Blackwood River National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Western Australia

Blackwood River National Park

Blackwood River National Park protects a pristine section of the Blackwood River and surrounding diverse habitats, offering excellent opportunities for canoeing, hiking, and nature observation in southwestern Australia.

National Park12,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

12,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Blackwood River National Park

Blackwood River National Park protects a pristine section of the Blackwood River and surrounding diverse habitats, offering excellent opportunities for canoeing, hiking, and nature observation in southwestern Australia.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Blackwood River National Park is located in the South West region of Western Australia, centered around the meandering Blackwood River. The park preserves a vibrant range of ecosystems including riverine forests, karri and jarrah woodlands, and unique heathlands. The Blackwood River is the longest river in the region and features clean, clear water that supports a diverse array of aquatic life. The varied landscapes within the park provide vital habitat to numerous native species such as western brush wallabies, kookaburras, and rare birdlife including the red-winged fairy-wren. The park lies on land traditionally inhabited by the Noongar people, whose cultural heritage remains an important aspect of the area. Recreational activities thrive here with kayaking, bushwalking, birdwatching, and camping as popular pursuits. The river’s calm reaches are ideal for canoe trips, while forest trails provide scenic and peaceful hikes. Several lookouts offer panoramic views over the river valley, especially where ancient granite outcrops rise above the canopy. The park is a relatively quiet destination compared to other Western Australian parks, appealing to visitors seeking a tranquil nature escape and opportunities to spot native wildlife. Seasonal wildflowers reflect the region’s renowned biodiversity during spring. With easy access from nearby towns, Blackwood River National Park serves both locals and visitors as a natural retreat rich in ecological and cultural values.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Blackwood River National Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

The Blackwood River Canoe Trail – a serene paddling route following the river’s gentle flowKarri and jarrah forests providing habitat to unique southwestern Australian wildlifeGranite outcrops with scenic vistas over the river valley and surrounding woodlandsSpring wildflower displays showcasing vibrant regional floral diversity
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Blackwood River National Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Blackwood River National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Blackwood River National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Blackwood River National Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Blackwood River National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Blackwood River National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Blackwood River National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free entry; no permits required for day use or camping at designated areas.

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 Blackwood River National Park

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

Blackwood Riverside Campground

Basic riverside camping within the park, offering quiet access to river paddling and hiking trails.

Middle Creek Campground

Small campsite located near the river confluence, ideal for fishing and birdwatching.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Blackwood River National Park

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

Boyup Brook, Western Australia
11.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Boyup Brook, Western Australia

Boyup Brook offers peaceful bushland adventures with hiking, biking, fishing, and birdwatching amid majestic forests of Western Australia’s South West. Visit in spring or autumn to enjoy mild weather and vibrant wildflowers in this quiet rural town.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Greenbushes, Western Australia
14.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Greenbushes, Western Australia

Greenbushes is a quiet Western Australian town known for excellent mountain biking and peaceful hiking trails through towering forests. Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking less crowded routes and nature immersion.

Autumn to Spring
Explore Town
Balingup, Western Australia
15.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Balingup, Western Australia

Balingup offers laid-back outdoor adventures with hiking, biking, paddling, and wildlife watching amid beautiful forests and river valleys. It’s a quiet base for exploring Western Australia’s South West natural beauty, especially in spring and autumn.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Bridgetown, Western Australia
17.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bridgetown, Western Australia

Bridgetown is a peaceful outdoor escape with tranquil forests, the scenic Blackwood River, and varied trails for hiking, biking, and paddling. Ideal for visitors seeking nature and adventure off the usual path.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Southampton, Western Australia
20.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Southampton, Western Australia

Southampton offers a tranquil coastal escape in southwestern Australia with quiet beaches, gentle hiking trails, and rich wildlife. It’s perfect for paddling, fishing, and enjoying nature away from busy tourist spots.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Collie, Western Australia
25.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Collie, Western Australia

Collie, Western Australia, offers outdoor lovers forests, rivers, and trails away from city crowds. Hike, bike, paddle, or camp in Wellington National Park and enjoy freshwater fishing or bird watching year-round.

Autumn to Spring
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Blackwood River National Park

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

Koombana Bay's Wild Stage: A 60–90 Minute Dolphin Eco‑Cruise from Bunbury
ADVEXPEDITION
Bunbury, Western Australia
Boat TourADV Bookable

Koombana Bay's Wild Stage: A 60–90 Minute Dolphin Eco‑Cruise from Bunbury

A 60–90 minute, eco‑certified boat tour from the Dolphin Discovery Centre that visits Koombana Bay and nearby waterways to observe a resident population of over 100 bottlenose dolphins, with a guaranteed sighting or a free return trip.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Langston Wreck: A 1902 Norwegian Barque Sleeping at 45m
ADVEXPEDITION
Geographe, Western Australia
Boat TourADV Bookable

Langston Wreck: A 1902 Norwegian Barque Sleeping at 45m

A six-hour technical boat dive from Port Geographe to a newly rediscovered 1902 wreck; this guide orients divers to the site, schedule and what to expect.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Learn to Freedive to 10m beneath Busselton Jetty
ADVEXPEDITION
Busselton, Western Australia
Free DivingADV Bookable

Learn to Freedive to 10m beneath Busselton Jetty

A concise guide to the Basic Freediver course that introduces breathing, relaxation and safety skills and culminates in dives to 10m at the Busselton Jetty Underwater Sculpture Trail.

Free DivingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip