Yeagarup Dunes

Nestled in the heart of D’Entrecasteaux National Park, the Yeagarup Dunes are one of the most awe-inspiring natural features in the Southern Forests region. As the largest inland mobile dune system in the Southern Hemisphere, these vast dunes are an ever-changing testament to the raw power of nature. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Yeagarup Dunes are a must-visit destination when you’re in Pemberton.

A Living Landscape

The Yeagarup Dunes are unlike any other. They are alive, constantly shifting and moving inland by as much as 4 metres each year. Driven by the prevailing coastal winds, this ongoing movement reshapes the dunes and even encroaches on the ancient forests that surround them, creating an extraordinary intersection of sand and forest. As the dunes advance, they bury sections of the forest, leaving behind fascinating remnants and a continually evolving environment.

How to Experience the Dunes

The Yeagarup Dunes are accessible to visitors with a range of interests and capabilities.

  • For a Scenic View: You don’t need a 4WD to enjoy the beauty of the dunes. The unsealed (dirt) roads can get challenging at times so talk it slow. Simply drive to Lake Yeagarup, around 40min distance from Pemberton (14km off the sealed road), and take in the views of the dunes from the boardwalk overlooking Lake Yeagarup. The tannin-stained waters of the lake often reflect the sky, making it a serene atmosphere, offering the perfect spot for a picnic while you soak in the stunning vista of the shifting sands overlooking the lake in the distance.
  • For an Up-Close Adventure: If you’re looking to get deeper into the dunes, a 4WD vehicle with good clearance and low tyre pressures is required. You can hire a compressor in town or purchase one from the BP garage. Be prepared to go down to low tyre pressures and drive to the conditions. There is no recovery so it can be expensive if things go wrong. Stay within the markers when navigating through the Yeagarup dunes.
    No 4WD? No problems – we can help you join a guided 4WD tour. These tours provide access to the heart of the dunes, where you can walk across the soft, shifting sands and gaze out over a landscape where the sand meets the forest, stretching towards the Southern Ocean. With expert guides at the wheel, you’ll learn about the geological and ecological significance of the dunes while taking in their breathtaking beauty.

A Photographer’s Paradise

The Yeagarup Dunes are a photographer’s dream. The striking white sands, combined with the contrast of the surrounding green forests, offer endless opportunities to capture the majesty of this unique landscape. For the best shots, visit at sunrise or sunset when the dunes are bathed in warm golden light, casting long shadows across the rippling sand. The play of light and shadow across the dunes is a sight to behold.

Why Visit the Yeagarup Dunes?

  • Witness the movement of the largest inland sand dune system in the Southern Hemisphere.
  • Marvel at the contrast between the white sands, the lush green karri forest, and the reflective waters of Lake Yeagarup.
  • Enjoy the peace and beauty of the surrounding wilderness with a relaxed picnic
  • For a more adventurous experience 4WD through the dunes or join a tour.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re visiting independently or on a guided tour, the Yeagarup Dunes offer an unforgettable experience in one of Australia’s most unique landscapes.

For more information on how to visit or to book a guided tour, stop by the Pemberton Visitor Centre. We’re happy to help you plan your adventure to this extraordinary natural wonder.

Key Facts

Best Time to Visit: All year, with spring offering vibrant wildflowers.

Activities: Walking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.

Facilities: Picnic areas, campgrounds, and toilets.

Accessibility: 4WD Access only, 2WD access via unsealed road to Lake Yeagarup.

Some campgrounds may require pre-booking.

Park Entry Fees: National Park fees apply.

Camping Fees: Bookable on Parkstay

Yeagarup Hut Website: www.yeagaruphut.com.au

© Pemberton Visitor Centre 2023
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