Keen to wander? Let's go

Good news, there are over 1000 national parks. forests and other protected areas tucked within the state’s borders, from Girraween, Sundown and Lamington National Parks in the south, to our northernmost tip, as far east as the Great Barrier Reef, and as west as desert country.

Their variety can only be described as a kaleidoscope of landscapes, with everything from lush ancient rainforests to underground lava tubes, red sand deserts that span over 170,000 square kilometres and sand islands that sustain the growth of dense forests. 

If you’re not sure where to start, why not explore one of our famous five? Queensland holds the title to five of the 19 World Heritage-listed sites in Australia – K'gari, Gondwana Rainforests, the Great Barrier Reef, Riversleigh Fossil Site and The Wet Tropics.

Whether you’re planning a visit to a World Heritage-listed wonder or one of these national parks, the best way to get amongst them is on foot, bushwalking or hiking their marked tracks; or by boat of course, if you're heading our national parks made of sand. 

Whether you want to take a short stroll for a photo opportunity, go for a dip in a rock pool that only locals know about, or want to carry everything on your back for a multi-day adventure – there is a walk to suit your appetite for adventure. 

Prefer to explore the wild and wonderous rainforests? Venture deep into the tangled, ancient rainforest in Cairns & Great Barrier Reef to share the floor with Australia’s largest flightless bird, the southern cassowary. Or, if you’re game, take a guided tour along the Daintree River to spot the saltwater crocodiles that sun themselves along the bank.

No matter which walk, park or rainforest you choose, you’re promised a powerful combination of scenery and serenity, served by Mother Nature.