Rockingham, with its beautiful coastline and proximity to nature reserves, offers several excellent camping spots for those looking to immerse themselves in the outdoors. Whether you prefer a beachside campsite with ocean views or a tranquil spot in the bush, the areas around Rockingham provide a variety of options for an overnight stay. Here’s a guide to the best camping spots near Rockingham, perfect for both families and solo adventurers.
Image © Frances Andrijich
1. Tasman Holiday Parks – Serpentine Falls
Distance from Rockingham: ~45 km / 45-minute drive
Best for: Family-friendly camping, caravans, and easy access to Serpentine Falls
Tasman Holiday Parks – Serpentine Falls is the closest overnight stay option near Serpentine National Park, making it the best base for exploring the iconic falls.
Set in a peaceful bushland setting, it offers a mix of powered and unpowered sites along with cabins, making it suitable for all types of travellers. From here, you can easily visit Serpentine Falls, enjoy scenic walks, or explore the surrounding Serpentine-Jarrahdale region.
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Tip: The park is located just a few minutes from Serpentine Falls and is the recommended base for exploring the area.
2. Campsites at Yalgorup National Park
Distance from Rockingham: 75 km / 1-hour drive
Best for: Birdwatching, wildlife, and quiet bush camping
Yalgorup National Park, located south of Rockingham, offers a peaceful bush camping experience surrounded by nature. The park is known for its wetlands, which are home to a variety of bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatchers. The Martins Tank Campground within the park is well-maintained and offers a range of facilities.
Yalgorup’s serene environment is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind in a natural setting. The park also features walking trails that lead through the bushland and along the edges of the park’s lakes, offering opportunities to spot wildlife like kangaroos and emus.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
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Tip: Pack binoculars and a bird guide if you're interested in birdwatching, as the park is a haven for both resident and migratory birds.
3. Lane Poole Reserve
Distance from Rockingham: 85 km / 1.5-hour drive
Best for: River activities, family camping, and forest scenery
Lane Poole Reserve is a large, forested area near Dwellingup, offering a variety of campsites along the Murray River. The reserve is popular for its mix of outdoor activities, including swimming, canoeing, fishing, and hiking. The Nanga Mill and Baden Powell campgrounds are among the most popular spots within the reserve, offering facilities such as toilets, BBQs, and picnic areas.
Lane Poole Reserve is ideal for families and groups, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the natural surroundings. The reserve’s extensive network of walking trails and the scenic river make it a great choice for a weekend getaway.
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Tip: Lane Poole Reserve can get busy during peak times, so consider visiting mid-week or booking in advance to secure a spot.
4. Wellington National Park
Distance from Rockingham: 160 km / 2-hour drive
Best for: Forest camping, swimming, and kayaking
For those willing to venture a bit further from Rockingham, Wellington National Park offers some of the most picturesque camping spots in the region. The park is known for its Wellington Dam and the tranquil Collie River, which provide opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. The Honeymoon Pool campsite is a favorite, offering well-maintained facilities in a beautiful forested setting.
Camping in Wellington National Park allows visitors to immerse themselves in nature, with access to walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding bushland. The park’s calm waters and lush vegetation create a serene environment, perfect for a relaxing overnight stay.
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Tip: Honeymoon Pool is particularly popular, so it’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during the warmer months when visitors flock to the park.
5. Dwellingup Caravan Park and Camping Ground
Distance from Rockingham: 75 km / 1-hour drive
Best for: Family-friendly camping and outdoor activities
Dwellingup Caravan Park and Camping Ground is located in the charming town of Dwellingup, known for its outdoor adventure opportunities. The campground offers a range of accommodation options, including powered and unpowered sites, cabins, and caravans, making it suitable for all types of campers.
The area around Dwellingup is perfect for those who love outdoor activities, with nearby hiking and mountain biking trails, the Murray River for canoeing, and Lane Poole Reserve for further exploration. The campground itself is family-friendly, with plenty of space for kids to play and explore.
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Tip: Take advantage of the nearby adventure opportunities, including guided canoe tours on the Murray River and bike rentals for exploring the trails.
6. Pinjarra Caravan Park and Camping
Distance from Rockingham: 50 km / 45-minute drive
Best for: Riverside camping, history, and relaxation
Located on the banks of the Murray River, Pinjarra Caravan Park and Camping offers a peaceful setting for an overnight stay. The campground provides a range of facilities, including powered and unpowered sites, cabins, and cottages. Pinjarra is one of Western Australia’s oldest towns, and its rich history is reflected in the area’s attractions, such as the Edenvale Heritage Precinct and Pinjarra Heritage Trail.
The Murray River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and riverside walks, making this campground a great choice for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
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Tip: Explore the town’s heritage sites, including the Edenvale Homestead, to get a sense of the area’s history and culture.
Image © Frances Andrijich
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking a beachside retreat, a forested hideaway, or a riverside escape, the areas around Rockingham offer a variety of camping options for all types of adventurers.
This guide to the best camping spots near Rockingham ensures that you’ll find the ideal location to pitch your tent, park your caravan, or set up your camper, allowing you to fully experience the beauty and serenity of the Western Australian landscape.