There’s absolutely no shortage of fantastic campsites close to Perth city. No matter whether you’re a self-sufficient camper looking for a secluded bush getaway, or a novice looking to take the family on a first-time adventure, the sites listed here should offer something for everyone.

Below are twenty handpicked camping sites that are all within an hour and a half driving time from the Perth CBD.

Included are several fantastic sites run by the Department of Parks and Conservation (DPC). These sites all offer nature-based camping sites and will have eco-toilets and frequently picnic tables, fire rings and in some instances a campers kitchen. However, all DPC sites are unpowered.

If you’re looking for slightly more comfort, the caravan parks and holiday parks will have you covered. Many of these have excellent facilities such as fully equipped kitchens, kids playgrounds, small shops and in some instances swimming pools.

Either way, go prepared with this Ultimate Camping Checklist to make sure that you have all the gear you need for the perfect camping trip.

Perth Hills Discovery Centre

If you’re after family-friendly camping close to Perth, then look no further than the Perth Hills Discovery Centre. Located in Beelu National Park there are just 12 spots available so make sure you book in advance.

Kids will love visiting the Discovery Centre for hands-on nature-based experiences. From the camp, it’s also an easy drive to Mundaring, the gorgeous Koobaburra Outdoor Cinema, Perth Observatory, Kanyana Wildlife Centre and all other attractions in the Perth Hills.

The Perth Hills Discovery Centre is a tent-only site. No campervans or caravans allowed. See more here.

Willowbrook Farm

Willowbrook Farm is a true gem that the whole family will love. Set on 40 acres of dinky die, Aussie bushland near Gin Gin, Willowbrook offers a relic of the pioneering days. There’s an old fashioned homestead, farm animal feeding sessions and Sunday morning Devonshire tea with homemade scones.

Regional attractions nearby include visiting the Gin Gin Observatory and Gravity Centre, Moore River and Guilderton but you may just want to spend the whole day in this gorgeous rural setting instead.

Dryandra Woodlands

For an amazing camping experience close to Perth, head to Dryandra Woodland. This unique woodland is located 169 km from Perth near Narrogin and is one of the state’s most important conservation areas.

Camping is allowed at two sites in the woodlands which is home to a diverse range of native species including our state emblem – the numbat.

DPC hosts guided nocturnal tours as well as plenty of walk trails where you can explore this unique habitat. You can also do a 23 km self-driving tour of the woodlands with interpretative signs to learn more about the conservation area. See more here.

Lane Poole Reserve

Located 7.5 km south of Dwellingup town, Lane Poole Reserve is a fantastic camping location that will keep the whole family happy. The 50,000-hectare large reserve consists of several campsites that are all beautifully located amid the forest and on the banks of the Murray River.

Things to do at Lane Poole Reserve include kayaking and swimming in the river, fishing, bushwalking and mountain biking.

Lane Poole Reserve is a nature-based campsite run by the DWC. The campsites have eco-toilets but you’ll need to be fairly self-sufficient with drinking water and all other essentials to make your camping trip comfortable.

See the ultimate guide to camping at Lane Pool Reserve.

Lancelin Caravan Park

The incredible turquoise waters and quaint little fishing town make Lancelin a great camping trip near Perth. Thanks to the recently upgraded Lancelin Caravan Park, the town now also has a great place to camp for a few nights.

Lancelin Caravan Park has an indoor pool and new facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. Spend the day enjoying the beautiful beaches, surf back beach, go sandboarding or take a drive to the Pinnacles. However,  you won’t want to miss a sunset drink at the Lancelin Tavern. See  Things to do in Lancelin for more ideas.

Henry Oval, Yanchep National Park

Get back to nature without leaving suburbia at Yanchep National Park. Camping is available on Henry Oval which includes hot showers and campers kitchen.

Challenge yourself at the nearby Trees Adventure Park or walk one of the many trails inside the national park. Yanchep National Park is also home to Crystal Cave and the Wangi Mia Aboriginal Experience.

Alternatively, take a drive to the coast and swim at Yanchep Lagoon -one of Perth’s best beaches. 

See more on Yanchep National Park here.

Rottnest Island

Why just do a Rottnest Island day trip when you can stay overnight? With a little organisation camping on Rottnest Island the old fashioned way is completely possible.

The Rottnest Campground is located a stone’s throw from the incredible Basin beach and Bathurst Lighthouse. The campground has some great sites under shady trees.

There’s also a basic camper’s kitchen and it’s just a quick bike ride to the main settlement.

See the full guide on How to go camping on Rottnest Island.

Karrinyup Waters

For a Bali vibe in Perth suburbia, head to Karrinyup Waters Resort. The resort is one of the top Perth Caravan Parks and offers excellent facilities, including Perth’s largest pool area complete heated pool and jacuzzi.

There’s also a bouncy pillow and playgrounds for the kids and awesome campers kitchen.

