Southwood National Park

Southwood National Park is a nature reserve in Western Downs spanning around 71 square kilometers of protected land. The terrain features cypress pine forests and scattered gilgais that characterize the entire area.

The Queensland government established this protected area in 2001, converting a region formerly known as Wild Horse Paradise into a national park. This transformation marked a turning point in preserving the landscape from previous uses.

The reserve sits on traditional lands of the Bigambul people, who maintained deep ties to this landscape long before European arrival. Visitors walking through the park today can sense this enduring connection in the undisturbed environment that remains.

Visitors should prepare for changing weather conditions and bring suitable gear for walking and exploring. The land is best experienced on foot using marked pathways that guide you safely through the reserve.

The reserve holds the only inland population of wonga pigeons, bird species typically found in coastal areas. It also protects one of the last remaining intact brigalow-belah forests in the Darling Downs region.

Location: Western Downs Regional

Operator: Queensland Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing

GPS coordinates: -27.81318,150.13733

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:43