Cape Range National Park is a spectacular natural reserve located in the north-western part of Western Australia. Although it is often associated with the nearby town of Exmouth, it is considered part of the broader Perth region's natural attractions. The park is famous for its dramatic limestone ranges, deep canyons, and pristine coastline along the Ningaloo Reef. Covering over 48,000 hectares, Cape Range National Park offers an extraordinary combination of rugged mountain scenery, turquoise waters, and rich biodiversity.
The park is a sanctuary for native wildlife and offers outstanding opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, camping, and exploring some of Australia’s most beautiful natural landscapes.
Cape Range National Park is approximately 1,250 kilometers north of Perth city. To reach the park, visitors usually fly from Perth to Exmouth Airport, which is about 40 kilometers from the park entrance. Several airlines offer daily flights from Perth to Exmouth.
From Exmouth, visitors can drive to the park easily via well-maintained roads. The park is accessible by standard vehicles during dry conditions, though some internal tracks may require a 4WD vehicle. For those who prefer road trips, the drive from Perth to Cape Range National Park takes around 13 to 15 hours via the North West Coastal Highway.
Cape Range National Park experiences a warm, arid climate with mild winters and hot summers. Summer temperatures can reach above 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures are more moderate, averaging between 18°C and 27°C (64°F to 81°F).
Rainfall is low throughout the year, with the majority occurring during the summer months, often in the form of brief tropical storms. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from April to September, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
The park is open year-round, with entry available at all times. However, the most comfortable and popular months to visit are from April to September, which coincide with milder temperatures and lower humidity.
During the summer months (October to March), the heat can be intense, and visitors should take precautions against sun exposure and dehydration.
Cape Range National Park is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including rugged limestone cliffs, spectacular canyons like Yardie Creek Gorge, and the adjacency to Ningaloo Reef, one of the world’s largest fringing reefs. This unique combination makes it one of Western Australia’s top destinations for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The park’s diverse ecosystems support many native species, including rock wallabies, emus, and various reptiles. The nearby Ningaloo Reef is famous for snorkeling with whale sharks and manta rays, attracting tourists from across the globe.
Entry to Cape Range National Park requires a fee, which helps support the park’s maintenance and conservation efforts. Visitors can pay at the park entrance or online through the Western Australia Parks and Wildlife Service website.
The park offers multiple camping grounds, including the popular Yardie Creek Campground and Oyster Stacks Campground. Facilities vary but generally include toilets, picnic areas, and barbecue spots. It is recommended to book campsites in advance during peak seasons.
Cape Range National Park is part of the traditional lands of the Yinidbarndi Aboriginal people, who have a deep spiritual connection with the area. Their culture and history are reflected in the rock art and ancient sites found within the park.
The park was declared a national park in 1964 to preserve its unique geological formations and natural habitats. There are no man-made architectural landmarks within the park besides basic visitor facilities and camping infrastructure designed to blend with the environment and minimize impact.