Phu Ruea National Park

Phu Ruea National Park is a protected mountain park in Phu Ruea District, Loei Province, northeastern Thailand. Centered on the 1,365-meter Phu Ruea peak, which resembles an overturned boat, the park covers about 121 square kilometers of pine forests, grasslands and mixed deciduous forest. Established in 1979, it is known for its cool climate, seasonal sea of mist, sunrise viewpoints, rock formations and temperate flower gardens, making it a popular cool-season destination.

Visitors can expect a cool mountain environment with pine forests, grassy meadows and sandstone cliffs. The main area is the Phu Ruea summit viewpoint accessible by park road and a short walk, offering sunrise and sea-of-mist views. Other accessible areas include Pha Lon Noi cliff viewpoint, Hin Sam Thong, Hin Tao and Pha Sam Thong rock formations, Huai Phai Waterfall (seasonal), and landscaped temperate flower gardens near the headquarters. Facilities include visitor centre, campsites, bungalows and nature trails for walking and photography.

Established on 26 July 1979 as Thailand's 16th national park, covering approximately 121 square kilometers. The name Phu Ruea refers to the mountain whose shape resembles an overturned boat (ruea). The park was created to protect highland pine and mixed deciduous forests and watershed areas in the Phetchabun Range.

The park is a well-known cool-climate destination in Isan (northeastern Thailand) associated with seasonal flower festivals and highland agriculture. The summit area is a popular sunrise viewpoint for domestic visitors during the cool season.