The 22 Australian National Parks You Simply Must See

The 22 Australian National Parks You Simply Must See

 

If there’s one thing you can’t miss during your time in Australia, it’s the chance to experience some of the country’s incredible wilderness.

From mountains to deserts, tropical islands to rainforests, the land Down Under has it all.  And wonderfully, much of it is super accessible care of Australia’s fabulous national parks network.

We visited tons of them during our great budget 4wd around Australia and think they are both one of the top ways to get off the beaten track in Australia and definitely one of the best strategies for exploring the Land Down Under on a shoestring.

From Red Centre splendour, Great Barrier Reef brilliance, tremendous Tasmania and the Western Australia WOW-factor, here are the 22 Australian National Parks you must see.

 

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#1 Karijini National Park, WA

Up in the north of Western Australia, Karijini is renowned for its adventurous swimming holes and breathtakingly rugged landscapes.

Australia’s second-largest national park, this semi-arid area of the country is best visited during the winter months when the temperatures are sufficiently low enough for you to experience this place at its best.

With awe-inspiring escarpments, beautiful gorges and wicked views, Karijini gives you the choice of 2 good campsites, over 10 hikes and goodness knows how many incredible lookouts!

Check out my full guide to Karijini National Park if you want some more info.

Stay: Kairjini Eco Retreat
Must Do: Hike the Spider Walk at Hancock Gorge

 

#2 Kakadu National Park, NT

Australia’s largest National Park, Kakadu is simply enormous and requires at least 3 days to really explore it.

If you’re short on time however, then check out the top 5 free things to do in Kakadu National Park I recommend.

From endangered wetlands perfect for bird watching, through to rivers teeming with crocs and waterfalls that beggar belief, Kakadu is the big daddy of them.

No trip here is complete without watching the sunset from Ubirr or swimming at the top of Gunlom Falls, so definitely get this family-friendly giant beauty on your bucket list asap!

Stay: Kakadu Lodge Cooinda
Must Do: Make the 4wd drive to Jim Jim Falls and cruise the Yellow Waters at dawn

 

#3 Whitsunday Islands National Park, QLD

When it comes to images of paradise, the Whitsunday Islands National Park is hard to beat.

These tiny drops of heaven are scattered amongst the Great Barrier Reef and boast perfect white beaches, crystal clear waters and an array of awesome activities.

Be it a sailing tour, a helicopter flight, a camping trip or a snorkelling experience, the Whitsunday Islands really are one of the best Australian National Parks, which must be seen to be believed.

Hotspots include the famous Heart Reef and Hamilton Island, so make sure you have your sea legs on when it comes to soaking up the magic of this destination.

Stay: Daydream Island Resort and Spa or Camp on Whitehaven Beach
Must Do: Take in the splendour of sunset over Whitehaven Beach

 

#4 Cradle Mountain National Park, TAS

Part of Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area, Cradle Mountain is an ideal National Park for hikers.

Choose from ranger led-day walks or independent multi-day hikes, both of which will take you through the park’s incredible ancient forests and dramatic gorges.

Joined with Lake St Clair National Park, it’s Cradle Mountain itself that really dominates this part of the landscape and few can fail to be stunned by it.

If you’re a wimp like me, then probably stick to the summer of shoulder months for this one – winter here gets mighty cold!

Stay: Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain
Must Do: Hike to Marions Lookout for sensational views of the mountain

 

#5 Blue Mountains National Park, NSW

Starting only an hour outside the bustling metropolis of Sydney, the Blue Mountains feel like a world away.

So-called because of the coloured mist the numerous eucalyptus trees here produce, the Blue Mountains make the perfect adventure day trip from Sydney.

Choose from abseiling, hiking, cycling, rock climbing and horse riding, or just admire the view from the famous scenic railway as the wonderful Katoomba Falls pass you by.

Stay: No.14 Hostel, Katoomba
Must Do: Snap the famous Three Sisters – Instagram perfection!

 

#6 Wilsons Promontory National Park, Vic

One thing that everyone whose been to Wilsons Prom always seems blown away by is the intense diversity of this park, which captures numerous different breathtaking landscapes.

From coastal views and secluded bays to rainforest walking tracks and wildlife drives, this National Park is a firm favourite of both Victorians and visitors alike.

Cameras at the ready, when it comes to walking, relaxing and immersing yourself in nature, Wilsons Prom is hard to beat and definitely ranks as one of the best Australian National Parks.

