I get asked this one all the time: “Hey, do you know any secluded camping spots near Perth?”
The short answer is yes—but with a few caveats. If you’re hoping to disappear into the bush and have the place to yourself, you’ll either need to walk or ride a bit, or be willing to drive further out. And what you’re driving matters a lot too.
Here’s the lowdown for anyone chasing that off-grid camping experience, within striking distance of Perth.
What Are You Driving?
Your vehicle makes or breaks your options. With a sedan, for example, your list of epic, untouched, uncrowded camping spots in Perth will dwindle. That said, as I’ll show you, it’s not a deal-breaker to get you to a secluded campsite.
- 2WD: You’ll be limited to more accessible sites, which often means sharing them with others. Still, there are a few tucked-away gems if you take it easy.
- 4WD: Game changer. Opens up way more options, especially if you’re up for some gravel and exploring fire trails.
- Hike-in or Bike-in: If you’re willing to carry your gear or pedal in, your chances of finding a secluded slice of bush skyrocket—even not far from the city.
Some of our explorers use public transport to find their adventures. So, even if you’re behind the wheel of a sedan, you can at least find a few great options for an epic camping trip.
Free Camping Out the Back of Pickering Brook (2WD-Friendly)
This one’s a quiet little gem if you want to be within an hour of the city. It’s tucked behind Pickering Brook—free, quiet, and doable in a 2WD if you take it slow. No facilities, so you’ll need to be self-sufficient, but that’s part of the charm. Expect trees, birdsong and not much else.
Wandoo Forest Near Sawyers Valley (BYO Legs or Bike)
There’s an area out the back of Sawyers Valley that’s technically part of a water catchment zone. It’s beautiful, open Wandoo country—great for a walk or even a bike-packing overnighter if you’re looking to get off-grid for the night.
Important note: While camping may occur here informally, it’s not officially allowed due to catchment restrictions. So rather than pitch a tent, I’d treat this one as a day mission or find nearby permitted forest areas to lay your swag.
Dwellingup and the Surrounds (1.5hr Drive – Worth It)
If you can stretch the drive a bit further, Dwellingup is packed with options—both free and paid.
- There are small riverside sites that are absolute gold (avoid the big caravan parks).
- The Bibbulmun Track runs through here too, so you can do an overnight hike and camp at the designated shelters (Bibbulmun Track Shelter Example)
- Prefer wheels? The Munda Biddi trail is a bikepacking dream with forest campsites along the way. (Get all your Munda Biddi Trail Infor here)
Dwellingup’s also got river access for a paddle and plenty of shady forest. It’s a classic for a reason, and a destination we’ve mentioned several times—notably as a favourite overnight camping spot within an hour (or so) from Perth.
Blackwood River: The Gold Standard (3hr Drive)
If you’re willing to go the distance, Blackwood River is the pick of the lot for secluded off-grid camping.
Here’s one of my favourite spots
Down here you’ll find multiple free campsites tucked along the riverbank. Swim, fish, paddle, read a book—this is where you go when you want to vanish for a few days and come back full.
It’s 30 minutes out the back of the Margaret River region, so you can stock up on supplies (and maybe a cheeky bakery stop) on your way through. This gets a mention on our post on Margaret River’s best camping trails, for good reason.
Why Hiking In = More Peace and Quiet
Here’s a little tip from someone who’s been skunked by busy bush camps one too many times:
The more effort it takes to get to a site, the fewer people you’ll find there.
If you’re willing to load up a pack or strap it to a bike, you’ll unlock campsites that most folks will never reach. That includes:
- Bibbulmun shelters
- Backcountry Munda Biddi stops
- State forest hideaways where cars can’t go
These aren’t glamorous, but they’re often the most rewarding. You’ll fall asleep to silence and wake up with the birds.
A Few Final Tips
- Leave no trace. Secluded spots only stay magic if we all do the right thing.
- Download maps or bring a paper backup as signal can drop out fast—even only an hour from Perth’s CBD.
- BYO toilet solution (or at least a trowel). Most free camps have zero facilities. Also, if possible, buy some fast-dissolving toilet paper from your local camping store (yes, there are different types of TP and your rolls at home break down poorly in soil).
- Check fire bans and regs. Especially if you’re heading into forested areas and getting yourself off-grid.
So… Where Should You Go?
If you’re desperate for a secluded camping spot near Perth, your best bets are:
- Pickering Brook for a close, quiet free camp (2WD is okay)
- Wandoo backcountry for a leg-powered escape
- Dwellingup for a proper adventure base (plus hiking and mountain biking)
- Blackwood River if you’re going all-in on serenity and have the time to get far south of Perth City
And remember—2WD camps close to the city can be pretty… underwhelming. If you want beauty and solitude, it’s worth either walking in or driving out a little further.
Got a favourite spot I haven’t mentioned? Shoot me a message (but maybe don’t spill all your secrets—we’ve gotta keep some magic for those willing to earn it).
Adventure and stories: our two favourite past-times. If they’re yours too, then check out our latest adventure guides for story-driven adventure advice from our Aussie explorers.