One of the best things about Karrinyup Waters is the large lake within the park, which is bordered by trees and plenty of birdlife. Along with powered sites for caravans, there’s also affordable cabin accommodation. See more here.

Discovery Park Coogee beach

Discovery Park, Coogee Beach is Perth’s only beachside caravan park with direct access to the beach. The caravan park hugs one of Perth’s best swimming beaches offers great facilities including plenty of watersport activities and tennis courts.

There’s a kid’s playground, nearby cafe as well as easy access to walking and cycle paths. It’s also a short drive to Fremantle.

Guilderton Caravan Park

Guilderton Caravan Park overlooks Moore River and the Indian Ocean and offers a perfect camping escape from Perth.

It’s far enough to feel like you’ve escaped the city without venturing too far either. The river and ocean offer plenty of aquatic adventures, while the quaint little town has a lovely old-world vibe with a fun country club, old school tuck shop and a beautiful beach.

Avon Valley National Park

Go bush camping close to Perth at Avon national Perth. Located an hour’s drive from Perth towards Tooday, the Avon Valley is a nature’s delight.

There are four campsites in the national park that offer bush camping at it’s best. Sites contain picnic tables, fire rings and eco-toilets.

Attractions at the national park revolve around nature-based activities. There are bushwalking trails, river, seasonal wildflowers and rocky outcrops to enjoy. See more here.

Toodyay Holiday Park

Toodyay Holiday Park offers a bush retreat without having to forgo too many conveniences. This is a great spot to take the family on a camping adventure without having to pack everything including the kitchen sink.

The caravan park has great facilities including kitchen, playground and kiosk but still offers plenty of space to make you feel like you’re out in the bush.

Toodyay township is in easy reach and offers plenty of attractions, historic sights, cute cafes and restaurants. See more here.

Dwellingup Caravan Park

Set among giant trees, Dwellingup Chalet and Caravan Park will make you feel like you’re out in the bush but with the convenience of Dwellingup town in close proximity.

The sites are large with fire pits, campers kitchen and at night the beautiful trees light up.

Dwellingup town is in walking distance, including the old school pub and if you get a chance, take a trip on the Hotham Valley Train or visit nearby Lane Poole Reserve. See more here.

Lake Leschenaultia

Lake Leschenaultia is the perfect spot for a Perth Hills family camping adventure with plenty of great facilities to guarantee a great stay for young and old.

Set near the picturesque lake, activities include kayaking, swimming, mountain bike and walking trails as well as the nearby Chidlow town and old fashioned pub.

Estuary Hideaway Caravan Park

Enjoy a quiet and idyllic location on the shores of Mandurah estuary at the Estuary Hideaway Holiday Park. The holiday park has a boat ramp which makes it perfect for all boating activities like water skiing, fishing and exploring the Mandurah canals.

Other facilities include swimming pool, tennis court, playground and very friendly service. See more here.

Lake Navarino Holiday Park

Self-declared as one of Perth’s best-kept secrets Lake Navarino is a unique spot tucked among the Jarrah Forest between Waroona and Dwellingup. The lake is a popular spot for waterskiers, boating and four-wheel driving.

Basic camping sites are available near the water’s edge.  There’s also a lovely little cafe and restaurant on-site for an added bonus. See more here.

Walyunga National Park

Walyunga National Park is located about one hour north of Perth near Bullsbrook and one of the best bush camping spots near Perth. The national park offers a few basic campsites for self-sufficient campers.

The national park is where the Avon River meets the Brockman River. If the water is high enough, there’s plenty of canoe action happening in the waters here. There are only five sites available so make sure you book ahead to avoid disappointment. See more here.

Lake Brockman Tourist Park

A ninety-minute drive from Perth CBD will get you to beautiful Lake Brockman Tourist Park.

Located approximately ten minutes from Harvey township, Lake Brockman and Logue Broom Dam are perfect for swimming, fishing, waterskiing and other aquatic activities. While mountain bikers can hit the Munda Biddi trail which passes near the campsite.

The Benissimo Cafe at the tourist park is the perfect spot for brekky or a coffee break.

Martins Tank

Martins Tank is located in the Yalgorup National Park south of Mandurah and about 5 kilometres inland from Preston Beach. The DPC campsites are set under the shady canopies of Tuart and Peppermint trees and on the banks of Martins Tank Lake. From the campsite it’s a short drive to Lake Clifton to view the remarkable thrombolites and a quick trip to the beach.

See  Camping at Martins Tank for full details on how to get there and things to do.

Belvidere Campground

The Belvidere Campground is set inside Leschenault Inlet Conservation area and is about 25 km north of Bunbury. The campground is uniquely located on a thin strip of land and is in easy access to both the inlet on the eastern side and the ocean on the other.

Belvidere Campground is run by the DPW and has large and shady sites with fire rings provided at each site.

See more here.

Did I miss anything? If you know of any other great camping spots that are within ninety minutes drive from Perth CBD let me know in the comments below.

Happy camping!