Marrinup Campsite

Marrinup Townsite Campground is a no-frills bush camp in Marrinup State Forest, about 5km north-west of Dwellingup, WA. The drawcard for dog owners is on-leash camping on a historic milling and WWII POW camp site, with direct access to the 8km Marrinup Cycle Trail.

The pet policy. Dogs are permitted to stay overnight. They must be kept under control and on a leash at all times in the campground and the surrounding recreation area. Standard camping fees apply: approximately $10 per adult per night, $7 for concession holders, and $5 per child aged 5 to 16.

The place. Expect a large, open grassy area with unpowered sites suitable for tents, camper trailers and caravans. Facilities are basic: picnic tables, seasonal fire pits and long-drop toilets. There is no dedicated water supply, so bring everything you need for both you and your dog. Interpretive signage covers the history of the 1930s milling town and the WWII-era POW camp that once stood here.

Watch-outs. The department conducts 1080 poison baiting in the surrounding state forest for conservation purposes. This is a real hazard and a solid reason to keep your dog leashed and supervised at all times.

Location and nearby. Access is by 2WD vehicle on Hunter Road, roughly 5 to 10 minutes' drive from Dwellingup town centre. Road conditions can vary, so check with the Dwellingup Trails and Visitor Centre before heading out. For an off-leash run, head into town to the Dwellingup Dog Park. For a post-camp meal, Blue Wren Cafe Dwellingup and Rubie's Place Dwellingup are nearby options.

Who it suits. Cyclists and mountain bikers wanting trail-head camping, history buffs, and owners of sociable, leashed dogs who are happy with basic facilities. If you need powered sites or want a different base, Baden Powell Campground is another stay in the area.

Check fire pit restrictions and road conditions with the Dwellingup Trails and Visitor Centre before you set off. This suits a quiet, no-frills leashed camping trip near the cycle trail, not campers after off-leash freedom or powered sites.

Sources

• Marrinup Townsite - Explore Parks WA · exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au
• Camping - Marrinup - Dwellingup - Destination Murray · dwellingup.destinationmurray.com.au
• Marrinup Falls Walk Trail, Dwellingup · trailswa.com.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.