Autumn is one of the best times to explore South Korea’s forests, and Gyeongnam offers plenty of destinations for travelers looking to escape the city and enjoy the changing colors.
From mountain retreats and peaceful walking trails to forest camping and coastal scenery, the province offers a variety of fall getaways for families, couples and outdoor enthusiasts.
Geumwonsan Natural Recreation Forest, Geochang
Surrounded by forested mountains and scenic valleys, Geumwonsan Natural Recreation Forest is an excellent destination for autumn foliage.
Visitors can explore wooded walking trails, enjoy the changing colors and spend a night surrounded by nature. Nearby Gajo Healing Land provides another option for a relaxing forest getaway.
Odosan Natural Recreation Forest, Hapcheon
Located in the mountainous countryside of Hapcheon, Odosan Natural Recreation Forest offers a peaceful setting for autumn walks and overnight stays.
The surrounding forest is particularly attractive during foliage season, while the nearby Odosan Healing Forest provides opportunities for nature-based relaxation programs.
Daebongsan Natural Recreation Forest, Hamyang
Hamyang is known for its mountainous landscapes, making Daebongsan Natural Recreation Forest a good choice for travelers seeking a quieter autumn retreat.
The area offers opportunities to enjoy forest scenery, walking trails and overnight accommodation away from busier tourist destinations.
Namhae Cypress Natural Recreation Forest, Namhae
For travelers who prefer coastal scenery alongside their forest experience, Namhae Cypress Natural Recreation Forest offers a different kind of autumn escape.
Visitors can enjoy the wooded surroundings before exploring Namhae’s coastal roads, villages and seaside attractions.
The combination makes it particularly suitable for a weekend trip.
Wolasan Forest, Jinju
Wolasan offers a combination of natural scenery and outdoor activities, making it a good destination for families.
The area includes Wolasan Natural Recreation Forest and forest leisure sports facilities, allowing visitors to combine a relaxing walk with more active experiences.
Hwangmaesan Forest Campground, Hapcheon
For travelers interested in camping, Hwangmaesan Forest Campground offers an opportunity to spend the night surrounded by mountain landscapes.
The nearby Hwangmaesan Arboretum provides another place to explore seasonal plants and autumn scenery, making the two destinations suitable for a combined day trip or overnight visit.
Ppaejae Forest Leisure Sports Park, Geochang
Those looking for something more active can visit Ppaejae Forest Leisure Sports Park.
Rather than focusing entirely on sightseeing, the park offers forest-based recreational activities in a mountain setting, making it an alternative for families and couples who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Gyeongsangnam-do Arboretum, Jinju
One of the province’s notable destinations for a leisurely autumn walk, Gyeongsangnam-do Arboretum features landscaped gardens, tree collections and walking paths.
The arboretum was selected by the Korea Forest Service in 2026 as one of 10 recommended arboretums for family visits.
It is particularly suitable for visitors who want to enjoy fall colors without taking on a demanding mountain hike.
Forest Healing Destinations in Changwon and Geoje
For a more relaxed outing, the Cypress Healing Forest in Changwon and the Healing Forest in Geoje offer opportunities to spend time in peaceful woodland surroundings.
Depending on the location and schedule, visitors can participate in guided forest walks, meditation and other nature-focused activities.
Changwon also has forest bathing areas around Cheonjusan, Muhaksan and Cheonjabong mountains, providing additional options for short autumn outings.
Planning Your Autumn Forest Trip
Many of Gyeongnam’s forest destinations can be combined with nearby attractions for a longer trip.
Geoje, Tongyeong, Namhae and Goseong are particularly convenient for combining forest walks with coastal sightseeing, while inland destinations such as Geochang, Hamyang and Hapcheon offer mountain scenery and quieter rural surroundings.
Travelers planning overnight stays at natural recreation forests or forest campgrounds can check availability and make reservations through Foresttrip, South Korea’s national forest recreation booking service.
Autumn foliage conditions vary by location and elevation, so checking local conditions, operating schedules and reservation requirements before departure is recommended.
