Mooloolah River National Park Sunshine Coast

Extensive heath plain features in Mooloolah River National Park, Mooloolah River section. Photo credit: © Ross Naumann

Visiting Mooloolah River safely

    Cyclists, visitors in wheelchairs and parents with strollers can enjoy the park by using the cement council pathway that runs along a park boundary.

    Cyclists, visitors in wheelchairs and parents with strollers can enjoy the park by using the cement council pathway that runs along a park boundary.

    Photo credit: Ross Naumann

    Never begin a walk in the park if you can see smoke. This image shows the heath plain after a wildfire in September 2009.

    Never begin a walk in the park if you can see smoke. This image shows the heath plain after a wildfire in September 2009.

    Photo credit: Ross Naumann

    Getting there and getting around

    The park is within ten minutes drive of Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast.

    The majority of the park lies either side of the Sunshine Motorway with the Mooloolah River forming its south-eastern boundary. This Mooloolah River section is accessible from Claymore Road, Sippy Downs.

    The Jowarra section of Mooloolah River National Park is accessible from the Steve Irwin Way.

    Wheelchair accessibility

    Internal walking tracks and fire management trails in Mooloolah River National Park are sand/earth tracks and unsuitable for wheelchair access.

    A wide, relatively flat cement Council path follows the edge of the park closest to the Sunshine Motor Way. From this path you can see tall open forest, woodlands and heathland, including wildflowers in late winter and spring. The pathway links Sippy Downs and Sunshine Coast University with Kawana and Mooloolaba areas.

    Staying safe

    For your safety

    • Obey all safety and warning signs. Tracks may be closed due to flooding or fire management operations.
    • Never begin a walk if you can see smoke in the park.
    • Avoid heat exhaustion in summer—walk at cooler times of the day.
    • Always carry enough drinking water.
    • Wear sturdy walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen.
    • Be observant for snakes all year round.
    • Pack a mobile phone and first-aid kit.
    • Tell friends or family where you are going and when you expect to return. If you change your plans inform them.
    • Complete your walk in daylight.
    • Avoid theft—lock your vehicle and leave no valuables, including garage remotes.
    • Use insect repellent to deter mosquitoes.

    In an emergency

    In case of accident, other emergency or for reporting a bushfire or acts of arson, please:

    • Call Triple Zero (000).
    • Advise the location and nature of the emergency.
    • Stay on the phone until you are told to hang up.

    Mobile phone reception is reliable in this area.

    The closest hospital is in Nambour or the Sunshine Coast University.

    For more information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.

    Before you visit

    Essentials to bring

    • Bring adequate drinking water, a first-aid kit, insect repellent and a mobile phone.
    • For walking, wear suitable shoes, sunscreen, a hat and long-sleeved shirt.
    • Bring a camera and binoculars for viewing wildlife.

    Opening hours

    For your safety, visit Mooloolah River National Park in daylight hours only.

    Pets

    Domestic animals are not permitted within Mooloolah River National Park.

    Climate and weather

    The Sunshine Coast enjoys a mild, subtropical climate. The average daily temperature range is 21 to 29 °C in summer and 10 to 21 °C in winter. In summer temperatures can exceed 30 degrees Celsius. For more information see the tourism information links.

    Fuel and supplies

    The nearest fuel and supplies are available at Chancellor Park Market Place and Mountain Creek Shopping Centre, both within five minutes drive of the park. For more information see the tourism information links.