When you visit Ipswich, you can experience nature in the finest form with a range of nature-based tourism options. The city has a strong focus on conservation and sustainability and your visit helps to support these efforts. You may even be surprised to hear what is on offer and we cannot wait to show you.
Queens Park Environmental Education Centre
The Queens Park Environmental Education Centre is designed to be enjoyed by all ages showcasing how important the environment is. With interactive displays, an in-house cinema space and an active events hub this venue is a must visit whilst in town. Open Tuesday to Saturday 9am – 2pm.
Ipswich Nature Centre
Also in Queens Park you will find the Ipswich Nature Centre. There is an incredible bilby enclosure which runs a breeding program for the endangered species, and many other Australian native animals including a rescued Eagle that you can learn about. Entry is via gold coin donation and will be a very memorable visit for all.
Environment events
The Ipswich City Environment team always have amazing events in the works and you can keep up to date with these by following their Eventbrite page.
From tree planting, to paddling a canoe down the river and guided walking tours. This is the best way to see our region from a natural perspective with our passionate and knowledgeable guides leading you.
White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate
With views to Brisbane city on one side and South Stradbroke Island from another, the walk to the top peaks of the White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate are very rewarding. Covering 2633 hectares this is Ipswich’s most popular hiking spot and it is easy to see why. There have been 138 species of birds found in the estate.
Look out for guided hikes on our tour page that are held monthly in season, weather permitting.
Purga Nature Reserve
The Purga Nature Reserve has the largest protected remnant of Swamp Tea Tree in Australia. Visitors can enjoy an easy stroll along the all-abilities boardwalk to take in the natural sights and sounds of this 140 hectare-reserve. With an array of wildlife including a koala population the site is also the perfect location for bird spotting.
Denmark Hill Conservation Reserve
The Denmark Hill Conservation Reserve has been upgraded with a very cool nature-based playground and picnic facilities surrounded by nature trails to enjoy. Tucked right in the heart of the city you will feel lost in the wilderness in the best way! The site is home to over 54 different bird species.
Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate
The Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate covers 2200 hectares and is home to the famous Hardings Paddock Campground. Flinders-Goolman is popular for a wide range of activities including bushwalking, horseriding, mountain biking, birdwatching and Traditional Owner cultural practices with a Kupmurri cooking area and bush tucker trail.
Hardings Paddock is the perfect location for a getaway. Surrounded by natural bushland, there are just eight camping sites available to add to the feeling of seclusion. You can even bring your horse to ride the trails, with holding yards on site.
Look out for guided hikes on our tour page that are held monthly in season, weather permitting.
Venture
January to November delivers Venture – a season of outdoor events from cycling, mountain biking and trail running, as well as family friendly outdoor events throughout the Ipswich region. With over 6000ha of open parks and conservation areas, it’s no wonder Ipswich is the home of so many outdoor recreation and endurance events. Keep your eye on the Ipswich Festivals website to stay up to date with all the offerings.
Mountain biking hotspot
Ipswich features the longest single downhill mountain biking track in all of South East Queensland! For keen bikers this is an absolute must do. There is also the best wet weather trail network at Castle Hill, and multiple trails at Hillview Drive and White Rock to name a few. Read more about why Ipswich is the mountain biking capital of QLD.
Brisbane Valley Rail Trail
Wulkuraka in Ipswich is the official starting point of the 161km Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. With dedicated accommodation venues who regularly service cyclists, a shuttle transfer service and even the option to ride your horse! Come and see why 1000’s of people love to head off on the rail trail adventure and see the countryside for all it has to offer. There’s also dedicated cycle tours that allow you to ride part or all of the trail.
Sustainable Ipswich events and activities
If you would like to know more about Ipswich’s sustainability efforts, attend some incredible events on offer throughout the year and during Sustainable Ipswich month this October, then visit Sustainable Ipswich workshops and events website. Held annually, the Sustainable Ipswich program just keeps getting bigger and better every year. There’s a festival, open garden trails, worm farm DIY lessons and a native plant sale among the events.
Behind the scenes there are amazing conservation efforts being undertaken by local businesses, bush care groups, Ipswich City Council and so many more. Even tourism operators have a passion for protecting our surrounding flora and fauna just like Spicers Hidden Vale have done with their Koala sanctuary.
To book in a visit to Ipswich, or find out more information contact the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre for insider knowledge to help you plan your next nature getaway.