Stay: Tidal River Cabins
Must Do: Attempt the Mount Oberon Summit Walk

 

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#1 Good Camera – You will be pretty much snapping non-stop in Australia and will need a good camera to do this gorgeous country justice. I highly recommend the Sony A6000, which I use for all my travels and love, not least because it’s light, compact and robust!

#2 Good Walking Shoes – There will be a lot of walking in Australia – from cities to national park! Make sure your feet are comfortable therefore with a pair of New Balance Trainers. Perfect for stylish strollling, I love mine

#3 Good Guidebook – I’m still a massive fan of the Lonely Planet Guidebooks and do think their Australia edition is well put together

#4 Good Water Bottle – Travelling in hot old Australia can be thirsty work, so make sure you have a metal water bottle that you can refill as you go, because tap water is drinkable… and free!

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#7 Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, SA

As the South Australian countryside turns into the expansive Outback, the incredible vastness of Flinders Ranges exerts itself.

Showcasing an astounding spectrum of colours, the Flinders Ranges are a hiker’s paradise with rises and valley that seem to extend for miles.

If you’re seeking peace and solitude, the Flinders Ranges could be the Australian National Park for you, especially as you’ll really need a 4wd to see the most fascinating parts of this remote wilderness.

Stay: Wilpena Pound Resort
Must Do: Admire Rock Art at Arkaroo

 

#8 Litchfield National Park, NT

Near the small, sleepy town of Batchelor in Australia’s Northern Territory, is the wonderful Litchfield National Park.

Showcasing some of the area’s largest termite mounds – seriously you can’t believe how huge these are! – as well as great cascades and swimming holes, Litchfield National Park makes an ideal day trip from nearby Darwin.

Or stay a little longer by camping in the park and explore some of its fantastic hikes and 4wd tracks.

Stay: Wangi Falls Campground
Must Do: Swim at Florence Falls

 

#9 Kalbarri National Park, WA

Just north of Geraldton in Western Australia, Kalbarri National Park showcases some of the state’s most beautiful scenery and, at the right time of year, some of its most fabulous wildflower displays too.

Divided between 2 main parts, the inland section of Kalbarri is centered about a mighty twisting river gorge.

With some wonderful walking tracks and photographic lookouts, this park makes for a fantastic day trip.

The coastal section of Kalbarri National Park features towering cliffs that loom over a windswept coast.

The scenery up and down the land’s edge is stunning and you have a good chance of spotting passing whales and dolphins too.

One of the most accessible National Parks on this list, accessible by all types of vehicle, Kalbarri National Park beautifully highlights the best of Australia’s Coral Coast.

Check out my complete guide to Kalbarri National Park here.

Stay: Kalbarri Palm Resort
Must Do: Photograph Nature’s Window!

 

#10 Carnarvon Gorge National Park, QLD

The incredible Carnarvon Gorge National Park is little known by tourists, making it one of Australia’s best-kept secrets.

Teeming with wildlife, awesome walking, aboriginal rock art and stunning lookouts, this tropical oasis is well worth the trek into Queensland’s remote Central Highlands.

You can read more about this hidden gem in my ultimate guide to Carnarvon Gorge National Park, but safe to say we were blown away by this place and really couldn’t recommend it enough if you are looking to explore the enormity of Australia’s beauty off the beaten track.

Stay: Takarakka Bush Camp
Must Do: Hike to The Bluff for Sunrise

 

#11 Port Campbell National Park, VIC

At the heart of the world-famous Great Ocean Road lies Port Campbell, perhaps one of the most iconic Australian National Parks.

For anyone that’s ever seen a picture of the 12 Apostles, being greeted by these huge natural statues in real life is just as much of a breathtaking experience as you’d expect and one you’re bound to remember.

The wonderful Lord Arc Gorge and London Bridge are also contained within the park’s boundaries and between them, they really display the immense power and strength of nature on this wild edge of Australia.

Stay: Great Ocean Road Tourist Park
Must Do: Marvel at the famous 12 Apostles

 

#12 Freycinet National Park, TAS

Home to the iconic Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park on Tasmania’s east coast is certainly one of the country’s finest.

Camping and eco-retreat accommodation are both available within the park’s boundaries, so it’s well worth staying a few days here to really experience the full splendor of this unique location with its white sand beaches and abundant wildlife.

