There are 684 protected areas classified as national parks in Australia. However, it’s worth noting that the number and classification of national parks may have changed since then due to updates in park management and conservation efforts.
About Australia National Parks National Parks
Australia is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and diverse ecosystems, many of which are protected within its national parks system. With over 500 national parks spread across the continent, Australia offers a vast array of environments to explore, from ancient rainforests to rugged outback deserts, pristine coastlines to towering mountain ranges.
These parks are home to a wealth of unique flora and fauna, including iconic species like kangaroos, koalas, and wombats, as well as a myriad of bird species, reptiles, and marine life. Visitors to Australia’s national parks can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, birdwatching, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting.
These parks also play a crucial role in conservation, preserving Australia’s natural heritage for future generations to enjoy while providing opportunities for education, research, and sustainable tourism.
Australia National Parks's National Parks
Blue Mountains National Park
Explore NowCoffin Bay National Park
Explore NowCoorong National Park
Explore NowCradle Mountain Lake St. Clair
Explore NowDaintree National Park
Explore NowFlinders Chase National Park
Explore NowFreycinet National Park
Explore NowGreat Barrier Reef Marine Park
Explore NowKakadu National Park
Explore NowMount Remarkable National Park
Explore NowNambung National Park
Explore NowPort Campbell National Park
Explore NowPurnululu National Park
Explore NowSydney Harbour National Park
Explore NowTasman National Park
Explore NowUluru Kata Tjuta National Park
Explore NowFAQ’s
1. How many national parks are there in Australia?
2. What is the largest national park in Australia?
The largest national park in Australia is Kakadu National Park, located in the Northern Territory. Kakadu covers an area of approximately 19,804 square kilometers (7,646 square miles), making it one of the largest national parks in the world.
This vast and biodiverse park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including dramatic escarpments, wetlands, waterfalls, and ancient rock art sites. It is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles, kangaroos, wallabies, and a diverse array of bird species.
Kakadu National Park is also culturally significant, as it is home to Aboriginal rock art sites that date back thousands of years, offering insights into the rich cultural heritage of Australia’s Indigenous peoples.
3. What is the smallest national park in Australia?
The smallest national park in Australia is the Dorrigo National Park, located in New South Wales. It covers an area of approximately 119 square kilometers (about 46 square miles).
Despite its small size, Dorrigo National Park is renowned for its lush rainforest, stunning waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. It is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, which protects significant remnants of ancient rainforest that once covered the continent.
Dorrigo National Park offers visitors opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and experiencing the beauty of subtropical rainforest landscapes.
4. What was the first national park in Australia?
The first national park in Australia is the Royal National Park, located in New South Wales. Established on April 26, 1879, it holds the distinction of being the world’s second-oldest national park, after Yellowstone National Park in the United States.
Royal National Park covers an area of approximately 151 square kilometers (about 58 square miles) and is situated along the coast, just south of Sydney. It features a diverse range of landscapes, including coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, eucalyptus forests, and freshwater rivers and streams.
The park is popular for outdoor activities such as bushwalking, swimming, picnicking, and birdwatching, and it is known for its natural beauty and accessibility to urban populations.