Parks & Reserves

Discover the natural beauty of the region through its many parks and reserves — where tranquil bushland, vibrant wetlands, and scenic picnic spots invite you to relax, explore, and connect with nature. Whether you're seeking a peaceful place to unwind, a family-friendly area to enjoy the outdoors, or a starting point for your next adventure, Waroona’s green spaces offer something for everyone. From the towering jarrah forests to the serene banks of Drakesbrook Weir, these parks and reserves are a cherished part of local life and a window into the region’s unique natural heritage.

Lane Poole Reserve

Spanning over 50,000 hectares, Lane Poole Reserve is located east of Waroona. The reserve is known for its towering jarrah forests, tranquil river pools, and abundance of outdoor activities. The reserve is centred around the Murray River and offers excellent opportunities for camping, bushwalking, mountain biking, kayaking, and swimming. With a mix of family-friendly picnic areas and remote bush campsites including Baden Powell, Nanga Mill, and Stringers, it's a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Wildlife is plentiful, and seasonal wildflowers add bursts of colour to the landscape. Whether you're looking to unwind by the water or explore rugged forest trails, Lane Poole Reserve delivers a true taste of the Australian bush.

Nanga Brook

Nanga Brook is a peaceful and scenic spot nestled within Lane Poole Reserve, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Once the site of a historic timber mill town, it’s now a popular location for camping, picnicking, and exploring the surrounding jarrah forest. The clear waters of the brook flow into the Murray River, making it an ideal place for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. With well-maintained facilities and easy access to walking trails, Nanga Brook is a favourite getaway for families and nature enthusiasts.

Preston Beach Reserve

Preston Beach Reserve is a serene coastal area that provides a relaxed natural setting for picnics, beach walks, and wildlife spotting. Located just behind the dunes of Preston Beach, the reserve features shady trees, grassy areas, an accessible playground, and amenities like picnic tables and public toilets, making it a great spot for families and day-trippers. It's also a popular place to spot kangaroos, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. With the ocean and 4WD access on one side and Yalgorup National Park nearby, Preston Beach Reserve offers the perfect blend of beachside relaxation and nature-based exploration.

Lake Clifton Reserve

Located nearby the eastern shore of Lake Clifton, this reserve offers a variety of recreational facilities including outdoor sports courts, playground facilities, and the Lake Clifton Community Hall, which serves as a hub for local events and gatherings. Lake Clifton is renowned for the unique natural wonders of the area, most notably the famous thrombolites—ancient microbial formations that date back thousands of years. These fascinating structures are accessible via a specially designed boardwalk, allowing visitors to observe and appreciate these rare living fossils up close without disturbing their delicate environment. For those who enjoy a scenic stroll, the nearby Lime Kiln Walk provides a beautiful pathway through native bushland, featuring historical remnants of old lime kilns that tell the story of the area’s industrial past. The area offers peaceful walking trails, picnic spots, and opportunities for birdwatching, making it an ideal destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone interested in the extraordinary natural heritage of the region.

Yalgorup National Park

Yalgorup National Park is a spectacular coastal and wetland reserve located on the western edge of the Swan Coastal Plain, just south of Mandurah, Western Australia. The park encompasses a chain of ten lakes, including Lake Clifton and Lake Preston, nestled between coastal dunes and woodlands. The name "Yalgorup" is derived from Noongar Aboriginal words meaning "place of swamp or lake" and is known for its diverse birdlife and vibrant natural landscapes that provide critical habitat for migratory birds and threatened species. The park is famous for its unique ecosystems, including saltwater and freshwater lakes, wetlands, and tuart forests, providing important habitat for many native species such as black swans, migratory shorebirds, and rare plants. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like walking, picnicking, and wildlife watching, with well-maintained trails and picnic areas throughout the park. Yalgorup’s stunning natural beauty, combined with its ecological significance, makes it a favorite spot for nature lovers, photographers, and families seeking a peaceful retreat close to the coast.

Parks and Recreation Areas

Drakesbrook Weir

Located on Weir Road, Drakesbrook Weir is a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors alike. It is a peaceful setting perfect for fishing, picnicking, and relaxing by the water. The weir creates a calm body of water ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming, making it a favourite destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by native bushland and shaded areas, Drakesbrook Weir also features picnic facilities and walking trails, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and unwind. Its easy accessibility and scenic environment make it a charming local getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Waroona Dam (Lake Navarino)

A short drive east of Waroona, the dam is known for its calm waters and natural beauty. It’s a popular destination for a range of water-based activities such as kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and families alike. The dam is surrounded by native bushland and picnic areas, making it ideal for camping, barbecues, and leisurely walks. With its tranquil environment and ample recreational opportunities, Waroona Dam provides a perfect escape into the outdoors.