It is approximately 60 km from Harrismith on the Golden Gate Road (R712) and formed an integral part of the Highlands Treasure Route.
The South African Development Trust (SADT) had already purchased additional land to the north and northwest of QwaQwa in 1984 to reduce localised overcrowding.
The 22 000 hectare park was previously enclosed with fencing before being removed to allow for the free movement of 3 000 game animals.
QwaQwa National Park was initially managed by the Highlands Development Corporation (HDC), a government business enterprise.
The HDC headed the Rand Water Project which has various economic development proposals in QwaQwa as well as the eastern Free State.
Conflict between the Park management and community members arose when no formal recognition was made of the cultural and economic relevance of the land occupied by the residents.
There is a large variety of mammals found in the reserve, namely Springbok, Burchell's zebra, Eland, Black Wildebeest, Blesbok, and Red Hartebeest.
Mammals in the area include the: The park offers bird watching, game tours, guided horse riding and a two-day hiking trail which spans 27 kilometres.