
Yalgorup National Park
Discover ancient living fossils and vital wetlands in Yalgorup National Park, a natural gem south of Perth.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer flies

Yalgorup National Park
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer flies

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient living fossils and vital wetlands in Yalgorup National Park, a natural gem south of Perth.
"Marvel at Earth's oldest living fossils and vital wetlands in this stunning national park."

🚶♀️ Stay on the Boardwalk
Protect the delicate thrombolites! Never touch them and always stay on the designated boardwalk.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No water facilities available. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 501 reviews
Type
National Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Clifton Thrombolites
Lake Clifton
Marvel at Earth's oldest living fossils, ancient microbial communities resembling early life forms.

Jyttes Hytte Giant
Peppermint Grove Walk
Embark on a 3.5km walk through a peppermint grove to find the hidden 'tree hugging giant'.

Coastal Wetlands & Birdwatching
Various lakes and estuaries
Explore internationally important wetlands, a vital stop for migratory birds and home to diverse wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Protect the Living Fossils
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stay on the Boardwalk
Protect the delicate thrombolites! Never touch them and always stay on the designated boardwalk.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No water facilities available. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🦟 Fly Repellent is Key
Flies can be abundant in summer. Pack strong insect repellent for a more comfortable visit.
🚗 Check 4WD Tracks
If towing or using 4WD, be aware of track conditions and potential closures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stay on the Boardwalk
Protect the delicate thrombolites! Never touch them and always stay on the designated boardwalk.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No water facilities available. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🦟 Fly Repellent is Key
Flies can be abundant in summer. Pack strong insect repellent for a more comfortable visit.
🚗 Check 4WD Tracks
If towing or using 4WD, be aware of track conditions and potential closures.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The park offers stunning wetland views and unique geological formations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Yalgorup National Park for its unique natural wonders, particularly the ancient thrombolites and important wetlands. The park offers a peaceful escape with opportunities for walking and wildlife spotting. Some note the lack of facilities and the prevalence of flies in summer, advising preparedness.
"This is a national park in the Peel Region between Margaret River and Perth, just south of Mandurah where you find coastal wetlands, an important stopping point for migratory birds as well as the unique thrombolites at Lake Clifton.
We stopped here during our drive north out of Margaret River in route to Perth and enjoyed a brief visit to Lake Clifton where there is a wooden boardwalk into the lake, allowing close up view of the living rocks (thrombolites) made up of microorganisms that resemble the earliest form of life on earth. This is one of the only places in the world where you can view thrombolite structures.
The Lake also provides stark wetland scenery and a bit of birdwatching. Would have also enjoyed taking one of the trails at the Lake Clifton carpark had time permitted. Worth a stopover and visit if exploring the Peel Region or planning a day drive between Perth and Margaret River."
Brad
"Entered at Tim's Thicket, drove and parked up along the beach Whitehills direction. Awesome!
When we left the beach, we used the Whitehills exit and discovered at the top of the dunes that the track had been majorly blocked.
⚠️If you're towing a boat, do not go this way! Even from the Bitumen side, it's not signed as a road closure."
Kelly Campbell
"First half is easy, then you turn the corner and go uphill through sand. That part doesn't last long. I enjoyed seeing a Bobtail along the way and the Peppermint grove is stunning. I'd definitely do this walk again."
Rebecca G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yalgorup National Park is about an 80-minute drive south of Perth. Take the Kwinana Freeway south, which becomes Forrest Highway, then follow signs for Lake Clifton or Preston Beach.
Public transport options are very limited. It's best to visit by car, as the park is quite spread out and attractions are not within walking distance of each other.
Key access points include Lake Clifton (for the thrombolites), Preston Beach, and Tim's Thicket. Each offers different experiences and access to various parts of the park.
Yes, there are roads that wind through the park, offering scenic drives. Some tracks are suitable for 4WD vehicles, but always check conditions beforehand.
Parking is available at designated areas, particularly at the Lake Clifton carpark for the boardwalk and at beach access points like Tim's Thicket and Whitehills.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yalgorup National Park generally does not have an entry fee for day use. However, specific facilities or camping areas might incur charges. It's always good to check the WA Parks and Wildlife Service website for any updates.
The park is typically open 24 hours a day, year-round, allowing for flexible visits. However, visitor facilities like information centers may have specific operating hours.
Yes, the boardwalk to view the thrombolites is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's recommended to visit when there's good light for viewing.
Fishing may require a license, and camping is generally not permitted within the national park itself, though nearby areas might offer options. Always check with the relevant authorities.
Check the official WA Parks and Wildlife Service website or their social media channels for the most up-to-date information on park conditions, alerts, and any temporary closures.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The best way is to use the boardwalk that extends over the lake. This allows for close-up views without disturbing the delicate thrombolites.
Yes, the park offers several walking trails, including the popular peppermint grove walk leading to Jyttes Hytte. Trails vary in length and difficulty.
The park is a haven for birdlife, especially in its wetlands, and is an important stop for migratory birds. You might also spot reptiles and other native fauna.
Yes, there are picnic areas available, offering a great spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Some may have basic facilities.
Certain areas, particularly beach access and sand dunes, are suitable for 4WD vehicles. However, be prepared with recovery gear and check track conditions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the national park. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
The nearest towns with dining options are Mandurah to the north and Bunbury to the south. Preston Beach also has some local amenities.
Some picnic areas may have BBQ facilities, but it's advisable to check specific site information. Always ensure BBQs are used safely and responsibly.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a picnic lunch. Consider items that are easy to eat outdoors and don't require refrigeration if you're visiting on a warm day.
Depending on the season and day of the week, you might find local markets in nearby towns like Mandurah. It's worth checking local event listings.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalk over Lake Clifton offers unique perspectives of the thrombolites. The wetlands and coastal areas also provide beautiful landscape photography opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light and fewer reflections on the water, enhancing the visual appeal of the thrombolites.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations. Always check with the WA Parks and Wildlife Service for current rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for birdwatching. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.
Beyond the thrombolites, look for diverse birdlife, unique coastal vegetation, and the interplay of light and water in the wetlands.










Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit