15 Best Campgrounds in South West WA

The south west region of Western Australia covers such an incredibly diverse range of landscapes, including some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia and enchanting inland forests. The best way to immerse yourself in the nature is to camp at one of the incredible campgrounds in south west WA.

Whether you’re opting for a weekend nature reset or undertaking a longer road trip through the southwest region, you’ll find plenty of camps to choose from. After spending a few months exploring the region in my van, I’m rounding up the best campgrounds in south west WA, from national park camps to free camps and more.

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Best Camping Spots in South West WA

I spent a few months exploring the south west of WA in my camper van. There are plenty of fantastic campgrounds to discover, from secluded spots in national parks to beachfront caravan parks.

This list combines a variety of camps all over the region, to help everyone from budget travellers to families plan their trip in Western Australia.

Before heading off to camp for the weekend, brush up on Leave No Trace Principles and How to Respect the Outdoors.

Lane Poole Reserve

Location? 7.5 km south of Dwellingup
Facilities? Unpowered camping sites, drop toilets, fire rings, picnic tables and shelters
Fees? $20 per person per night + national parks pass
Need to bring? Drinking water, fire wood, walking shoes, and kayaks
Good to know? Can get very busy on weekends and school holidays
Dog friendly? Most areas but must remain on leash
Phone signal? Some Telstra, no Optus
More info/booking: Parks WA Website

There are several campgrounds within Lane Poole Reserve, for all different set ups from caravans to tents. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular places to go camping on the weekend, at just 1.5 hours from Perth. The Murray River flows right through the reserve offering opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Plus, there’s nearby mountain biking trails and hiking trails that make it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Baden Powell, Chuditch, and Charlies Flat are the most popular campsites, and must be booked in advance online. While some of the more secluded options like Nanga Mill Campground is first come first served and a bit cheaper at $15 per person per night.

Greenbushes Pool Free Camp

Location? 78 km or an hour’s drive inland from Bunbury
Facilities? Toilets, bins and unpowered camping sites
Fees? Free (but donations are appreciated)
Need to bring? Food and groceries as there’s not much available around the town
Good to know? There’s a 3 night maximum stay at the pool free camp and no fires allowed
Dog friendly? Yes
Phone signal? Good for both Telstra and Optus
More info/booking: Regional Website

This is a fantastic, underrated free camping spot just an hour inland from the coast. The small community of Greenbushes offers two free camping areas. The best one is at Greenbushes Pool, while there’s another one sports ground where you can stay up to 7 days.

It’s not a huge area at the pool, but there’s a lower level near the toilet and an upper level which is more like a bush camp. I loved my stay here, as it’s a quiet spot on a pretty pond. You can swim here in summer, although it’s not overly encouraged because of the water quality isn’t guaranteed.

I highly recommend you do the Greenbushes Loop Walk which goes right through the pool camping area. It’s a nearly 16km loop that connects onto the Bibbulmun Track for a bit too. Along the way you’ll pass dams and ponds and beautiful woodland.

Potters Gorge Campground

Location? Around 50 km or 45 minute drive east of Bunbury and half an hour west of Collie
Facilities? Unpowered sites, fire pits, toilets, BBQs and picnic tables
Fees? $20 per person per night booked online
Need to bring? Water, food, walking shoes, kayaks and mountain bikes
Good to know? There’s some great walking trails and biking trails starting from the campground, so bring your walking shoes
Dog friendly? No
Phone signal? No
More info/booking: Parks WA Website

Potters Gorge Campground is a large campground with almost 60 sites surrounded by jarrah forest on the shore of Wellington Dam. It’s close to the largest dam mural in the world, which is definitely worth a look while you’re there.

It’s a beautifully maintained campground, with all different sized sites for different camping setups. Some sites even have view of the reservoir as well. It does get really busy during weekends and school holidays, so be prepared for lots of families and crowds during that time.

There’s another great campground, Honeymoon Pool Campground, just 10km away, but this is for tent based camping only. Still, it’s a great alternative for those interested in tent camping.

Coalmine BeachCoalmine Beach — Coalmine Beach

Coalmine Beach Holiday Park

Location? Coalmine Beach, just outside of Walpole, a 5 hour drive south of Perth
Facilities? Toilet and shower blocks, laundry, camp kitchen, cabins, powered and unpowered camping sites
Fees? Unpowered starting at $39 per night
Good to know? There’s a great walking/bike trail into town, plus longer walks on the Bibbulmun Track that goes right past the park
Dog friendly? No
Phone signal? Yes, both Telstra and Optus
More info/booking: Booking site

This is a wonderful caravan park that is more rustic and secluded than most on the south west coast. Located outside of Walpole town, it’s directly opposite the tranquil beach of Coalmine Beach. The camping sites and cabins are all spread out amidst trees and wildlife.

