Auburn River National Park

Auburn River National Park protects a scenic section of the Auburn River gorge in the North Burnett Region of Queensland. The park is located about 277 km northwest of Brisbane, near the town of Mundubbera:contentReference[oaicite:38]{index=38}. Although just 39 km² in area, Auburn River NP contains striking features: a steep granite gorge carved by the Auburn River, dry rainforest and hoop pine scrub on the slopes, and open eucalypt woodlands above. The river’s large pink granite boulders and rock pools create an attractive setting.:contentReference[oaicite:39]{index=39} Many bird, reptile, and mammal species live in the mix of habitats here, including the vulnerable brush-tailed rock-wallaby which can sometimes be spotted on the cliffs:contentReference[oaicite:40]{index=40}.

The park was established in 1964, making it one of the earlier Queensland national parks:contentReference[oaicite:41]{index=41}. Visitors can enjoy several short walking tracks from the picnic/camping area that showcase the gorge. Trails lead to a gorge lookout on the cliff rim (a 600 m return walk) and down to the riverbed and rockpools (a more challenging 1.5 km return walk):contentReference[oaicite:42]{index=42}. Another 3.2 km loop track follows the gorge-top, offering views into the valley:contentReference[oaicite:43]{index=43}. These walks give excellent vantage points of the river and surrounding forest. At the main lookout, you can gaze down at giant boulders lining the clear pools of the Auburn River.

Auburn River National Park provides a basic campground on the northern river bank among the gum trees:contentReference[oaicite:44]{index=44}. This bush camping area has a few facilities: picnic tables, fire rings, and toilets are available for visitors. (No drinking water is provided.) Campers fall asleep to the sound of the river flowing over the rocks. Bush camping is also permitted in other parts of the park for those who prefer solitude:contentReference[oaicite:45]{index=45}. A awd-access track from the Mundubbera-Durong Road brings you into the park (high clearance recommended). The last section is unpaved but usually accessible in dry weather:contentReference[oaicite:46]{index=46}. Auburn River NP is a quiet retreat where you can fish for freshwater bass, explore the boulder-strewn creek, or simply relax by the campfire under starry skies.