SABAH, located on the west coast of Malaysia, boasts a hidden gem that nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers shouldn't miss – the Crocker Range Park. Spanning about 75km in length and 15km in width along a northeast-southwest axis, this park is a sprawling wonderland covering 139,919 hectares, roughly twice the size of Singapore.
Crocker Range Park features elevations ranging from 100m to 2050m, culminating at the peak of Mt. Alab. The park's vast landscape is predominantly covered by lush forests, hosting one of the last remaining hills of dipterocarp forests in Sabah's west coast. Beyond its natural beauty, Crocker Range Park serves a crucial role as a vital water catchment area, originating from the headwaters of five major rivers in the region.
Opening its doors from 8am to 5pm every day, the park invites visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature and experience the unique offerings within its boundaries.
DISCOVERING THE SUBSTATIONS: MAHUA, INOBONG, ULU SENAGANG, AND MORE
Crocker Range Park unfolds its magic through various substations, each offering a distinctive experience. The Mahua Substation in Tambunan District, situated about 14 km from Tambunan town, beckons with the allure of the 17m tall Mahua waterfall cascading into a 1.3m deep pool. Basic shelters and picnic facilities make it a popular spot, especially among locals.
Moving to Penampang District, the Inobong Visitor & Research Station presents a cool climate and a breathtaking panoramic view of Kota Kinabalu. Visitor facilities, including chalets and restaurants, are underway, promising an enhanced experience in the near future.
The Ulu Senagang Substation, situated near the boundaries of Tenom and Keningau districts, provides a serene setting for riverside picnics, fostering a connection with nature.
Other substations like Melalap (Tenom), Ulu Kimanais (Papar), and Ulu Membakut (Beaufort) primarily serve enforcement and management purposes. While not open to visitors, these areas play a crucial role in preserving the park's ecological balance.
IMMERSIVE ACTIVITIES AT CROCKER RANGE PARK
The park offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts and educational programmes for school children. The Crocker Nature Centre, inaugurated in February 2004, stands as a testament to the park's commitment to environmental education. Complete with a lecture room and a gallery, it provides an ideal setting for small meetings, conferences, camping, jungle trekking, and outdoor educational activities.
Explore the Fernarium, Insectarium, and Rafflesia sites within the park. Engage in nature trail walks, games, quizzes, and compost-making demonstrations. The park also provides accommodation options with hostels, camping sites, shelters, and restrooms. An upcoming restaurant is set to enhance visitors' culinary experience.
FACILITIES AND ATTRACTIONS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE VISIT
Crocker Range Park boasts a range of facilities to make your visit memorable. An exhibition centre at the Crocker Nature Centre, open from 9am to 4pm, offers free entrance and a video show upon request. A viewing tower allows visitors to appreciate the panoramic view of Keningau town and its surroundings.
The Fernarium, established in 1996, houses an impressive collection of fern species found in Sabah, while the Insectarium showcases live insects thriving in the area. A medium-sized lecture room and a tower platform for a panoramic view add to the park's attractions.