I really enjoyed my night camping here on the Bibbulmun Track. The staff were super friendly and accommodating, and it has all the facilities you need. Walpole is a great base for exploring the amazing tingle trees and the Valley of the Giants treetop walk in the nearby Walpole-Nornalup National Park.

Stockton Lake

Location? 7km east of Collie or 2.5 hours south of Perth
Facilities? Unpowered campsites, toilets, BBQs and bins
Fees? $15 per person per night
Need to bring? Drinking water, fire wood and food
Good to know? While you can swim and go boating in the lake, it’s not overly recommended due to the risk of contamination and acidity from the old mine, proceed at own risk
Dog friendly? Yes
Phone signal? Yes, both Telstra and Optus
More info/booking: WA Parks website

This is a very popular campground next to Stockton Lake near Collie. Originally an open-cut mine, it’s now filled with water to create an artificial lake that is known for its fluorescent blue colour water. This does make it a really unique spot to camp out.

The camping is pretty basic, there’s no specific sites marked out and it’s just dispersed camping around the lake. Fees are collected by rangers and it operates on first come first served, so no bookings required.

Just be aware that it does get busy on weekends in school holidays, and it can be loud with boats and people everywhere. The nearby mining site also creates some background noise 24/7.

Gracetown Caravan Park

Location? Gracetown, just 15 minutes north of Margaret River
Facilities? Powered and unpowered camping sites, cabins, laundry, toilets and hot showers, camp kitchen, outdoor cinema in summer, mini golf, basketball and tennis courts
Fees? From $40 per night
Good to know? It’s located outside of town, so it’s about a 3 minute drive to the town and beach
Dog friendly? No
Phone signal? Yes
More info/booking: Booking site

An ideal base for exploring the Margaret River region while still retaining a quiet bush setting. This caravan park near Gracetown has something for everyone from unpowered sites to caravan powered sits and glamping setups.

While it’s not on the beach, it’s a short drive to several beautiful beaches, Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, and not far from Margaret River. You can explore much of the south west from here, without paying for beachfront caravan park prices.

Conto Campground

Location? 19 km south of Margaret River
Facilities? Unpowered camping sites, drop toilets, BBQs, picnic tables, fire rings and dishwashing sinks
Fees? $20 per person per night
Need to bring? Drinking water (rainwater at camp not guaranteed), fire wood, and food
Good to know? There are eight separate camping areas, some better for caravans while others better for tents. Check the details carefully before booking your camping area
Dog friendly? No
Phone signal? Some Telstra and Optus
More info/booking: WA Parks website

This is a beautiful bush camp in Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. It’s located about 4km from Conto Beach, but you can get spectacular views of the beach and coast just a short walk away from camp on the Cape to Cape Track. I stayed here on my Cape to Cape Track hike.

It’s a huge campground and it does get pretty full on weekends. But it’s well organised, with eight separate camping areas and designated sites. You can book the area and then select your specific site upon arrival.

The drop toilets and picnic areas are pretty new and very clean. While it does have rain water available seasonally, it’s best to bring what you need from town.

With the Boranup Forest and Cape to Cape Track close by, plus plenty of beaches, this is a great place to enjoy the beauty of the coastline near Margaret River.

RAC Karri Valley Resort

Location? 20km west of Pemberton
Facilities? A fully fledged resort and caravan park with everything you need, including restaurant, bar, general store, equipment hire, and several accommodation types
Fees? From $40 per night for a campsites
Good to know? Right on Lake Beedelup, there’s plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy so it’s perfect for outdoorsy families
Dog friendly? No
Phone signal? Yes Telstra but no Optus (free wifi available)
More info/booking: Booking site

Within Beedelup National Park and on the shores of Lake Beedelup, this is a really unique place to camp in the south west. It’s surrounded by stunning karri forest, and Beedelup Falls is just a 30-minute walk from the campground on the Bibbulmun Track. This makes it perfect for outdoorsy people, looking to go hiking, biking and take on any watersports.

The restaurant and bar overlooks the lake and has outstanding food on offer; I highly recommend having a meal there. For families or those looking for a nature escape, this resort/caravan park is worth staying at on your road trip.

Some of the accommodation there can be pricey, but the camp sites are similar value to other caravan parks in the region.

