13 of the Most Beautiful Camping Spots Near Perth

If you’ve found yourself in Perth and want to sleep under the stars (but not have to drive for hours and hours) you’re in luck.

Thanks to Perth being the most isolated capital city in the world, it’s filled with some of the country’s most bountiful landscapes – many of which are accessible a short drive from the city centre. There are a plethora of free and low-cost camping spots near Perth to unwind, unplug and get amongst the great outdoors. Here are 13 of our favourites.

1. Lake Leschenaultia, Perth Hills

Lake Leschenaultia camping — Lake Leschenaultia offers a picturesque escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

Distance from Perth: 55 minutes

Best for: Families and first-timers

Perth’s hills might surprise you, as the city’s coastline often steals the spotlight. However, camping at Lake Leschenaultia immerses you in native bush, wildflowers and gentle valleys. It features a lakebed beach, canoe hire, and sheltered BBQ spots. Nearby Chidlow town adds to the charm with its bakeries, shops, and pubs. The campground itself offers 23 campsites spread across three distinct areas: Tent Campground, Main Campground, and Group Campground. Each area has its own bathroom, while BBQ, playground, kitchen, and kiosk facilities are shared. A three-kilometre walk around the lake provides opportunities to spot kangaroos, possums, and echidnas. For those seeking a longer adventure, an additional 12 kilometres of walking and mountain biking trails are available. Bookings can be made online, with some sites being unpowered and lacking onsite parking, so specify your needs when booking.

2. Perth Hills Discovery Centre at Beelu National Park

Distance from Perth: 40 mins

Best for: Families with young kids

Just a 40-minute drive from the Perth CBD, the Perth Hills Discovery Centre is perfect for first-time campers and families with young children. The site offers twelve shady tent sites, fire rings, outdoor picnic tables, and high-quality amenities including an ablution block, picnic tables, and a camp kitchen with electric barbecues. It is surrounded by popular walking and cycling trails and is close to iconic attractions like the Mundaring Weir and the Bibbulmun Track. The nearby Kookaburra Open Air Cinema screens movies on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights from December to April.

3. Henry White Oval at Yanchep National Park

the lush grounds of Yanchep National Park — The site is surrounded by tuart and banksia woodlands. (Image: Getty/Paola Giannoni)

Distance from Perth: 45 mins

Best for: Families and first-time campers

Henry White Oval Campground , nestled in Banksia and tuart woodlands, is a purpose-built campground ideal for families and first-timers. It features nine hard sites, ten grass sites, a large group camping area, an ablution block, a sheltered barbeque area and a communal fire pit that is open seasonally. However, there is no running water, so you’ll need to bring your own. Located within Yanchep National Park, it’s just a few hundred metres from the park’s renowned wetlands, adventure climbing courses and animal sanctuaries. The Yanchep Lagoon, a great spot for swimming and sheltered snorkelling, is only a ten-minute drive away.

4. Bald Hill at Avon Valley National Park

the campground at Bald Hill at Avon Valley National Park — Spend a couple of nights off the grid surrounded by nature. (Image: Bronwyn Wells)

Distance from Perth: 90 mins

Best for: Serene bush views

Avon Valley National Park spans nearly 5,000 hectares of lush bushland with panoramic views over the valley, a diverse range of flora and fauna and four campgrounds. Among these, Bald Hill is one of the busiest. Situated atop its namesake hill, this spacious campground provides stunning views of the entire park and is well-equipped with facilities including picnic tables, fire rings, toilets and water. There are excellent bushwalking and cycling trails that meander through and around the campgrounds. Bookings cannot be made in advance, however, with spots designated on a first-come, first-served basis – so aim to arrive early.

5. Honeymoon Pool, Wellington National Park

the campground at Honeymoon Pool, Wellington National Park — Sleep among the shady peppermint trees. (Image: Jacki Baxter)

Distance from Perth: 2 hours

Best for: Beautiful lakeside views

Nestled on the banks of the serene Collie River, Honeymoon Pool offers 20 campsites scattered among shady peppermint trees. Thanks to its waterside location, you can enjoy kayaking, swimming, and bushwalking. It’s conveniently 2WD friendly, and has picnic, BBQ and toilet facilities on site.

6. Potters Gorge Campground, Wellington National Park

the Potters Gorge Campground, Wellington National Park — The campsite is located on the shores of Wellington Dam. (Image: Kevin Smith)

Distance from Perth: 2 hours

Best for: Tranquility and relaxation
Potters Gorge Campground , situated on the shore of Wellington Dam, offers 59 individual campsites suitable for freestanding tents, swags, campervans, and camper trailers. Nestled among shady jarrah and marri trees, this campsite is renowned for its mountain bike track, bushwalking trails, fishing spots, and ideal conditions for canoeing. This is a basic bush camping experience, as the sites are unpowered campers need to BYO drinking water. However, there are no- flush pit toilets, double-gas barbecues, picnic tables, cold water dishwashing facilities and a dump station. There’s also a cafe at Wellington Dam, just a quick five-minute drive away, in case you forget any essentials. You will need to book your site in advance online.

