Karijini National Park
The
Pilbara region, in the North West of Australia encompasses both a tropical coastline that stretches from
Port Hedland to
Onslow and the magnificent inland ranges called the Hamersley where deep gorges and spectacular cliffs abound. The rich
Pilbara colours of fiery red, gold and the most brilliant blue sky is a photographer's delight. After rain the country turns green resulting in a spectacular show of
wildflowers and a rapid increase in wildlife.
The region's major township is
Port Hedland, a town almost exclusively devoted to BHP's Iron Ore and mineral facilities. Visitors to
Port Hedland usually spend some time touring or watching these massive operations.
Port Hedland Harbour is always a hive of activity as huge vessels enter, turn, berth, load and restock millions of tons of ore daily.
202km west of
Port Hedland along the major bitumen highway lies the historic township of Roebourne and
the entrance to a small peninsula to the north through Wickham,
Cossack and
Point Samson. This tranquil seaside town is a popular beach retreat. Secluded beaches, coves and inlets are perfect for fishing and camping such as Honeymoon Cove and
Cleaverville Beach.
Approximately 30km west of Roebourne is
Karratha, a major shopping and service centre. 20km north of
Karratha on the vast waterways of the
Dampier Archipelago lies the township of
Dampier. The 42 islands of the Archipelago feature historical shipwrecks, pristine white sandy beaches, aboriginal
rock engravings and some of the best fishing in the world. The township takes its name from English Buccaneer William
Dampier who visited the area back in 1688. Game fishing in the region is extremely popular with the annual Game Fishing Classic held in early August each year. Both Australian and World records have been set in these productive waterways.
To the interior of the
Pilbara region lies some of the country's oldest gorges and ranges. Now protected by National Parks you can drive,
camp, walk and explore the
Millstream-Chichester and the Karijini National Parks in the impressive Hamersley Ranges. You will need to obtain camping or day visit passes to the National Parks.
To help you explore this region, ExplorOz has a dedicated
Trek Note Section for the Pilbara, including
Treks for the
Rudall River,
Karijini National Park,
West Hamersley Ranges and Woongarra Pool, and more.
We also stock a range of products in the Online
Shop that will help you get the most out of your travels in this region:
Maps, Mapbooks & Atlases
Guidebooks, DVD's and Packs
Fishing