Perth, Australia’s mining head quarter, enjoys more sunshine than any other capital city in Australia (over 3,000 hours of sun!). Comfortable warm climate all year round, pristine beaches, soft sand and rich wildlife make Perth the destination to visit for those who love exploring. For this article, Offmain handpicked the best spots for 4WD day trips near Perth for those days you’re feeling spontaneous. These locations are only 1.5-2 hours away from the city, ideal for a quick getaway or an overnight trip! Read on to find out where they are, what’s around and how to get there.
Note: these national parks require a pass which needs to be displayed in your vehicle window. Purchase here: https://shop.dbca.wa.gov.au/collections/park-passes
Avon Valley National Park
How far
80 kms (1.5 hours) from Perth
What to do & see
- Explore some of Perth’s most beginner-friendly 4WD tracks. It’s a soft-roader heaven and extremely easy in dry season. Visit during wet seasons for more challenge
- Keep your eyes peeled for some very unique native species such as Woylies (member of a rat-kangaroo family), Chuditch (Western Quoll) and Quendas (Southern Brown Bandicoot)
- Follow the Moondyne track and look out for Joe’s Cage. This is where Moondyne Joe hid his stolen horses and cattle in the 19th century when he escaped from jail
Camping facilities
- The Park offers 4 campgrounds with picnic tables and toilets: Valley, Homestead, Drummonds & Bald Hill. Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings (unless there is a total fire ban) BYO firewood. Untreated water is available at these campsites so BYO or check out our tips for clean drinking water while camping HERE
Julimar State Forest
How far
107 kms (1hr 23 min) from Perth
What to do & see
- 4WDing in different terrains from mud to bush to gravel with bog holes throughout. We recommend going slow and travel in convoy. Some sections can be very narrow so be warned!
- Bushwalking and getting up close to animals in their natural habitat. Tackle a couple of steep climbs to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Malkup Brook catchment
Camping facilities
2 closest campgrounds to the Julimar State Forest are Drummonds Hill and Bald Hill Campgrounds. Toilets and picnic tables are available. Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings (unless there is a total fire ban) BYO firewood. Untreated water is available at these campsites so BYO or check out our tips for clean drinking water while camping HERE
Mundaring Powerlines
This is a power line service track managed by Western Power but has become a very popular 4WD track due to its short distance from the city and the variety of terrains it offers.
How far
40kms (45 mins) from Perth
What to do & see
- Tackling the track with your 4WD will take around 4-5 hours to complete, depending on your experience and track condition on the day. Expect rock, sand and a lot of dust. It can get very muddy in the rain so getting bogged is highly likely if you’re not experienced. We’d recommend traveling in convoy but there’s probably plenty of people happy to help while you’re out there anyway. There are also a few exit points along the track if you change your mind
- Explore the Mundaring area through the walking or cycling trails, where you’ll find spectacular lookouts, views of waterfalls and of course the rich wildlife of WA
- Visit the Mundaring township for pubs, restaurants a brewery and even a day spa!
Camping facilities
There are no camping facilities here so best to make it a day trip. If you’re feeling like staying in a fancy accomodation, there are some very lovely retreats in town such as Amaroo Retreat and Spa and Nathaniel’s retreat
Moore River National Park
How far
120 kms (1.5 hr) from Perth
What to do & see
- This is a great place for some easy 4WDing. If you’re just starting out, Moore River is perfect for you to gain experience with different terrains. You’ll tackle some hill climbs, sand driving and (shallow) river crossings. The river bed is hard sand but scout first anyway because there may be some soft spots. Take your time and allow up to 4 hours to complete the track. It’s approximately 30 kms in length. For more beach driving, head further to Ledge Point
- Explore the townships around the National park
- Gingin, for historic buildings, cafes hotels and shops
- Guilderton, for pristine beaches, unspoilt coastal scenery
- Lancelin, for adventure sports such as sandboarding, surfing and jet skiing
- Ledgepoint and Seabird are quieter towns and an excellent base to explore the national park with plenty of accommodation options
Camping facilities
No camping allowed in the park itself. The nearby campsites and accommodations can be found in the townships above
Lake Navarino or Waroona Dam
How far
120 kms (1.5 hr) from Perth
What to do & see
- 4WD tracks run around the dam and vary in difficulty throughout the year. Terrains include gravels, some hill climbs and serious bog holes. Keep in mind that the condition of the track changes depending on water level. Travel in convoy and enjoy the spectacular lake views!
- if you’re less experienced, head east for easier tracks with a few ruts and angles to avoid. If you’re up for more challenge, head west for more difficult tracks (requiring lockers to get through). In both cases, don’t forget your recovery gear!
Camping facilities
You can camp in the area in the many designated places around the lake. These sites for bush camping and are unpowered. Alternatively you can stay at the Lake Navarino Holiday Park which offers self-contained cabins , cottages and motel units. Both serve as an excellent base for exploring the lake and and enjoy swimming, fishing, jet skiing and boating.
Alright, that’s our selections of the best 4WD spots near Perth. We hope you enjoy reading, but more importantly, we hope you’ll take your 4WD out there and quench your thirst for adventure! Let us know how you go and tag us on Instagram @offmain.offroad
At Offmain, we believe that 4WDing and outdoor adventure is for everyone, and getting started should be easy. Founded by a team of female 4WDers and a rookie hiking adventurer, Offmain is a positive and inclusive community for people of all experience levels, from those researching Vehicles, Camping and adventure options - all you need is the love to explore.
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