Mount Clunie National Park

Mount Clunie National Park is located in northern New South Wales, Australia, near the Queensland border. It lies within the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, which protects ancient rainforests across several national parks. The nearest towns are Woodenbong and Urbenville, with larger regional centers like Kyogle and Lismore situated further away. The park was established in 1999 to protect its valuable biodiversity and preserve its significant natural heritage. Mount Clunie, the park’s namesake, is part of the McPherson Range, a remnant of an ancient shield volcano that once dominated the region. The area has cultural importance to the Githabul people, the traditional custodians of the land. Due to its rugged terrain and remoteness, Mount Clunie National Park has limited visitor facilities. There are no formal parking lots, but visitors can park at informal roadside areas near walking tracks or at entry points to the park. There are no fees for parking, though access can be challenging, particularly after rain when the roads become muddy and difficult to navigate. The park is home to a variety of native wildlife, including koalas, pademelons, and gliders. Bird species such as the Albert’s lyrebird, regent bowerbird, and the sooty owl are common, making it a prime location for birdwatching. The flora of Mount Clunie National Park is dominated by lush subtropical and temperate rainforests, featuring giant figs, hoop pines, and Antarctic beech trees. These ancient forests are part of one of the largest remaining rainforest areas in Australia and offer a glimpse into Gondwana-era ecosystems. Key features include Mount Clunie itself, with its steep slopes and scenic views, and the surrounding rainforest wilderness. There is no public transport to the park, so visitors must drive from nearby towns to access it via dirt roads.