Karawatha Forest Park

One of Brisbane City Council's largest bushland reserves, about 900 hectares on the city's southside taking in freshwater lagoons, sandstone ridges, dry eucalypt forest and uncommon wet heathland. More than 40 kilometres of walking and shared-use tracks cross the reserve, from short strolls to harder climbs. The main entry off Acacia Road has a discovery centre with interactive exhibits, a nature-play playground and picnic shelters with electric barbecues. Entry is free, and dogs on leash are permitted — a rarity for bushland of this scale.

Main car park at the Discovery Centre off Acacia Road; dogs must stay on leash.