Australia protects some of the most extraordinary landscapes on earth — ancient rainforest, red-rock deserts, alpine peaks and wild coast. These are the best national parks in Australia, each worth building a trip around.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT
The spiritual heart of the country: the monolith of Uluru and the domes of Kata Tjuta, glowing red at sunrise and sunset. A place of deep cultural significance to the Anangu people — walk the base, don’t climb.
Kakadu National Park, NT
Australia’s largest national park — nearly 20,000 km² of wetlands, waterfalls, ancient Aboriginal rock art and crocodiles. Best in the dry season (May–October) when the roads and plunge pools open up.
Blue Mountains National Park, NSW
Just 90 minutes from Sydney: the Three Sisters, eucalyptus-blue valleys and clifftop walks. The easiest world-class park to reach in the country — see more national parks and walking tracks.
Daintree National Park, QLD
The world’s oldest surviving rainforest — 180 million years old — where the jungle meets the reef at Cape Tribulation. Home to cassowaries and extraordinary biodiversity.
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair, TAS
Tasmania’s alpine icon: jagged Cradle Mountain reflected in Dove Lake, wombats on the buttongrass, and the start of the famous Overland Track.
Grampians (Gariwerd), VIC
Sandstone ranges, waterfalls, wildflowers and lookouts like the Pinnacle and the Balconies — plus significant Aboriginal rock-art sites. An easy add-on to the Great Ocean Road.
More parks worth the trip
Freycinet (TAS) for Wineglass Bay, Royal National Park (NSW) — the world’s second-oldest — for its coast track, Flinders Ranges (SA) for outback grandeur, and Karijini (WA) for its dramatic gorges and plunge pools.
Visiting national parks in Australia
Many parks charge a vehicle entry or camping fee, and some require permits — check the relevant state parks service before you go. Carry plenty of water, tell someone your plans in remote areas, and leave no trace. Time your visit with our best time to visit Australia guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best national park in Australia?
It depends on what you want — Uluru-Kata Tjuta for cultural and desert grandeur, Kakadu for wetlands and rock art, the Blue Mountains for easy access from Sydney, and Cradle Mountain for alpine wilderness.
What is the largest national park in Australia?
Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory, at nearly 20,000 square kilometres.
What is the oldest national park in Australia?
Royal National Park, just south of Sydney, established in 1879 — the second-oldest national park in the world.
Do you have to pay to enter national parks in Australia?
Many parks charge a vehicle entry or camping fee that varies by state; some are free. Check the relevant state parks service and buy passes in advance where required.
