18 Jan 5 Waterside Camps In the South West

Look no further for than these 5 amazing waterside camping grounds the South West region of WA. 

In WA we have very few natural lakes, however there are plenty of man made dams and fresh water rivers to enjoy. What better way than to wake up waterside in the South West. Camping waterside is very enjoyable in both summer and winter, continue reading to explore these 5 waterside campsites.

Why are all of these waterside camps in the South West?

Most of these waterside campgrounds are in WA’s South West due to the weather in these regions, allowing waterways to remain full and flowing all year round. It makes these locations great summer camping spots as well as winter locations. In WA’s northern regions most of the rivers will dry up in summer seasons and the land is not conducive for fresh water dams and the rivers all dry up. That is why most of the waterside camping will be in the South West. Within a day’s drive of our capital city, Perth. Unlike to North West region which is more than a days drive away from our capital.

WA has some serious coastal wind in summer. The wind hammers the coast line specifically in the afternoon so a lot of people get fed up with it. Most Summer mornings are pleasant, however the coastal winds in the afternoon can become just plain annoying. Especially if you are camping out in those elements. Luckily there are plenty of waterside camps to enjoy away from the coast line,

If all you want to do is sit on the banks of a calm river in summer then continue reading. Let’s explore some of the best waterside campgrounds.

If you are new to camping these places are all in quite close proximity to Perth and offering basic facilities. In my opinion these waterside camps are a great first time experience for someone looking to get into camping. Or maybe you are a seasoned camper and need an excuse to “get away” for the weekend or test out some new gear.

Top 5 Waterside camping grounds

Lake Brockman / Logue Brook Dam

Sitting in between Waroona and Harvey in Perth Peel region, Lounge Brook Dam is approx 1 ½ hrs drive south of Perth. Lounge Brook Dam was an old coal mine and the water is the most beautiful turquoise blue colour. You will find people call this either Lake Brockman or Logue brook dam, which is confusing, however they are referring to the same location.

There are multiple options for camping here.

1) Waterside camping at the northern side of the dam, where you can camp on the banks of the dam. There are toilets at the entrance however beware this will get overused during peak seasons and you may need to drive to a toilet a short distance away if required, long drop toilets are provided around the dam in 3 locations. Camping here is only $10 p/n and the ranger will come around to collect.

2) Lake Brockman Tourist Park is the name of the caravan park that controls the campgrounds and accommodation surrounding the southern end of Logue Brook Dam. They offer accommodation including campsites, powered and unpowered bush sites, caravan sites and also glamping tents and cabins. They also offer bush camping if you wish to feel immersed in the bush that is a short 50m walk to the Dam choose the “Logue Brook / bush camping” option and pick your site that best suits your camping style. The “bush camping” option is a great option if you prefer some basic facilities and a little more privacy between sites.

The dam is popular for water sports so you will get people water skiing and wakeboarding so be prepared for some motor noise throughout the day. This is not a quiet pristine lake camping experience. If you are after a quiet camp spot, this may not be the one of you, especially in summer. With trout plentiful in the dam waters its a great spot in winter too if you enjoy fishing and want a quieter camping experience. In winter you will be able to enjoy a fire at the campsites too. Just a short distance from Perth this is a winner for a night or weekend out of town.

• Distance from perth CBD – 1hr 1/2
• Booking online YES (at Lake Brockman Tourist Park)
• Pet Friendly Y
• Facilities Y – BBQ, Long drop toilets, non drinking water, boat ramp.

Stockton Lake / Collie

Stockton lake Is just 8kms east of Collie. An old coal mine that was decommissioned in the 60’s is now used for recreational activities and camping. It is known for its white clay banks that contrast against the most amazing aqua blue water. Water Skiing is permitted on the lake, so you will experience some motor noise from the boats. The area is pet friendly. 

This site is a popular summer spot and is a first come first serve basis. There are no designated spots and there are loads to choose from. A ranger will come around to collect fees daily. There are no advanced bookings so you can’t make a booking in advance. There are no designated campsites either so you can just pull up anywhere. Be respectful of others and don’t encroach on their space. There are plenty of trees to give you shade in summer and also worth a visit in winter to watch the mist rise off the lake in the morning and enjoy a camp fire.

There are long drop toilets in 2 locations and a day use parking area, but other than that its a pretty raw camping experience right on the banks of the dam.

• Distance from Perth CBD 2 hrs 15mins
• Booking N
• Pet Friendly Y
• Facilities Y

Lake Kepwari / Collie 

The Collie council finished a massive upgrade of this camping ground in 2021. The camping facilities are great, new and well maintained. There are loads of sites suitable for all types of campers. Now its been a few years the trees are welkl established and will only mature to provide more shade and privacy.

The area is split into 2 loops or 2 campsites, both close to the lake. David Ugle Campeground has 32 sites and Mick Murray Campground offers 21 sites. 

This is a popular water skiing spot too, so there will be boat noise during the day and summer months. Also a lovely quiet place to stay in winter to enjoy a fire at night.

A great place to spend a few nights to explore the surrounding area (like Wellington National Park) or spend the days by the Lake, cooling off in Summer.

