Lamington National Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Lamington National Park?
What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: Easy treetop walk, bird shows and short glow-worm tour entertain ages 5–12, but cliffs, leeches and long tracks require constant adult oversight and there are no dedicated playrooms.
Positives:
- Interactive animal shows: Kids can watch birds of prey fly and touch gliders and owls in a safe environment.
- Short, safe walks: Most family trails are under 2 km and have clear signage and well-maintained paths.
Challenges:
- Steep or slippery sections: Some trail parts have roots and rocks; bring good shoes and watch toddlers closely.
- Limited food options: On-site café has basic menu; pack snacks or picnic if you have picky eaters.
What is Lamington National Park?
- A UNESCO World Heritage-listed national park spanning over 20,600 hectares of protected subtropical rainforest in Queensland’s Gold Coast hinterland
- A plateau landscape shaped by ancient volcanic flows, featuring steep escarpments, deep canyons and cascading waterfalls
- A biodiversity stronghold within the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, sheltering over 200 bird species, rare marsupials and an extraordinary variety of ancient plant communities
What is so special about Lamington National Park for with kids?
- Walk the thrill-packed Tree Top Walk in under 1 km loop.
- Explore the mossy Natural Bridge waterfall on a 45 min trail.
- Join kid-friendly Birds of Prey and Wildlife shows for hands-on fun.
- See glow worms and nocturnal animals on a guided evening tour.
- Bring snacks and shoes for safe, comfortable family exploration.
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the treetop walk, a waterfall trail and a short wildlife activity without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Lamington National Park
Tree Top Walk:
Easy 800 m suspension-bridge loop 15 m above ground in subtropical canopy.
Tip: Hold young kids’ hands and wear sturdy shoes for narrow sections.
Natural Bridge Trail:
1 km loop to a moss-lined rock arch and small waterfall.
Tip: Bring hats and water; trail can be slippery after rain.
Birds of Prey Show:
Daily 1 pm at O’Reilly’s with eagles, owls and kites in flight.
Tip: Arrive 10 min early for front-row seats and photo opportunities.
Glow Worm Tour:
8 pm guided bus trip to see glowing larvae on rainforest cliffs.
Tip: Bring a light jacket and remain silent to spot nocturnal wildlife.
When is the best time to visit Lamington National Park (Gold Coast, Australia)?
Summer storms can close trails; in winter pack warm layers for cool mornings. Spring brings wildflowers; autumn offers mild days and fewer insects.
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Reviews of Lamington National Park (Gold Coast)
Jack
My Dad and I had the time of our lives here. Went on a 22k hike through the Shipstern track, and was just incredible. Definitely recommend packing wisely, and also a reasonable level of fitness is required.
Le Hoang Giap
Lamington National Park feels like stepping into an enormous greenhouse powered by waterfalls. The moment you leave the car behind at either Binna Burra or O’Reilly’s the air shifts to cool and damp, scented with leaf litter and the faint sweetness of orchids clinging to beech trunks. Vines loop between strangler figs, pademelons graze beside the trail without concern and every few minutes a whipb...
Elias Rivera
An extraordinary place, with vegetation that captivates and envelops you as you walk along its paths, a unique experience where nature expresses the simplicity and symbiosis of each of the species that inhabit it.
Noah Johnsson
Beautiful area for a walk. Took the Dave’s creek walk which took around 4 hours, great views and scenery. Was very muddy because of rain so be prepared according to the weather.. If you have time while on the Gold Coast definitely take the time to come up to the mountains!
Barb Sheehy
🤳 Beautiful discoveries amongst various trails in Lamington National Park..It was raining and misty when we trekked here but was 💯 worth the trip and when the ☀️ finally arrived it was magic! 🧭🥾🎒 Great rock scrambling to be had too if this is your thing..great views 💯💪
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fuel (round-trip) | AUD 20 |
| Birds of Prey Show (family) | AUD 48 |
| Glow Worm Tour (family) | AUD 90 |
| Lunch at café | AUD 60 |
| Wildlife Encounter (family) | AUD 45 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 263 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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How to Maximize Your Visit to Lamington National Park
- Start early: Arrive at Green Mountains by 9 am to secure parking and cooler walking conditions.
- Pre-book tours: Reserve glow worm and wildlife encounters online at least one day ahead.
Map of Lamington National Park
Address: Queensland, Australia
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About Lamington National Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 13746810 BEST nearby Activities
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