Nam Phong National Park is a protected natural area in Khon Kaen Province, Northeastern Thailand. Established to conserve forest ecosystems around the Ubolratana Reservoir, it offers scenic mountain views, wildlife habitats, and popular lookout points near Khon Kaen city. The park is a well-known destination for eco-tourism and regional recreation.
Key Facts
Management: Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (Thailand)
Location: Ban Phue, Nong Ruea District, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand
Established: 1975
Area: About 197 square kilometers
Main feature: Forests surrounding Ubolratana Dam reservoir
Locals come here to immerse into nature.
- Hidden waterfalls like Huai Yang (rarely crowded).
- Jungle trails with almost no foot traffic.
- Great for motorbike exploring + picnics.
- Feels wild and untouched compared to tourist parks.
The park lies within the Phu Wiang mountain range, featuring undulating terrain, sandstone cliffs, and forested plateaus overlooking the Nam Phong River and Ubolratana Dam. Elevations vary from about 200 to 800 meters, creating diverse microclimates and habitats that support a wide range of flora and fauna.
Ecology and Wildlife
Nam Phong National Park contains dry dipterocarp and mixed deciduous forests typical of northeastern Thailand. Common wildlife includes barking deer, wild boar, civets, and numerous bird species. The park’s vegetation plays a vital role in watershed protection for the Ubolratana Reservoir and surrounding agricultural lands.
Attractions and Recreation
Visitors come for panoramic viewpoints such as Hin Chang Si, which offers vistas of the reservoir and Khon Kaen plains, along with nature trails, rock formations, and seasonal waterfalls. Camping areas and viewpoints are managed to promote low-impact tourism and environmental education.
Conservation and Significance
The park supports local environmental stability by safeguarding watersheds and biodiversity. It is part of Thailand’s broader protected area network, balancing ecological preservation with tourism and community involvement around Khon Kaen Province.
👉 Best part: you can spend hours here and barely see anyone.
