D’Entrecasteaux is a 116 686 hectare park named after French Admiral Bruny D’Entrecasteaux. He sighted and named Point D’Entrecasteaux in 1792.
This huge, rugged piece of wilderness stretches along the coast for a 130 kilometres, from Black Point just east of Augusta to Long Point just west of Walpole. It is remote with a variety of landscapes, from sandstone cliffs, huge sand dunes, wetlands to karri forest.
When you take into consideration the size of the park, there isn’t a great lot on offer with regards to camping and camping facilities. The reasoning behind it is to preserve the wilderness value of this area. Two absolutely gorgeous camping spots are at Yeagerup Lake and the leaning Marri, both accessible to conventional vehicles.
The only way to really explore this park is via a 4WD or on foot (various areas can only be reached by those willing to walk).
Conventional vehicles have access to another bit of the park via sealed roads at Point D’Entrecasteaux. This includes the coastal areas of Windy Harbour, Salmon Beach and Tookalup. Judging by all the boats and fishing gear Windy Harbour seems to be synonymous with great fishing. At Tookalup a whale watching platform is set high on the limestone cliff. The best time for whale watching is September to June. There are various outlooks along the way – the views of the southern coastline and the spectacular cliffs are unbeatable.
The Donnelly River, Warren River and Shannon River all flow through the park. A series of wetlands and swamps, including Lake Jasper and Lake Yeagerup, are also found in the park.
The park offers a whole range of options when it comes to recreation: fishing, surfing, diving, whale watching, hiking, camping, canoeing and 4WD.
As with all National Parks an entry fee applies. This is truly wild and remote; make sure you are self sufficient before you venture out. Gallery