Here’s your guide to the top family friendly activities throughout the Southern Forests and Valleys, featuring the charming towns of Balingup, Boyup Brook, Bridgetown, Greenbushes, Nannup, Manjimup, Pemberton, Northcliffe, and Walpole. From exploring natural wonders to diving into local culture, these activities offer fun and memorable adventures for the entire family to enjoy.
Balingup
• Golden Valley Tree Park: The largest arboretum in Western Australia, offering a beautiful spot for picnics, walks, and exploring trees from around the world. Kids can run around the open spaces and enjoy nature.
• Balingup Heritage Town Walk: Explore Balingup’s rich history with a stroll along the Heritage Town Trail. This easy walk takes you through historical sites, beautiful gardens, and quaint cottages, offering a fun way for families to learn about the town’s past.
• Blackwood River Tourist Drive: Take the family on a scenic drive through Balingup’s rolling hills and lush countryside. Stop at lookout points to admire the sweeping views, and maybe even spot some local wildlife along the way.
• Hiking in the Bibbulmun Track: Embark on a family-friendly hike along the Bibbulmun Track, which passes near Balingup. There are sections suited for short, leisurely walks, allowing you to experience the region’s forests, wildflowers, and scenic views.
• Racecourse Flora Reserve: Discover the vibrant beauty of Balingup’s native wildflowers with a family walk through the Racecourse Flora Reserve, where nature comes alive in spring.
• Explore local artisan scene: Discover the local art and craft scene by visiting the artisan and craft galleries in the region. These galleries feature a variety of handmade products and works of art created by local artists.
Boyup Brook
• Collection’s and Art Gallery at the Visitor Centre: Home to the captivating Keith Carnaby Beetles and Butterfly Collection, showcasing the vibrant beauty of native species. Don’t miss the Kradal Doll Collection, featuring charming handmade dolls that reflect local artistry. Before you go, browse the centre’s handmade local gifts for unique, artisan-crafted souvenirs.
• Boyup Brook Classic Cars: Admire the stunning display of vintage vehicles at the Boyup Brook Classic Cars exhibit, where automotive history comes to life for enthusiasts of all ages.
• Harvey Dickson’s Country Music Centre: Visit this iconic location, especially if your family enjoys music. It features a quirky mix of country music memorabilia, sculptures, and farm life.
• Boyup Brook Flax Mill: Explore Boyup Brook’s rich history at the Flax Mill Museum, where intricate miniatures bring the town’s past to life for visitors of all ages.
• Picnic by the Blackwood River: Enjoy a relaxing picnic by the riverbanks, with scenic views and plenty of space for kids to play.
• Wildflower Wonderland: Experience the beauty of nature with a drive through one of the many wildflower drives in the area.
• Boyup Brook District Pioneer Museum: Step back in time at the Boyup Brook Pioneer Museum, where captivating exhibits bring the region’s rich history and pioneering spirit to life.
• Boyup Brook Pool: Cool off and enjoy a refreshing swim at the Boyup Brook Swimming Pool, a perfect spot for families to relax and splash around on a sunny day.
Bridgetown
• Blackwood River Park: Perfect for families to enjoy a day out by the river. There are BBQ facilities, playgrounds, and spots for swimming, kayaking, or fishing. Enjoy a walk with the family along the river bank.
• Bridgetown Jarrah Park: This park is ideal for bushwalking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature with the family.
• Bridgetown-Greenbushes Art Trail: Explore the local art scene by visiting the galleries and taking a walk along the Street Art Trail.
• Eat & Drink in Bridgetown: Explore the local food scene by visiting the cafes, pubs and restaurants. These offer a chance to taste some of the local produce, alternatively you can take part in a Secret Picnic.
• Bridgetown Skate Park: Let the kids burn off energy at the Bridgetown Skate Park, a fun and dynamic spot perfect for skaters and scooter riders of all skill levels.
• Bridgetown Jigsaw Gallery: A great destination for families, visit the jigsaw gallery to see a variety of jigsaw puzzles and other puzzles on display, have a go at putting one together yourself.