7. Sandy Cape Recreation Park, Jurien Bay

Distance from Perth: 2 hours and 40 minutes

Best for: Beach camping

Sandy Cape Recreation Park offers a quintessential beach camping experience in an unbeatable location with breathtaking views. This affordable camping spot is nestled beside a pristine beach, so you can wake up to the soft sands and turquoise water of Jurien Bay. Little ones can spend their days sliding down sand dunes and splashing in the water, while adults can indulge in fishing, snorkelling, kayaking, or scenic hike to the peak. You do need to be fairly self-sufficient, as the only facilities are longdrop or compost toilets – no BBQs or power (although you can BYO generators.)

8. Nanga Mill Campground in Lane Poole Reserve, Dwellingup

the Nanga Mill Campground in Lane Poole Reserve, Dwellingup — Head to Nanga Mill Campground for a well-deserved off-grid escape. (Image: DBCA)

Distance from Perth: 1 hour 40 mins

Best for: Campers with furry friends

Lane Poole Reserve in Dwellingup features nine separate campgrounds, but Nanga Mill is the largest open-style campground. This picturesque spot by the bank of the brook is unpowered, allowing you to truly reconnect with nature. The sites are suitable for tents as well as caravans and camper trailers, and the campground has a swimming area, a two-kilometre Nanga Brook Walk Trail and is also dog-friendly. Amenities include toilets and picnic tables, however, there is no running water. You also cannot book ahead, so if you prefer not to wing it, try one of Lane Poole’s bookable campgrounds.

9. Baden Powell Campground at Lane Poole Reserve, Dwellingup

view from the tent at Baden Powell Campground at Lane Poole Reserve, Dwellingup — Wake up to foggy mornings at the Baden Powell Campground. (Image: Rachel Hutton)

Distance from Perth: 1 hour 40 mins

Best for: Hikers and water-sports lovers

Ideal for families, the Baden Powell Campground boasts 42 campsites and three undercover camp kitchens equipped with gas barbecues and rainwater taps (though you’ll need to bring your own drinking water) an ablution block and dining benches. The Murray River, a highlight of the reserve, is a great spot for canoeing, fishing, white-water rafting, and swimming during the warmer months. The Bibbulmun Track also runs through the reserve, providing a great hop-on, hop-off hiking experience. Pets are welcome at this one, too.

10. Martins Tank Campground in Yalgorup National Park, Preston Beach

a tent setup on Martins Tank Campground in Yalgorup National Park, Preston Beach — The entire site is unpowered, allowing you to disconnect from your gadgets. (Image: Kevin Smith)

Distance from Perth: 90 mins

Best for: A real unplugged experience

Martins Tank Campground is nestled among peppermint and tuart woodland on the banks of Martins Tank Lake, offering easy access to the tranquil Yalgorup National Park. The 33-site campground accommodates swags, tents, and caravans. This is a real unplugged (and self-sufficient) experience, as the entire site is unpowered, lacks running water and is accessible via some unsealed roads. However, there are amenities such as no-flush pit toilets, gas and electric barbecues, picnic tables, and dishwashing facilities with seasonal rainwater. You can book your site online, or use the self-serve booth upon arrival.

11. Logue Brook Campground, Lake Brockman

the Lake Brockman within Logue Brook Campground, Perth — This campground by the lake is a great base for water adventures. (Image: Bronwyn Wells)

Distance from Perth: 90 mins

Best for: Watersports

The Logue Brook Dam campground , located within the Lake Brockman Tourist Park, features 126 unpowered campsites. It’s a great base for water adventures, offering access to the dam for swimming, fishing, and launching canoes and kayaks at various spots around the shore. Plus it’s a short walk to a cafe at neighbouring Lake Brockman Tourist Park, serving coffee and freshly baked goods. Amenities include long-drop toilets, gas and electric barbecues, a playground – and pet-friendliness. There is no drinking water available at the campground, so campers need to BYO or head to the tourist park next door.

