Pemberton: The Ultimate Family Adventure Destination to Get the Kids Outdoors
If you’re looking for a family holiday that gets the kids away from the screens and into the great outdoors, Pemberton is the answer. Nestled in the lush Southern Forests region of Western Australia, Pemberton is a natural playground where kids can explore, climb, fish, and adventure their way through the towering karri forests. Whether your kids are nature lovers, budding adventurers, or just need to burn off some energy, Pemberton has something for every age and interest.
Unleash Your Inner Explorer: Geocaching and Bug Hunting
For families with curious minds and adventurous spirits, geocaching is a perfect way to get the kids outdoors and active. It’s like a real-life treasure hunt using GPS to track down hidden containers, or “caches,” scattered around Pemberton’s forests and trails. With geocaching, your family can explore new places, work together to solve clues, and experience the thrill of discovery—all while exploring the beauty of the natural world. It’s also a great way to get everyone involved, from little ones eager for the thrill of the chase to teens looking for an interactive experience.
If your little explorers are more interested in the tiny creatures that live in the forests, bug hunting is a simple yet endlessly fun activity. Armed with magnifying glasses, nets, or even just their hands, kids can discover an entire hidden world beneath their feet. Pemberton’s karri forests are teeming with life, and your children will love looking for colourful beetles, fuzzy caterpillars, or tiny frogs hiding in the underbrush.
Take to the Treetops: Aerial Adventures Pemberton
Get your kids up off the forest floor with an exhilarating high ropes experience at Aerial Adventures Pemberton. Located at the Gloucester Tree, Pemberton’s latest attraction is suitable for kids as young as 4, and great fun for all!
The ropes for a series of games winds through the towering karri trees, offering incredible views and a safe, fun challenge. Whether your kids are climbing for the first time or are seasoned adventurers, Aerial Adventures Pemberton provides a range of courses to suit all abilities, making it the perfect family-friendly adventure.
Ride the Rails: Pemberton Tramway Company
For a more relaxed exploration of Pemberton’s natural beauty, jump aboard the Pemberton Tramway Company. The historic tram ride takes your family deep into the ancient karri forests, crossing trestle bridges and winding along the edge of stunning Cascades Waterfall. It’s a leisurely way to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, and the perfect downtime activity between more energetic adventures.
4WD Adventures at Yeagarup Dunes: Sand Sliding and Off-Road Fun for Families
For families seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure, Pemberton’s Yeagarup Dunes offer the perfect playground for off-road fun. These ever-shifting sand dunes, the largest inland dune system in the Southern Hemisphere, are a must-visit for families who love 4WDing. Kids can enjoy the excitement of sand sliding down the dunes, racing each other on the soft, white sand, or simply exploring this vast desert-like landscape that seems to rise out of the karri forest. The Pemberton Discovery Tours provide a guided 4WD experience, giving you access to the best dune tracks and ensuring a safe yet exhilarating adventure for all ages. Whether you’re taking on the dunes yourself or letting the experts lead the way, the Yeagarup Dunes promise a day filled with laughter, fun, and unforgettable memories for the whole family.
Wilderness on Two Wheels: Pemberton Mountain Bike Park & Big Brook Dam
For families who love to ride, Pemberton Mountain Bike Park offers trails for all skill levels. The easy-to-ride karri loam provides smooth tracks for younger or less experienced riders, while teens and adults can take on the more challenging routes. If your family prefers a more scenic route, head to Big Brook Dam. The flat, forested loop around the dam is perfect for cycling or walking and offers plenty of picnic spots to take a break and soak in the views.
Splashing Around: Big Brook Dam & Pemberton Pool
If your family loves water, spend the day at Big Brook Dam, where kids can paddle in the refreshing water or try their hand at swimming. This serene spot is ideal for a family picnic, with plenty of space for the kids to run wild while parents relax. For more confident swimmers, the historic Pemberton Pool offers a unique swimming experience in its tannin-stained waters.
Catch of the Day: Trout Fishing in Pemberton
For a relaxing family day by the water, try your hand at trout fishing. The lakes and streams around Pemberton are stocked with trout, and whether you bring your own gear or pick up a rod from the local general store, it’s a fun, quiet activity for kids and parents alike. Teaching your children to fish not only provides a chance to bond, but they’ll also love the thrill of reeling in their catch of the day!
Animal Adventures at PumpHill Farm Cottages
For younger children, nothing beats the joy of feeding farm animals. At PumpHill Farm Cottages, the 8 am feeding session is the perfect opportunity for kids to get hands-on experience with chickens, sheep, and other friendly animals. For $10 per adult and $5 per child, it’s a wholesome and interactive way to start the day, giving the little ones a chance to connect with nature in a fun and memorable way.
A Million-Star Stay: Stargazing in Pemberton
Pemberton is a haven for stargazers, offering a true million-star experience. Away from the bright city lights, the night sky here comes alive with countless twinkling stars, creating a magical spectacle for families. Even on cloudy nights, the stars often pop through, shining bright against the backdrop of the towering karri forests. Whether you’re camping in the wilderness or simply stepping outside your accommodation, the serene atmosphere makes it the perfect setting for an evening under the stars. Kids will love lying back and watching the constellations appear, and for those eager to learn more, stargazing apps or telescopes can bring the night sky even closer.
Explore Beedelup Falls & the Swinging Bridge
One of Pemberton’s most iconic natural attractions, Beedelup Falls, is a must-see for families. The gentle hike to the falls is perfect for kids of all ages, and the Swinging Bridge offers an extra thrill as you cross over the water. It’s a great spot for a family photo, and the surrounding forest provides plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Playgrounds & Skate Park Fun
If your kids need to burn off some energy, head to the Pemberton Skate Park, located near the sports club. It’s the perfect place for older kids to practice their tricks or ride their scooters. For younger children, there are plenty of playgrounds scattered around Pemberton and nearby Manjimup, where the Manjimup Timber and Heritage Park offers a fantastic playground and picnic spot. With swings, climbing frames, and wide-open spaces, your little ones can play to their heart’s content while you relax in the shade.
Get Creative at Understory in Northcliffe
For families with a love of art, a day trip to Northcliffe to explore the Understory Art and Nature Trail is a must. This unique trail winds through the forest, with stunning sculptures and artwork hidden among the trees. It’s a fun and interactive way to experience both nature and art, and kids will love the chance to spot the hidden sculptures along the way.
Final Thoughts
Pemberton is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities, where kids can explore, adventure, and reconnect with the outdoors. Whether they’re geocaching in the forest, splashing in Big Brook Dam, or soaring through the treetops, there’s no shortage of fun and excitement in this natural playground. So pack up the family, turn off the screens, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Southern Forests.
Categories:
- Family Fun
- Fishing
- Mountain Biking
- Natural Experiences
- Tours