The Margaret River region in Western Australia is known for its lush scenery, exceptional local produce, and wine. It is estimated that the area attracts more than 500,000 visitors per year, and with over 215 vineyards in the region, it’s no wonder that the Margaret River is called ‘Wine Country’.
The area isn’t only a wine connoisseurs paradise, though; this is also an exciting place for whale watching as well as surfing and shopping at boutique artisans and galleries, including Sensei Pots, where master potter Ian Benniston creates incredible art and must be seen to be believed.
Another highlight of the region are the caves set in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, including the Mammoth Cave, a 500m long cave which has been open to the public since 1904. Fossils dated back to over 35,000 years have been found in this cave, and it is one the few Australian caves offering partial disabled access.
If you plan on visiting the Margaret River, there is so much to see and do that it can be beneficial to remain mobile during your holiday there. Hiring a campervan is one way to achieve this, ensuring you are able to make the most of what the region has to offer.
There are plenty of locations along the way to stay that are close to the best attractions and have campervan access, thought it isn’t nearly as good as the campervan sites you’ll find in New Zealand.
Alexandra Bridge Camping Ground
Alexandra Bridge is in secluded section of the Blackwood River off the Brockman Highway. The campsite has a good range of visitor facilities, and offers activities such as boating, canoeing and fishing on the river. They also offer a pensioner concession and have a well-equipped BBQ area. An unpowered site is only $7 per adult per night.
Taunton Farm Holiday Park
Taunton Farm is located in the heart of the Margaret River and provides immediate access to most of the activities on offer within the region. Easily accessible by any car or campervan, it is a farm themed park complete with friendly farm animals. An unpowered site with unrestricted views of the lush countryside costs $42 for two people per night.
Boranup Forest Campground
Boranup Forest is located ten minutes from the Karridale townsite and Hamelin Bay Beach. The best times to visit are summer, autumn and spring as it can get very cold and wet during the winter months. The tranquil setting allows visitors to get up close and personal with nature, and it is a great base to discover the caves and the Leeuwin lighthouse. Hamelin Bay Beach has white sand and the forest offers excellent bird-watching and bushwalking. An unpowered site costs $7 per adult per night, but during peak season be sure to call ahead as it can get very busy.
Prevelly Caravan Park
Prevelly is the closest camping ground to the ocean in Margaret River and boasts its own family owned boutique winery. Surrounded by nature and some of Western Australia’s best surfing beaches, Prevelly Caravan Park is easy to get to, allowing you to take full advantage of the Mediterranean like climate of the region. Walking tracks are a great way to discover the beautiful scenery including the famous ‘Cape to Cape Trail’. An unpowered site is $19 per adult in peak season.
Warner Glen Recreation Site – Chapman Pool
Warner Glen is located in a beautiful section of the Blackwood National park where Chapman Brook broadens into a deep pool before meeting the Blackwood River. The water is clean and swimming is a fantastic option during the warmer months. Set up your campervan amongst Jarrah trees, but be aware there is a very limited amount of campsites available and although you cannot book ahead, it is advisable to get there early during peak season, long weekends or school holidays. There is limited parking and the campsite is not recommended for caravans, but suitable for tents or campervans. A campsite costs $7 per adult per night and payment is collected by rangers or an envelope of cash in the collection box. Only cash can be accepted, and ensure you have the right change.
The Margaret River is a fantastic location whether you want to sample some of the best wine and produce Australia has to offer, or to simply relax and soak up spectacular scenery and immerse yourself in nature.