• Bridgetown Leisure Centre and Pool: Recreational and aquatic activities for all ages and abilities, featuring a 24-hour gym, group fitness studio, outdoor pool, beach volleyball, and grassed areas.
Greenbushes
• Greenbushes Discovery Centre: The interactive displays here make learning about the local history, mining, and ecology fun for the whole family. It’s both educational and engaging for kids.
• Heritage Amble Walk: Take a walk in the footsteps of a Greenbushes fictional character as you play the Heritage Amble game. Pick up a brochure at the Discovery Centre.
• Greenbushes Pool: Enjoy a perfect family day at Greenbushes Pool, featuring a refreshing swimming spot alongside a fun playground and picnic area for endless outdoor enjoyment.
• Greenbushes Mine Lookout: Visit the lookout to see the open-cut mine and learn about the lithium mining industry. A fascinating stop for curious kids and adults alike.
• Thomson Park and Pump Track: Visit the new pump track offers thrilling rides for kids, complemented by lovely playground and bbq spot for a day of family fun.
Manjimup
• Manjimup Heritage Park: A major family attraction with playgrounds, the State Timber and Heritage Museum, and a steam train. Kids will love the playground while parents enjoy the heritage displays.
• King Jarrah Tree: A short walk through the forest brings you to one of the largest living jarrah trees in WA. It’s a peaceful place for the family to appreciate the beauty of WA’s forests.
• The Four Aces and One Tree Bridge: Located near Manjimup, these towering trees and historical bridge are worth a visit for nature lovers.
• Manjin Park: Manjin Park is a vibrant destination for families, featuring a skate park, playground, and exercise area, all complemented by BBQ facilities for a fun-filled day outdoors|
• Fonty’s Pool: Cool off at Fonty’s Pool, a picturesque swimming spot surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for family fun and relaxation on warm days.
• Manjimup Aquacentre: The Manjimup Aqua Centre provides a fantastic space for all ages to enjoy swimming and aquatic activities, perfect for fun and relaxation.
• Power Up Electricity Museum: Escape the heat and step into the cool, immersive world of the Power Up Museum, where interactive exhibits bring the history of energy and innovation to life.
• Town Walk and Cycle Trails: Explore the scenic walk and cycle trails of Manjimup, where lush landscapes and vibrant nature offer the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures and leisurely strolls.
Nannup
• Kondil Park: Delight in the stunning display of wildflowers at Kondil Park, where vibrant blooms create a colorful backdrop for a peaceful family stroll and nature exploration
• Old Timberline Trail: A family-friendly trail for cycling or hiking through lush forests and historical timber areas.
• Marinko Tomas Bicentennial Park: Discover adventure at the Emu Nature Playground and pump track in Nannup, where kids can explore nature-inspired play equipment, go on the zipline and enjoy thrilling rides on the pump track!
• Barrabup Pool and Workmens Pool: Popular local swimming spots in the bush. It’s a great place for families to picnic and enjoy the outdoors.
• Donnelly River Village: Experience the charm of Donnelly River Village, where families can explore the beautiful natural surroundings, enjoy wildlife encounters, and unwind in a tranquil riverside setting.
• Blackwood River: Enjoy a day by the Blackwood River, where the scenic foreshore park offers perfect picnic spots and numerous canoe drop points for adventurous family outings on the water.
• Bike Trails: Nannup is a cycling hub with trails for all skill levels, featuring the family-friendly Sidings Rail Trail and the exciting Tank 7 and Ngoolark MTB Jump Park, offering scenic rides and thrilling jumps through beautiful landscapes.
• Lavender Farm: In summer, the lavender farm bursts into vibrant bloom, creating a stunning landscape perfect for leisurely strolls and aromatic experiences, with a charming café to stop at for refreshments along the way.
Northcliffe
• Understory Art and Nature Trail: This unique trail features outdoor sculptures and art installations nestled in the forest, making for a fun and engaging walk for families.
• Northcliffe Pioneer Museum: Learn about the early pioneers of the region through engaging displays that bring history to life for both kids and adults.
