The best camping near Avon Valley National Park

Whether you’re scrambling up to granite outcrops to gaze out over the Avon Valley, hiking along native forest trails, or canoeing along the Avon River—the Avon Valley National Park is all about getting back to nature. Try your hand at white-water rafting, go hot-air ballooning over the Avon Valley, and look out for kangaroos, echidnas, and more than 90 species of bird along the way. Little over an hour’s drive from Perth, the park is a popular spot for a weekend getaway, with plenty of scenic picnic spots and four campgrounds to choose from.

• Best for tent campers: Drummonds Campground has shaded tent sites with picnic tables, fire rings, toilets, and untreated water supplies.
• Best for valley views: Bald Hill Campground sits right by one of the park’s best viewpoints.
• Best for caravanners: Homestead Campground has spacious flat-ground campsites suitable for caravans and camper trailers.

1. All park campgrounds are non-bookable and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Head to the self-registration station on Quarry Road to secure your campsite.
2. Arrive early (when the park opens) to snag a spot on weekends and holidays.

Summers are scorching in Western Australia, and exploring the national park is much more enjoyable from autumn through spring. White-water rafting is only possible in winter when water levels are high, and the annual Avon Descent rafting event in August pulls in the crowds. Wildflowers, including orchids, bloom throughout the valleys in spring (Sept-Nov), and this is also the perfect time for birdwatching and camping.

• Avon Valley National Park is set 65 kilometres northeast of Perth, or about a 70-minute drive away. Park roads are unsealed and not recommended for caravans, especially after wet weather.
• There is no vehicle access to the river within the park; the closest river access is at Cobblers Pool. 
• The park charges a per-vehicle entry fee, or you can use your Western Australia Park Pass. Camping fees also apply.
• Avon Valley facilities include drop toilets, picnic and wood barbecue areas (bring your own wood), running water, and parking. There is no power at the park, and you’ll need to bring all supplies with you.