Marrinup State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · WA

Marrinup State Forest

Marrinup State Forest is a forested area in southwestern Western Australia offering opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and nature observation amid native jarrah and marri trees.

State ForestApprox. 2,200 hectares (5,438 acres)4+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

Approx. 2,200 hectares (5,438 acres)

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Marrinup State Forest

Marrinup State Forest is a forested area in southwestern Western Australia offering opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and nature observation amid native jarrah and marri trees.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Marrinup State Forest is located about 25 kilometers northeast of Dwellingup in Western Australia. Covering an area characterized by native jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata) and marri (Corymbia calophylla) woodlands, it provides a quiet and scenic setting for a range of outdoor recreational activities. The forest terrain is marked by gently rolling hills and valleys, with diverse understory shrubs and wildflowers depending on the season. Historically, Marrinup was the site of a small timber town and a World War II internment camp, lending a cultural and historical dimension to the area. Key recreational opportunities within the forest include mountain biking on well-maintained trails, hiking through forested landscapes, birdwatching, and picnicking. The forest is part of the larger network of forests managed for sustainable timber production and conservation, balancing human use with ecological health. Visitors can also explore nearby heritage remnants related to the former Marrinup townsite. Compared to busier forests in the region, Marrinup offers a relatively peaceful experience with natural surroundings that support numerous native wildlife species. It appeals largely to outdoor enthusiasts looking for moderate trails and forest immersion within a reasonable driving distance from Perth.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Marrinup State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Marrinup Mountain Bike Trails – Popular and varied circuit trails for riders of all skill levels✦ Remnants of the World War II Internment Camp – Historic site with interpretive signage✦ Jarrah and Marri Forest Ecosystem – Opportunities for native flora and fauna observation✦ Access to nearby Lane Poole Reserve – Gateway to expanded hiking and camping options
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Marrinup State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Marrinup State Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Marrinup State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Marrinup State Forest
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Marrinup State Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Marrinup State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Marrinup State Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Marrinup State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; no permits required for day use; camping requires permit in nearby reserves

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Marrinup State Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Wilderness & Developed Camping Regulations

Camping is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Marrinup State Forest. Most frontcountry campgrounds require advance reservations on Recreation.gov during peak season, while backcountry camping requires a wilderness permit and certified bear-resistant food canisters.

Find Campgrounds on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Marrinup State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

North Dandalup, Western Australia
⌖ 5.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Dandalup, Western Australia

North Dandalup is a tranquil riverside town known for its scenic dam, forest trails, and outdoor water activities, perfect for paddling, hiking, fishing, and camping escapes.

Autumn and Spring
Explore Town
Dwellingup, Western Australia
⌖ 9.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dwellingup, Western Australia

Dwellingup is a lively adventure hub with diverse outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking in majestic forests to serene kayaking experiences on the Murray River.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Pinjarra, Western Australia
⌖ 10.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pinjarra, Western Australia

Pinjarra is a quiet riverside town perfect for outdoor lovers who enjoy hiking, kayaking, and bird watching along the Murray River. With nearby nature reserves and family-friendly trails, it’s an ideal spot for relaxed outdoor adventures.

Autumn to Spring
Explore Town
North Yunderup, Western Australia
⌖ 14.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Yunderup, Western Australia

North Yunderup is a quiet Western Australia town set on the scenic Murray River, offering kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and gentle trails. Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking relaxed water-based adventure and nature immersion.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Yunderup, Western Australia
⌖ 14.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Yunderup, Western Australia

Yunderup is a quiet riverside town in Western Australia, ideal for paddling, fishing, and birdwatching on the Murray River. Its peaceful surroundings make it great for relaxing outdoor activities and exploring nearby forest trails.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Serpentine, Western Australia
⌖ 15.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Serpentine, Western Australia

Serpentine is a quiet Western Australian town with easy access to Serpentine National Park. Perfect for hiking, paddling the Serpentine River, and birdwatching, it offers a relaxing outdoor escape just southeast of Perth.

Autumn to Spring
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Marrinup State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Up Close with Australia’s Only Squirrel Gliders
ADVEXPEDITION
Pinjarra, Western Australia
ZooADV Bookable

Up Close with Australia’s Only Squirrel Gliders

A focused, 15‑minute, small‑group encounter at Ranger Red’s Zoo & Conservation Park—meet Ivy, Torah, Saphira and Ameli and hand-feed honey treats; ages 6+, zoo admission not included.

ZooPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Nightfall at Ranger Red’s: A Close-Up on Possums, Gliders and Quolls
ADVEXPEDITION
Pinjarra, Western Australia
ZooADV Bookable

Nightfall at Ranger Red’s: A Close-Up on Possums, Gliders and Quolls

A four‑hour guided nocturnal tour and BBQ at Ranger Red’s Zoo & Conservation Park that lets you photograph native night animals and dine on‑site—useful for planning logistics, what to bring, and booking requirements.

ZooPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Saddle into Jarrahdale: A 1.5‑Hour Exclusive Ride to Bald Hill
ADVEXPEDITION
Jarrahdale, Western Australia
HorseADV Bookable

Saddle into Jarrahdale: A 1.5‑Hour Exclusive Ride to Bald Hill

A guided, instructor-led 1.5‑hour horse ride through the scenic Jarrahdale hills to Bald Hill lookout — this guide explains what you’ll see, how the ride flows, and the restrictions and kit to plan for.

HorsePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip