Wondering where next to pitch your tent in Dwellingup and its surrounds? We've got you covered.
Only over an hour's drive south of the hustle and bustle of Perth are the towns of Dwellingup and Pinjarra, two places where nature lovers go to escape and reconnect. Be welcomed to the Shire of Murray by the earthy scents of the surrounding bushland, the musky smells of moss, and the lingering scent of gum trees resonating from the earth. Allow the melody of the trees and those who inhabit them to greet you as you step into the gentle embrace of this region. Here, time will slow as you sit back and watch the world go by.
With an assortment of campgrounds scattered throughout the forests of Dwellingup and the waterways and bushlands of Pinjarra, differentiating between them and deciding which is best for you isn’t always an easy task. Here is a selection of some of the best camping spots you might want to consider for your next getaway.
Lane Poole Reserve | Dwellingup
Pinjarra
Jacaranda Hill Farm
Slip away to the tranquil countryside at Jacaranda Hill Farm where encouraging sustainable camping and off-grid living is at the core of the farm’s mission. Situated on 43 hectares of regenerative bushland, this nature escape boasts nine campsites all with breathtaking views in every direction. Awaken to the songs of Red-Tailed Black Cockatoos, Fairy Wrens, and Rainbow Bee-Eaters as they greet the morning sun. Start your day off with a nourishing breakfast sourced from the land. At the farm stall, you will stumble upon an array of organic produce that can be purchased including fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, and honey. Allow yourself to bask in the beauty of nature and simplicity at Jacaranda Hill Farm.
Herron Point
Hidden amongst Pinjarra’s bushlands on the sandy shoreline of the Peel-Harvey Estuary sits Herron Point campground, a simple nature-based campsite ideal for those craving a quick break from the city. With the water right there, spend your time fishing and crabbing, swimming and kayaking, or even launching your boat from the small boat ramp next to the campground. If you prefer staying out of the water, there are plenty of peaceful shoreline strolls and bushwalks to be had. As the day draws to a close, sit back and take in one of Western Australia's beloved sunsets right from your campsite. Herron Point is ideally positioned for stunning sunset views and provides a flawless opportunity for visitors to admire the area's ambience, as the sun's colours shimmer across the waters of the estuary.
Jacaranda Hill Farm | Pinjarra
Dwellingup
Murray Farm Stay
Set up camp beneath the emerald leaves of the native jarrah trees at Murray Farm Stay. This secluded spot is all yours and backs onto the dense and verdant Dwellingup State Forest, so it really will feel like it's just you and the trees. Oh, and of course, the friendly neighbours, those being three sheep, a goat, an alpaca, and any kangaroos that may feel like stopping by to say ‘Hi!’. While the Murray Farm Stay is all about taking in the tranquillity of the forest, there are a few little added luxuries to make your stay extra comfortable. These include an upcycled, rustic bush bathroom, a basic kitchen, tea and coffee facilities, a BBQ, and any essential camping utensils and cutlery. However, if you're not in the mood for a camp cook-up, set off on a 10-minute wander through the forest that will lead you right into the heart of Dwellingup town.
Murray River Farm | Dwellingup
Lane Poole Reserve
Sprawling over 55,000 hectares, Lane Poole Reserve captures the beauty of Western Australia's wilderness and diverse ecosystems. Known as a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike, this dog-friendly reserve is home to nine campgrounds each with its own appeal.
Baden Powell Campground
Immerse yourself in the still and quiet ambience of the Australian bush at Baden Powell campground where you’ll find 42 campsites to choose from. Pitch a tent, camper trailer or caravan beneath the marri trees and spend the day exploring the reserve and frolicking in the gentle nearby streams. As night falls, sit by the warm glow of the campfire (campfire season is usually between April and November), admiring the way the sky transforms into a canvas of stars.
If you’re after an accessible camping option, four of the campsites at Baden Powell, as well as the camp kitchens and toilet blocks, have been designed to allow for wheelchair access.
With close access to the Dwaarlindjirraap day-use area and the purpose-built Dwaarlidjirraap Bridge that links you to the Murray Valley MTB Trailhead, Baden Powell is the perfect location to base yourself for adventure.
Nanga Mill
The largest campground at Lane Poole Reserve, Nanga Mill, is a great option for groups. With space tents, campervans, and camper trailers, there’s no shortage of room for gatherings big and small. Whether it's time for a family reunion or a group of friends wanting to retreat from the city together, this open-style campground provides a desirable setting encircled by the untouched beauty and serenity of the reserve. If bushwalking is your goal during your stay, Nanga Mill is a great place to base yourself as most hikes within the reserve start and finish here.
Stringers Campground
Surrounded by towering jarrah trees and bordered by the rippling river, Stringers is home to six picturesque campsites, each tucked away along the banks of the Murray River within Lane Poole Reserve. No matter what your preference is, whether it’s slow swims, playful canoe rides or immersive bushwalks, it’s all within reach at this campground. Stringers is an idyllic base for those wanting to dive into the outdoor experience.
Lane Poole Reserve | Dwellingup
Marrinup Townsite
Nestled within the heart of the serene Marrinup State Forest is Marrinup townsite, a designated camping area that stands out among the rest for its rich history. Where the campsite now sits was once a thriving mill town that was abandoned amidst the downturn of the timber industry, and then ultimately destroyed by bushfires that burnt through the region in 1961. For those looking to delve further into the historical charm of the area, you’ll want to visit the POW camp that was established at Marrinup during World War II. Housing 1,200 prisoners from 1943 to 1946, the ruins of this camp can be self-toured by visitors alongside the interpretive display.
Today, the grassy expanse that is Marrinup Townsite campground is the starting point for picturesque adventures throughout the area. Following winter rains, the nearby Marrinup Falls cascades over rugged rocks as it flows through the lush valley. To get to the falls, a looped walking trail will take you on a scenic bush track that blooms with wildflowers in the springtime. Or, set off on two wheels, the campground is located next to the Dwellingup Adventure Trails Marrinup Trailhead where you can access over 25km of cross-country trails.
Embrace a wild at heart adventure and discover Dwellingup and Pinjarra now.
