A Hiking Guide to Kennedy Range National Park

A remote and beautiful part of Western Australia, the Kennedy Range is located about three hours inland from the coastal town of Carnarvon. Rising up from the red dirt is an ancient mountain range that has been eroded away over millions of years, leaving plenty of rugged gorges to explore. With only basic camping facilities, you get a real feel for the landscape as there is nothing out here but the natural beauty and the flora and fauna that call this place home.

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Below are all the details you need to know before visiting the Kennedy Range, along with an interactive map showing the hiking trails located near Temple Gorge Campground.

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Getting There - Located about 1100km north of Perth and 230km east of Carnarvon, the closest major airport serviced from Perth is Carnarvon Airport. The roads to get out to the Kennedy Range from Gascoyne Junction are unsealed (2WD accessible) but can be corrugated and rough. There are frequent closures after rain events and you should monitor the status of the roads on the Shire of Upper Gascoyne website, or give them a call.

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Best Time to Visit - Kennedy Range National Park is best visited between April and September, when the temperatures are cooler. The winter wildflowers are in full bloom from July to September, with the drive into the park full of everlastings if you time it right.

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Accommodation - There is only one DBCA campsite located in the Kennedy Range, with drop toilets and a firepit (wood must be sourced from outside the park). There is no water available at the campsite, so you'll have to bring your own supply. Campsite fees apply and you'll need to bring cash.

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Alternatively, Gascoyne Junction is the nearest town, located 60km to the south. There is a small tourist park with accommodation options.

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Food/Fuel - Gascoyne Junction has an Ampol service station for fuel and limited supplies. The nearest supermarket is located in Carnarvon.

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Safety - The Kennedy Range is a remote place with many dangers but with a bit of common sense and preparation, you can reduce the risks of anything bad happening during your stay. 

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• Always carry at least 5L of spare water in your vehicle at all times, along with a supply to last the length of your visit.

• Know your own abilities and take care when hiking in the gorges as the heat and unstable ground can be dangerous.

• Hike in the morning when the heat of the day hasn't set in. Always bring plenty of water and sturdy footwear.

• Bring a Personal Locator Beacon and keep it within reach on all hikes.

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Kennedy Range National Park is a really unique place to stay, and remember to leave it as you found it.