.
Girringun National Park, Queensland
Girringun National Park features Australia’s longest single-drop waterfalls, surrounded by lush rainforests and beautiful wildlife. The park is a haven for diverse species and enthusiastic wildlife watchers will revel in spotting the endangered cassowary among its stunning scenery.
