Endau-Rompin National Park

The state's tropical rain forest is one of the most complex ecosystem in the world. The forest provide a sanctuary to many near-extinct and rare wildlife and have been set aside from any development. The Endau-Rompin National Park, which spans more than 80,000 hectares on the border between the states of Johor and Pahang is one of the most southerly remnants of tropical rainforest in mainland Asia.

Many unique and endemic varieties of plants have been discovered within the 130 million year old forest such as the magnificent fan palm (Endau ensis), climbing bamboo (Rhopa loblaste) and the slender stemmed walking stick palm (Phychorapis singaporensis).

Pitcher plants, toadstools and orchids also grace the forest floor. Moths and butterflies of every shape and hue can be found flirting among the verdant foliage. It is also home to wildlife such as tapir, deer and wildboars. The hornbill is a familiar sight along the river.

Gunung Arong Recreational Forest

Gunung Arong Recreational Forest lies 17km from Mersing and 22km from Endau along the Mersing - Endau road. The tranquil lowland forest with crystal clear river water is ideal for an outing. There are facilities for visitors. For those who prefer to explore the jungle, there are foot paths and jungle tracks available. A Forestry Museum has been established with exhibits of a wide array of forest products with detailed description of their usage and history. Children's playground, campsites and meeting halls are provided for visitor's convenience. Campers are advised to bring their own camping gear.

Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest

Located 45km to the north of Johor Bahru, the park is reserved as a sanctuary and water catchment area. Along the course of the river are several waterfalls and the pools at the base are popular sports for family picnics.

Three levels of the park have been developed but only two levels are opened to the public. A cascading waterfall of about 50m rises just above the base.

The park is also a favourite location for seminars and workcamps with good camping, cooking, kitchen facilities and halls for meetings provided. There are repelling ropes about 40m for the brave to climb, low ropes, high ropes as well as flying fox obstacle ropes provided. The adventurous can trek up to the peak of Gunung Pulai about 700m above sea level.

Being unexplored and untouched by felling of timber, wild animals such as deers, monkeys, chimps and wild birds abound at the park.

The park is open to the public from 7am to 7pm daily. Entrance is free.

Gunung Lambak Recreational Forest

Located 5km from the town of Kluang is Gunung Lambak. At 510m above sea level, it is an easy climb for visitors using the trails of footpaths and wooden bridges. Facilities here include car parks, rest sheds, benches, toilets and camping sites. There are waterfalls for that refreshing dip, apart from the diversity of wild flora and fauna to appreciate. Scenes of its waterfalls cascading into streams of rapids and pools are simply enchanting amidst retreats of pleasure and adventure.

Gunung Belumut Recreational Forest

To the northeast of Kluang town lies Gunung Belumut Recreational Forest. Its name is derived from the slippery and slimy stones that abound on the mountain. It takes about four hours along dense jungle tracks to reach the peak at 1,004m above sea level. The park can be reached by saloons through a well-maintained plantation road.

The rise to the top is rather moderate so you can have an easy journey. The waterfalls also cascade at low and moderate heights with the base quite flat, safer for children to bask in the low waters. Families, school children and day trip visitors are usually the groups that visit the park which has camping and resting facilities.

Gunung Panti Recreational Forest

Situated about 8km from Kota Tinggi town, the recreational forest is easily accessible by any form of transport. An ideal location for relaxation, there are sheds, stools, toilet facilities and car parks provided for visitors. The lush greenery and serene wilderness are just perfect for camping, waterfall picnics and mountain climbing.