Set in the rugged landscape of the John Forrest National Park, the Rocky Pool is a well-known swimming and hiking hotspot. Formed by the Jane Brook, a series of pools sit along the river and are fed by small rapids (and not spring-fed).
A hotspot for locals, the Rocky Pool is gaining attention as more international tourists have begun to frequent the area.
Located just outside of Perth in Western Australia, the Rocky Pool is a great place to spend a day in one of Australia’s oldest conservation areas – the John Forrest National Park. Much more than a local swimming waterhole, the area around the Rocky Pool is great for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching.
The Rocky Pool in John Forrest National Park
The Rocky Pool is a series of small pools that are formed along the Jane Brook. A small current brings water into the pool, where it slowly trickles out and down the brook. With the water constantly moving, the temperature is often described as ambient temperature or perfect for cooling down after a long hike.
Typically, the Rocky Pool is quite shallow and the riverbank is flat. Jumping into the pool is not recommended because of its shallow depth and the rocks that sit along the edge and bottom. However, the pool is perfect for soaking and relaxing.
Visitors should take note that during the spring and summer months (October to February), the pool is often dried up and water levels on the Jane Brook go down to a trickle. The best time to visit the Rocky Pool is during the fall and winter months (May to September) when there is more rain.
There are no facilities at the Rocky Pool. Visitors can use the nearby picnic area, but there are no restrooms or waste bins. Visitors will have to carry all trash out with them. There is a parking lot for the Rocky Pool on the nearby Pechey Road.
Nearby Lodging
Staying overnight in the John Forrest National Park is not permitted. Tourists can stay on the outskirts of Perth in parks, hotels, and motels. Some many retreats and cottages can be rented in the area.
A few accommodation options that are close to the John Forrest National Park include the Banksia Tourist Park, Robinson Retreat, and the Tillbrook Cottage. All three of these lodgings are less than 3.7 miles (6km) from the national park.
The Banksia Tourist Park offers multiple cabins and chalets to guests, which can house both couples and larger groups.
For a rentable room, the Robinson Retreat is a small guest house that comes with a kitchenette and patio area.
Travelers who need more space, but would still like their privacy should consider the Tillbrook Cottage, which is a two-bedroom apartment that can sleep up to 6 guests.
Getting There
The Rocky Pool is located in the John Forrest National Park, which is 18.5 miles (29.8km) outside of Perth, Western Australia. Being less than a 1-hour drive from the heart of Perth means that the national park and Rocky Pool are popular day trip destinations for travelers in the area.
Visitors can access the Rocky Pool by car or by hiking and cycling. One of the most popular trails in the national park that passes by the Rocky Pool is the Eagle View Walk, which is a 9.3-mile (15km) loop. Visitors can choose to walk the entire loop or just sections that are around the Rocky Pool.
Another local option that goes by the same name is the Rocky Pool in Kalamunda, also a national park. It’s about a 30-minute drive to the south of John Forrest National Park, and around 11 kilometers.
Details
Address: Park Road, Hovea WA 6056, Australia
Coordinates: 31.8834°S, 116.0923°E
Phone: (+61) 08 9290 6100 – Park Office
Season: Year-round (pool often dry during spring/summer)
Age Restrictions: None
Clothing: Required
Pets: Not permitted
Entry: Paid – per vehicle
Website: exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/park/john-forrest-national-park
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