Be it photographing the pink granite peaks at dawn or hiking to the Wineglass Bay Lookout, this is a special place that shouldn’t be missed.

Stay: BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet
Must Do: Discover the secluded cove of Honeymoon Bay

 

SNEAKY BONUS PARK! Sydney’s Royal National Park is another top Aussie classic you must visit and is easily accessible on public transport (cheap!) as a day trip from the city. Learn more about hiking in this beauitful landscape here.

 

#13 Kosciusko National Park, NSW

Containing Australia’s highest point, this can be a cold and wintery National Park, located within the well-titled Snowy Mountains of Australia!

The beauty is however, that you can drive quite close to the summit of Mount Kosciusko, making the hike up there slightly more manageable at only 9km.

Do make sure you come prepared with the suitable gear for adventure to this national park and make sure you pick an appropriate time of year! The summit walk is only open from September to May, so this is definitely one of the Australian National Parks to visit in the summer.

Stay: Siesta Villa
Must Do: Take in the views from the summit

 

#14 Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT

At the heart of Red Centre lies the iconic Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, home to Australia’s most famous monolith.

The huge mound of Uluru (formerly known as Ayers Rock) sits at the heart of this massive reserve and truly has to be seen to be believed.

Alongside it is the slightly less famous, but no less striking, Kata Tjuta – an incredible rock formation just as beautiful as its larger cousin.

Get up early here to photograph the sunrise over both of these majestic structures and then enjoy walks around them that really highlight the best of this wild landscape.

Learn how to visit Uluru as cheaply as possible with my full budget travel guide.

Stay: Outback Pioneer Lodge, Yulara
Must Do: Hike the Valley of the Winds Walk at dawn

 

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#15 Great Sandy National Park (Fraser Island), QLD

Hot on the list of every backpacker, and for good reason, is the World Heritage site of Fraser Island, part of Queensland’s Great Sandy National Park.

The world’s largest sandbar, I always describe Fraser Island as being like a huge natural theme park for adults!

From stunning freshwater lakes to lazy-river experiences and close encounters with dingoes, Fraser Island is a non-stop adventure all completed in a crazy 4wd blur! You can check out my

Check out my recommended highlights when it comes to the best things to do on Fraser Island here.

At the end of the day, camp under the stars and relish the perfection of the night skies here!

Stay: Kingfisher Bay Resort
Must Do: Bath in the stunning-coloured waters of Lake McKenzie

 

#16 Purnululu National Park, WA

Also known as the Bungle Bungle, this remote example of Australian National Parks does take some getting to!

The easy option is a helicopter ride over the famous beehive-like domes of the park, or you can battle one of the worst roads in Australia, like we did, to spend a few days here at ground level.

Braving the drive is worth it however, when you get to see the incredibly striped rock formations close up as you hike in and around them.

You’ll also get the chance to see the incredible Cathedral Gorge too, which is just as mesmerising.

Read more about this amazing national park in my ultimate guide to visiting Purnululu.

Stay: Lake Kununurra – Discovery Parks
Must Do: View the beehive domes in all their splendour

 

#17 Dorrigo National Park, NSW

Dorrigo National Park sits high up in the New England area of New South Wales, but can easily be accessed from the nearby town of Coffs Harbour.

What this place is famous for is its waterfalls, so bring a rain jacket if you planning on heading here!

With a great skywalk platform that gives stunning views over this forested, mountain area, Dorrigo is highly accessible.

The drive onwards up through the Waterfall Way is also well worth it and, if you have the time, so is the nearby Cathedral Rocks National Park which features an amazing boulder-strewn landscape.

Stay: Belligen Backpackers, YHA
Must Do: Take in the Skywalk views

 

#18 Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park), NT

Also known at Nitmiluk National Park, this preserved area of the Northern Territory actually features 13 gorges that have been carved into the landscape by the river here over millions of years.

The result is a stunning oasis in the middle of an otherwise arid, barren landscape. This makes Katherine Gorge a highly sacred place for indigenous communities and local wildlife alike.

I recommend 2 days in this park to hike the Southern Walks and undertake a cruise or a canoe up the gorge if funds allow.

May-September is definitely the best time to visit if you want to avoid the scorching temperatures!

Check out my ultimate guide to Katherine Gorge National Park here.

Stay: Cicada Lodge
Must Do: Hike the Southern Walks as far as Butterfly Gorge – possible in a day if you start early.

