Auburn River National Park wilderness guide
National Park · QLD

Auburn River National Park

Auburn River National Park protects rugged river gorges and diverse forest landscapes, offering opportunities for hiking, swimming, and exploring caves in central Queensland.

National Park3,940 acres4+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

3,940 acres

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Auburn River National Park

Auburn River National Park protects rugged river gorges and diverse forest landscapes, offering opportunities for hiking, swimming, and exploring caves in central Queensland.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Auburn River National Park is located approximately 95 kilometers northwest of the town of Mundubbera in Queensland, Australia. The park features steep sandstone gorges carved by the Auburn River, surrounded by dry rainforest, eucalypt forests, and open woodlands. Its geography includes dramatic cliffs, creek pools, waterfalls, and caves formed from the natural erosion of sandstone rock. The park provides habitat for a variety of native fauna including wallabies, possums, and numerous bird species such as the rare black-breasted button-quail and peregrine falcon. Aboriginal cultural heritage is present in the park area, with traditional sites and evidence of ancient use. Visitors to Auburn River National Park enjoy activities such as bushwalking along trails following the riverbanks, swimming and canoeing in deep waterholes, and fishing for species like Australian bass. Popular landmarks include the impressive Auburn River Gorge and various rock formations within the park. Camping is available, allowing immersive nature experiences in a remote setting. The park appeals to visitors seeking both adventure in rugged terrain and opportunities for wildlife observation in a less crowded natural environment. The combination of scenic river systems and natural biodiversity makes Auburn River National Park a notable destination for outdoor recreation and conservation in Queensland.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Auburn River National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Auburn River Gorge – dramatic sandstone cliffs and river views✦ Deep swimming holes and natural rock pools along the Auburn River✦ Ancient limestone caves with significant geological features✦ Diverse native wildlife including rare bird species
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Auburn River National Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Canoeing

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Auburn River National Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Auburn 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 Auburn River National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access, no entrance fees or permits required.

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 Auburn River National Park

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

Auburn River Camping Area

Basic campsite located near the river with limited facilities, ideal for tent camping and close access to swimming holes.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Auburn River National Park

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

Mundubbera, Queensland
⌖ 8.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mundubbera, Queensland

Mundubbera is a quiet country town in Queensland famed for citrus orchards and the Burnett River. Outdoor lovers can enjoy hiking, kayaking, fishing, and bird watching in a peaceful rural setting year-round.

Autumn and Spring
Explore Town
Eidsvold, Queensland
⌖ 14.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Eidsvold, Queensland

Eidsvold is a quiet Queensland town offering authentic outback adventures with hiking, fishing, kayaking, and camping among native forests and rivers. Ideal for travelers seeking solitude and nature immersion.

Winter (June to August)
Explore Town
Gayndah, Queensland
⌖ 27.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gayndah, Queensland

Gayndah, Queensland offers a quiet country escape with hiking, kayaking, fishing, and bird watching along the Burnett River and nearby forests. Ideal for travelers seeking low-key outdoor adventures in a historic rural town.

Autumn and Spring
Explore Town
Booyal, Queensland
⌖ 59.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Booyal, Queensland

Booyal is a quiet Queensland country town ideal for paddling, birdwatching, and fishing along the Gregory River. Enjoy peaceful hiking and cycling routes in open bushland and conservation parks.

Winter and Spring (May to September)
Explore Town