• Windy Harbour & Salmon Beach: Spend a day at Windy Harbour, where you can explore beautiful beaches, enjoy scenic trails, and indulge in swimming and fishing for a perfect family getaway.
• Mount Chudalup: A great spot for families who enjoy hiking and panoramic views. The walk to the summit is manageable for most ages.
• Shannon Great Forest Tree Drive: A stunning self-guided journey through Shannon National Park’s old-growth forests, with scenic stops for picnics, exploration, and learning about the region’s rich timber history.
• D’Entrecasteaux National Park: Discover the natural beauty of pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and lush forests offering endless opportunities for adventure and exploration in a breathtaking coastal setting.
• Northcliffe Forest Park: A picturesque destination where families can wander through vibrant wildflower displays, explore scenic trails, and enjoy delightful picnics amidst the natural beauty.
Pemberton
• Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree: If your family loves adventure, climb this tree to the 20 metre platform! For younger kids or those not keen on heights, the surrounding forest offers beautiful walks.
• Pemberton Tramway: Take a scenic ride through the forest on the Pemberton Tramway to the Cascades. It’s a relaxing journey that the whole family can enjoy, with plenty of wildlife and scenic views.
• Big Brook Dam: A beautiful spot for a family picnic, swimming, kayaking, or walking the 4km loop around the dam.
• Pemberton Mountain Bike Park: If your family is into cycling, this park offers trails for all levels of experience.
• Pemberton Pool: Relax and have fun at Pemberton Pool, a beautiful spot for families to swim, picnic, and enjoy the serene natural surroundings on warm summer days.
• Aerial Adventure Pemberton: Get your adrenaline pumping at Aerial Adventures, where families can conquer treetop courses and zip lines, experiencing the thrill of the outdoors from a whole new height!
• Yeagarup Dunes: Experience the breathtaking Yeagerup Dunes on a guided tour with Pemberton Discovery Tours or embark on your own thrilling 4WD adventure, then relax as you explore the pristine beaches lining the coastline.
• Beedelup Falls: Take the family and enjoy the 4.5 km trail that winds through the lush karri forest to the Walk-Through Tree and Karri Valley Resort, featuring a thrilling suspension bridge for breathtaking views of the water cascading into the pool below.
• Southern Forests Chocolate Company: Indulge your sweet tooth at the Southern Forests Chocolate Company, where handcrafted chocolates and delightful treats showcase the region’s rich flavors and artisanal craftsmanship.
• Eat and Drink Pemberton: Explore the local food scene in Pemberton by visiting one of the many artisan shops, boutique eateries, wineries or pubs. These popular destinations offer a chance to taste some of the best local produce.
Walpole
• Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk: A highlight of the region, this walk takes you high into the canopy of ancient tingle trees. It’s a breathtaking experience for families with older kids, and there’s the Ancient Empire walk to discover too.
• Conspicuous Cliff Beach: A stunning beach that’s less crowded, perfect for family outings. It’s a great place for walking, swimming, and enjoying the ocean views.
• Circular Pool: A short drive from Walpole, this natural pool in the Frankland River is a beautiful and serene spot for families to relax, picnic, and enjoy the sights of the forest.
• Walpole-Nornalup Inlet: Perfect for water-based activities such as boating, kayaking, or fishing. It’s a great spot for a peaceful family day out.
• Mount Frankland Lookout: Take in breathtaking panoramic views from Mt. Frankland Lookout, a must-visit destination for families seeking adventure and stunning landscapes in the heart of nature.
• Swarbrick Art Loop: Explore the vibrant Swarbrick Art Loop, where a captivating array of outdoor artworks and sculptures invites families to connect with creativity amidst the stunning natural landscape.
• WOW Wilderness Eco Cruise: Embark on the WOW Wilderness Cruise for an unforgettable family adventure, where you can experience the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife of the region from the tranquil waters of the inlet.
• Fernhook Falls: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Rowell’s Pool, where natural bubbles form from saponin in the water. Explore the accessible walk trails and boardwalks for stunning views of the falls, and consider camping for a perfect family getaway.