 

#19 Daintree National Park, QLD

Home to the famous Mossman Gorge, the Daintree National Park is a glimpse into the life of a tropical rainforest at its best.

A drive and ferry ride north of the town of Port Douglas in the state’s tropical north region, the Daintree feels like a real retreat from civilisation.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this hot and humid area is teeming with life and exotic plants. The Great Barrier Reef runs alongside it, so there is plenty to explore both on land and at sea.

Choose from walking tours, 4wd adventures or cultural insights into how indigenous Australians lived in harmony with this unique ecology for thousands of years.

Stay: Cape Tribulation Beach House
Must Do: 4wd the Bloomfield Track for dome hair-raising adventure

 

#20 Ningaloo Reef National Park, WA

Now who in their right mind would want to pass up the opportunity to dive with whale sharks amidst the stunning tropical waters of Western Australia?

Certainly not me and that’s why heading to Ningaloo Reef is easily one of the best experiences I’ve had in the Land Down Under.

This World Heritage Reef is so close to the shore that there’s plenty of opportunities for you to spot dolphins, dugongs, rays, turtles and tropical fish, as well as the wonderful whale sharks, from one of the many boat trips.

In terms of access, Exmouth is the bigger access town with more going on, more boat trips and more dive companies.

Coral Bay just down the road is just a small beach hamlet, but the place to head if you want to see the giant manta rays.

Learn about the best ways to experience the Ningaloo Reef here.

Stay: Potshot Hotel Resort
Must Do: Take a dive or snorkel trip out to the reef.

 

#21 Boodjamulla National Park, QLD

Another hidden beauty tucked away in one of Queensland’s most remote area, Boodjamulla is an absolute winner in the league table of Australian National Parks.

Far up in the north of the state, the park makes a great stop if you are travelling the Savannah Way or towards Mount Isa.

With superb hiking, aboriginal rock art, kayaking opportunities and the best campsite ever, Boodjamulla should not be underestimated!

Check out my ultimate guide to Boodjamulla National Park if you’re thinking of making the trek to this secret gem!

Stay: Boodjamulla National Park Campground (book in advance)
Must Do: Enjoy a swim under the Indarri waterfalls with the freshies!

 

#22 Cape Range National Park, WA

And last, but by no means least, is one of the most fabulous coastal areas when it comes to Australian National Parks.

Cape Range may have been a little windswept when we were there, but that didn’t take away from the magnificent coastline you can enjoy in this stunning preserved area.

Situated between Exmouth and Coral Bay, camping just back from the ocean here and enjoying days of relaxed beach time is what Cape Range is all about!

And Turquoise Bay really does have to be seen to be believed!

Stay: Cape Range National Park Campground (there’s tons of different sites to choose from)
Must Do: Spot an emu!

 

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So there you have it, the most amazing 22 Australian National Parks you must see.

Which ones have you been to and which ones were your favourite?

Let me know in the comments box below…

 

8 thoughts on “The 22 Australian National Parks You Simply Must See

  1. Motherhen says:

    I have to agree – Karijini is the best, but hard to rank against the others which are so different. As a Western Australian, you have found some of our beauties. Have you visited Cape Le Grand National Park near Esperance?

    • Steph says:

      Hi there, thanks for your great comment and glad you are a fan of Karijini too. We currently haven’t made it as far as Esperance yet, but very excited to check out Cape Le Grand when we do. I hear it’s even more spectacular than Cape Range NP, which blew us away!

  2. Michael Tarulli says:

    Hi Steph, great read and thank you for your suggestions. I do plan to travel this great continent and experience its wonders. One which I would have thought would be highly regarded is Esperance NP. Have you been there?
    Michael 🙂

    • Steph says:

      Hi Michael, thanks for stopping by to read the blog and leave a comment. Wonderful to hear about your travel plans and you are right Esperance NP (otherwise known as Cape Le Grand NP) is a great spot. It was pretty hard to cap the list at 22 however, so this would def have made the cut if I had extended it to 25! Hope you get there one day. Best, Steph 🙂

  3. Terry Harris says:

    I think Mt Kosciusko summit walk is open from September to May not May to September.
    Great list I’ve still got a couple to visit.

    • Steph says:

      Whoop Terry, you are totally right! Thanks for the heads up! I’m amending the details now and hope you get to tick some more national parks off your list soon. Best, Steph 🙂

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