The 50 best camping spots around Western Australia
We’ve always had a strong affinity for camping in Western Australia, and in recent years more and more people are enjoying a lifestyle of camping under the stars.
Indeed, plenty of you are wondering out yonder hard, so we figured we’d try and make a decent list for you to try and work your way through until we’re allowed to travel again. The list is a mix of tent only campsites with a few caravan parks filtered throughout (here’s a list of more traditional caravan and camping parks around WA), with plenty obviously left off – we can’t make it too easy for you!
Please do your own research into specific sites before setting off (Parks & Wildlife is the best start point), always remember to Leave No Trace and treat these regions (and their locals) with respect.
PERTH
Coogee Beach (Coogee)
If you’re looking for something a little closer to home, Coogee Beach is just 10 minutes south of Freo and pretty damn gorgeous. Crystal clear water and white sandy beaches play host to plenty of beach walks, swimming and fishing. It’s also shark netted if you’re worried about any stray noahs.
Rottnest Island (Perth)
While the capacity for camping on Rottnest Island has shrunk in favour of glamping and larger resorts, you can still pitch a tent on the quokka-filled isle. The campground has 43 non-powered sites with ablution block, communal kitchen and two separate free standing barbies. For a comprehensive guide to the best things to do on Rotto head HERE.
Lake Leschenaultia (Chidlow)
Nestled in the wholesome Perth hills region, Lake Leschenaultia feels like a playground for all its attendees. The lake is a popular destination for camping as well as day trips, with a lakebed beach, canoe hire and sheltered BBQ facilities. If you’re not that into cooking you can buy lunch from the kiosk and head out on one for the many hiking trails. Located close to the Chidlow town centre you can also enjoy plenty of nice bakeries, pubs and shops nearby.
Henry White Oval (Yanchep)
Ideally situated amongst tuart and banksia woodlands in the Yanchep National Park, Henry White Oval is purpose built with 9 hard sites and 10 grass sites with great amenities. It’s the perfect launch pad for exploring Yanchep, including bush walks, cave exploring and hanging out with kangaroos.
SOUTH
Herron Point (Peel)
Located just south of the crabbing mecca that is Mandurah, Herron Point Campground in Birchmont has toilets, a camp kitchen, barbecues and more. Located within the Kooljerrenup Nature Reserve, it’s a great fishing and crabbing spot, along with plenty of great bushwalks and birdspotting. You can even bring the doggo (provided it stays on a lead of course).
Martins Tank (Yalgorup National Park)
Located on the shores of scenic Martins Tank Lake, it’s only a short trip hidden gems like Preston Beach, Tim’s Thicket, Myalup and Lake Clifton. The campsite is well decked out with gas barbies, dishwashing sinks and food prep areas, and there’s also a few group camping spaces if you wanna get the crew together.
Marrinup Townsite Campground (Holyoake)
Marrinup campsite is a simple one, set up on open grassed where the old Marrinup townsite used to be about 5km northwest of Dwellingup. It’s a popular spot for mountain bike riders as the Marrinup walk and cycle trail can be found here, along with the popular Munda Biddi trail.
Stringers Campground (Nanga Brook)
Ideally nestled along the banks of the Murray River, Stingers campground is a quaint little spot that caters to tents only. Perfect for a weekend of swimming, kayaking, mountain bike riding, bushwalks and even a spot of fishing.
Lake Navarino (Waroona)
Lake Navarino near Waroona used to have camping facilities in the bush and by the water, but now camping is limited only to the Lake Navarino Holiday Park. No matter though as it’s still a beaut spot to pitch a tent, nestled in the jarrah forests between Waroona and Dwellingup. There’s a whole heap of activities to do in the area, which – along with its proximity to Perth – is why it remains one of the most popular camping locations in the state. At the time of publishing Lake Navarino Holiday Park was closed, so make sure you check ahead before booking.
Lane Poole Reserve (Dwellingup)
Lane Pool is one of the most popular camping destinations near Perth and it’s pretty obvious why. After a quick 1.5hour jaunt out of the city you’ll find yourself parked along the Murray River, with access to hiking trails like the Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi trail. There are nine campsites to choose from and they provide picnic tables and eco toilets on site. The sites have availability to host a variety of camping styles, from tents to full-scale campervans – more info here.
Dwellingup Chalets & Caravan Park (Dwellingup)
Equally popular to Lake Navarino is the Dwellingup Chalets & Caravan Park, a unique setting within the Dwellingup State Forest. It’s within walking distance to the town centre, and makes a perfect base camp for the Bibbulmun Track, Munda Biddi and more. It’s booked up a lot, so best to get in early.