The sites are very close to the water’s edge and with water views from some of the sites. The council have done a great job with the toilets, bbq’s and day use areas for everyone to enjoy. I personally like that you can book in advance because it gives you peace of mind to know you will have a campsite on arrival.

• Distance from perth 2hr 1/2
• Booking online YES – Here
• Pet Friendly Y
• Facilities Y/N

Wellington National Park, Collie

This is a large national park that offers multiple waterside campgrounds.

Potters Gorge is just set back from the Dam, Honeymoon Pool campsites are again a very short 50m walk to the river and Glencoat also offers waterside camping just meters from the river. There are additional camp sites in the national park however they are not waterside. However if you are unable to grab a waterside site, there are plenty of day use areas where you can enjoy a fresh water dip in the river. Full review of the area and campgrounds HERE

 

There is also an area zoned for free camping along the south side of the dam. It is just outside of the “National Park Zoning” where you can camp on the banks of the dam. You can access this area on the south side of the Dam off of Wights Rd, just follow the graded gravel road towards the Dam. There are loads of tracks in this area so be sure to look at google maps for your location and try and follow the right track or the most graded road should get you there easily.

I would only recommend this location as 4wd access only for caravans and higher clearance vehicles. Luckily there are loads more waterside camping grounds in the National Park that are easily accessible. 

Just 2 ½ hrs Sth of Perth this is a very accessible weekend location on the water’s edge. There are no toilets facilities at the “free dam side camping” so you will need to drive a short distance to the nearest public toilets or bring your own.

• Booking online Yes (within the national park) /No (free dam side camping)
• Pet Friendly Yes (free dam side camping) /No (in the national park)
• Facilities Yes (in the national park) /No (free dam side camping)- 4wd access only.

Alexandra Bridge Campground, 

This truly is a lovely spot to camp waterside. The local council has cleared 21 sites that sit on the bend of the Blackwood River. Depending on what site you are able to access due to your camping style (tent, caravan, etc) the camp grounds are very close to the water’s edge. With 5 sites just a short 15m walk to the banks.

This is a popular spot for caravans traveling through the South West. It will become busy during school holidays and in Summer. Unfortunately you cannot book in advance, it’s a first come first serve basis. Checkout is at 11am so i suggest getting their early to stake your claim if you are worried about not getting a site.

The campgrounds sit just back from the Blackwood river which offers great kayaking, SUP’ing and Fishing. There is a boat ramp there and plenty of locations to tie up your boat.

The council has cleared a day use area that is hugely popular with picnic tables, bbq and some steps to the water. Along with flushing toilets, which is a bit fancy for a bush campsite. Along with one open air shower to rinse off the salty river water.

Fires are only permitted during the winter season because this area is surrounded by thick forests. You will feel very immersed in nature here under the canopy of the peppermint trees. This would still be a lovely place to come during winter.

Just over 3hrs South of Perth this is a great weekend or few nights stay while you explore the Margaret River Wine region. 

• Distance from perth 3 ½ hrs
• Booking online N
• Pet Friendly Y/N
• Facilities Y/N

Honorable Mentions:

These did not make the cut for various reasons, however are still great waterside camping options around Perth and the South West.

Lane Pool Reserve, Dwellingup 

Lane Pool Reserve is just 1 hr 1/2 sth of Perth. Its a great National Park just South Of Dwellingup.

It offers multiple waterside camping at Nanga, Tony’s Bend and Charlie Flat. However it has become so popular it is actually quite difficult to get a campsite. The Murray River flows through this national park with fresh water all year round. A great spot to explore if you can get a camping site. Read our full in-depth review HERE.

Greenbushes Pool, Greenbush

Greenbushes pool is a nature based camp on the banks of a small lake in WA’s South West. If you have never heard of Greenbushes, it is situated between Ballingup and Bridgetown 2 1/2 hrs sth of perth. Great place to stop for a night while cruising around the south west corner of WA. Or a few nights stop over to explore the surrounding area. Its payment is a donation so please do the right thing. The donations help to maintain the area. It also makes for a very cost effective way to explore the surrounding area.

It offers toilets and running water. Water activities in summer and lovely bush walking trails.

Suitable for all types of camping (tent, roof top tent, campers, caravans etc).

Chapman Pool, Warner Glen Margaret River

Nestled in the Blackwood State forest this campground is tucked in amongst the jarrah trees. While it’s not exactly waterfront camping if you are lucky you may be able to get one of the closer sites just 50m from the river. Otherwise most of the campsites are just set back from the river and a very short walk down to the Blackwood river. It’s a stunning campground and usually very quiet. The facilities are well maintained and there is a day use area with picnic tables right on the banks of the river so you can enjoy a day waterside. 

Suitable for all types of camping (tent, roof top tent, campers, caravans etc).

Do’s and Don’t for waterside camping

I wish this was an obvious statement however some people use and abuse areas. When you are camping waterside leave no trace. Always collect your rubbish and try not to contaminate the waterways ecosystem with soaps and oils from cooking water.

Final Thoughts

WA’s South West is well known for its stunning coastline and beaches. However there are plenty of waterside camp sites a stones throw away from Perth to enjoy. So get out there and enjoy WA.

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