The first laws to protect the country's scenic areas were passed in Tasmania in 1863. In 1879, the Royal National Park was established south of Sydney - Australia's first, and the world's second, national park.
Many parks contain fragments of Aboriginal culture - paintings, burial grounds and ceremonial sites.
These rare, sacred sites are protected and, in some cases, parks are owned by the Aboriginal people. Every year, more than four million people visit Australia's national parks. Where camping is not allowed, suitable camping grounds or accommodation are usually nearby. Visitors also enjoy abseiling, bushwalking, botanical pursuits, and discovering Australia's colorful birds, mammals, and reptiles. Special thanks to the Australian Tourist Commission for help with this story.