Guide to Springbrook National Park

Less than two hours from Brisbane and just an hour inland from the Gold Coast is the forested oasis of Springbrook National Park. Up here, the air is cooler, the trees are ancient, and waterfalls carve through deep green gullies. As part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, it’s one of Queensland’s most spectacular hinterland escapes, and an easy stop for anyone road-tripping the region in a campervan. 

Why do people go to Springbrook National Park? 

People head to Springbrook for its waterfalls, rainforest walks in the Gold Coast hinterland, and the big-sky lookouts. First are the waterfalls: spots like Purling Brook Falls, Twin Falls and the Natural Bridge are the real drawcards. The Natural Bridge is especially famous thanks to the glow worm cave in Springbrook, where at night, the cave ceiling sparkles with thousands of glow worms.  

Beyond the waterfalls, the lookouts are spectacular. Best of All Lookout in Springbrook sits right on the escarpment edge and, on a clear day, you can see across the Tweed Valley to Mount Warning/Wollumbin. Finally, Springbrook is a wildlife refuge. With brush turkeys scratching in the undergrowth, pademelons darting across tracks, and lyrebirds calling from the gullies. Patient walkers may even have the chance to spot the rare Albert’s lyrebird or a Richmond birdwing butterfly. 

How long should I spend at Springbrook National Park?

A full day is the minimum if you want to tick off the major sights without feeling rushed. You could start at the Visitor Centre for maps, hike the Purling Brook Falls walk in the morning, picnic at Tallabana, take the Twin Falls circuit after lunch, and finish at the Natural Bridge for glow worms after dark. 

If you love long walks or photography, staying overnight in or near Springbrook lets you catch sunrise and sunset on the lookouts, have the trails almost to yourself, and fit in side tracks such as Warringa Pool or the Goomoolahra Falls lookout. There’s basic camping at The Settlement campground (bookings essential) and plenty of accommodation in the surrounding villages. 

What is the best walk in Springbrook National Park?

The most celebrated trail is the Purling Brook Falls walk circuit. It’s a 4 km return loop rated moderate, starting from the Gwongorella picnic area. The path descends through open eucalypt forest into subtropical rainforest, crosses a suspension bridge at the base of the 100-metre falls, and then climbs back up the other side for sweeping views. After rain, the waterfall is at its most dramatic. 

Shorter but equally memorable is the Natural Bridge circuit (1 km). In daylight, you’ll see a waterfall plunge through a hole in the basalt into a cave; after dusk, the cave ceiling glows with thousands of bioluminescent larvae, making this one of the best places in the Gold Coast hinterland to see glow worms. Be sure to bring a torch for the approach, but switch it off inside. 

What are some good hiking tips for Springbrook National Park?

First, you will want to wear sturdy footwear, as rainforest tracks can be muddy and have slippery rocks and tree roots. You will also want to carry at least a litre of water per person, snacks, sunscreen and insect repellent. It is worth noting that mobile reception is patchy out here, so consider downloading maps or picking one up at the Visitor Centre. Start early to secure a parking spot and enjoy cooler conditions. And last but not least, if you’re planning to see glow worms, aim for a moonless night for the brightest display. 

How to get to Springbrook National Park

From Brisbane, it’s about 110 km / 1 hour 45 minutes via the M1 south, exiting for the Gold Coast/Nerang, then through Mudgeeraba onto Springbrook Road up the Numinbah Valley. From the Gold Coast it’s about 1 hour. All main roads are sealed, but the climb is steep and winding, so allow extra time and drive carefully, especially in wet weather. 

The park is divided into four sections (Springbrook Plateau, Natural Bridge, Mount Cougal and Numinbah), and attractions are spread out. If you’re in a campervan, plan your day to minimise backtracking between sections. 

Best time to visit Springbrook National Park

Best time of year: Autumn (March–May) and spring (September–November) offer the mildest weather, flowing waterfalls and comfortable hiking conditions. Summer brings lush greenery and heavy showers, which is spectacular for the falls but wet on the tracks. Winter is crisp and clear with fewer crowds. 

Best time of day: Early mornings are coolest and quietest for hiking. Late afternoons bring golden light on the cliffs. If glow worms are on your list, time your visit to the Natural Bridge after dark, but allow enough time to drive down the winding road before night sets in completely.