The Best National Parks in WA You Need to Visit at Least Once
If you're planning a trip to the west coast, here are six best national parks in WA that deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Embark on a thrilling adventure through Western Australia’s awe-inspiring national parks, where rugged gorges, ancient rock formations, and panoramic vistas will leave you breathless. Each park offers a unique slice of wilderness just waiting to be explored.
Take a revitalising dip in the crystal-clear rock pools of Karijini National Park, where towering red cliffs create an unforgettable backdrop. Uncover the mysterious beauty of the Bungle Bungles in the UNESCO-listed Purnululu National Park, with its beehive-shaped domes that look straight out of a dream. Or, marvel at the surreal limestone spires of the Pinnacles in Nambung National Park—like something from another world.
Whether you're hiking through stunning trails, swimming in natural pools, or encountering unique wildlife, every national park in WA promises an adventure you’ll never forget. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your camera, and start exploring today. These parks are bucket list material, and the wonders are endless!
Fitzgerald River National Park
Looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure? Fitzgerald River National Park, between Albany and Esperance, is a hidden gem bursting with natural beauty! Home to nearly 20% of WA’s plant species—including rare orchids and colourful banksias—this park is a paradise for wildflower lovers. Wander along rugged coastal trails that lead to secret coves and pristine beaches, perfect for swimming, fishing, or even whale watching during winter. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, echidnas, and soaring eagles as you explore this diverse wonderland. Ready to discover one of Australia’s most ecologically rich national parks? A spectacular adventure awaits!
Cape Range National Park
Perched on the northwest coast of WA, Cape Range National Park is a wild wonderland of rugged limestone ridges, deep canyons, and native wildlife. Expect to encounter kangaroos, emus, and reptiles as you explore. Just a stone’s throw from Ningaloo Reef, the park offers some of the best snorkelling and diving spots in the world. Take a hike through Yardie Creek Gorge, where you might spot rare rock wallabies and enjoy breathtaking views of the cliffs and crystal-clear waters. For jaw-dropping coastal panoramas, the steep trail at Mandu Mandu Gorge is a must.
Sitchu Tip: Camping by the beach here is the ultimate base for adventure.
Karijini National Park
Karijini National Park is an absolute gem of a national park in WA’s Pilbara region, where jaw-dropping landscapes await around every corner. Picture deep gorges, towering cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and crystal-clear rock pools – a nature lover’s paradise!
Get your adrenaline pumping with hikes through the park’s famous gorges like Dales Gorge, Weano Gorge, and Hancock Gorge, each offering their own unique slice of beauty. Don’t miss a refreshing swim in the dreamy waters of Fern Pool, squeezing through the narrow chasms of Hancock Gorge, or taking in the magic of Fortescue Falls. With camping spots available, you can fully soak in Karijini’s breathtaking vibes.
Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle Range)
Explore the stunning Purnululu National Park, where the remarkable Bungle Bungle Range invites adventure and wonder. This UNESCO World Heritage site features the unique beehive-shaped sandstone domes that have captivated visitors for generations. Wander through the enchanting Echidna Chasm, where the sunlight casts a warm glow on the towering orange walls, or find yourself in Cathedral Gorge, known for its extraordinary acoustics and natural beauty.
For an unforgettable experience, consider a scenic flight that showcases the park’s intricate gorges and dramatic landscapes from above. Whether you’re hiking through the rugged terrain or simply soaking in the views, Purnululu is a perfect getaway for those seeking to connect with Australia’s breathtaking wilderness.
Nambung National Park
Ready to explore one of Australia’s most mind-blowing landscapes? Welcome to the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park, where you’ll find a stunning array of limestone pillars poking up from the golden sands. These unique formations, shaped over centuries by the elements, create a scene that feels almost otherworldly.
As the sun sets, the magic happens—watch as the shadows dance across the ancient pillars, adding an enchanting glow to the desert. Make sure to swing by the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre to dive into the cool geological and cultural stories behind this stunning spot. It’s the perfect pit stop for anyone curious about the natural wonders that Australia has to offer, which is why it's also one of the best national parks in WA.
Kalbarri National Park
At the mouth of the Murchison River, Kalbarri National Park is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. Lace up your hiking boots and explore ancient gorges carved into stunning red sandstone—trust us, the views from the lookout points are breathtaking. After all that hiking, cool off with a dip under cascading waterfalls.
Be sure to visit Nature’s Window, an incredible rock arch that offers a stunning view of the Murchison River Gorge—it's a photo spot you won't want to miss. Next, make your way to the Z-Bend lookout for an exhilarating glimpse into the gorge's depths; the views will leave you in awe. Then, head to the Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs, where you can soak in panoramic vistas of the Indian Ocean and the rugged coastline, a true feast for the eyes.
Every corner of this park invites exploration, making it a perfect national park in WA for true adventurers.
Mount Augustus National Park
Tucked away in the heart of the state, Mount Augustus is a true hidden gem that often gets overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, Uluru. Located in the Gascoyne region, Mount Augustus National Park is home to this impressive monolith, known as Burringurrah to the local Wadjari Aboriginal people.
While it might not get as much recognition as Uluru, Mount Augustus is actually twice its size and holds the title of the world's largest monocline—a massive rock formation that rises dramatically from the plains. Situated about 460km east of Carnarvon, this massive rock spans around eight kilometers and covers an impressive 4,795 hectares.
Plus, the granite beneath Mount Augustus is an astonishing 1,650 million years old, making it a fascinating spot for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Francois Peron National Park
Francois Peron National Park is a slice of paradise sitting right on the shores of Shark Bay. Picture yourself wandering through red sand dunes that pop against turquoise waters and exploring diverse ecosystems teeming with wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos hopping by, emus strutting their stuff, dolphins playing in the waves, and a chorus of birds filling the air.
If you’re ready for adventure, grab a 4WD and hit the less-travelled coastal tracks to discover remote spots that are off the beaten path. One highlight you can't miss is Shell Beach, where millions of tiny white cockle shells create a stunning shoreline that stretches endlessly. And don’t forget to check out the historic Peron Homestead before you kick back on secluded beaches, soaking in the breathtaking coastal views.
While you’re on the west coast exploring the beautiful national parks of Western Australia, be sure to check out some of the best things to do in Margaret River, York, Busselton and Cervantes, or peruse our list of the best restaurants in Perth. Exploring never looked (or tasted) better!
