Nestled amidst the towering karri trees and whimsical landscapes, Pemberton and D’Entrecasteaux National Park promise a journey that transcends the ordinary. If you’re an off-road enthusiast with a taste for adventure, buckle up your seat belts (or, in this case, secure your camping gear), because we’re about to explore the exhilarating 4WD tracks and idyllic campsites that make this corner of Western Australia a haven for intrepid travelers.
Coming down from Dunsborough we settled on Lake Jasper campground for our first night. This was also a strategic pick as we wanted to test our new 4WD and take the NP300 for a spin in the sand while being quite loaded. There is plenty of other campground with 4WD access and a few for 2WD in this area, make sure to check the WA national park page to find out more.
Tucked away like a hidden treasure, Lake Jasper is a pristine freshwater lake nestled within the D’Entrecasteaux National Park. What makes this locale truly special is the Lake Jasper Campground, an idyllic spot that beckons campers and nature enthusiasts alike. With a beach access only 1 km away from the campground you can truly embrace the magic of this place. The track to get there is fairly easy, depending on the season you may have to deflate a little to get through the soft patches but nothing scary, it actually reminded us a lot of N’gari Island.
The place only offers a limited amount of space (3 small campgrounds) and they are non-bookable so I would definitely recommend to come in early to secure a spot, especially during the touristy season. A few steps away you will find small beach with a couple of camping tables and a sheltered area in case of rain as well as a toilet block that looks like it’s maintain regularly. As romantic and idyllic this campground looks like it’s also home to it’s fair share of bush flies and mosquitos so don’t forget you insect repellent.
The next day we decided to explore the lovely town of Pemberton and treat ourselves at the local pie shop cafe on the main road. We were ready to explore the Karri forest and wander along the multiple trails you can find here.
As you wander along the forest trails, sunlight filters through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. The air is filled with the earthy scent of eucalyptus, while bird calls echo through the treetops.
One of the most iconic features of the Karri forest is the famous Gloucester Tree, a towering Karri that serves as a fire lookout tower. Brave souls can ascend the tree’s metal spikes to reach the platform at its summit, where breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding forest await.
For those seeking a more leisurely adventure, the Karri forest offers an array of scenic drives and walking trails. Follow the winding roads that meander through the forest, stopping at lookout points to admire the sweeping vistas and listen to the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature photographer, or simply seeking solace in the tranquility of the forest, exploring the Karri forest in Pemberton promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Western Australia’s wilderness.
Forever traveling, Chris & Claire.
Things to do around Pemberton:
- Tree Climb: Unfortunately the tree climb are closed at the moment for renovation and inspection, you can still access the site and look at the tree but you can’t climb to the upper platform. For updated information check out the visitor centre website here.
- Hike: There is a lot to choose from but our favourite walk around the area was the Lefroy Brook Loop Walk. It’s an easy class 2 of less than an hour offering stunning views of the Karri trees and a cascade right at the beginning of the walk.
- 4wding: The nearby d’Entrecasteaux National Park offers endless tracks through the sand dunes with different level of difficulty, a pure heaven for 4wding. Make sure to check the National Park website here to find out more about entry fees, camping options and trails.
- Karri Forest: If you don’t feel like walking don’t worry you can take a tour through the Karri Forest with the Karri Forest Explorer Drive. The drive starts just outside of Pemberton and offer spectacular views of the Karri trees and some lookout point to stop and take a few pictures.
Greetings from 
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