The park protects the last remaining fragments of the original volcanic shield that erupted approximately 23 million years ago.
Witches Falls section was declared Queensland's first national park in 1908.
The Richmond birdwing butterfly, one of Australia's largest, relies on the Pararistolochia praevenosa vine found within the park.
The vegetation ranges from rare rainforest species in the lower valleys to drier eucalypt forests on the ridgelines.
Local geological formations include columnar basalt, created by the cooling of ancient lava flows.
The park is home to the Albert's lyrebird, a species with a restricted natural range in the region.
Tamborine National Park is a protected area on the Tamborine Mountain plateau in the Gold Coast hinterland. It comprises 14 non-contiguous sections that preserve remnants of the original shield volcano lava flows. The park features diverse vegetation including subtropical rainforest, wet sclerophyll forest, and open eucalypt forest. Its geography creates microclimates that support rare species such as the Richmond birdwing butterfly. The park is characterized by high-altitude plateaus, steep cliff lines, and multiple waterfall systems. Walking tracks are distributed across sections including Witches Falls, Joalah, and Curtis Falls. The park provides critical habitat for native wildlife, including brush turkeys and various bird species. It serves as a primary catchment area for the region's groundwater and local creek systems.
The viewing platform at the base of Curtis Falls offers the best vantage for waterfall photography.
Visit the Cedar Creek section for swimming, but adhere to signage regarding water safety and cliff jumping prohibitions.
Use insect repellent, as the humid, damp rainforest environment is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and leeches.
Carry a physical map or download offline files, as mobile reception is unreliable in the deeper sections of the park.
Attempting to visit all 14 sections in one day, which is physically impractical due to the distances between them. Entering closed track areas.
Stay on marked tracks to prevent soil erosion and avoid disturbing fragile rainforest root systems. Do not feed wildlife.
