The Ultimate Guide to Camping at Lane Poole Reserve in Dwellingup

The Ultimate Guide to Camping at Lane Poole Reserve in Dwellingup

Camping at Lane Poole Reserve

Lane Poole Reserve is a fantastic camping location that will keep the whole family happy. Located 7.5 km south of the Dwellingup town centre, Lane Poole Reserve is a 50,000-hectare large reserve that provides the ideal base for nature lovers and is one of the best places to go camping near Perth.

Set in old-growth Karri and Jarrah forest and with the Murray river flowing through the reserve there’s plenty of space and options for a range of outdoor activities.

Before you go

Ultimate guide to camping at Lane Poole Reserve

There are nine different camping sites within the reserve. The sites at Baden Powell, Charlie’s Flat, Chuditch, Stringers, Tony’s Bend and Yarragil need to be booked at least 24-hours in advance (don’t do it on the same day). For bookings click here.

The open campsites at Nanga Mill and Nanga Townsite can’t be booked in advance. These sites operate on a first come, first-served basis.

There’s a $15 fee to enter the national park. This is in addition to the camping fees.

Campsites at Lane Poole Reserve

Baden Powell

Also called the New Baden Powell campsite, Baden Powell has 42 campsites and caters for larger vans and groups. 36 are tent only and six sites are suitable for caravans and camper trailers. Each site has a fire pit and the tent-only sites also have wooden picnic tables. There are three undercover camp kitchens, each with gas barbeques, sinks, tables and benches and running water with collected rainwater. There are also sites and toilets that have wheelchair access.

Sites are $15 per night per adult.

Charlies Flat

Located on the banks of the river, Charlies Flat has 16 campsites. Four sites are suitable for small-ish sized camper trailers or caravans The site has fire pits, picnic tables and benches and eco toilets. Charlie’s Flat is also a popular spot for day use and has picnic tables.

Camping at Lane Poole Reserve

Sites are $7.50 per night per adult

Chuditch

Also one of the larger campsites, Chuditch has more facilities along with the Baden Powell site. The campsite is set back further from the river than some of the other sites, but there’s an easy walk trail that leads to the river.

There are 24 individual campsites here, including 10 that are suitable for smaller sized caravans and camper trailers. The site has an undercover camp kitchen, gas barbeques, cold water taps with rainwater and picnic tables and benches.


Sites are $15 per night per adult

Nanga Mill

This is the largest open campground in Lane Poole Reserve and is beautifully located on the banks of the Nanga Brook. It has 55 sites suitable for large tents, caravans and camper trailers. Nanga Mill is an open-style campground and does not have individual sites, you can set up camp anywhere in the pines. It’s suitable for large groups and there are some lovely spots for swimming, especially for smaller kids.

The sites at Nanga Mill can’t be reserved in advance and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camping at Nanga Mill at Lane Poole Reserve

Camping at Nanga Mill Campsite in Lane Poole Reserve

Sites are $11 per night per adult.

Nanga Townsite

The Nanga Townsite is a small campsite along Nanga Road. The site is not suitable for caravans and camper trailers. Sites have picnic tables, fire pits and eco toilets.

Like the Nanga Mill site, sites at Nanga Townsite cannot be booked in advance.

Sites are $7.50 per night per adult

Stringers

Beautifully located along the Murray River, Stringers is one of the smaller campsites at Lane Poole Reserve. There are six sites here that are all relatively secluded and private. Three sites are suitable for smaller tents (3m x 2.5m) and three sites accommodate larger tents. There are no sites for caravans or camper trailers. Each site has picnic tables and benches and a fire pit. Stringers also a canoe launch on the river and eco-toilets.

Sites are $11 per night per adult

Tony’s Bend

Like Stringers, Tony’s Bend is one of the smaller campsites. It has 13 beautifully located and secluded campsites on the banks of the Murray River. Eight sites are suitable for small tents (3m x 2.5m), three sites accommodate large tents and there are two sites suitable for a caravan or camper trailer. Each site has a barbeque pit, picnic table and benches.

Camping at Lane Poole Reserve

Camping among the trees at Tony’s Bend

Sites are $11 per night per adult

Yarragil

This is the smallest site at Lane Poole reserve and is a popular spot for day use, especially for canoeing and swimming. There are only two campsites here that are suitable for small tents.  The site has picnic tables and eco toilet.

Sites are $11 per night per adult

Nanga Brook

Unlike the other campsites at Lane Poole Reserve Nanga Brook is accessible via sealed road and is mostly for caravans. Probably not as picturesque as some of the other spots but it’s a good option if you don’t want to drive on the gravel road inside the reserve.

Sites at Nanga Brook need to be reserved ahead, however, there are 8 smaller sites for tents that are not bookable.

Sites are $11 per night per adult.

