Your Guide to Warren National Park, Pemberton: What to See, Do and Know Before You Visit
- Jul 4
- 5 min read
One of the most spectacular places to experience the towering karri forests of Western Australia is Warren National Park, just a short drive from Pemberton.
Covering more than 18,000 hectares, Warren National Park protects magnificent karri forest, the beautiful Warren River, scenic walking trails, picnic areas, campgrounds and one of Australia's most iconic fire lookout trees. Whether you're looking for a peaceful riverside picnic, an adventurous hike or a guided 4WD eco adventure with Pemberton Discovery Tours, Warren National Park offers something for every visitor.
What makes Warren National Park special?
Ancient karri forests
Accessible Warren River platforms
Walk trails
Warren River Lookout
Board walks with easy canoe & swimming steps into the River
Wildlife
Spring wildflowers
Birdlife
Camping
Canoeing, Kayaking & Stand Up Paddleboarding
Photography
Fresh forest air
Seasonal beauty
Fishing
When to visit
Every season offers something different.
Summer: think River activities, Stand Up Paddleboards are available to hire in town - swim, float and fish (note Marron Season is also open for a short time during Summer).
Autumn: Cooler temperatures, camping with camp fires allowed, usually after Easter. Fantastic bushwalking season.
Winter: Campfires, Flowing rivers and fungi.
Spring: Fantastic bushwalking season, Spring Wildflowers and orchids are next level.
Things to do
Most visitors know Warren National Park for its magnificent karri forest, but locals know there's much more waiting to be discovered.
🌳 Climb the Bicentennial Tree
Standing proudly within Warren National Park, the Bicentennial Tree remains one of Australia's most iconic fire lookout trees. Originally climbed to around 75 metres, visitors today can climb to the lower viewing platform (20m) and experience the thrill of ascending a giant karri tree while helping preserve it for future generations.
Please note the Gloucester Tree has now reopened and the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree will be closed shortly for refurbishment with the climb to be reinstated to the top of the tree.
Walk
10km Warren River Loop Walk
2.4km Bicentennial Tree to Warren River Lookout
Trail between Maiden Bush (river access), Drafty's Campground and Warren River Camp.
Picnic
Beautiful riverside areas with gas BBQ facilities at Drafty's and the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree.
Picnic tables at Bicentennial Tree, Maiden Bush, Drafty's, Warren Camp, Warren River Lookout and Blackbutt.
Camp
Drafty's Camp and Warren Camp are the designated (and bookable) camping areas.
Book online using the Parkstay link here.
Explore the Heart of the Park by 4WD
One of the lesser-known adventures is the scenic 4WD route through Warren National Park.
There is a 4WD accessible river crossing at Heartbreak Ford - you just need to ensure that you enter the Heartbreak trail road in one direction. Conditions vary throughout the year, so always check park alerts before travelling and ensure your vehicle is suitable for unsealed roads and river crossings.
Always drive to the conditions and never attempt the crossing if floodwaters are present.
Fishing on the Warren River
The Warren River is a favourite with anglers looking to enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by ancient forest.
Depending on the season and current fishing regulations, the river can provide opportunities for freshwater fishing. Visitors should always check the latest Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) fishing rules and licensing requirements before casting a line.
After more than 25 years exploring Warren National Park, one thing we've learnt is that every visit is different. The changing light through the towering karri forest, seasonal fungi, flowering plants and river levels mean no two visits are ever quite the same.
Guided experiences
If you'd like to explore beyond the sealed roads, our award-winning Beach & Forest Eco Adventure travels through Warren National Park before continuing to the spectacular Yeagarup Dunes, Yeagarup Beach and the remote landscapes of D'Entrecasteaux National Park.
FAQs
Where is Warren National Park? Warren National Park is located 15 minutes in a South West direction from Pemberton town. The easiest way to visit is to travel via Pemberton Northcliffe Road, Vasse Hwy (12km) to Old Vasse Road.
Is there an entry fee? Yes, A National Park entry pass is required. Passes can be purchased online, from the Pemberton Visitor Centre, DBCA or at self-service pay stations within the park.
Can you swim in the Warren River? Yes. Many locals enjoy swimming in the Warren River during the warmer months. Please remember the water is untreated and naturally stained a beautiful golden-brown by tannins from the surrounding forest. Always assess conditions before entering the water. During periods of warm weather, there is an increased potential for naturally occurring bacteria to multiply, so avoid swimming if the water appears stagnant or if health warnings have been issued.
Can I camp in Warren National Park? Yes! You do need to book it in via the Parkstay app - but sites are available at both Drafty's camp and the Warren National Park camp both on the river.
Are dogs allowed? No - this is a national park and there is 1080 baits in the area. There are also a number of vulnerable wildlife.
What wildlife might I see? Red and White tailed Black Cockatoos, Possums, bats, snakes, spiders, marron, trout, kangaroo's, quenda, quokka, phascogale, mice, fairy wrens, lots of birds... etc the list goes on and I will write more on this later.
What is the best walk? the 10km Warren National Park loop walk is perfect! Park at the Bicentennial tree and loop down past the river. If you are after a shorter walk then a return to the Warren River Lookout is perfect.
Can I visit without a 4WD? Yes - but there maybe some times of the year that the track requires a 4WD. DBCA will notify and put signage out if this is so.
What's the difference between Warren National Park and D'Entrecasteaux National Park? Completely different parks, the Warren is Pemberton side of the Warren River and filled with Karri Forest including some unique old growth forest and the river. The D'Entrecasteaux cradles the Warren and Hawke Block National Park and stretches to the coast with biodiversity including the forests, dunes, beach and coastal heath.
Why locals love Warren National Park
Ask a local what they love most about Warren National Park and you'll probably get four different answers. Some come to camp beside the river, others to climb the Bicentennial Tree, paddle the Warren River, explore the 4WD tracks or simply enjoy the peace beneath the towering karri trees. It's a place that changes with every season, which is why many of us return again and again.
Map and park information are based on resources provided by the Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA). We encourage visitors to check the latest park alerts and conditions before travelling.
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