The Top 5 National Parks in the Gold Coast – Backpacker’s Paradise!

Burleigh Head National Park is the smallest national park in the country but that doesn't stop it from being here on our list thanks to its utter charm. It is relatively close that you can make a day trip out of it by staying at a Coolangatta resort. There's a tall headland in the park that is home to a large variety of biodiversity despite it being so small. There are also many popular trekking routes that you can use to explore the national park.

Located on the hinterland that is a decent drive from local resorts the likes of Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites, Springbrook National Park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests reserve. It is one of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world and has been officially christened a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The national park is vast and ethereally beautiful with many waterfalls and picturesque little swimming holes that you can have a dip in while you hike through the thick forests.

Lamington National Park is a beautiful plateau that overlooks the McPherson Mountains and provides many gorgeous hikes that offer some breath-taking lookout points on the way. This too is a park that falls under the Gondwana Rainforests Reserve. There's plenty of variety in sheer peaks, grass hills, rainforests and waterfalls that it would make an excellent hike with so much to do and see. There is also plenty of wildlife to see including many species of butterflies and birds. Make sure you keep your eye out for the Lamington crayfish and maybe a platypus.

Tamborine National Park is spread out over the top of Tamborine Mountain and its foothills. It is considered by most to be the most beautiful of Gold Coast's national parks. There are some spectacular walking trails that you can use when you visit. Expect a lot of water in terms of waterfalls, mountain streams, swimming holes as well as spectacular views of the Gold Coast hinterlands.

Finally, on our list is Nerang National Park considered to be quite popular among Australians and tourists alike. It is located close to Surfer's Paradise and has many kinds of birds, nature trails and lots and lots of natural beauty making it quite famous with nature lovers. The park is 100 m above sea level is 17 sq km across and is home to a lot of endemic and non-native animals. You can go trail running, horseback riding or mountain biking when you visit and there is plenty to see.