Things to do at Lane Poole Reserve

Bushwalking

There are plenty of bushwalking options in Lane Poole Reserve. The Bibbilmun Track runs through Lane Poole Reserve with several access points along the way

Bushwalking at Lane Poole Reserve


One of the best and longest walks at Lane Poole is the 18km King Jarrah Trail which starts at Nanga Mill Campground.

This is a loop trail traces the old transportation route of the once-thriving timber industry and follows the Murray River for much of the way.

The highlight of the walk is the 250-year-old King Jarrah Tree. The walk can be completed in about 5 hours, but there is an option to camp overnight at Big Brook, which is about halfway.

Bushwalking at Lane Poole Reserve

Other walks are the 3.8 km Chuditch Trail which connects Nanga Mill and Nanga Townsite campsites along the pretty Nanga Brook.

There’s also a shorter loop walk at Island Poole that starts in the carpark at the Island Poole day-use area. The walk takes about an hour to complete and has some good views of the Murray River.

Swimming

The Murray River and the Nanga Brook offer plenty of swimming opportunities. There are endless options to go for a dip but good spots are Island Pool which has steps down to the river, Bobs Crossing and Scarp Pool. For kids, the Nanga Brook near the bridge at Nanga Mill Campsite is ideal.

The water is refreshing at best, even in summer and be mindful of the changing river conditions including strong currents and undertow.

Kayaking and Canoeing

One of the best things you can do at Lane Poole Reserve is going on a paddling adventure. Launching areas can be found at Island Pool, Yarragil, Stringers and Baden Powell. If you don’t have your own watercraft, you can organise tours and rentals with Dwellingup Adventures. 

Canoeing at Lane Poole Reserve

Canoeing at Lane Poole Reserve

Mountain Biking

Both the Munda Biddi Bike Trail and the Waterous Trail pass through Lane Poole Reserve. The Waterous Trail is a 61km loop trail that shares some of the same tracks as the Munda Biddi. It passes through much of Lane Poole Reserve and can be accessed at the Nanga Mill campsite. For a trail map click here.

Trees Adventure

Not just for the kids, the Tree Top Park is a great way to experience the natural environment. The park features a treetop obstacle course with suspended bridges, flying foxes and airborne skateboard. There are different courses catering for different age groups and skills. The Adventure Park is located off the Nanga Mill Campsite, where you will find signs. Entry fees apply. Find more here.

Fishing

Fishing is popular along the Murray River with endless places to cast a line. Fish species include rainbow trout, redfin perch, cobbler and marron.

Tips and Hints:

Camping Lane Poole Reserve

– The roads inside Lane Poole Reserve are gravel but are suitable for 2WD. The condition of the roads can vary significantly depending on the weather.  If you think this is a problem, consider camping at Nanga Brook which is the only campsite with bitumen access.

– Dogs are permitted inside the reserve but must be kept on a leash.

– Some of the larger campsites with camp kitchens have running tap water from collected rainwater. There’s also drinking water available at Nanga Mill campsite, however, it’s best to bring your own potable water.

– There is limited phone reception inside the reserve.

– Consider bringing a tarp if you want a clean tent. The ground is more dirt than grass.

– March flies can be a nuisance. Mosquito repellent, as well as long pants and sleeves, are a good idea.

– A total fire ban applies during the hotter months of the year, however, you can bring your own BBQ.

– Drop in at the Tourist Office in Dwellingup for a range of up-to-date maps and trails.

– For bookings and more information visit the Parks and Wildlife website here.

Love camping in Western Australia, you may also like these posts:

20 awesome spots to go camping near Perth

Forest camping in Margaret River

Free camping at Cliff Head on the Indian Ocean Drive

A visit to Mount Augustus – the biggest rock in the world

32 Comments

  1. James smit says:

    thanks for nanga information im so lucky to live 5 min from reserve

    • Nina B says:

      Very lucky. It’s a fantastic area and I hope it stays the way it is for many more generations to enjoy. I should have asked you for your tips on things to do.

  2. Tony says:

    Thank You Nina, your work is amazing.

    • Nina B says:

      Thanks Tony, I hope you’re getting lots of opportunity to get out and about and discover some new camping spots in our beautiful state.

  3. Aaron says:

    Lane Poole Reserve has long been a favourite place for us to head for the weekend. We like Yarragil, or we head to the Captain Fawcett Track for free camping. There’s also a few other spots to stay at outside of the Park. Amazing area!

    • Nina B says:

      it’s a great area, year round. I prefer the smaller campsites too like Yarragil and Tony’s Bend. There’s plenty of other camping spots in the area for those that are willing to explore a bit further.

  4. Julie says:

    I so want to go on an adventure like this. I really need to get my act together.

  5. NK says:

    Looks indeed great nina!!!
    I would want go there~~~~~~
    I really miss Australia..
    Enjoy your life!

  6. […] The Ultimate Guide to Camping at Lane Poole Reserve in Dwellingup […]

  7. […] The Ultimate Guide to Camping at Lane Poole Reserve in Dwellingup […]

  8. Joe Barker says:

    Is camping equipment available for rent for Lane Poole? Tents for two, sleeping bags etc?