12. Belvidere Campground, Leschenault

a tent setup on Belvidere Campground, Leschenault — The campground is nestled within the lush tuart forest of Leschenault Peninsula Conservation Park. (Image: Bronwyn Wells)

Distance from Perth: 1 hour 40 mins

Best for: Bushwalkers

Belvidere Campground , nestled on the edge of the Leschenault Estuary, offers 28 picturesque camping sites. As part of the Leschenault Peninsula Conservation Park, the campground is within walking distance to Belvidere Beach and The Cut, a walking trail that winds through the park’s tuart and peppermint trees. Amenities include long-drop toilets, wood barbecues, and picnic tables. There’s no running water available, so campers need to BYO drinking water; and bookings cannot be made in advance, with sites allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

13. Stockton Lake Recreation Area Campground, Collie

the Stockton Lake Recreation Area Campground, Collie — Set up camp by the blue waters of Stockton Lake. (Image: Bronwyn Wells)

Distance from Perth: 1 hour 40 mins

Best for: Waterfront camping

For a truly unique camping experience, you can set up camp just metres from the water at Stockton Lake . This artificial lake, once an open-cut mine, has been transformed into a popular camping area with 50 unpowered sites on the shore of the crystal blue lake. During the warmer months, activities such as waterskiing, kayaking, and swimming are popular (however, be aware that the lake’s mining origins mean the water is slightly acidic, which is something to consider if you have sensitive skin.) Amenities include toilets and wood barbecues, and you can bring your pet along too. There is no drinking water available so be prepared to BYO, and you cannot book in advance – sites are designated on a first-in-best-dressed basis.

From thundering waterfalls to ancient Indigenous art, Kimberley’s raw beauty will take your breath away.

Wild, pristine, and shaped by nature, the Kimberley Coast is one of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes. A remote and rugged frontier that remains a bucket list destination for many travellers. Its most breathtaking attractions – including Montgomery Reef, King George Falls and Horizontal Falls – are accessible only by sea or air, making a guided expedition cruise aboard Silversea’s luxury expedition ship, Silver Cloud, the ideal way to explore it.

From its intricate intertidal zones to ancient rock art, extreme tides and rare wildlife found nowhere else in Australia – or the world – this journey offers an unparalleled exploration of one of Earth’s last true wildernesses.

Why Silversea?

Silversea offers a 10-day expedition departing Broome, or an extended 16-day expedition voyage from Indonesia, including landings on the hidden gems of Palopo Sulawesi and Komodo. Accompanied by expert guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology, guests gain a deeper understanding of the Kimberley’s dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage and extraordinary biodiversity.

Silversea offers one of the experiential travel industry’s leading crew-to-guest ratios. Along with all-suite accommodation (80 per cent with private verandah), 24-hour butler service, a swimming pool and four dining options. Silver Cloud also has an experienced crew of multilingual expedition guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology to enhance your Kimberley Experience.

silversea cruise ship pool deck — Take a dip in the pool deck.

1. Koolama Bay

Before visitors see King George Falls, they hear them – a growing rumble in the distance, steady and foreboding as the Zodiac glides through the gorge, the sound echoing off sheer rock formations. At 80 meters tall, the twin cascades carve through the red cliffs, churning the waters below in a spectacular finale – but Koolama Bay holds secrets beyond its striking scenery.

Named after a ship that beached here following an aerial attack by Japanese bombers in World War II, the bay may seem desolate, yet it teems with life. With Silversea’s expert guides on their 10-day Kimberley itinerary, guests gain a sharper eye for its hidden wonders – rock wallabies darting across the cliffs, crocodiles lurking among dense green mangroves, and high above, the silhouette of a bird of prey circling the sky.

King George Falls at koolama bay excursion on Silversea Kimberley Cruise — Take a shore excursion to see King George Falls.

2. Freshwater Cove / Wijingarra Butt Butt

Connect with Country on a wet landing at Freshwater Cove, also known as Wijingarra Butt Butt. Considered one of the most special experiences on both the 16-day and 10-day Kimberley cruises, Silversea guests are welcomed by the traditional Indigenous custodians of the land, painted with traditional ochre, and invited to take part in a smoking ceremony.

Located on the mainland near Montgomery Reef, Wijingarra Butt Butt holds deep cultural significance to the local Indigenous community. Here, rock formations along the shore represent spiritual ancestors, and guests are guided to a nearby rock overhang filled with ancient art, where traditional owners share the stories and meaning behind these sacred paintings.

welcome to country on freshwater cove during silversea kimberley cruise — Take part in a smoking ceremony. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

3. Vansittart Bay (Jar Island)

Modern history, ancient culture and mystery converge in Vansittart Bay, which is also known as Jar Island. Here, the first thing to catch the eye is the dented, silver fuselage of a World War II-era C-53 plane – a striking relic of the past. Yet, the true cultural treasures lie just a short hike away where two distinct styles of Indigenous rock art – Gwion Gwion and Wandjina – can be found.

The Wandjina figures, deeply connected to Indigenous traditions, stand in stark contrast to the enigmatic Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) paintings, which date back more than 12,000 years. Significantly different in form and style, the two different styles create a striking juxtaposition, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s rich and complex past.

aerial view of Vansittart Bay, See it in you Silversea Kimberley Cruise. — Explore ancient Gwion Gwion rock art at Vansittart Bay. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

4. Horizontal Falls

Part illusion, part natural phenomenon, the Kimberley’s much-lauded Horizontal Falls aren’t a waterfall, but a tidal and geographic spectacle that visitors have to see to comprehend. Known as Garaanngaddim, the phenomenon occurs when seawater rushes through two narrow gaps- one just twenty metres wide, and the other seven metres in width, between the escarpments of Talbot Bay.

