Best Picnic Spots Near Perth

Picnics in picturesque parklands, scents of barbecues in the bush, and walks amongst the wildflowers are just moments away when you head out to one of WA’s stunning national parks. So stock up on snacks, sausages and sandwiches, plus comfortable shoes for walking and head out to the country. Here are some of our favourite picnic spots that are only a short drive away and ready to be filled with fun, food, family and friends!

John Forrest National Park

One of WA’s most scenic picnic spots is only a 30-minute drive away from Perth and located in the stunning John Forrest National Park. Being the state’s oldest park, with age comes a whole lot of beauty and wildlife.

The nature surrounding John Forrest National Park picnic area is truly unique. It is is home to over 500 different species of wildflowers which can be seen in spring and include Banksias, Grevilleas, Blue Lechenaultia and Kangaroo Paws. It’s the perfect setting to take in all that natural beauty over a delicious sandwich or BBQ. There’s even a Nature Playground next to a gentle-flowing creek, for kids of all ages to run about and explore.

Between nibbles, head out on one of John Forrest’s many walking trails that lead to treasures like Hovea Falls, which is only 800m from the picnic area accessible via the John Forrest Heritage trail. For any wildlife warriors, the park has over 90 species of birds, as well as plenty of kangaroos, possums, bandicoots, reptiles and frogs. With every breath of fresh air you breathe, the abundance of nature is breath-taking.

Family picnic in the John Forrest National Park

Walyunga National Park

Go wild in Walyunga National Park. Located on the other side of the Darling Scarp, this spot is 50 minutes from Perth and full of interest. In fact, if you want adventure, then you’ve found the right place.

Full of deep pools, set in a stunning valley and featuring wildlife and flowers galore, there are so many adventures to be had – not to mention great facilities. From BBQs to picnic tables, toilets to a range of campsites, if you want to stay overnight, you’ll be completely set to go camping in style.

Now it’s time to pick your adventure. From the lookout to walking trails, kayaking zones, fishing spots, rapids, and of course the Swan River which runs through the centre of this park, there are so many great spots to explore and enjoy.

Walyunga National Park Picnic Area

Lesmurdie Falls National Park

This dog-friendly destination is perfect for a spring day out! The best time to visit the Lesmurdie Falls picnic area is during this time of year when the falls are flowing at maximum capacity and the flora is flourishing.  Just remember to keep your furry friend on a lead if you are bringing them along to explore this fragile ecosystem.

There is also a great lookout spot only a short walk from the picnic area where you can gaze out over the Swan Coastal Plain. With so many stunning species of birds to spot and even the odd kangaroos, make sure to take time to take it all in.

Korung National Park

Wildflowers at Lions Lookout, Korung National Park

Calling all cyclists who can’t ride past a delicious spread, the Korung National Park picnic spot will deliver all the goods. The Munda Biddi Bike trail runs through the park, making it the perfect spot for a light or heavy ride followed by lunch. Being only a 45-minute drive from Perth, it is a great place to load up the bikes and kids and head out east.

If you’re not into mountain biking stay tuned, this park is also known for its many walking trails. There’s the Carmel Walk Trail that will take you through local fruit orchards and farmlands. The Mason & Bird Heritage Trail which retraces the route of an old timber tramway to the original mill – definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in local history. Head up a nearby hill to the Lions Lookout Walk Trail for spectacular views of the city below. The Victoria Reservoir Walk meanders past the Victoria Dam and the Channel Ten Tower Walk that as the name suggests, will take you to the Channel Ten Tower,  displays great views of surrounding woodland and farmland at your feet.

From biking to walking to just enjoying a feed, this spot caters for all.

Kalamunda National Park

An easy 45 minute drive from Perth, the undiscovered Kalamunda National Park is a great place to picnic if you’re looking for some peace and quiet. So get the BBQ going and set up for a day of eating, drinking and hanging out with your nearest and dearest in a truly tranquil setting.

This spot is home to some extremely rare and beautiful plant species which exist nowhere else on the planet. From Jarrah to Marri, Wandoo to Butter Gum, there’s some incredible species to explore. Sometimes it’s easy to forget how unique our own backyard is, but Kalamunda National Park is there to remind us.

Serpentine National Park

Serpentine Falls is known as the “crowning jewel of the picturesque Serpentine National Park” and is definitely one of the most popular picnic destinations. 55 minutes  from Perth, it’s a great place for swimming during those warmer months. As the temperature starts to rise this is the perfect spot to unwind and escape from the city.

Set against the steep slopes of the Serpentine River Valley, this grassy picnic area is pretty epic. With shaded picnic tables, gas barbeques, toilets and a mobile food outlet, you’ll really want for nothing. Just make sure to remember to take cash if you plan on buying food.

There are also some great bushwalks nearby if you are keen on a stroll. Being a sanctuary for a huge variety of wildlife, there is a lot to see as you wander through this natural wonderland.

Serpentine Falls, located in the Serpentine National Park

Gooseberry Hill National Park

Within Gooseberry Hill National Park lies the famous zig-zag road that offers amazing views of Perth and heaps of stops along the way for photos, birdwatching and picnicking with incredible views. This steeper park is definitely all about the one-way drive, which you might want to do a few times in order to fully take the scenery in. Why not walk it? Once a year the shire holds an event in which walkers have access to the road and can hike down it in order to fully enjoy this region. Awesome!

End your hike or drive at Statham’s Quarry, a great picnic spot that’s become quite famous in its time, having been featured in a number of local films.

Beelu National Park

Beelu National Park is located off Mundaring Weir road. This forest-filled location is popular with bird watchers, picnic goers and recreational sport enthusiasts. From hiking to mountain biking, swimming to kayaking, there’s so much fun to be had in Beelu.

Beyond sports there’s some unique native flora and fauna to explore from jarrah to marri trees and banksias to sheoaks. If native plants are your thing, this is your next picnic destination.

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