Springbrook National Park Forest Park picnic area – Numinbah Valley

Forest Park is a beautiful and serene day-use picnic area nestled within the Numinbah Valley section of the World Heritage-listed Springbrook National Park. Located alongside the picturesque upper reaches of the Nerang River, this is a perfect spot for a peaceful picnic, a family barbecue, or a refreshing break while driving the scenic Nerang-Murwillumbah Road. It is essential for visitors to know that this is strictly a day-use area, and overnight camping is not permitted. The park is set in a stunning natural amphitheatre, surrounded by the lush, subtropical rainforest of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. The area is exceptionally well-maintained, featuring wide, grassy lawns, ample shade from towering trees, clean toilet facilities, and both wood-fired and electric barbecues. The gentle, clear-flowing river provides a beautiful backdrop and a safe place for a paddle on a warm day, making it popular with families. Forest Park also serves as the starting point for the 4-kilometre Wog-un Circuit walking track, which takes hikers through the beautiful surrounding forest. With its excellent facilities, tranquil atmosphere, and stunning natural beauty, the Forest Park picnic area is an ideal destination for a day trip from the Gold Coast or a memorable stop on a tour of the spectacular Gold Coast hinterland.

Site Information

• Location: In the Numinbah Valley section of Springbrook National Park.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicles for day use.
• Road Access: Sealed, winding scenic road.
• Site Surface: Bitumen car park and large grassed parklands.
• Camping Permitted: No. This is a day-use park only. Gates may be locked at night.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Not permitted.
• Facilities: Toilets, wood and electric BBQs, rubbish bins.
• Picnic Tables: Yes, numerous sheltered and unsheltered tables are available.
• Potable Water: Yes, taps are available but treating water before drinking is recommended.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Permitted in provided wood BBQs only, unless fire bans are in place. Bring your own clean-milled firewood.
• Generator Use: Prohibited.
• Number of Sites Available: Not applicable (day use only).
• Essentials to Bring: Picnic supplies, firewood for BBQs, insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in National Parks.
• Fishing: No.
• Short Walks: Yes, the 4km Wog-un Circuit walking track starts here.

Local Amenities

This is a remote area with very limited services. The nearest major towns are Nerang and Murwillumbah.

• Local Pubs:
  • The Numinbah Valley Hotel (now a cafe and community hub) (approx. 5 km)
  • Advancetown Hotel (approx. 20 km)
  • Numerous options in Nerang (approx. 30 km).
• Places to Eat:
  • Numinbah Valley School of Arts Cafe
  • Advancetown Hotel
  • Greenwood Farm (cafe)
• Local Attractions:
  • Natural Bridge section of Springbrook National Park (approx. 10 km)
  • Hinze Dam
  • Various lookouts and walking trails throughout the valley.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • The Settlement camping area, Springbrook (approx. 20 km, bookings essential)
  • Advancetown Caravan Park (approx. 20 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • No official free camps in the immediate Gold Coast hinterland area.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Nearest public dump point is at the Murwillumbah Showgrounds.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Murwillumbah (south) or Nerang (north). Ensure you have sufficient fuel.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available in Nerang or Murwillumbah.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Gold Coast hinterland has a subtropical climate but its elevation means cooler temperatures and higher rainfall than the coast.