With each tidal shift, the force of the water creates whirlpools, furious currents and the illusion of a horizontal cascade as thousands of gallons of water are pushed and pulled in through the gap every six hours with relentless movement, making this one of the Kimberley ’s most mesmerising natural wonders.

Horizontal Falls are described as "One of the greatest wonders of the natural world". They are formed from a break in-between the McLarty Ranges reaching up to 25m in width. The natural phenomenon is created as seawater builds up faster on one side of the gaps than the other, creating a waterfall up to 5m high on a King tide. — Watch whirlpools and furious currents collide. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

5. Montgomery Reef

As the tide turns in Montgomery Reef, magic happens. With the Kimberley’s legendary tides varying up to ten metres, at low tide the submerged reef almost appears to rise from the depths: exposing up to four metres of the sandstone reef.

The impact is otherworldly: as the water drains, waterfalls cascade on either side of the channel, turtles left exposed scramble and dive, and fish leap in search of sanctuary in shallow pools. Meanwhile, the dinner bell rings for the migratory seabirds dugongs, reef sharks and dolphins that scavenge and feast in the area.

Using zodiacs, guests cruise through one of the world’s most significant inshore reef systems navigated by experienced guides, exploring the most intricate and fascinating parts of a 300-square-kilometre-wide biodiversity hotspot.

aerial view of boat going along Montgomery Reef — Witness seabirds, dolphins and reef sharks on the hunt.

6. Mitchell Falls by Helicopter

Experiencing the Kimberley by sea allows you to feel the power of the tides, but travelling by helicopter reveals the sandstone tapestry of the Kimberley, a landscape geologists believe is over 1.8 billion years old.

One of Silversea’s most popular optional excursions , guests who opt to fly into the interior from the onboard helipad soar up above the rust-coloured landscape of the Mitchell plateau, taking in one of Australia’s most scenic waterfalls: Mitchell Falls, a series of four emerald-coloured pools gently cascades into each other, before plunging down to the river below.

Seeing the landscape from above reveals a landscape weaved and shaped by the power of the freshwater wet season, juxtaposed to the constant lapping of the relentless and powerful tide on the coast.

aerial view of mitchell falls on silversea helicopter excursion — See emerald pools cascade into the river below. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

7. Indigenous Art Caves, Wandjina Art

The Kimberley Region of Western Australia is home to some of the most striking and significant

Indigenous rock art in Australia. Dotted throughout the landscape are caves, cliffs and rock overhangs depicting the striking, ethereal image of Wandjina, the rainmaker spirit and creation being central to many of the Dreamtime stories in this region.

Some of the paintings are regularly repainted by traditional custodians, while others are believed to be over 4,000 years old. Each artwork serves as both a cultural record and a living connection to the past, offering a rare opportunity to engage with the enduring traditions of the Kimberley’s Indigenous communities.

Freshwater Cover Rock Art the kimberleys — Walk among cultural records preserved in stone. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

See the best of this incredible part of the world on a Silversea Kimberley cruise. Book your 10- or extended 16-day expedition voyage at silversea.com

13 of the most beautiful camping spots near Perth

If you’ve found yourself in Perth and want to sleep under the stars (but not have to drive for hours and hours) you’re in luck.

1. Lake Leschenaultia, Perth Hills

2. Perth Hills Discovery Centre at Beelu National Park

3. Henry White Oval at Yanchep National Park

4. Bald Hill at Avon Valley National Park

5. Honeymoon Pool, Wellington National Park

6. Potters Gorge Campground, Wellington National Park

7. Sandy Cape Recreation Park, Jurien Bay

8. Nanga Mill Campground in Lane Poole Reserve, Dwellingup

9. Baden Powell Campground at Lane Poole Reserve, Dwellingup

10. Martins Tank Campground in Yalgorup National Park, Preston Beach

11. Logue Brook Campground, Lake Brockman

12. Belvidere Campground, Leschenault

13. Stockton Lake Recreation Area Campground, Collie

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7 Kimberley experiences that need to be on your bucket list

From thundering waterfalls to ancient Indigenous art, Kimberley’s raw beauty will take your breath away.

Why Silversea?

1. Koolama Bay

2. Freshwater Cove / Wijingarra Butt Butt

3. Vansittart Bay (Jar Island)

4. Horizontal Falls

5. Montgomery Reef

6. Mitchell Falls by Helicopter

7. Indigenous Art Caves, Wandjina Art