Collie: The Ultimate Base for Outdoor Adventure and Camping
Looking for the ultimate outdoor adventure destination? Collie, nestled in the heart of Western Australia, is where you need to be. Just 2.5 hours from Perth, this town is the gateway to everything nature lovers crave—stunning lakes, endless trails, and perfect campgrounds. Whether you’re here to camp, hike, mountain bike, or dive into water sports like paddleboarding, water skiing and kayaking, Collie is where the action starts.
What makes Collie stand out? It’s the base for exploring some of the most incredible natural surroundings, all within easy reach. From family-friendly campsites to remote, off-the-grid spots, Collie offers a range of options for every kind of adventurer. And with everything just a short drive away, you can pack your day with activities and still have time to relax by the fire in the evening. If you’re after an action-packed outdoor escape, the Collie area is where you’ll find it.
Stockton Lake Camping: A Watersport Haven
Stockton Lake, just 10 kilometers east of Collie, is a must-visit for watersports enthusiasts and campers alike. Once an open-cut coal mine, this striking blue lake has been repurposed into a popular recreation area. The campground around the lake provides plenty of space for tents and caravans, making it ideal for families, solo travelers, and groups of friends.
- Watersports: The lake is perfect for waterskiing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. With calm, expansive waters, it’s a great spot for those looking to spend their days on the water.
- Dog-Friendly Camping: Stockton Lake is a rare spot that allows dogs, so you can bring your four-legged companion along for the adventure.
- Campfires: In the cooler months (check local guidelines), campfires are permitted, making it an excellent place to gather around and enjoy the fresh air. Bring your firewood.
- Scenic Beauty: The lake’s deep blue waters, surrounded by bushland, offer a picturesque setting for photography and quiet relaxation in your hammock.
(10mins from Collie)
Lake Kepwari: Perfect for Water Activities and Relaxation
(15 minutes from Collie)
Lake Kepwari, about 15 kilometers south of Collie, is another popular spot for camping and watersports. This large man-made lake was once a mining void and has since been transformed into a stunning recreational area. Mick Murray Campground and David Ugle Campground are the two main sites offering easy access to the lake.
- Waterskiing and Paddleboarding: Lake Kepwari is renowned for its excellent conditions for waterskiing and paddleboarding. The calm, expansive waters make it ideal for both beginners and experienced water lovers.
- Fishing and Boating: Anglers can enjoy fishing from the shore or from a boat, while others can explore the lake by kayak or paddleboard.
- Camping: The campgrounds offer large sites for tents, caravans, and camper trailers, with plenty of space for families and groups. Modern amenities like toilets and picnic areas make them comfortable bases for your adventures.
Honeymoon Pool: A Serene Riverside Retreat
(20 minutes from Collie)
For a more tranquil camping experience, Honeymoon Pool in Wellington National Park is a hidden gem. Known for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful surroundings, Honeymoon Pool offers one of the most picturesque camping spots in the region. One of my personal favorites.
- Swimming and Relaxation: The Collie River flows gently through the area, making it perfect for a swim or a quiet paddle in a canoe. The shaded banks of the river provide a cool, peaceful retreat, especially in the warmer months.
- Bush Camping: The campgrounds here are more rustic, offering a true bush camping experience with basic amenities. This spot is ideal for those looking to disconnect and enjoy nature at its finest.
- Hiking and Wildlife: Several hiking trails are accessible from Honeymoon Pool, where you can explore the surrounding bushland and spot local wildlife. Be safe when hiking. Checkout 5 Top Travel Tips for Navigating the Unique Australian Wild Life
Potters Gorge: Camping by the Water’s Edge
Potters Gorge, also located in Wellington National Park, sits on the shores of Wellington Dam and offers a serene, family-friendly camping experience. This campground is perfect for those looking for easy access to both nature and the comforts of a well-maintained site.
