Blackwood River National Park

Blackwood River National Park is a protected area in Australia.

Blackwood River National Park at a Glance

Location
South West Western Australia, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-34.067055, 115.432970
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Blackwood River National Park

Nearest airport: Nannup Airport, 28 km away.

Nearest international airport: Perth Airport (PER), 242 km away.

Wildlife in Blackwood River National Park

Home to 52 recorded species including 22 waterbirds, 11 tropical birds, 10 birds of prey, 6 iconic birds, 2 big herbivores, 1 marine & freshwater.

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Blackwood River National Park

1 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in South West Western Australia

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Australia

Travel advisory for Australia

Blackwood River National Park FAQs

What unique Australian wildlife can I expect to see on a safari at Blackwood River National Park, and what's the best way to spot them?

Blackwood River National Park offers a chance to encounter iconic Australian fauna such as kangaroos, wallabies, and various bird species, including kookaburras and black swans, particularly along the riverbanks. Guided river safaris or early morning bushwalks are highly recommended for optimal wildlife viewing, especially for spotting elusive platypus or waterbirds.

Given the moderate malaria risk, what specific precautions are recommended for visitors to Blackwood River National Park, and are there other safety considerations?

While unusual for Australia, visitors to Blackwood River National Park should consult their doctor about antimalarial medication and practice strict mosquito avoidance, including using repellent and wearing long clothing, especially at dawn and dusk. Additionally, always stay on marked trails and be aware of local wildlife, such as snakes, by wearing appropriate footwear.

When is the optimal time to visit Blackwood River National Park for wildlife viewing, and what kind of uncrowded experience can I expect?

The cooler, drier months from April to October are ideal for visiting Blackwood River National Park, as wildlife is more active and easier to spot near water sources. Due to its remarkably low crowding level, you can anticipate a serene and intimate safari experience, often enjoying wildlife sightings without the presence of large tourist groups.

What unique safari activities are available at Blackwood River National Park, and what are the typical costs or entry fees?

Beyond traditional bushwalks, Blackwood River National Park specializes in guided river cruises and 4x4 wildlife drives that explore the diverse riverine and forest ecosystems. Entry fees are typically per vehicle or person, with additional costs for specialized guided safari tours, which vary by operator and duration.

How do I get to Blackwood River National Park, and are there accommodation options within or near the park suitable for a safari trip?

Blackwood River National Park is generally accessible by car from major regional towns in Western Australia, with specific directions available on the park's official website. While camping facilities are available within the park, nearby towns offer a range of accommodation from eco-lodges to guesthouses, catering to different safari traveler preferences.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.