    • Nina B says:

      Hi Joe, unfortunately there’s no camping gear rental as far as I’m aware of. You could get in touch with Dwellingup Adventures. Alternatively, there are cabins for rent at the Dwellingup Chalets and Caravan Park – it’s not in Lane Poole Reserve but also surrounded by forest and might be an option for you.

  9. Denise Wong says:

    Hi, would you have any advice on the safety of the campsites, in Low season? Am thinking of bringing my three young kids to stay for 1 night in early June. Thanks!

    • Nina B says:

      Hi Denise, that’s a tricky one. From my own experience I’ve never had any safety problems at any camping site and go without hesitation. During low-season it can be the case that you’re pretty much on your own. If you do feel uncomfortable, I would recommend the Dwellingup Caravan Park. You still get to camp under the forest but it’s a managed caravan park and you’ll feel less isolated. From there you can take the quick drive to Lane Poole. Hope that helps, enjoy your trip.

  10. […] The Ultimate Guide to Camping at Lane Poole Reserve in Dwellingup […]

  11. Becky says:

    Hey, Nina, this is really an ultimate guide! I fell in love with the Nanga Mill sites – it looks so wild and beautiful!

  12. Greg Gosper says:

    Hi we have a 16foot poptop caravan, do you alow caravans in the park . Thanks greg.

    • Nina B says:

      Yes, you can take caravans to Lane Poole. The Nanga Brook site has bitumen access and is predominantly for large caravans. Chuditch, Charlies Bend, Baden Powell and Tony Bend also allow caravans. These spots are accessible via gravel road. The sites are quite large but it takes a bit more effort getting the van into these spots. You will need to pre-book your site via the DPAW website. I hope you enjoy your stay.

  13. […] There’s another trees adventure in Lane Poole Reserve in Dwelligup, see my blog post here. […]

  14. Gerry says:

    Hi I am thinking about going camping with a mate we want to camp beside the river and was wondering is that aloud and if so wheee is a good campsite for camping Trailer and tent

    • Nina B says:

      Yes, you can camp right near the river at Lane Poole Reserve. Some sites are closer to the river than others. The sites at Charlies Flats, Stringers and Tonys Bend are all close to the river. The only one that’s not in immediate vicinity is Baden Powell sites. These are a bit further away. Other sites worth checking out that are next to a river are Sues Bridge further south. You could also try Alexandra Bridge between Margaret River and Augusta, Chapman Pool and there are a few others near Augusta along the river. Happy camping.

  15. Stacy says:

    Hi, we are wanting to go camping with a group of friends, between 5 to about 10 on the 1st and 2nd of June 2019. We realised it’s a long weekend do these spots all go? What are our chances of not finding a place? We have a two year old do don’t want to drive all the way home if there is nowhere. The caravan Park is booked out.
    Thanks

    • Nina B says:

      Lane Poole is pretty popular, especially during public holidays, however, you can pre-book most sites via the Park and Wildlife Service. All the best.

  16. […] Lane Poole Reserve for nature-based activities including kayaking, swimming and […]

  17. […] See the ultimate guide to camping at Lane Pool Reserve. […]

  18. Britt says:

    Hi we are interested in going for a camp early summer at Lane Poole reserve. Prefer near the water.
    Will have teenagers with us.
    Using swags.
    Which camp site would you recommend ?
    Also someone had said there is an area that has a rope swing on the river. Do you know which camp site this would be ?

    Thanks

    • WA Explorer says:

      I don’t think you can go wrong at any of the campsites, they’re all lovely spots to camp. My favourite ones though are the smaller sites – Chudditch, Charlies Flats, Tony’s Bend and Stringers. You’ll need to be fairly self-contained though. Bring all your kitchen stuff and water. The swing is at the Island Pool. Have a great trip.

  19. Pavel says:

    Could you please decipher description of a camp site site such as:
    6.5m x 6.5m reverse-in compacted gravel site + additional 7.5m width for rear 4m?
    Does this mean that there is a 6.5 x 6.5 meters pad for parking a camper trailer/caravan and there is additional site 7.5m frontage by 4 meters deep for setting an outdoor area/another tent/swag?
    Is this additional 7.5m x 4m area also gravel or compacted ground?
    This is description of campsite No 12 at Chuditch ground.

    Also, are there fire pits at Chuditch camp ground?
    Thank you in advance for response.

    • WA Explorer says:

      I’m not sure where the descriptions come from for the size of the campsites. Lane Poole Reserve has a variety of different sites and they come in a variety of different sizes and shapes. Some a large enough for camper trailers and awnings some are suitable for tents only. All sites are gravel/dirt except for Nanga Brook which is on a sealed road. As far as I’m aware Chuditch has individual fire pits. Happy camping.

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