
Thunderbird Park
Adventure awaits at Thunderbird Park! From soaring high ropes to digging for treasures and operating excavators, it's a family fun destination.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Full range of activities available

Thunderbird Park
Best Time
Full range of activities available

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Adventure awaits at Thunderbird Park! From soaring high ropes to digging for treasures and operating excavators, it's a family fun destination.
"Kids had an absolute ball at the high ropes course and gem fossicking!"

Book Adventure Courses Ahead
Popular high ropes and other adventure activities fill up fast. Book online to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Pack for the Dig Site
Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water for gem fossicking – it gets hot and dusty! :sunwithface:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

High Ropes Adventure
Adventure Park
Soar through the trees on thrilling aerial obstacle courses. Fun for all ages!

Gem Fossicking
Dig Site
Unearth treasures and discover fascinating rocks. A dusty but rewarding family activity.

Dig It! Excavator Experience
Dig It! Area
Operate real excavators in a safe, fun environment. Kids love this hands-on adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Adventure
Picnic & Dig Smart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Adventure Courses Ahead
Popular high ropes and other adventure activities fill up fast. Book online to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Pack for the Dig Site
Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water for gem fossicking – it gets hot and dusty! :sunwithface:
Picnic Preparedness
Limited public seating. Bring your own picnic blanket or portable BBQs for a comfy lunch. :sandwich:
Dig It! Time Limit
The Dig It! excavator experience offers unlimited time for $65, making it great value for kids. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Adventure Courses Ahead
Popular high ropes and other adventure activities fill up fast. Book online to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Pack for the Dig Site
Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water for gem fossicking – it gets hot and dusty! :sunwithface:
Picnic Preparedness
Limited public seating. Bring your own picnic blanket or portable BBQs for a comfy lunch. :sandwich:
Dig It! Time Limit
The Dig It! excavator experience offers unlimited time for $65, making it great value for kids. :moneybag:
Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing, so wear comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Thunderbird Park is a beloved spot for family adventures, with the high ropes course and unique Dig It! excavator experience receiving high praise. While some areas show signs of age, the overall atmosphere is fun and engaging. Visitors appreciate the hands-on activities, though some note limited public seating and a desire for more staff guidance at the fossicking site.
"Kids had an absolute ball at the high ropes course. Was a little disappointed that there was no public seating/BBQ areas to have a picnic lunch while waiting. I understand that there is a cafe for people to enjoy but when the cost of the activities is quite high we wanted to do our own lunch. Thankfully there was a grassy patch of grass and we took some gas BBQs of our own. A really relaxed enjoyable afternoon."
Danielles Days Out
"It's a great adventure with my lil one , who has enjoyed every bit of but I feel the timings abit shorter of only 4 mins per ride but we will see you again next to dig it out cheers , we have a great time"
ROnn1E Sharma
"Fossicking was a great activity for the kids - very dusty and hot in the sun (make sure you take a hat and bottle of water).
A suggestion - it would be nice if a few staff were up in the dig site to help kids identify areas to dig or rocks that 'might' be worth taking down to be cut.
Whilst some parts of the park are looking a little tired it was still a fun day out overall."
Sawyer Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thunderbird Park is located on Tamborine Mountain. Driving is the most common way, approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from the Gold Coast. There are no direct public transport options, so consider a car or ride-sharing service.
Yes, ample parking is available at Thunderbird Park. It's generally free for visitors, making it convenient for those driving.
Absolutely! Thunderbird Park is a popular destination for day trips from the Gold Coast and Brisbane, offering a variety of activities to fill your day.
Driving is highly recommended for flexibility. The scenic drive up Tamborine Mountain offers beautiful views. If you don't have a car, consider organized tours or ride-sharing services.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services directly to Thunderbird Park. Visitors typically drive or arrange private transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park grounds is generally free, but specific activities like the high ropes course, gem fossicking, and Dig It! excavator experience have separate fees. Check their website for current pricing.
It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for the adventure activities like the high ropes course, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and specific activities. It's best to check the official Thunderbird Park website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours.
Thunderbird Park sometimes offers package deals for multiple activities or family passes. Keep an eye on their website or social media for any promotions.
While some activities might be available for on-the-day purchase, booking in advance is strongly advised, particularly for the high ropes course, to ensure availability.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the high ropes course, gem fossicking, mini-golf, the Dig It! excavator experience, and beautiful natural surroundings for walks.
Yes, Thunderbird Park is very family-friendly. Activities like gem fossicking and the Dig It! excavator experience are particularly great for younger kids, with some high ropes courses also catering to them.
Wear comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, especially if you plan on doing the high ropes course or fossicking. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
Restrooms are available. While there's a cafe, public seating and BBQ areas are limited, so many visitors bring their own picnic blankets and portable BBQs.
Most visitors spend a full day at Thunderbird Park to enjoy a variety of activities. You can easily spend 4-6 hours or more, especially with kids.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Thunderbird Park has a cafe offering food and drinks. However, many visitors choose to bring their own picnic lunches due to limited public seating.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is common, especially for picnics. Just be mindful of where you set up and clean up after yourselves.
Public BBQ facilities are limited. Some visitors bring their own portable BBQs, but it's advisable to check park regulations regarding their use.
The cafe typically offers standard cafe fare like sandwiches, snacks, and beverages. It's a convenient option if you prefer not to pack your own food.
Bringing a picnic is generally more budget-friendly, especially for families. The cafe can be a convenient but more expensive option.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the lush rainforest canopy from the high ropes course, the unique textures of the rocks during gem fossicking, and the excited faces of kids operating excavators.
It's generally not recommended or permitted to take photos while actively on the high ropes course for safety reasons. You can take photos before and after your climb.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing the diverse activities. For the natural scenery, a wide-angle lens can be useful. Ensure your gear is protected from dust at the fossicking site.
The natural rainforest setting provides many scenic spots. Look for clearings and elevated points for panoramic views, especially during the drive up Tamborine Mountain.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and private recreational areas for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check Thunderbird Park's specific drone policy before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Pack plenty of water, hats, and sunscreen, especially for the fossicking area. Consider bringing your own picnic as public seating is limited. Booking adventure activities in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment during peak times.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on activities like gem fossicking, which offers a rewarding experience for a set fee, or simply enjoy exploring the park's natural trails. Look out for any package deals that might offer discounts for booking multiple activities.
🌿 Nature Lovers
While the focus is on adventure activities, the natural setting provides a peaceful backdrop. The drive up Tamborine Mountain itself is scenic, offering glimpses of the lush landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the High Ropes
Many visitors rave about the sense of accomplishment after completing the course. It's important to note that booking in advance is crucial, as sessions often sell out. Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes, and be prepared for a workout. The park provides all necessary safety equipment and a briefing before you begin your adventure.
Unearthing Treasures: Gem Fossicking
Some visitors have suggested that having staff present in the dig site to offer guidance on identifying potential treasures or areas to focus on would enhance the experience. Despite this, the thrill of discovery makes it a memorable activity. Remember to bring your own water bottles and hats, and be prepared for a bit of a mess – it’s all part of the fun!
Dig It! A Unique Excavator Adventure
Reviewers highlight how much children enjoy this activity, with many not wanting to leave. It's a fantastic way to provide a memorable and exciting experience that's different from typical park attractions. The Dig It! area is well-managed, ensuring safety while maximizing the fun factor for its participants.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit