Sundown National Park, Darling Downs Travel Guide

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Discover rugged beauty and remote wilderness in Sundown National Park, Queensland: hiking, camping, 4WD adventures, and stunning landscapes.

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Sundown National Park

Sundown National Park, straddling the Queensland-New South Wales border, is a rugged landscape of steep gorges, sharp ridges, and peaks rising above the Severn River. Offering a remote wilderness experience, the park features diverse hiking trails, 4WD tracks, camping areas, and remnants of pastoral and mining history.

A brief summary to Sundown National Park

Sundown, Queensland, 4382, AU
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sundown National Park.

Obtain a camping permit and book in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
Be self-sufficient with food, water, and first-aid supplies, as facilities are limited.
Check road conditions and river heights before you go, especially after rain.
Wear sturdy shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, and bring insect repellent.
Take all your rubbish with you, as there are no bins provided.

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Explore Sundown National Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Sundown National Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The most common way to access Sundown National Park is by car. From Brisbane, the park is approximately a 3-4 hour drive southwest via Stanthorpe. From Tenterfield, it's about 70km northwest. Note that access to certain areas, like Red Rock Gorge, Reedy Waterhole, and Burrows Waterhole, requires a 4WD vehicle due to rough and rocky tracks. The Broadwater camping area is accessible by conventional vehicles. Be aware that the last fuel and supplies are available at Glenlyon Dam. There are no entrance fees for Sundown National Park, but camping permits are required and fees apply. These can be booked online, over the counter, or by phone.

Discover more about Sundown National Park

Sundown National Park, a hidden gem on the Queensland-New South Wales border, offers a true escape into the Australian wilderness. Characterized by its dramatic landscape, the park features steep-sided gorges carved by the Severn River and its tributaries, sharp ridges, and peaks rising to over 1,000 meters. This rugged terrain provides a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. The park's history is as captivating as its scenery. Once part of vast pastoral stations, the land was later subdivided for grazing and wool production in the late 1800s. Mining for tin, copper, and arsenic also occurred sporadically, leaving behind relics and old diggings that can still be seen today. These remnants offer a glimpse into the area's past and add to the park's unique character. Sundown National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails cater to all skill levels, from maintained tracks to remote walks requiring navigation skills and self-reliance. The 4WD tracks provide access to secluded campsites and fishing holes, while the Severn River and Broadwater offer opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the park's diverse avian population, with over 150 species recorded. Keep an eye out for wallaroos, kangaroos, and other native wildlife that call the park home. Camping is a popular activity in Sundown National Park, with several designated camping areas and opportunities for bush camping. The Broadwater camping area is accessible by conventional vehicles, while other camping areas require a 4WD. Camping permits are required for all nights spent in the park, and bookings are essential, especially during peak season.