Honeymoon Pool (Collie)
Located in Wellington National Park, this little gem is only two hours south of Perth. The camp spot is situated right on the Collie River so you can wash off the week in tranquil serenity. Spend the weekend kayaking, swimming and walking through the bush land. There are barbecue facilities available on site and it’s 2WD accessible so you’ll be well and truly prepared to go after a quick trip to Woolies.
Potters Gorge (Collie)
Potters Gorge underwent a serious redevelopment a couple of years ago and has turned into one of the southeast’s most popular destinations, with 55 individual sites catering from tents to caravans. There’s plenty of amenities on site, including no-flush toilets, barbecues, picnic tables and more. It’s also filled with fun activities like fishing, canoeing, bushwalking, mountain biking and more – info and bookings here.
Stockton Lake (Collie)
Stockton Lake is where to go if you want to camp by a lake in Collie – although it is on a first-come, first-served basis. Originally an open cut mine, it’s popular for water skiing and boating, and while swimming is permitted, be aware the water is mildly acidic and can cause harm to those with sensitive skin – more info here.
Lake Kepwari (Collie)
Lake Kepwari is the site of an old coal mine that had been mooted as a potential water-based recreation area for almost a decade, before finally achieving that goal in late 2020. Now it’s a purpose-built recreation zone with parking bays, toilets and barbecues, with designated boating and water ski areas, spots to go swimming, canoeing and fishing, camping zones and more.
Glen Mervyn Dam (Collie)
You’ll find Glen Mervyn Dam around 18km south of Collie where there’s plenty of watersskiing action going down most weekends. It’s also a popular swimming and fishing spot, with camping allowed on the western shore where there’s a toilet provided. The eastern shore is reserved for picnicking and day use, dogs are allowed but be aware of fox baits!
Belvidere (Bunbury)
Belvidere is 20km north of Bunbury and offers both beach and river activities, being based near the Leschenault Inlet. The beach and inlet offer great fishing for different species depending on the time of the year, along with kayaking, bushwalking and 4WDing. The campsite is small, but well catered for with BBQs and firewood available between April and November.
Wave Rock Caravan Park (Hyden)
The best way to experience one of WA, if not Australia’s, most unique landmarks is to pitch your tent (or caravan) at Wave Rock Caravan Park. It’ll put you right at the base of the iconic rock formation along with being walking distance to Hippo’s Yawn, Lake Magic and the many epic walking trails in the area.
Yallingup (Yallingup)
Like most of the south west coastline, Yallingup is a stunning spot worthy of putting some serious time into. Incredible surfing and swimming, along with coastal bushwalking and more are at your fingertips. In terms of camping the Yallingup Beach Holiday Park (pictured, below) puts you right in front of Yallingup Main Break, while Caves Caravan Park is a little further inland but, closer to the pub!
Prevelly (Margaret River)
Staying at Prevelly puts you smack-bang in the middle of some of the world’s finest surf breaks, along with plenty of options to explore inland as well. There’s some excellent rockpools to be explored north of surfer’s point at lowtide, or why not get a kayak and head up the Margaret River once you’ve finished learning to surf at the River Mouth.
Conto Campground (Boranup)
Conto Campground near Conto Springs Beach is huge, with over 100 sites nestled amongst shady peppermint woodlands in Boranup, 20 minutes south of Margaret River. It’s mostly accessible with 2WDs, and has some stellar hiking trails (jump on the Cape To Cape track here) to go with surfing, fishing or just putting ya feet up and relaxing.
Sues Bridge (Blackwood River)
Just shy of three hours south from Perth, Sues Bridge campsite comes with kitchen amenities like a sink, food preparation tables, picnic tables and barbecue facilities. Being a waterfront campsite, you can wake up to the soothing sounds of the Blackwood River. Bookings are on a first come first serve basis so it’s best to pick a time not in the pit of school holidays – more info here.
Hamelin Bay (Hamelin Bay)
Hamelin Bay has been a popular tourist destination in WA for decades, and it’s not hard to see why. Long, white sandy beaches, beautiful turquoise water and marine life abound just 25 minutes south of Margs. Birdspotting around the freshwater lake near the caravan park is a must, and of course don’t forget their world famous stingrays.
Torbay Inlet AKA Flood Gates (Albany)
28km west of Albany you can find Torbay Inlet. Surrounded by coastal scrub its small and peaceful, although it’s recommended you access it with a 4WD. From there you can access the beach with a 4WD or walking and it’s a beautiful spot for swimming and a spot of fishing. As of January 1, 2023 the camp will incur a small fee for overnight stays.
