Lamington National Park

A Sanctuary of Ancient Rainforests and Untouched Wilderness

Nestled in the heart of the Gold Coast Hinterland, Lamington National Park is a true natural wonder, offering an unparalleled experience of Australia’s ancient rainforests, dramatic landscapes, and rich biodiversity. Spanning over 20,000 ha, this World Heritage-listed park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, which includes some of the oldest continuously surviving rainforests on Earth. With its extensive network of walking tracks, breathtaking lookouts, and abundant wildlife, Lamington National Park is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to escape into the serene beauty of the wilderness.

A World Heritage Gem

Lamington National Park is divided into two main sections: Green Mountains (O’Reilly’s) and Binna Burra, each offering unique landscapes and experiences. The park’s significance is recognised globally, as it forms part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, celebrated for its outstanding universal value. These rainforests are a living link to the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana, home to species that have existed for millions of years.

Ancient Rainforests: The park is renowned for its subtropical rainforests, which are among the most extensive and undisturbed in Australia. These forests are home to towering Antarctic beech trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old, as well as a rich diversity of ferns, orchids, and epiphytes.
Stunning Waterfalls: Lamington is dotted with numerous waterfalls, many of which can be accessed via the park’s walking tracks. The sight of water cascading down moss-covered rocks into crystal-clear pools is one of the park’s most enchanting experiences.
Diverse Wildlife: The park’s rich biodiversity includes over 200 species of birds, including the rare Albert’s lyrebird, as well as various mammals, reptiles, and insects. The elusive Lamington spiny crayfish, with its bright blue colouring, is a unique inhabitant of the park’s streams.
Panoramic Lookouts: The park’s high elevation offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, with several lookouts providing panoramic vistas of the McPherson Range, the Tweed Valley, and even out to the Pacific Ocean.

Walking Tracks – Exploring the Heart of Lamington

One of Lamington National Park’s greatest attractions is its extensive network of walking tracks, which cover over 160 kilometres of terrain, ranging from short strolls to challenging multi-day hikes. These tracks allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests and mountain ridges to hidden waterfalls and secluded valleys.

Tree Top Walk at O’Reilly’s: Located in the Green Mountains section of the park, this walk takes you 15m above the ground into the rainforest canopy, offering a unique perspective of the forest. The walk is relatively short and suitable for all ages, making it a popular choice for families.
Toolona Creek Circuit: If you’re up for a bit more of an adventure, head to Lamington National Park and take on the Toolona Creek Circuit starting at O’Reilly’s. It’s a longer hike (17.4km), but don’t let that put you off – it’s relatively easy and the rewards are high. You’ll encounter heaps of waterfalls and breathtaking scenery that’ll make every step worth it.
Box Forest Circuit: This 10.9 km loop track is a favourite for those wanting to experience the beauty of Lamington’s waterfalls. The circuit passes several cascades, including Elabana Falls, one of the park’s most photographed spots. The walk is moderately challenging and takes around 4-5 hours to complete.
Border Track: For the more adventurous, the Border Track is the longest and most challenging trail in the park, stretching 21.4 km between the Green Mountains and Binna Burra sections. The track follows the McPherson Range, offering stunning views of both the Gold Coast hinterland and the northern New South Wales countryside. This walk is best tackled by experienced hikers, and it can be done as a one-way trip with transport arranged at the end.
Moran’s Falls Track: A relatively easy 4.6 km return walk, this track leads to Moran’s Falls, a stunning 80m waterfall that offers sweeping views over the surrounding valley. The lookout near the falls is an ideal spot to watch the sunset over the mountains.

Wildlife – A Haven for Biodiversity

Lamington National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the region. The park’s ancient rainforests provide a refuge for species that have been isolated from other populations for millions of years, leading to a high level of endemism.

Birdwatching: The park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 200 species recorded. Highlights include the striking regent bowerbird, the rare and elusive Albert’s lyrebird, and the colourful king parrots and crimson rosellas that frequent O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for birdwatching.
Mammals: The park is home to several species of marsupials, including the red-necked pademelon, a small, wallaby-like animal that is often seen at dusk. Sugar gliders and ringtail possums are also common nocturnal inhabitants.
Reptiles and Amphibians: The park’s streams and moist forest floors are home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians, including the brightly coloured Lamington spiny crayfish and several species of frogs, such as the pouched frog and the great barred frog.
Insects: The park is also rich in insect life, with colourful butterflies, beetles, and moths commonly seen, particularly in the warmer months.

Health and Wellbeing – Reconnecting with Nature

Spending time in Lamington National Park offers more than just the chance to explore stunning landscapes; it also provides a wealth of health and wellbeing benefits. The act of walking through the park’s ancient forests, breathing in the fresh, clean air, and being surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature can have profound effects on both mental and physical health.

Stress Reduction: The peaceful environment of Lamington National Park, far removed from the hustle and bustle of urban life, is ideal for reducing stress. The natural beauty of the park, combined with physical activity, can lower cortisol levels, helping to alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.
Mental Clarity: The act of walking in nature, known as forest bathing, has been shown to improve cognitive function and mental clarity. The tranquil surroundings of the park can help clear the mind, making it easier to focus and think creatively.
Physical Fitness: Hiking in Lamington National Park is a great way to improve cardiovascular health, build muscle strength, and increase stamina. The park’s varied terrain offers a natural workout that engages the whole body.
Connection to Nature: Spending time in Lamington National Park fosters a deep connection to the natural world, encouraging mindfulness and a sense of peace. This connection can lead to greater life satisfaction and a stronger appreciation for the environment.

Accommodation – Staying in the Heart of the Wilderness

For those looking to extend their stay in Lamington National Park, there are several accommodation options that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. From eco-friendly retreats to camping under the stars, there’s something for every type of traveller.

O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat: Located in the Green Mountains section, O’Reilly’s is a historic eco-resort that offers a range of accommodation options, from cosy cabins to luxury villas. The retreat is well-known for its friendly wildlife encounters and offers guided walks, birdwatching tours, and the popular Tree Top Walk.
Binna Burra Lodge: This eco-friendly lodge, situated in the Binna Burra section of the park, offers a range of accommodation, including heritage-listed cabins and safari tents. The lodge provides easy access to the park’s walking tracks and is a great base for exploring the surrounding wilderness.
Camping: For those who prefer a more rustic experience, there are several camping areas within the park, including Green Mountains Campground and Binna Burra Campground. Camping allows you to fully experience the sights and sounds of the rainforest, with the added bonus of stargazing under the clear hinterland skies.