Where can I find public toilets or rest stops?
There are several public toilets, and rest stops conveniently located throughout the region, especially near parks, popular attractions, and town centres. Here's a list of key locations:
Public Toilets
Waroona Townsite
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Waroona Visitor Centre – 37 South Western Highway
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Railside Park – South Western Highway (opposite Waroona Memorial Hall)
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Centennial Park – Corner of Millar Street and South Western Highway
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Waroona Memorial Hall – 88 South Western Highway (near town centre)
Preston Beach
Lake Clifton
Waroona Dam (Lake Navarino)
Drakesbrook Weir
Lane Poole Reserve / Nanga Brook
Rest Stops & Picnic Areas
Waroona Showgrounds – Large open space, seating, shaded areas, toilets
Railside Park – Playground, skate park, pump track, large open areas, BBQs, shaded seating, toilets
Centennial Park – Playground, BBQs, picnic tables, toilets
Drakesbrook Weir – BBQs, tables, toilets, swimming spot
Lake Navarino – Picnic areas around the lake
Preston Beach Foreshore Reserve – Picnic tables, shelters, BBQs, toilets
Lake Clifton Thrombolites Boardwalk – Sheltered rest area, interpretive signs
Lane Poole Reserve / Nanga Brook – Multiple picnic sites
If you're travelling through by car, most rest stops, and public toilets are well-signposted from the highway or main tourist routes. You can also use the National Public Toilet Map (toiletmap.gov.au) for real-time locations and accessibility features.
What are the best spots for swimming or paddling?
The area has several great swimming spots, perfect for cooling off on a hot day or enjoying the outdoors with family and friends. Check out our Swimming page for more details.
Are dogs allowed at local parks, campgrounds, or beaches?
Yes, dogs are allowed at many local parks and reserves in the Shire of Waroona, but there are a few important guidelines to be aware of:
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Dogs must be on a leash at all times in public parks, townsites, and recreation areas unless in a designated off-leash zone.
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Clean up after your dog—dog waste bags are provided in some parks, but it’s best to bring your own.
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Dogs must be under effective control at all times, even off-leash.
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Dogs are not permitted in children's playgrounds or within a few metres of BBQs and picnic tables.
Dog-Friendly Parks and Areas
Centennial Park (Waroona) – Dogs allowed on-leash; open space and shaded areas.
Drakesbrook Weir – Dogs permitted on a leash; great for walking and picnicking but not recommended for swimming with dogs due to native wildlife and water quality. Please note that dogs are not permitted on the grassed areas.
Lake Navarino / Waroona Dam – Dogs allowed on a leash in camping and day-use areas (check with Lake Navarino Holiday Park for specific site rules).
Preston Beach Foreshore – Dogs are welcome on the beach, typically off-leash, but must be under control (watch for signage and peak season restrictions).
Waroona Showgrounds – Dogs allowed during regular use (not during major events); leash required.
Restricted or No-Dog Areas
What attractions are wheelchair accessible?
There are several attractions and public spaces that are wheelchair accessible, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the natural beauty, culture, and recreational opportunities in the region. Here's a list of key wheelchair-friendly locations:
Nature & Outdoor Attractions
Drakesbrook Weir
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Accessible parking and sealed paths lead to picnic and BBQ areas.
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Flat terrain near the shoreline, although direct access to the water may be challenging.
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Toilets available
Preston Beach Foreshore
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Sealed pathways to picnic shelters, accessible playground and toilets.
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Beach wheelchair access is limited, but the carpark and grassed area are accessible.
Lake Navarino (Waroona Dam)
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Access to the day-use area, café, and picnic spots is mostly flat.
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Some uneven gravel surfaces, so assistance may be needed in some areas.
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Toilets and parking available; check in with the Lake Navarino Holiday Park for best accessibility options.
Lane Poole Reserve / Nanga Brook
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Limited wheelchair accessibility.
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Nanga Brook Day Use Area is the best option for accessibility within the reserve. There is flat, compact surfaces and accessible toilets with sealed or well-maintained gravel paths in picnic areas. Shaded tables and BBQs are accessible with assistance.
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Most walk trails and river access points are not wheelchair accessible, due to uneven, rocky, or sloped terrain.
Visitor Facilities & Cultural Attractions
Waroona Visitor Centre & Gallery
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Fully wheelchair accessible, including ramps and wide doorways.
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Features local art exhibitions, heritage displays, and community information.
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Accessible toilets and parking onsite.
Centennial Park
Railside Park
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Sealed pathways that are wheelchair friendly, shaded picnic areas, and toilets.
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Close to shops and cafes with accessible kerb crossings nearby.
Waroona Showgrounds
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Generally accessible during events, with designated accessible parking and toilet facilities.
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Terrain varies (grass and gravel), but main paths and entry points are suitable for wheelchairs.
Are there any farmers markets or local produce stalls?
Yes, there are local markets and produce stalls to be found within the region.
Community Markets
The Lions Club of Waroona host community markets at the Waroona Memorial Hall from 8am to 12pm on the first Sunday of each month (excluding January, June, July and August).
