Shannon National Park wilderness guide
National Park · WA

Shannon National Park

Shannon National Park in Western Australia offers rugged landscapes, ancient granite outcrops, and a rich biodiversity, attracting visitors interested in geology, native flora and fauna, and peaceful wilderness exploration.

National Park6,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

6,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Shannon National Park

Shannon National Park in Western Australia offers rugged landscapes, ancient granite outcrops, and a rich biodiversity, attracting visitors interested in geology, native flora and fauna, and peaceful wilderness exploration.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Shannon National Park is located in the South West region of Western Australia, approximately 250 kilometers south of Perth. Covering diverse landscapes including granite outcrops, heathlands, and forests dominated by jarrah and marri trees, the park is an ecological haven supporting a range of native wildlife such as western grey kangaroos, echidnas, and numerous bird species. The park’s granite outcrops provide unique geological features with rock formations shaped over millions of years, creating scenic lookouts and natural water catchments called gnammas. Historically, the area was important to the indigenous Noongar people, who have a strong connection to the land and its natural resources. Recreational opportunities in Shannon National Park include bushwalking, wildlife viewing, rock climbing, and picnicking. Several walking trails allow visitors to explore the rich botanical variety and panoramic views from granite summits. The relatively quiet and less commercialized nature of the park offers a tranquil experience compared to other more frequented national parks in the region. Shannon’s diverse ecosystems are sensitive and home to some rare plants and animals, making conservation efforts critical. Birdwatchers especially appreciate the park for species like the red-capped parrot and western rosella. The park appeals to visitors seeking a remote wilderness experience with easy access from nearby towns and a chance to connect with Western Australia's native landscapes.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Shannon National Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Exceptional granite outcrops with panoramic views from Mt Cooke✦ Diverse ecosystems including jarrah-marri forests and heathlands✦ Abundant birdlife providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities✦ Secluded walking trails offering peaceful bushland exploration
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Shannon National Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Shannon National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Shannon National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Shannon National Park
Park Recreation

Rock Climbing

Available in Shannon National Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Shannon National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Shannon National Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Shannon National Park
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Shannon 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 Shannon National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees or permits required; free entry

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 Shannon National Park

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

Brookton Highway Campsite

Basic camping area with limited facilities located near key walking trails, ideal for self-sufficient campers.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Shannon National Park

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

Waroona, Western Australia
⌖ 8.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Waroona, Western Australia

Waroona offers peaceful outdoor escapes with hiking, mountain biking, and paddling in stunning forest and river settings. Perfect for nature lovers seeking a relaxed base near Lane Poole Reserve's wilderness and waterways.

Autumn and Spring
Explore Town
Dwellingup, Western Australia
⌖ 11.00 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
Yarloop, Western Australia
⌖ 11.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Yarloop, Western Australia

Yarloop, Western Australia, blends its timber town roots with quiet, thrilling outdoor adventures like mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. This rugged area offers bush camping and trails through protected forestlands, ideal for adventurers seeking an authentic nature experience.

Autumn and Spring
Explore Town
Pinjarra, Western Australia
⌖ 20.34 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 Dandalup, Western Australia
⌖ 25.20 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
Yunderup, Western Australia
⌖ 25.81 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
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Shannon National Park

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

28’ Wine & Grazing — Slow Tastings on Yarloop’s Shaded Lawn
ADVEXPEDITION
Yarloop, Western Australia
WineADV Bookable

28’ Wine & Grazing — Slow Tastings on Yarloop’s Shaded Lawn

A roughly two-hour guided tasting at Vineyard 28 in Yarloop that pairs the cellar’s full wine selection with a curated grazing board; this guide explains what to expect, how to book, and practical details.

WinePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
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