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Lamington National Park

Lamington National Park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, protecting a spectacular plateau of ancient…

National Park in Queensland

National ParkUNESCO
Claire AshworthWritten by Claire Ashworth

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World Heritage Status of Lamington National Park

Status
UNESCO World Heritage Site

About Lamington National Park

Lamington National Park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, protecting a spectacular plateau of ancient subtropical and cool temperate rainforest on the McPherson Range at elevations over 1,000 metres. The park features outstanding biodiversity including remarkable bird life — particularly bowerbirds, lyrebirds, and a huge diversity of parrots — along with dramatic gorge scenery, waterfalls, and hundreds of kilometres of walking tracks. O'Reilly's and [Binna Burra](/au/places/qld/binna-burra) are the two iconic gateways to the park.

About

Lamington National Park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, protecting a spectacular plateau of ancient subtropical and cool temperate rainforest on the McPherson Range at elevations over 1,000 metres. The park features outstanding biodiversity including remarkable bird life — particularly bowerbirds, lyrebirds, and a huge diversity of parrots — along with dramatic gorge scenery, waterfalls, and hundreds of kilometres of walking tracks. O'Reilly's and [Binna Burra](/au/places/qld/binna-burra) are the two iconic gateways to the park.

History & Significance

Lamington National Park was gazetted in 1915 to protect the McPherson Range's ancient rainforest ecosystem. It forms part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, recognised for its outstanding natural values and prehistoric plant species. The park's two main access points—O'Reilly's (established 1926) and Binna Burra (established 1937)—were developed as mountain retreats and remain iconic gateways today.

Warnings

Leeches In Wet SeasonFog On PlateauSteep Cliff EdgesFlash Flooding In Gorges

Getting There

Map of Lamington National Park

From Brisbane (110 km south), drive via Canungra to O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat on the northern plateau, or via Beechmont to Binna Burra on the eastern plateau. Both roads are steep and winding — not suitable for towing caravans.

Parking

Free parking available at both O'Reilly's and Binna Burra lodge areas. O'Reilly's has substantial carpark capacity with accessibility spaces; Binna Burra has more limited parking. Both areas have overflow options during peak times. No parking fees for day visitors.

Visitor Tips

  • Hand-feeding lorikeets at O'Reilly's is a highlight for families. The Tree Top Walk at O'Reilly's offers a gentle suspension bridge canopy experience. Stay overnight at one of the historic lodges to experience the park at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active.

Cultural Significance

Lamington National Park was gazetted in 1915 to protect the McPherson Range's ancient rainforest ecosystem. It forms part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, recognised for its outstanding natural values and prehistoric plant species. The park's two main access points—O'Reilly's (established 1926) and Binna Burra (established 1937)—were developed as mountain retreats and remain iconic gateways today.

Quick Facts

At a Glance

Identity

Also Known As
["Lamington Biosphere Reserve","Gondwana Rainforests of Australia"]

The Place

UNESCO
World Heritage Site
Significance
World Heritage

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Free
Duration
1–3 days
Best Time
Year-round (spring for wildflowers, winter for clearer views)
Hours
Open 24 hours. Visitor centres generally 9am-4pm.

Location

Good to Know

All ages—shorter walks and canopy walks suit families; serious hiking and remote trails best for ages 8+

Highlights

Oreillys Canopy WalkBinna Burra LodgeAlbert River CircuitWishing Tree LookoutLyrebirdsPythons Creek

Activities

HikingBirdwatchingPhotographyCanopy WalkWildlife WatchingSwimming

Family & Visitor Info

Ages
All ages—shorter walks and canopy walks suit families; serious hiking and remote trails best for ages 8+
Shade/Cover
Good shade/cover
Pram Friendly
No

Food & Drink

CafeRestaurantPicnic AreaBYO Food OK

Cafes and restaurants at O'Reilly's and Binna Burra lodges; picnic areas throughout park; BYO supplies recommended for day walks

Features

Not available:Wheelchair Accessible
Not available:Dog Friendly
Not available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

GuesthousesCampgroundsCafeVisitor CentresToiletsPicnic Areas

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