BIG4 Emu Beach Caravan Park (Albany)
There’s plenty of wild and free spots to camp around Albany, but if you’re looking for somewhere a little more kitted out it’s hard to go past Emu Beach Caravan Park. 10 minutes from the city centre, its flush with pretty peppermint trees swaying in the breeze and right on the beach. It’s stacked with amenities and facilities to make your camping stay an enjoyable one, and is the perfect kick-off point to exploring all the south coast has to offer.
Waychinicup National Park Campground (Albany)
Stretching from Normans Beach to Cheynes Beach, Waychinicup has granite rock formations typical of the area, along with a scenic inlet and limited camping available. The small site has a gas barbecue and toilet and fees do apply. Your best bet is to check with the Parks Department beforehand, or you can set up camp at the privately operated Cheyne Beach Caravan Park nearby.
West Cape Howe National Park (Albany/Denmark)
West Cape Howe is a dramatic slice of southern coastline, with sheer cliffs and rocky headlands housing beautiful white stretches of sand like Shelley Beach – which just so happened to feature in our look at the 50 Best Beaches Around WA. There’s fishing, surfing, swimming, walking trails, lookouts to be done, you just need to bring a sense of adventure. There are several areas to pitch your tent (including near Shelley Beach), just pay attention to signage and respect the area.
Parry Beach (Denmark)
Parry Beach is a volunteer-managed camping ground in delightful Denmark that provides basic amenities along with beach boat launching. It’s a great spot for surfing and swimming, and for the keen hikers out there the Bibbulmun Track winds along the 5km stretch of beach. Make sure you pop into Greens Pool for a relaxing dip before checking out the epic Elephant Rocks.
Peaceful Bay (Denmark)
If you’re travelling between Denmark and Walpole, make sure you stop in at Peaceful Bay for some – you guessed it – peace and quiet. Peaceful Bay Caravan Park has a lovely, relaxed layout filled with peppermint trees, powered and un-powered sites, amenities and a general store with all the goods you’ll need. Make sure you pop into the Peaceful Bay Fish And Chip shop for some of the freshest seafood going around.
Draftys Camp (Pemberton)
Draftys Camp on The Warren River in Pemberton is a secluded slice of heaven tucked away in the Australian bushland. The campsite provides you with the bare essentials like a picnic table and toilet, but you’ll have to bring everything else with you. The campsites are shaded by overhanging trees and there’s a decking that looks out onto the Warren River where you can sit and relax or drop in a canoe. If you’re looking for a hike, the Warren River walk is a 10.5km trail that takes you deep into the valley for some incredible river views – more info here.
D’Entrecasteaux National Park (Pemberton)
D’Entrecasteaux National Park is a narrow strip of land running over 130km between Augusta and Walpole, and looks like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Steeped in environmental and indigenous history, the geographically impressive location truly feels like another world. It’s raw, rugged and pristine, and a must-do destination for those really wanting to escape to a new part of WA.
Four Mile Campground (Hoeptoun)
If you’re getting into the real deep south than a stop in at Four Mile Campground in Hopetoun is a must. Right near the delightful Four Mile Beach, there’s 15 campsites to accomodate caravans or tents, with picnic tables and gas barbecues to use.
NORTH
Moore River (Guilderton)
Only 100km north of Perth lies one of its best kept and peaceful little secrets – Moore River. With both the river and sea to play in, there’s canoeing, kayaking, fishing, surfing, sandboarding, 4WDing and bushwalking on offer – to name but a few. Guilderton has put a huge emphasis on preserving their wonderful natural assets so anyone can come and enjoy them.
Wanagarren Campground (Jurien Bay)
For camping right on the beach Wanagarren is one of the closest you’ll find to Perth, with 15 sites suitable for tents, rooftop and awning tents and it must be booked online. Self-sufficient campers need only apply, but if you’re in that category you can expect a wonderful time fishing, swimming, snorkelling and even surfing in the right conditions
Karda Campground (Jurien Bay)
Set right next to the Lesueuer National Park, Karda is open throughout the middle of the year from April 1 to October 31. It has two loops with 30+ campsites suitable for all types of equipment, each featuring a picnic table and fire pit. Bookings essential.
Milligan Island Camping Node (Green Head)
In between the northwest coastal towns of Green Head and Leeman you’ll find the Milligan Island Camping Node – 36 camp sites in a quiet spot out of town, very close to the beach. The eco tourist site features no running water or power, but does have long drop toilets and gas barbecues. The beaches around the area are an adventurer’s paradise, with snorkelling on Lipfert Island, sandboarding, beach fishing, kitesurfing and even normal surfing in the right conditions – it’s epic.
