Your First Camping in Perth 🏕️ Top Spots for Beginners!

🔥 G’day mate! After 5+ years of exploring WA, I’ve found some absolute ripper camping spots around Perth that are perfect for your first time under the stars!

📍 Lane Poole Reserve

This is my absolute top pick for first-time campers near Perth! Located right on the Murray River, it’s got everything you need without being overwhelming. You’ll find proper toilets, fire pits, and these massive shady gum trees. Last arvo I was there, saw a family of kangaroos having a drink at sunset – absolute magic! The river spots are perfect for a morning dip when it gets warm.

📍 Serpentine National Park

Only about 45 minutes from the city, this place is heaps good for beginners! The campground is super well-maintained with hot showers (luxury!), and you’re right near the stunning Serpentine Falls. I reckon it’s perfect if you want a bit of hiking with your camping. Pro tip: grab spot 17-19 – they’re the flattest and closest to the amenities block. The falls are pumping after winter, making it bloody beautiful!

📍 Yanchep National Park

If you want proper facilities with a touch of wilderness, Yanchep’s your go-to! The campground is spotless, and you’re walking distance to the crystal caves and koala boardwalk. I took my little cousin for her first camp here, and she reckon’d it was the best weekend ever. The nightly kangaroo feeding at the main area is a must-do – just remember they’re wild animals, so keep your distance!

📍 Wellsford Forest

For the slightly more adventurous beginners who want to escape the crowds! It’s basic camping (drop toilets only) but you get proper bush solitude. Last winter I spent a weekend here and didn’t see another soul after dark. The birdlife is incredible, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some wild emus wandering through. Pack extra water though – there’s none on-site!

📊 Quick Comparison

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🏆 My Top Pick

Honestly, for your first camping trip around Perth, I’d go with Lane Poole Reserve every time! It’s got the perfect balance of bush feel and convenience. The river access means you can cool off in summer, the facilities are decent without being overwhelming, and it’s close enough that you won’t spend half your weekend driving. Plus, there’s something special about falling asleep to the sound of running water!

📋 Practical Info

📍 Multiple locations – see individual spots
🚗 All spots accessible by 2WD from Perth CBD. Lane Poole: 1hr 15min south via South Western Hwy, Dwellingup WA 6213
💰 Lane Poole: $12 per adult per night | Serpentine: $15 per adult per night | Yanchep: $20 per adult per night | Wellsford: Free (but bookings required)
🕐 All campsites open year-round, check individual park websites for seasonal closures
⏱️ Recommended minimum 2 nights to really enjoy the experience

💡 Tips & Warnings

✅ Book your spot online through Parks WA – weekends fill up weeks in advance!
✅ Arrive before 3pm to set up camp in daylight and avoid the afternoon rush
❌ Don’t forget insect repellent – mozzies can be brutal near water at dusk!
⚠️ Check total fire bans before you go – summer often means no campfires allowed

🚀 Which spot are you keen to check out first? 🚀

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