Fishing, Canoeing, and Paddle Boarding: Wellington Dam’s calm waters are perfect for fishing, canoeing, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
- Waterfront Camping: Potters Gorge is set right on the edge of the dam and offers stunning views of the water, making it ideal for early morning walks or quiet evenings by the campfire.
(25 minutes from Collie)
- Hiking Trails: Several walking and biking trails weave through the surrounding forest, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the area’s natural beauty. Potters Gorge via the Sika Trail and Wellington Dam trail is 3.7 km out and in. If you are looking for something more significant, the 10.5 km Sika trail is in Wellington National Park.
- Picnic Areas: Families will appreciate the well-maintained picnic spots, equipped with tables and barbecues for a fun, easygoing camping experience.
Things to Do While Camping in Collie
Collie is more than just a camping destination. It’s a hub for outdoor activities catering to all adventurers. Here are some of the best things to do while camping in Collie:
Waterskiing and Paddleboarding
(15 minutes outside of Collie)
With lakes like Stockton and Kepwari, watersports are a huge regional draw. Both lakes offer excellent conditions for waterskiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, making them ideal spots to spend your days on the water. The calm conditions are great for beginners, while more experienced waterskiers can push their limits on the expansive lakes.
Popular Mountain Biking Routes
Collie is one of Australia’s premier mountain biking destinations, with the region jam-packed with trails designed for riders of all levels. Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to the sport, there are plenty of trails to explore:
Collie is one of Australia’s premier mountain biking destinations, with the region jam-packed with trails designed for riders of all levels. Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to the sport, there are plenty of trails to explore:
Wambenger Trails: These trails, designed by Common Ground, are some of the newest and most exciting routes in the region. Completed in October 2021, they offer a variety of trails for beginners and experienced riders alike. The Arklow Trail network features easy to moderate trails perfect for family rides, while the Wiilman Bilya track offers a more challenging adventure for experienced mountain bikers.
Munda Biddi Trail: Collie is a key stop along the renowned Munda Biddi Trail, one of the world’s longest off-road cycling trails. This trail takes riders through forests and offers stunning views of the natural surroundings, making it a must-do for any cycling enthusiast visiting the region.
Hiking and Nature Walks
For those who prefer to stay on foot, the Collie region offers numerous hiking trails:
- Wellington National Park: Trails like the Jabitj Trail and Sika Trail offer beautiful walks through the forest, with opportunities to see local wildlife and enjoy views of the Collie River.
- Day Trips to Bunbury: If you’re looking for a change of scenery, take a day trip to Bunbury, located just an hour’s drive away. Enjoy a beach day, visit the Dolphin Discovery Centre, or explore the coastal trails.
- The Bibbulmun Track, one of Western Australia’s most renowned long-distance trails, passes right through Collie, making it a perfect stopover for hikers. Collie sits between Dwellingup and Balingup stops on the trail, offering a mix of forest and lake scenery. Whether you’re doing a section or the entire trail, Collie provides a great base to reconnect with nature.
Campfires and Stargazing
One of the highlights of camping in Collie is gathering around a campfire in the cooler months. Many campgrounds, like Stockton Lake and Potters Gorge, allow campfires (seasonally and depending on conditions), providing the perfect setting for cooking meals, sharing stories, and gazing at the clear night sky. With little light pollution, the Collie region offers excellent stargazing opportunities.
Why Collie is Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
Collie is the ultimate weekend escape from Perth with its various camping options, watersports, mountain biking trails, and scenic hikes. Families can enjoy a wide range of activities, from lakeside fun to exploring the forest trails, all while staying at well-equipped campgrounds. Combining adventure with relaxation makes Collie the perfect base for anyone looking to experience the best of Western Australia’s outdoors.
Verdict
Collie, Western Australia, offers an unbeatable combination of camping, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re spending your days waterskiing at Lake Kepwari, hiking through Wellington National Park, or enjoying a peaceful campfire under the stars, Collie is the perfect base for any outdoor enthusiast. Its family-friendly campgrounds, scenic lakes, and abundance of activities make it an ideal destination for anyone seeking to reconnect with nature.