Peaceful Bay Campground

Location? 50 km west of Denmark
Facilities? Powered and unpowered sites, camp kitchen, laundry, hot shower and toilet block
Fees? From $40 per night per site
Good to know? The park closes over the winter usually for 2-3 months so don’t rely on staying here then.
Dog friendly? Yes
Phone signal? Yes, both Telstra and Optus
More info/booking: Booking site

A rustic beach caravan park without all the bells and whistles but right on a beautiful stretch of coastline in WA. There are large grassy sites for powered and unpowered campers, with a camp kitchen and amenities block.

It’s just steps back from the beach, which is pretty quiet compared to others on the south west. It’s centrally located between Walpole and Denmark, so you can also explore some of the region easily from there. Nearby attractions include the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk and Conspicuous Cliff. The Bibbulmun Track also runs right past the caravan park, making it a popular stop for hikers.

It’s quite famous for its fish and chips sold from the general store attached to the reception/office. It has limited opening hours for lunch and dinner.

Parry’s Beach Campground

Location? 30 km west of Denmark
Facilities? Unpowered camping area, hot showers and toilet block
Fees? From $23 per night
Need to bring? Drinking water, food, and fire wood
Good to know? There is a height clearance of 2.7m at the entrance to the camping area, so it’s not ideal for tall motorhomes or large caravans (there are a couple of sites outside this entrance but that’s only if they’re available)
Dog friendly? Yes
Phone signal? Yes, both Telstra and Optus
More info/booking: Shire website

This beautiful camping area is nestled on the long bay of Parry Beach. There’s over 40 sites tucked under the coastal scrub, offering a really rustic and relaxed camp area compared to caravan parks. It’s run by wonderful volunteer caretakers who are super friendly and nice.

The beach is stretched right out front for a long way and is right on the Bibbulmun Track which traverses the length of the beach. The camp area is perfect for vans and camper trailers and tents, looking for an escape for the weekend from the busy areas. Yet, Denmark is just a short 30 minute drive away.

It can’t be pre-booked ahead, it’s just first in best dressed. If you arrive late, you can pick a site and pay the following the morning.

Cosy Corner Campground

Location? 35 km west of Albany
Facilities? Unpowered sites, toilets, and rubbish facilities
Fees? $15 per night
Need to bring? Drinking water and food (nearest supplies are in Albany)
Good to know? Sites can’t be pre-booked, so ensure you arrive early to get a spot and have alternative options in case it’s full (there is a 7 day maximum stay)
Dog friendly? Yes
Phone signal? Yes both Telstra and Optus but can be patchy
More info/booking: WA Parks Website

This is a great coastal camp halfway between Denmark and Albany, making it convenient for those travelling along the coast. The sites have some protection from the wind and sun, but the beach is just a short walk down from the campground.

Sites are first in best dressed, so ensure you arrive early because it fills up in peak season. There is a machine at the entrance where you can purchase your camping permit, but there’s generally a voluntary camp host on site as well.

Some of the spots are quite small for caravans or big rigs, but otherwise it’s a great bush camp close to a beautiful, quiet beach.

East Bay Campground

Location? 45 km east of Albany in Two Peoples Bay
Facilities? Toilet
Fees? Free
Need to bring? Everything you need for a night
Good to know? It’s accessed on a dirt road that is corrugated but 2WD accessible, although it’s not recommended for caravans or big rigs as the road is steep at the end with no possible turn around
Dog friendly? Yes
Phone signal? Limited Telstra only
More info/booking: Shire website

Probably one of the best free camps in Australia! East Bay Campground has become a must camp spot on any South West WA road trip. It’s located right on one of the most beaiitful beaches in the Albany area, meaning you can wake up to this magnificent view of the white sand and blue water each day.

It’s just a basic free camp though; it’s really just a car park with a toilet. While some “sites” are numbered, it does become a bit of a free for all as people just park anyway that they can fit in.

I suggest arriving early in the day to get a good spot. There is a 7 day limit on a stay, but most people tend to stay a night or two and move on. Do not miss camping a night here!

Stirling Range Retreat

Location? 90 km or 1 hour drive from Albany on Chester Pass Road
Facilities? Unpowered and powered camping sites, cabins, camp kitchen, shower and toilet block, laundry and pool
Fees? From $20 per person for camping
Good to know? This is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to do a sunset or sunrise hike up Bluff Knoll, as it’s just 10 minutes from the carpark and trailhead
Dog friendly? No
Phone signal? Only Telstra (no wifi available)
More info/booking: Website

This is the best place to base yourself while exploring the Stirling Range National Park. It’s located right in between both the east and west halves of the national park and only a 10-minute drive from the Bluff Knoll Carpark.

It’s a very rustic campground, although it has caravan park facilities. The unpowered sites are located along the back fence of the property and have beautiful views facing the ranges.

