Amamoor State Forest

Deep in the Mary Valley, Amamoor State Forest is a lush pocket of subtropical rainforest, tall eucalypts, and flowing creeks that feels a world away from the Sunshine Coast's beaches. For travellers who love nature without the crowds, this is a serene spot for swimming holes, birdwatching, and gentle bushwalks – and it's the heartland of the annual Gympie Music Muster.

Highlights & What to See

• Amamoor Creek swimming holes: Crystal-clear pools surrounded by rainforest – perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
• Rainforest walks: The Cedar Creek circuit (2.5 km) leads through towering red cedars and past cascades; keep an eye out for kingfishers and brush-turkeys.
• Camping by the creek: Basic sites tucked among the trees let you fall asleep to the sound of running water – book ahead in peak season.
• Gympie Music Muster grounds: Even outside festival time (August), the open-air amphitheatre and grassy paddocks are a peaceful picnic spot.
• Mary River scenery: Drive the short loop to the nearby Mary River for platypus-spotting at dawn or dusk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is enough for a swim and a short walk, but an overnight stay is far more rewarding. Arrive by late morning, set up camp or have a picnic, then spend the afternoon exploring the creeks and trails. If you're not camping, allow 2–3 hours to do the main walk and cool off in the water. The forest is best visited between April and October when the weather is mild and the creeks are flowing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gympie: The historic gold-mining town is 20 minutes north – explore the Queensland Gold Museum and the Grand Hotel's heritage pub.
• Mary Valley: Scenic drives through rolling hills, with the Mary Valley Rattler steam train running from Gympie to Imbil.
• Kenilworth: A dairy-farming village 30 minutes east, famous for its cheese factory and the cascades of the Mary River.
• Sunshine Coast Hinterland: Connect via the Blackall Range road to national parks like Kondalilla and Mapleton Falls – a full day's loop.
• Noosa & Cooloola: Head east to the Great Sandy National Park's coloured sands and pristine beaches, about an hour's drive.

Please check official sources for current details.