Cape Range National Park wilderness guide
National Park · WA

Cape Range National Park

Cape Range National Park offers a blend of rugged limestone ranges, spectacular gorges, and pristine beaches ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

National Park294,1973+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

294,197

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cape Range National Park

Cape Range National Park offers a blend of rugged limestone ranges, spectacular gorges, and pristine beaches ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cape Range National Park, located on the North West Cape of Western Australia, spans over 119,000 hectares and is renowned for its rugged landscapes, deep canyons, and stunning coastal vistas. The park is characterized by its rocky limestone ranges and breathtaking gorges such as Yardie Creek with its steep, colorful walls. The terrain provides a unique habitat for a variety of wildlife including the iconic red kangaroo and the endangered black-footed rock wallaby.

Besides its land-based attractions, the park's proximity to Ningaloo Reef adds a unique opportunity for marine exploration. Visitors can experience both land and sea adventures, from hiking the gorge trails to snorkeling in the turquoise waters teeming with marine life.

Established in 1964, Cape Range's history is linked to the rich cultural traditions of the Yinigudura people who have long inhabited the area. Today, Cape Range National Park draws visitors for its mesmerizing natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for outdoor recreation, offering a perfect destination for hiking, wildlife observation, and marine adventures.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cape Range National Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Yardie Creek Gorge✦ Snorkeling at Turquoise Bay✦ Mandu Mandu Gorge Trail✦ Charles Knife Canyon
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cape Range National Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cape Range National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Cape Range National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cape Range National Park
Park Recreation

Snorkeling

Available in Cape Range National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cape Range 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 Cape Range National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees apply for vehicles entering the park.

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 Cape Range National Park

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

Osprey Bay Campground

Located near pristine beaches, perfect for snorkeling and enjoying panoramic ocean views.

Yardie Creek Campground

Close to the stunning Yardie Creek Gorge, offering easy access to water-based activities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cape Range National Park

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

Learmonth, Western Australia
⌖ 16.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Learmonth, Western Australia

Learmonth is a serene Coral Coast town serving as the gateway to Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park, perfect for snorkeling, diving, hiking, and world-class wildlife encounters.

April to October
Explore Town
North West Cape, Western Australia
⌖ 30.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North West Cape, Western Australia

North West Cape offers a striking mix of vibrant reef snorkeling, epic hiking, and world-famous whale shark encounters. With remote beaches and wild landscapes, it’s a must for outdoor adventurers seeking pristine Australian coastline.

April to October
Explore Town
Exmouth, Western Australia
⌖ 31.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Exmouth, Western Australia

Exmouth is a hub for marine adventure and outback exploration. From snorkeling Ningaloo Reef to hiking Cape Range, it's a must-visit for nature lovers.

April to October
Explore Town
Coral Bay, Western Australia
⌖ 58.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Coral Bay, Western Australia

Coral Bay is a peaceful seaside town offering unparalleled snorkeling and diving on Ningaloo Reef. With clear waters, abundant marine life, and relaxed vibes, it’s ideal for paddling, fishing, and coastal hiking adventures.

April to October
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cape Range National Park

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

A full-throttle, salt-spray sampler of Exmouth’s water playground
ADVEXPEDITION
Exmouth, Western Australia
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

A full-throttle, salt-spray sampler of Exmouth’s water playground

Ultimate Watersports’ Day Pass bundles a 15‑minute jet‑ski hire, a 30‑minute towed‑board session, one hour of SUP or kayak hire and a 30‑minute tubing ride—an efficient way to sample Exmouth's waters while saving over $200.

Water ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Jet-ski the Ningaloo: Bundegi’s Fast Track to Snorkeling the Reef
ADVEXPEDITION
Exmouth, Western Australia
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Jet-ski the Ningaloo: Bundegi’s Fast Track to Snorkeling the Reef

A 2.5-hour guided Jet Ski and snorkel outing from Exmouth that pairs high-speed coastal running with a shallow-water snorkel stop so you can see Ningaloo’s corals and marine life up close.

Water ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Banana Tubes and High-Speed Tows: Solo Tubing off Exmouth’s Foreshore
ADVEXPEDITION
Exmouth, Western Australia
Boat TourADV Bookable

Banana Tubes and High-Speed Tows: Solo Tubing off Exmouth’s Foreshore

A short, flexible tubing experience in Exmouth, Western Australia—offered in 10–30 minute options with a range of tube shapes including banana-style tubes—ideal for choosing a leisurely foreshore tow or a high-energy ride.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Glass, Fins and Turtles: A Winter Half-Day on Ningaloo from Tantabiddi
ADVEXPEDITION
Exmouth, Western Australia
Boat TourADV Bookable

Glass, Fins and Turtles: A Winter Half-Day on Ningaloo from Tantabiddi

A focused three-hour glass-bottom boat and snorkeling outing that showcases coral gardens, turtles and manta rays off Exmouth — this guide outlines timing, what’s included and how to prepare for the winter itinerary.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip