Alton National Park

Alton National Park lies 371 km west of Brisbane and about 75 km east of St George, adjacent to the Moonie Highway:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. Covering only 5.58 km² of the Brigalow Belt South bioregion, it was set aside in 1973 to preserve vegetation of limited occurrence and attractive wildflowers:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. The landscape consists of flat woodlands divided by the highway and surrounded by grazing lands:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. Four rare or threatened species have been recorded in the park:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}, and a 2013 survey identified 191 animal species present:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

Travel and facilities: Alton is very remote and has no visitor facilities – no water, no toilets, and no designated picnic or camping areas:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}. Visitors must be fully self-sufficient. Camping is not permitted (no campsites are provided):contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}, and there are no formed walking tracks or lookouts. The park’s isolation and lack of infrastructure mean it sees few visitors, but it has potential for nature tourism for those prepared to be self-reliant:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

Ecology: Despite its small size, Alton protects a patch of brigalow scrub and wildflower heaths that are now rare elsewhere. Seasonal wildflowers bloom after rains, and at least four rare plant species occur here:contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}. Wildlife surveys have documented nearly 200 animal species in the park:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}, including many birds and reptiles. Notably, the park provides refuge to several threatened species of the southwest Queensland plains. Because of the lack of water and facilities, wildlife viewing here requires patience and preparation.