If you’re a bit of an outdoor adventurer based on the Gold Coast, Brisbane or even Sunshine Coast, you’ve likely covered most of the popular surrounding hinterland and coastal spots. Further inland is somewhere a little more unique which can be explored over a weekend (no long weekend required!)…Girraween National Park.
Girraween National Park can be found on the QLD and NSW border, about 280km south-west of the Gold Coast. It’s been over a year since we did an overnight weekend camping trip there, but it’s always stuck with us as a favourite camping spot not too far from home.
This great little video by Wanderstories says it all – check it out…
Why it’s so special?
If you’ve ever wondered what the aftermath of a giant meteor shower would look like, this place might look something like it. This place is one huge rocky playground with some fascinating rock formations. Look out, Stonehenge! It’s also a great place to escape the crowds and find some peace and quiet amongst the beautiful granite landscape and tranquil rockpools.
Walks to do?
For the not-so-avid bushwalker or families with kids, there are plenty of short walk options to choose from (less than 5km total).
One of the iconic walks of Girraween is the The Pyramid walk (or some might say “climb”), which takes you on a 3.6 km return journey up a giant pyramid-shaped rock. Be prepared to get on all fours in some of the steeper parts. This is an absolute must-do either at sunrise or sunset to experience the breathtaking view at the top, including Balancing Rock and Second Pyramid.
Another iconic (and easier) walk is the Granite Arch walk, which is about 1.6 km (30 mins) return. Halfway along the track, you’ll be in awe at the sight of the natural stone archway, formed over millions of years of natural forces working their magic. You might find Fred and Wilma Flinstone too, if you’re lucky!
For something a little more relaxing, take an easy stroll along the Bald Rock Creek Circuit. Dip your toes in a cool rockpool and soak in the beauty of the surrounding nature and wildlife.
Where to stay?
For the avid campers, there’s two campgrounds available at Girraween National Park:
- Bald Rock Creek camping area
- Castle Rock camping area
Both have hot showers, toilets and wood barbeques, and can be booked online for a small fee via the Queensland Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing website.
Alternatively, for those needing their creature comforts, there are accommodation options in the nearby town of Stanthorpe.
What to pack?
Apart from camping gear (as basic or glamorous as you like!) and food, here are some other essentials to make your experience more enjoyable:
- Warm clothes and bedding – it can get quite cool out West, particularly at night, so make sure you’ve packed enough layers to stay warm.
- Firewood – ’cause who doesn’t love a good camp fire!
- Drinking water – although the campgrounds provide water which should be treated before drinking, we keep a 10L water container at home which we fill up before every camping trip.
- Sturdy walking shoes, preferably with some grip if you plan to tackle The Pyramid (you’ll see why!)
Something extra?
Got some extra time and want to add more to the road trip? Consider a stop in at some of these nearby places…
- Bald Rock National Park – if you love the unique rocky landscape of Girraween and are hungry for more, check out the neighbouring Bald Rock National Park, which has the largest exposed granite monolith in Australia.
- Boonoo Boonoo National Park – about 70km from Girraween, check this place out for a stunner waterfall, swimming holes and hiking trails.
- Queen Mary Falls (below) and Lake Moogerah – take the scenic route home and stop in at these picture perfect spots.
So head out West for your next outdoorsy weekend and experience these natural wonders for yourself!
If you’ve been, we’d love to hear about your experiences!