Potters Gorge has had a bit of a bush makeover (if there is such a thing) since the last time we were there. It has been upgraded to have nice large campsites, paths, shelters, BBQs and a mountain bike pump track.

The name Potters Gorge is a little misleading as there is no gorge in the area. The campground is actually situated along the banks of Wellington Dam. 

Location

Potters Gorge is about 195km drive south of Perth. Collie is the closest town and the campsite is accessible by 2WD.

Campsites at Potters Gorge

There are 55 sites nestled in the shady Jarrah and Marri forest and in close proximity to Wellington Dam. From our site, we could see the water through the trees. The sites are spacious, we had plenty of extra room after we had set up our camper trailer.

The ground was extremely hard and we could only manage to get a few tent pegs in.  We needed to straighten a few when we got home. I am not sure if we were just unlucky or if all the sites are like this.

There are several shelters with free gas BBQs and tables. All sites have a table and fire ring, make sure you check when the seasonal fire ban restrictions are before lighting a fire. There is no drinking water available so you need to bring your own. On the plus side, there is eco-toilets and a dump point.

When we stayed in January you were unable to book a campsite, it was a first come first served basis.  Thankfully this has now changed and you can book a site online.

Enjoying Potters Gorge and Wellington Dam

There is plenty to do while you camp at Potters Gorge. We put the kayaks in the dam and had a leisurely paddle. The children loved kayaking in the shallows and taking a dip in the dam. While we were cooling off we spotted a marron through the clear water sitting on the bottom of the dam. It was just a few days short of the marron season so this little guy got to live another day!

Other than marron you can try and catch a freshwater cobbler or redfin perch. Just be warned that there is a fishing season and a licence is required.

Wellington Dam also has a designated water ski area.

There are plenty of walking/cycling trails to explore which wind through the forest of marri, jarrah and blackbutt.

If you don’t want to venture too far from your site there is a new Currawong bike pump track. The sign says it is suitable for the whole family but I struggled on the track! I know a good tradesman never blames his tools but maybe it is because I don’t have a proper mountain bike. It is that or I lack some skill!  Have band-aids and antiseptic cream ready.

If physical activity is not your thing you can simply put your feet up, read a book, relax or look for wildflowers.

There is a kiosk where you can pick up some snacks located near the dam wall which is a short drive away.

Campsites and day use at Honeymoon Pool

There are 20 sites along the banks of the Collie River and are suited to tents only. It is a very popular spot and fills up fast on the weekends. There are two other camping areas a bit further down the river called Stones Brook Campground and Gelcoat Campground.

Honeymoon Pool is a picturesque spot with beautiful peppermint trees and easy access to the clear tranquil river. There is a large wooden platform where you can relax in the sun or jump off into the water. Now brace yourself before you jump because the water is freezing compared to the surface water of the dam.  It feels like you are jumping into Antarctic waters!! Even on a stinking hot day, the water is cold. Did I mention the water is cold!!

If you are wondering why it is called Honeymoon Pool it is thought to be named after it was established as a base camp for army training during WWII. When the soldiers arrived they found several couples camped there for their honeymoon.

Honeymoon Pool has to be one of my favourite campgrounds where you can immerse yourself in nature.

4wd

There are plenty of tracks you can take in the National Park, however, Lennards track would have to be the most popular. The track is relatively easy although there are a few sections with large ruts and steep slippery climbs. The track follows the river and there are some amazing spots to stop.

Gnomesville

If you have children or a fascination with gnomes then check out Gnomesville. There are several different stories on how Gnomesville started. Regardless of how or why it started this community of Gnomes has grown to over 5000.

You will find Gnomesville at the roundabout of Wellington Mill Road and Ferguson Road. Take a stroll among the gnomes and you can even add your own gnome to the family!

Gnomes have migrated to this spot from all over the world! It is quite entertaining and I think the kids found every naked gnome that was out there!

I have to warn you that you might have a hard time trying to drag your children way!

I highly recommend camping at either of these campgrounds. Take some time out to get away from it all.

Quick Facts

• Access available to all vehicles
• Camper trailers and caravan fit on sites at Potters Gorge
• Tents only at Honeymoon Pool
• Fees apply
• Eco toilets
• No running water
• No Electricity
• Bring your own firewood
• Campsites can be booked online
• Chemical toilet dump facility
• Up to date information on Potters Gorge and Honeymoon Pool can be found at Parks and Wildlife Services

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