Ellendale Pool (Geraldton)
One of the prettiest, north west-style camping spots that’s somewhat close to Perth, Ellendale Pool is a beautiful water hole that has formed naturally along the Greenough River. Surrounded by gum trees and a rocky gorge, it’s only around 45 minute south east of Geraldton, and as such is a popular overnight camping spot. Interpretive signs abound the area offering an insight into the areas Aboriginal and European history, along with public facilities and barbecues making it the perfect picnic spot. Check warning signs with regards to swimming.
Lucky Bay (Kalbarri)
About 30km south of Kalbarri you’ll find Lucky Bay, a popular spot for beach campers and those who fancy a bit of adrenalin on their coastal stays. Thanks to an outer reef along the length of the bay it’s a great for swimming and snorkelling spot, while the dunes provide protection from the wind and plenty of fun for motorbike and dune buggie enthusiasts.
Dirk Hartog Island (Shark Bay)
Shark Bay is filled with some spectacular coastal vistas and also the delightful Dirk Hartog Island, itself home to some nine national park campsites. Head east to get out of the prevailing northwest area winds and enjoy beaut beach fishing, snorkelling, SUPing and more. This site lays it all out nicely for you.
Francois Peron (Shark Bay)
If you’re wondering where in WA you can red dunes meeting meet the sea, Francois Peron National Park within the Shark Bay World Heritage area is the place. The Big Lagoon has a great camping area and is a fantastic jumping off point for some of the state’s best kayaking and canoeing, while Cape Peron and Skipjack Point Lookout offer spectacular views unique to our little corner of the world.
Gladstone Bay Campground (Shark Bay)
Smack bang in the middle of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Gladstone Bay takes over 3km of coastline including an historic jetty and obscenely clear turquoise waters flush with marine life. Fishing, kayaking, snorkelling and relaxing abound in a campsite that has toilets, an artesian camp shower, picnic area, communal fire pit and plenty more. No bookings required, but we suggest you read up first HERE.
Quobba Station (MacLeod)
For a true blue, red-dirt-meets-the sea, Australian outback camping adventure it’s hard to go past Quobba Station. The family operated working pastoral station runs along 80km of some of WA’s most spectacular coastline, featuring gnarly surf, jagged cliffs and thrilling landscapes. The homestead has fantastic camping options which still require plenty of self-sufficiency, and you can do plenty of reading up on it HERE.
Wooramel Riverside Retreat (Carnarvon region)
Another wonderful station stay typical of WA’s north west, Wooramel is situated right on the banks of the Wooramel River. There you’ll enjoy naturally heated therapeutic artesian bore baths, a plethora of wildlife, private camp fires, star-filled night skies and more. Learn more and book HERE.
Warroora Station (Coral Bay)
Elsewhere around Ningaloo, Warroora Station is another stellar campground that puts you right on the brilliant blue waters of the Coral Coast. The unpowered sites are well equipped with camp kitchen, hot showers, toilet amenities and more. All that said, make sure y0u bring some drinking water, and probably don’t try and roll up in a 2WD.
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Cape Range National Park (Exmouth)
Where the rugged landscape of Northern WA meets the vibrant Ningaloo Marine Park, Cape Range National Park is an adventure-seekers playground. Ancient rivers wind through magnificent red rock gorges out into the blue seas of the Ningaloo Coast, and possibilities are legitimately endless. Snorkelling, swimming, fishing, surfing, bushwalking… You name it – it’s a truly special part of our coastline. Ningaloo Station is another stellar option to get amongst this area.
Osprey Bay Campground (Exmouth)
Another excellent option within the Ningaloo Marine Park region is Osprey Bay – 44 campsites set above a rock-shelf shoreline with its own little sandy beach for visitors. There you can swim, snorkel and sunbathe to your heart’s content, or jump on a walk trail taking you to Sandy Bay where you can drop a line in thanks to it being a recreational fishing zone from the shore.
Gnoorea Point (Karratha)
Half the mileage but no less fun is Gnoorea Point AKA 40 Mile Beach, a remote camping experience 60-odd kilometres out of Karratha. Bring your fishing tackle to catch a feed, and enjoy a little less wind than most places up this way thanks to plenty of protection. Amenities are basic/non-existent, so make sure you come prepared.
Eighty Mile Beach (Port Headland)
Eighty Mile Beach between Port Headland and Broome is a glorious stop-over point along our northern coast, with great fishing and of course WA’s famous sunsets. The campgrounds at Eight Mile Beach Caravan Park offer around 200 sites, most of them powered, with cabins also available.
Pender Bay Escape (Broome region)
One of the best spots up north for whale watching, Pender Bay Escape is owned and operated by Goojarr Goonyool Aboriginal Corporation – a registered charitycommitted to whale conservation. The small campsite is perfect seclusion and getting the whales all to yourself, to go with the prviate beaches and epic fishing, lookouts, walks and more. Given its size, bookings are essential.