The staff are incredibly helpful and provide a map and information on all the hikes in the Stirling Ranges upon arrival, so you’re well prepared for exploring the park. They also run wildflower and bird tours for those interested. I really enjoyed my few nights here and highly recommend if you’re planning a trip to the Stirling Ranges.

Read next: Guide to the Bluff Knoll Hike

Four Mile Campground

Location? 10 minute drive west of Hopetoun in Fitzgerald River National Park
Facilities? Unpowered camping sites, toilets and hot showers, basic camp kitchen and BBQs, picnic tables and walking trails
Fees? $20 per person per night (plus Parks Pass)
Need to bring? Drinking water and walking shoes
Good to know? The campground I accessible via a sealed road from Hopetoun, which has an IGA and other shops for supplies
Dog friendly? No
Phone signal? Yes, both Telstra and Optus
More info/booking: Parks WA Website

This is an underrated campground in an underrates national park. Four Mile Campground is a very well organised national park camp inside Fitzgerald River National Park. The sites are spacious and private, while it also has toilets and hot showers.

There’s usually a camp host who comes around and ensures people are camped in the right spot. But otherwise, book online before arriving to make sure you secure a site.

There’s plenty of things to see and do within a short drive, making it the best base for exploring the eastern side of the national park. Four Mile Beach is just a short walk in front of the camp or you can drive to some spectacularly wild beaches deeper in the national park.

Lucky Bay Campground

Location? Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park, almost an hour east of Esperance
Facilities? Unpowered camping sites, toilets, camp kitchen, solar heated showers, and non-potable water
Fees? $20 per person per night (plus Parks Pass)
Need to bring? Potable water, swimsuit, and food
Good to know? Bookings open about 6 months in advance if you want to plan ahead for the busy season, but you can’t book specific sites just a camp spot, then select a site upon arrival so get there early to pick from the best ones
Dog friendly? No
Phone signal? No, but wifi hotspot available (don’t rely on it)
More info/booking: Parks WA Website

Located right above one of the most famous beaches in Australia, this campground is perhaps one of the most sought after campgrounds in all of Western Australia. Lucky Bay Campground is often booked out months in advance, so be warned and plan ahead. But the reward is camping next to a long stretch of white sand and some of the bluest, clearest water you can find.

There are 56 sites here on compacted earth suitable for all different camping setups. It’s just a short walk down to the beach or a short drive from the other attractions in the park.

It’s as far as the sealed road goes in Cape Le Grand National Park, so it’s accessible for all vehicles. The camp ground and beach can be packed in busy periods, so try visiting outside of school holidays.

Tips for Camping in WA

Always remember to leave no trace and carry all your rubbish and waste out with you, or use the bins provided if they have them
If you want to find more campgrounds or read comments from other campers on these camping spots, check out the Wikicamps app
For campgrounds in national parks and some state forests, you’ll need a WA Parks Pass, which can be purchased online
If you’re going to be outside of phone signal range, then make sure someone knows where you are and how long you’re planning on staying
Despite most of these locations have toilets available, you should remember to carry toilet paper just in case, as sometimes the rangers don’t get around every week to check and refill
Be respectful to all other campers and wildlife in the area by reducing loud noise and providing enough space for everyone to enjoy the camping area

Camping Essentials to Pack

Head torch: As soon as the sun sets, you’ll be needing a good quality head torch to help find your way around the campground at night. This Black Diamond is USB rechargeable too.
Camp chair: Kick back and relax at the end of the day with a comfortable chair. This Helinox camp chair is a lightweight option that packs away easily.
Gas cooker: Cooking up quality meals while camping makes the experience so much more enjoyable. I recommend a JetBoil stove which is super portable and boils water rapidly.
Portable solar panel: If you’re camping at an unpowered site, a small solar panel can come in handy when trying to charge your devices off the grid. This Goal Zero Panel is easily packable and powerful enough to charge phones and tablets.
Water filter: Many national park campgrounds only have rainwater which often requires filtration. I carry the Sawyer Squeeze Filter with me, as it’s easy to use and filters water instantly.
Sleeping bag: A good sleeping bag is essential to keep you warm, dry and comfortable while camping out. Sea to Summit make some incredible down options, with the Spark III a staple for many different adventures.

Exploring More of Western Australia?

Perth to Esperance: Ultimate 10-Day South West Road Trip
Albany: 20 Best Things to Do in Albany
Stirling Ranges: Best Hikes in the Stirling Range National Park
Kalbarri: Perth to Kalbarri 5 Day Road Trip Itinerary

15 Best Campgrounds in South West WA