Lane Poole Reserve

Lane Poole Reserve is a sprawling wilderness of jarrah and marri forest, bisected by the pristine Murray River, just 90 minutes south of Perth. This is Western Australia's backyard playground for canoeing, hiking, and camping, where the scent of eucalyptus mingles with the sound of rushing water. It's a place to slow down, paddle through tranquil pools, and sleep under a canopy of stars.

Highlights & What to See

• Murray River Canoeing: Paddle the gentle, tea-coloured waters between Baden-Powell and Nanga Mill – the quintessential Lane Poole experience. Hire a canoe or bring your own for a half-day float through forest.
• Baden-Powell Campground & Swimming: The main hub with a grassy riverside camping area and a popular swimming hole. Perfect for a cool dip after a hike.
• King Jarrah Walk Trail: A 2.5 km loop through towering jarrah forest to the 'King Jarrah', a massive 500-year-old tree. Look for kangaroos and black cockatoos overhead.
• Nanga Mill Campground & Pool: A quieter camping spot with a natural rock pool formed by a weir – ideal for swimming and picnicking away from the crowds.
• Bibbulmun Track Section: The famous long-distance walking trail passes through the reserve. Tackle a day-walk section from Nanga Mill to the Murray River for a taste of the full experience.
• Birdwatching & Wildlife: Keep an eye out for red-tailed black cockatoos, western rosellas, and the occasional echidna. Dawn and dusk are best for spotting kangaroos grazing near the river.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come for a weekend camping trip, arriving Friday afternoon and leaving Sunday. If you have less time, a full day from Perth is doable: arrive by 9 am, paddle for a couple of hours, hike the King Jarrah trail, swim at Baden-Powell, and enjoy a barbecue lunch before heading back. For a relaxed pace, two nights allows you to explore both the river and several walking trails without rushing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dwellingup – a charming historic timber town 10 minutes north, with the Hotham Valley Tourist Railway and the Dwellingup Trails Mountain Bike Park.
• Pinjarra – a 30-minute drive west, known for the Alcoa Pinjarra Refinery tour and the Pinjarra Heritage Trail.
• Boddington – about 45 minutes southeast, offering the Hotham River and the historic Boddington Gold Mine.
• Serpentine National Park – 40 minutes north, home to the spectacular Serpentine Falls and granite outcrops.
• Perth Hills – combine with a visit to the charming towns of Mundaring or Kalamunda on the way back to Perth.

Please check official sources for current details.