Maryborough, Queensland, is surrounded by beautiful national parks that offer a range of outdoor activities and natural attractions. Two notable parks in the area are Woowoonga National Park and Poona National Park. Woowoonga National Park, approximately 93 km northwest of Maryborough, features rugged, hilly country along the Woowoonga Range. The park is clothed in open eucalypt forest and dry rainforest, with towering hoop pines. Picnic tables are available for visitors, and hiking is a popular activity within the park.
Poona National Park, located 6 km southeast of Maryborough and accessible by 4WD, protects low-lying coastal plains and two small islands in the Great Sandy Strait. These areas provide an ideal habitat for a variety of shorebirds, including the threatened eastern curlew. Visitors to the park can enjoy camping, fishing, and exploring the park's diverse ecosystems. Additionally, the Fraser Coast region is home to several national parks, such as Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area, Lenthalls Dam, Woondum National Park, and Pipeclay National Park. These parks offer a range of activities, including birdwatching, hiking, and camping, making them perfect for nature lovers visiting the area.