Gloucester National Park wilderness guide
National Park · WA

Gloucester National Park

Gloucester National Park in Western Australia offers lush karri forest landscapes and a tranquil natural environment, ideal for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.

National Park24,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

24,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Gloucester National Park

Gloucester National Park in Western Australia offers lush karri forest landscapes and a tranquil natural environment, ideal for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Gloucester National Park is located in the South West region of Western Australia, approximately 300 kilometers south of Perth. The park spans the high rainfall karri forest zone, protected by tall, ancient Eucalyptus diversicolor trees reaching heights of over 60 meters, providing a cool, shaded environment. The park features a diverse ecology including native marsupials like the western ringtail possum and various bird species such as the forest red-tailed black cockatoo. The area was historically significant to the Noongar people, the traditional custodians of this land, who utilized the resources sustainably for thousands of years. Established as a national park in 1992, it provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers seeking less crowded forest experiences compared to the nearby, more famous Warren National Park. Popular activities include bushwalking, camping, birdwatching, and photography. Notable landmarks include towering karri trees and Fernhook Falls, a picturesque, seasonal waterfall accessible via short walking trails. Visitors appreciate the park’s quiet atmosphere, well-maintained trails, and well-equipped campgrounds. The park’s remoteness and dense forest make it a perfect spot for those wanting to immerse themselves in Western Australia’s unique natural environment without long travel between key points of interest.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Gloucester National Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Fernhook Falls – seasonal waterfall with a short accessible trail✦ Ancient karri forests featuring some of the tallest hardwoods in Australia✦ Peaceful camping areas with opportunities for evening wildlife encounters✦ Scenic forest walks offering chances to spot native birds and marsupials
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Gloucester National Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Gloucester National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Gloucester National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Gloucester National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Gloucester National Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Gloucester 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 Gloucester National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free entry to the park; no permits required for day use, campsite bookings recommended.

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 Gloucester National Park

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

Fernhook Falls Campground

Located near the falls with picnic tables, fire pits, and basic toilet facilities. Ideal for families and accessible hikes.

Gloucester Forest Campground

A more secluded area deeper within the karri forest; minimal facilities providing a rustic camping experience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Gloucester National Park

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

Bridgetown, Western Australia
⌖ 5.17 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
Greenbushes, Western Australia
⌖ 5.41 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
⌖ 11.31 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
Southampton, Western Australia
⌖ 11.42 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
Boyup Brook, Western Australia
⌖ 14.52 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
Donnelly River Village, Western Australia
⌖ 17.86 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Donnelly River Village, Western Australia

Donnelly River Village is a tranquil heritage settlement surrounded by towering karri forests and the clear Donnelly River. It’s perfect for hiking, kayaking, and spotting native birdlife in a peaceful natural setting.

Autumn and Spring
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Gloucester National Park

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

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
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
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