The park supports an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, including over 140 bird species, numerous marsupials, and rare amphibians. Notable species include the endangered Albert's Lyrebird, Pademelon, Red-necked Wallaby, and various species of gliders and possums. The park is also an important habitat for the endangered Eastern Bristlebird and the vulnerable Fleay's Barred Frog. Visitors might encounter Mountain Brushtail Possums, Long-nosed Potoroos, and various species of bats. The area is recognized as an Important Bird Area due to its significant populations of threatened bird species.
Border Ranges National Park protects significant stands of ancient Gondwanan rainforest, including some of the most extensive Antarctic Beech (Nothofagus moorei) forests in Australia. The park features diverse vegetation communities, from subtropical and warm temperate rainforest to wet sclerophyll forest and woodland. Notable species include the rare Richmond Range Fontainea, ancient coachwood trees, giant stinging trees, and numerous orchid species. The park is also home to several threatened plant species and represents one of the most diverse assemblages of primitive flowering plants found anywhere in the world.
The park's dramatic landscape was formed by the erosion of the Mount Warning shield volcano, which erupted approximately 23 million years ago. The volcanic activity created the distinctive rhyolite and basalt formations visible today, including the prominent escarpments and cliffs that characterize the park's terrain. The Tweed Volcano, one of the largest and best-preserved shield volcanoes in the world, has eroded to create the spectacular caldera rim that forms the Border Ranges. The varying rock types and subsequent erosion have produced diverse soil conditions that support the park's rich biodiversity.
The Border Ranges area has been home to the Githabul Aboriginal people for thousands of years, who maintained deep spiritual and cultural connections to the land. European settlement began in the 1840s with timber cutters harvesting valuable red cedar, which led to extensive logging operations throughout the region. The area was declared a national park in 1979, protecting what remained of the once-vast rainforests. The park now forms part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, recognized in 1986 for its outstanding natural values and evolutionary history. The park's establishment marked a significant shift from resource extraction to conservation and tourism.
Key attractions include the Pinnacle Lookout, offering spectacular views across the Tweed Valley and Mount Warning. The Antarctic Beech picnic area provides access to ancient rainforest walks, while the Bar Mountain picnic area offers panoramic views and walking tracks. The Brindle Creek walk showcases pristine rainforest streams and waterfalls. The historic Tweed Range Scenic Drive provides access to multiple lookouts and picnic areas. Sheepstation Creek camping area serves as a popular base for exploring the park's northern section. The park also features numerous walking tracks ranging from short nature walks to challenging day hikes, including the historic Nightcap Track.
Border Ranges National Park experiences a subtropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. Summers (December-February) are warm and humid with average temperatures between 25-30°C (77-86°F) and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winters (June-August) are mild and dry, with temperatures ranging from 5-20°C (41-68°F) and occasional frost at higher elevations. The park receives its highest rainfall between January and March, with annual precipitation averaging 2,000mm. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions for visiting, with moderate temperatures and lower rainfall. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes, particularly when hiking at higher elevations.
Australia
-28.3670°, 153.0330°
1979
312
Border Ranges National Park preserves extensive areas of subtropical rainforest along the Queensland-New South Wales border. The park features ancient volcanic landscapes and provides habitat for numerous threatened species. It offers spectacular views of Mount Warning and the Tweed Valley.