Brisbane Forest Park (including Bellbird Grove and Mt Nebo)
Attractive mountain retreat for Brisbane people seeking shade rather than sun and surf.
Although Brisbane has sprawled in the past 25 years it is still true that beyond the urban sprawl there are large tracts of untouched forest which have been set aside for the benefit of the city's inhabitants. There are lakes, bushwalks, quiet picnic spots and areas where the coolness and tranquility of the eucalypt forests (which proliferate amidst the plentiful sunshine and rainfall) offer a welcome break from the bustle of the city.

To access the parkland proceed along Route 31 and follow Musgrave Road through Ashgrove and The Gap until it becomes Mt Nebo Road. Continue along Mt Nebo Road until, after approximately 12 km, you reach the Brisbane Forest Park Information Centre. Stop and collect all up-to-date information which will assist you on this trip.

Things to see:  

1. Bellbird Grove
Bellbird Grove is located in Camp Mountain State Forest Park which is part of Brisbane Forest Park. This is primarily an area for people wanting to stop for a picnic or stroll through the environs. There are remnants of old gold mines in the vicinity . There are shelter sheds, in case of rain or to keep out of the sun, tables, drinking water and barbecue facilities. There is also a short walking track for those who feel they need some exercise after lunch.

2. Camp Mountain State Forest Park
The great appeal of Cape Mountain State Forest Park is that it offers some of the best views available over Samford Valley. The elevation is such that it overlooks Brisbane city, providing an excellent opportunity to survey the city's suburban sprawl, the high-rise modernity of the city centre and the rich farmlands which lie below the D'Aguilar Range.

The park, which is controlled by the Department of Forestry, is rich in wildlife. Eucalypts tower overhead and there is a good walking trail from the recreation area which is provided with shelter sheds, tables, running water, barbecue facilities and toilets.

It is important when visiting State Forest such as Cape Mountain to respect the rules of the Department of Forestry. Stay on the gravel roads, keep well away if there is a bushfire in the area, protect all the flora and fauna and, particularly in summer, be careful with barbecues and fires. It is also important to recognise that it is not permitted to take domestic pets - particularly dogs and cats - into these areas.

3. Mt Nebo
Mt Nebo is a pretty township in the heart of the Brisbane Forest Park. In recent times it has become a centre of gift shops, cafes and picnic areas. It is an ideal stopover on the journey through the park.

4. Manorina National Park
There are a number of excellent walking trails in Manorina National Park which allow the visitor to explore the surrounding rainforest. Visitors may also see the rich variety of wildlife which lives in this area including whipbirds and bellbirds.

5. Mount Glorious
This is the true heartland of the Brisbane Forest Park. From Mount Glorious there are a variety of walks ranging from short journeys to major walks. More information can be obtained at the Brisbane Forest Park Information Centre. The most popular walk is a 5 km round trip from the Maiala picnic ground to the beautiful Green Falls.

6. Lomandra
Lomandra is an excellent picnic area. There is also a rainforest arboretum which has a wide range of species from the local area. It is hidden from the road and is part of the larger Brisbane Forest Park.

7. Ironbark Gully
Ironbark Gully is the premier horse-riding area in the Brisbane Forest Park. From the reserve there are over 6 km of pony trails where horse riders can experience the peacefulness of the bush just 15 km from the city centre.

For further information on Brisbane Forest Park phone the administration on (07) 3300 4855.

	Tourist Information
	Manorina Bush Camp Brisbane Forest Park QLD 4000 Telephone: (07) 3300 4855
	Bed & Breakfast/Guesthouses
	Haslemere Guesthouse Bed & Breakfast Hulcombe Rd Samford Brisbane Forest Park QLD 4000 Telephone: (07) 3289 7190 Rating: ****