Just an hour’s drive from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, the Scenic Rim is one of Queensland’s most breathtaking regions—yet it remains one of its best-kept secrets. Bordered by a rim of ancient volcanoes, the Scenic Rim is a lush, mountainous expanse packed with national parks, dramatic lookouts, and authentic rural charm. Recognised by Lonely Planet in 2022 as one of the top 10 regions to visit in the
world, the Scenic Rim is perfect for a weekend escape or a must-see stopover if you're road-tripping north from Sydney into Queensland.
This complete guide will take you through everything you need to know—where to camp, the best walks and hikes, top lookouts, and how to make the most of Eat Local Month if you’re visiting in June.
🏕️ Camping in the Scenic Rim: A Retreat into Nature
The Scenic Rim is an outdoor lover’s dream with plenty of camping options for all levels of adventure. Whether you prefer a well-equipped campground or more rugged back-to-basics camping, this region has something for you.
Lamington National Park has campgrounds with amenities, such as O'Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, where you can camp surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery.
Main Range National Park offers remote camping along the Scenic Rim Trail, ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in the wilderness.
For those who prefer luxury, Nightfall Camp offers eco-friendly glamping, combining comfort with the beauty of nature.
No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll be surrounded by Queensland’s iconic flora and fauna.
🌲 Lamington National Park: The Jewel of the Scenic Rim
Lamington National Park, part of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana Rainforests, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Scenic Rim. Its cool, lush rainforests are home to diverse wildlife, cascading waterfalls, and spectacular views. The park is split into two sections: Green Mountains and Binna Burra, both offering unique experiences.
Best Things to Do in Lamington
O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat:
The perfect base to explore Lamington National Park, O'Reilly's offers a range of activities, from guided walks to bird watching. Don’t miss the Tree Top Walk, a canopy walk 15 metres above the rainforest floor, giving you stunning aerial views of the lush landscape.
Morans Falls Track: Explore the lush subtropical rainforest of World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park on the 4.4km return Grade 4 track to the breathtaking Morans Falls.
Daves Creek Circuit: Begin at historic Binna Burra in Lamington National Park and follow the 12km Grade 4 Daves Creek Circuit through rainforest, eucalypts, woodland, and montane heath.
Box Forest Circuit: This 10.9 km loop is a popular walk that takes you through lush rainforests and past waterfalls like Box Log Falls and Nugurun Falls. The circuit offers a moderate challenge, making it a perfect option for those looking for a scenic but rewarding walk.
Coomera Circuit: For a longer adventure, the Coomera Circuit (17 km return) will take you along the Coomera River and leads to the stunning Coomera Falls. The hike is rich in biodiversity, and you'll pass through impressive forest landscapes.
Gondwana Rainforest: As you wander through the rainforests, keep an eye out for native birds like the Albert’s Lyrebird and the Eastern Whipbird. The park is renowned for its abundant flora and fauna, making it a perfect place for wildlife lovers.
🏔️ Main Range National Park: For the True Adventurer
Main Range National Park offers some of the best hiking in the Scenic Rim, including the famous Scenic Rim Trail. The park features dramatic escarpments, deep valleys, and sweeping vistas. It’s an area perfect for multi-day hikes and adventure seekers who want to explore the wild heart of the region.
Best Things to Do in Main Range
Mount Cordeaux Track: A popular day hike, the Mount Cordeaux Track takes you to the summit of Mount Cordeaux, where you are rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The hike is relatively easy and can be completed in a few hours.
🏞️ Tamborine National Park: The Heart of the Hinterland
Located near the Gold Coast, Tamborine National Park is known for its spectacular views, subtropical rainforests, and charming walking tracks. It’s perfect for day-trippers who want to explore the natural beauty of the area without venturing too far off the beaten path.
Best Things to Do in Tamborine
Curtis Falls: A 1.5 km return walk that leads to the stunning Curtis Falls, one of the most popular attractions in Tamborine National Park. The trail takes you through lush rainforest, where you might spot the occasional platypus in the streams. It’s also less than a five-minute drive from Main Street and Gallery Walk—two of Tamborine Mountain’s most charming precincts, filled with cafes, artisan shops, local produce, wineries, distilleries, and art galleries. Perfect for a post-hike bite or browse.
Witches Falls Circuit: A 3.6 km loop that takes you through subtropical rainforest and past the Witches Falls, Tamborine’s first national park. The falls are especially dramatic after rainfall and are a must-see for nature lovers.
The Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk: This incredible Rainforest Skywalk is a 1.5 km elevated boardwalk that takes you through the rainforest canopy, offering stunning views of the rainforest below. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the park from a unique perspective.
🏞️ Mount Barney National Park: The Ultimate Challenge
Mount Barney National Park is home to some of the most challenging hikes in the Scenic Rim, with its rugged mountains, dramatic cliffs, and dense forest. It’s a popular spot for experienced hikers looking for adventure and breathtaking views.
Best Things to Do in Mount Barney
Mount Barney Summit: This strenuous 17.5 km return hike takes you to the summit of Mount Barney, the second-highest mountain in South East Queensland. The hike is difficult and requires a high level of fitness, but the views from the summit are worth the effort. You can see the surrounding valleys and the entire Scenic Rim region from up here.
Yellow Pinch Lookout: If you’re looking for a shorter hike with a big payoff, head to Yellow Pinch Lookout. This 2 km return walk takes you to a lookout with sweeping views over the rugged mountains and valleys of Mount Barney National Park.
🍽️ Eat Local Month: A Taste of the Scenic Rim
June is a special time in the Scenic Rim as it coincides with Scenic Rim Eat Local Month, Australia's most authentic paddock-to-plate food and farming experience. Over 100 events take place throughout the month, from farm tours to leisurely long lunches and family-friendly adventures. It's the perfect opportunity to sample farm-fresh produce, locally made cheeses, wines, and gourmet meals. Participate in one of the many events, where you can meet farmers and learn about the processes behind the delicious food you’re tasting. This is also the perfect time to support local businesses while exploring the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim.
🚗 A Scenic Drive with a Purpose
If you’re heading north from Sydney to Brisbane, the Scenic Rim is an unmissable detour. The drive offers not only picturesque landscapes but also plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the hidden gems of the region. Charming towns like Canungra, and Boonah offer local produce, artisan goods, and unique experiences that complement the beauty of the natural surroundings.
📅 Plan Your Visit
Check the Weather: Queensland’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the hinterlands. Pack appropriately for all conditions.
Book in Advance: Popular camping sites and accommodations can book out quickly, particularly during Eat Local Month each year in June.
Stay Safe: The rugged terrain of the Scenic Rim requires caution. Ensure you’re well-prepared for hikes, especially those leading into remote areas.
🏞️ Final Thoughts
The Scenic Rim is a world of natural beauty and adventure, offering something for every kind of traveller. From epic hikes in Lamington and Main Range National Parks to the peaceful charm of Tamborine Mountain and Mount Barney, there is no shortage of places to explore. So pack your gear, hit the road, and make sure to indulge in some of the freshest, most delicious food Queensland has to offer.
