Contents
- 1 The best national parks near Perth
- 1.1 Surround Perth
- 1.2 National Parks Western Australia
- 1.3 National Parks near Perth
- 1.3.1 Nambung National Park
- 1.3.2 John Forrest National Park
- 1.3.3 Yanchep National Park
- 1.3.4 Serpentine National Park
- 1.3.5 Kalamunda National Park
- 1.3.6 Kalbarri National Park
- 1.3.7 Yalgorup National Park
- 1.3.8 Walyunga National Park
- 1.3.9 Francois Peron National Park
- 1.3.10 Camping in National Parks near Perth
- 1.3.11 Entry Fees for National Parks near Perth
- 1.3.12 Conclusion
- 1.4 FAQs
- 1.4.1 Which national parks are best for a day trip from Perth?
- 1.4.2 Are there campsites in Western Australia’s national parks?
- 1.4.3 Can I see marine life in any of the national parks near Perth?
- 1.4.4 What do I bring for a picnic in the national parks?
- 1.4.5 How do I get a park pass for the national parks?
The best national parks near Perth
Perth is a city that buzzes with life, with its beautiful beaches and city centre the perfect base to explore the many and varied landscapes of Western Australia. Visitors to this city can access many national parks close by and experience different environments from rugged to bushland. Here are some of the best national parks near Perth as we get into nature near Perth.
Surround Perth
Perth’s surroundings are a sensory experience with so much natural beauty. This region has long coastlines, granite outcrops and rainforest. From white sandy beaches and turquoise water to deep gorges and ancient rock formations, Western Australia has it all. The Perth Hills have stunning views and outdoor activities and the south west is a hidden gem with so many wildlife species.
National Parks Western Australia
Different national parks have been set up in Western Australia, each with its own special something. Notable ones are Kalbarri National Park for its views over deep gorges, Karijini National Park for its ancient gorges and scenery, etc. Cape Range National Park has emerald bays and unspoiled beaches, Cape Le Grand National Park has white sandy beaches including Lucky Bay. If you love marine life, visit Ningaloo Marine Park, as it’s a biodiversity hotspot where you can swim with manta rays and see live coral reefs.
Thousands of Travellers
Every year, thousands of visitors come here to see the natural wonders of West Australia’s national parks. Being so close to city, they are perfect for Perth day tours or longer stays. Whether you want to drive through Avon Valley National Park for the scenery or experience nature in Yanchep National Park, the temptation to interact with the landscape and wildlife is too great. Don’t forget these parks have picnic tables so you can have your lunch or see what wildlife lives here.
National Parks near Perth
Nambung National Park
200km north of Perth, Nambung National Park is home to the Pinnacles Desert. The desert has a surreal and otherworldly feel as limestone pillars rise dramatically from the sand. There are walking trails and scenic drives if you want to walk the Pinnacles Desert, as well as viewing points to take in the views. It also has coastal scenery and diverse ecosystems, so it must be on the list for those who love the wild beauty that Western Australia is famous for.
John Forrest National Park
John Forrest National Park is 35km east of Perth and one of the oldest national parks in WA. This park has many walking trails, including the elevated Railway Reserve Heritage Trail, which gives you access to the natural beauty and history. The landscape is made up of granite outcrops, bushland, and Glen Brook Dam, which is stunning. If you like wildlife, you can see grey kangaroos and many types of birds. The park has picnic facilities where families can spend the day and picturesque waterfalls like Hovea Falls and Lesmurdie Falls, where you can have lunch.
Yanchep National Park
50km north of Perth and never fails to please nature lovers. Many caves, one of the most famous being Crystal Cave, others go through forests for walking. Koalas and other native animals live here, where you can see them up close. It’s an important environmental site so people visit here with picnic tables.
Serpentine National Park
50km south of Perth is Serpentine National Park, famous for its waterfalls, Serpentine Falls. When picnicking or walking, tourists have a great view with a backdrop of wildlife and forest across the whole area. The park can be enjoyed by visitors by driving and walking paths. It is the perfect spot for a weekend at-home dinner.
Kalamunda National Park
Kalamunda National Park in the Perth Hills has many natural experiences. Granite hillsides and interesting drives, walking trails including Biddi Bike Trail. This place to explore rugged beauty and get views from different points and experience flora and fauna. 4WD is possible here as well as picnicking.
Kalbarri National Park
Kalbarri National Park 590km north of Perth is famous for its deep gorges and river scenery. The park has scenic drives, walking and wildlife watching and other outdoor activities. The Murchison River and ancient gorges in the park make for dramatic cliffs and unique geological formations. Various natural landscapes such as coastal cliffs or inland gorges for nature lovers.
Yalgorup National Park
Yalgorup National Park is famous for its wetland habitats and Lake Clifton, which has thrombolites – ancient microbial structures that show the earliest forms of life on Earth. Salt lakes, woodlands, and coastal dunes are some of the natural features here. Walking trails to birdwatching spots and picnic areas with views of the lake and surrounding.
Walyunga National Park
This Walyunga National Park is 40km north of Perth. Great views of the river and walking trails. The hills around it are beautiful, and the Swan River flows past cliffs in a gorge. One of the best places to visit on your day off. So, if you care about your health, you can go for a walk and also search for wildlife on these trails.
Francois Peron National Park
The Shark Bay Peninsula is home to Francois Peron N.P. This park is famous for its marine life and coastlines. The Park has four-wheel driving, bushwalking and beachcombing opportunities. The turquoise water, white sandy beaches and sea life make it a great place for coastal lovers.
Camping in National Parks near Perth
Many national parks near Perth offer camping in the great outdoors. Different options are catered for, from caravan parks to secluded campsites. Picnic tables, BBQ areas, and designated campsites are available at places like John Forest National Park and Serpentine National Park. But if you want something more rustic, then you can go to Kalbarri National Park or Karijini National Park, where there are campsites in stunning natural scenery.
Entry Fees for National Parks near Perth
Fees for national parks near Perth vary depending on the park and type of visit. Entrance fees are moderate at places like Yanchep National Park and John Forrest NP. Others like Nambung NP don’t charge entrance but may charge for certain activities or services. Check the park’s website or contact them for current fees and permits.
Conclusion
Perth has enough natural beauty to keep most outdoor types entertained for their whole stay here. From the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung NP to the gorges in Kalbarri NP, these parks have so much for nature lovers to do on holiday or short breaks from work. Hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic picnic spots will keep you busy in any of the parks around Perth. So pack up your gear, get a parking pass, and let’s explore Western Australia’s wild west.
FAQs
Which national parks are best for a day trip from Perth?
John Forrest NP, Yanchep NP and Serpentine NP are the top rated national parks near Perth that you can do in a day. They are all within an hours drive from the city so perfect for a weekend hike, picnic or wildlife watching.
Are there campsites in Western Australia’s national parks?
Yes, most near Perth national parks have campsites, including John Forest, Serpentine and Kalamunda National Park, from basic tent sites to full caravan grounds.
Can I see marine life in any of the national parks near Perth?
While most are focused on land based environments Francois Peron National Park and Ningaloo Marine Park might be better places to see some oceanic life. Well known reefs and manta ray encounters at Ningaloo Marine Park make it stand out from the others here.
What do I bring for a picnic in the national parks?
When picnicking at these locations; think of bringing picnic rugs, food baskets with drinks and optional portable BBQ if allowed. Some places have picnic tables but always best to check before you go so you’re not limited during your meal outside without enough resources.
How do I get a park pass for the national parks?
Park passes can be purchased from the park website, visitor centres or occasionally at the entrance. Check individual park for requirements as some have online booking or permits for certain activities.