There is no public transport to Springbrook. A car is essential, and the drive is genuinely scenic — the road climbs steeply up the escarpment and the views from the upper sections, back across the coastal plain, are dramatic in their own right.
From the Gold Coast, the standard route is via Mudgeeraba: take the Mudgeeraba exit from the M1 (Pacific Motorway), follow the signs to Mudgeeraba town, and then take Springbrook Road up the escarpment. The drive from Surfers Paradise takes about 45 minutes. The road is narrow and winding in places on the upper sections; take it steadily.
From Brisbane, the most direct route is south on the M1 to the Mudgeeraba exit (allow about 90 minutes from central Brisbane). An alternative route goes via Beaudesert and then south-west through Canungra to Springbrook — slightly longer but a pleasant drive through the scenic rim country.
The Natural Bridge section of the park is not directly connected to the main Springbrook plateau by road. From the main plateau, you need to descend and approach from Nerang via Advancetown. From the Gold Coast directly, follow signs to Natural Bridge via the Nerang–Murwillumbah Road; the drive is about 45 minutes from Surfers Paradise. Budget for a long half-day or a full day if you want to visit both sections of the park.
Petrol is not available in Springbrook village. Fill up before you head up the mountain.