Produce Stalls
During harvesting season, several small produce stalls can be found throughout Hamel and Waroona including Capo's Fruit Shack, Bloomin Fresh and Hoots Honey
Can I bring a caravan to Waroona Dam or Drakesbrook Weir?
Yes, you can bring a caravan to both Waroona Dam (Lake Navarino) and Drakesbrook Weir, but there are some restrictions:
Waroona Dam
Caravans allowed: Yes, with restrictions.
Where to stay: Lake Navarino Holiday Park. They offer powered and unpowered caravan sites, as well as cabins and tent areas. Their facilities include toilets, showers, BBQs, camp kitchen, and kiosk.
Activities: Great for water skiing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, bushwalking, and 4WDing.
Note: Lakeside camping at the dam itself is not permitted—you must camp within the designated holiday park.
Drakesbrook Weir
Caravans allowed: Yes, but only for day use.
Camping overnight: Not permitted.
Facilities: Toilets, BBQs, picnic tables, shelter, and a grassy foreshore.
Activities: Swimming, kayaking, SUP, picnicking, and trout fishing.
Note: You can park your caravan for the day, but overnight stays are not allowed. Great spot for a day visit if you're staying elsewhere.
Can I go four-wheel driving in the area? Where are there tracks?
Yes, you absolutely can go four-wheel driving in the Shire of Waroona — it's a popular destination for off-road adventures! Check out our 4WD and Off Road page for more information.
What's the best time of the year to visit for wildflowers or nature walks?
With its diverse landscapes, the region can be thoroughly enjoyed year-round. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect during each season:
Spring (September–November) – Peak season
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Best variety and density of wildflowers.
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Mild weather is great for long walks and photography.
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Native birds, kangaroos, and other animals are more active and visible during spring.
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Trails like those in Lane Poole Reserve, Yalgorup National Park, and Drakesbrook Weir are at their most scenic, with creeks flowing and vegetation lush after winter rains.
Summer (December–February)
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Nature walks are still possible, especially in forested or riverside areas like Lane Poole Reserve, Nanga Brook, and shaded trails around Drakesbrook Weir.
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Wildflowers are sparse due to heat and dry conditions.
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Mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid the heat.
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Watch for bushfire warnings and stay hydrated.
Autumn (March–May)
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Good time for bushwalking—cooler temperatures and fewer flies.
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Some late summer wildflowers and autumn blooms may appear, especially after summer rain.
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Forests begin to revive after the dry season.
Winter (June–August)
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Lush green bushland and moss-covered trails.
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Early wildflowers begin to bloom—like wattles and some orchids.
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Cool, crisp days are great for walking, especially near creeks and falls that are flowing well.
Be sure to plan around the weather and check the trail conditions before you head out. For more information of trails within the Shire, visit here.
Is there mobile reception or Wi-Fi in the area?
Yes, there is mobile reception and some Wi-Fi access in the Shire of Waroona, but coverage can vary depending on your location and provider.
Mobile Coverage
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Waroona townsite and nearby areas generally have good coverage for major carriers like Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone.
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Smaller towns (e.g. Preston Beach, Hamel, Lake Clifton) also have decent reception, particularly with Telstra.
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Remote areas, including Lane Poole Reserve, Drakesbrook Weir, and Waroona Dam, may have patchy or no signal, especially with Optus or Vodafone. Telstra usually performs best in bushland and regional zones.
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If you're heading off-road or into national parks, it's wise to download maps offline and let someone know your plans.
Wi-Fi Access
Free public Wi-Fi is available at:
Can I launch a boat, kayak or paddleboard at Waroona Dam or Drakesbrook Weir?
Yes, you can launch boats, kayaks, and paddleboards at both Waroona Dam and Drakesbrook Weir—but there are a few differences to be aware of:
Waroona Dam (Lake Navarino)
Boats allowed – including powerboats, jet skis, and wakeboarding vessels.
Kayaks & paddleboards – welcome, but be cautious of larger boats.
Boat ramp – there is no official boat ramp. Launching a boat is done directly off the bank and there are several locations with flatter terrain to do so.
Shared-use water – strong winds and busy boating days can affect conditions for paddlers.
Drakesbrook Weir
No powerboats or jet skis – non-motorised craft only excluding electric motors.
Kayaks & paddleboards – perfect for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards.
Boat ramp – Easy beach-style access for launching by hand.
Do I need a license to fish in local lakes, rivers, or the ocean?
A fishing license is required for certain situations. Please check out our Fishing page for more information on the best places to fish, license requirements, and regulations for fishing.
Are there any local events happening during my visit?
The Shire of Waroona hosts a diverse range of events throughout the year, celebrating local culture, community spirit, and the region’s natural and rural heritage. Check out our Events page to plan your visit.
Are you allowed to camp at Waroona Dam or Drakesbrook Weir?
Lakeside camping at both Waroona Dam and Drakesbrook Weir is not permitted. For other camping options in the region, please visit our Camping page for more information.
How far is Waroona from the beach?
Preston Beach, located within the Shire of Waroona is 35kms to the west of Waroona town centre. It is approximately a 30-minute drive between the two.
Are there RV free stays in the area?
Yes, there are two locations within the region offering free RV stays. Please visit our Recreational Vehicle Areas page for more information.