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Cape Range National Park

Cape Range National Park protects the spine of the [North West Cape](/au/places/wa/north-west-cape) peninsula — an ancient limestone ridge…

National Park in Western Australia

National ParkUNESCO
Claire AshworthWritten by Claire Ashworth

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World Heritage Status of Cape Range National Park

Status
UNESCO World Heritage Site

About Cape Range National Park

Cape Range National Park protects the spine of the [North West Cape](/au/places/wa/north-west-cape) peninsula — an ancient limestone ridge with dramatic gorges, caves, and 50 km of [Ningaloo Reef](/au/attractions/wa/ningaloo-reef) coastline. The park is part of the [Ningaloo Coast](/au/national-parks/wa/ningaloo-coast) UNESCO World Heritage Area and offers an extraordinary combination of arid outback landscapes and world-class marine environments. Wildlife includes emus, euros, black-flanked rock wallabies, ospreys, and a rich intertidal zone.

About

Cape Range National Park protects the spine of the [North West Cape](/au/places/wa/north-west-cape) peninsula — an ancient limestone ridge with dramatic gorges, caves, and 50 km of [Ningaloo Reef](/au/attractions/wa/ningaloo-reef) coastline. The park is part of the [Ningaloo Coast](/au/national-parks/wa/ningaloo-coast) UNESCO World Heritage Area and offers an extraordinary combination of arid outback landscapes and world-class marine environments. Wildlife includes emus, euros, black-flanked rock wallabies, ospreys, and a rich intertidal zone.

History & Significance

Cape Range National Park protects an ancient limestone ridge forming the spine of the North West Cape peninsula, sculpted over millions of years by geological processes. The park is part of the Ningaloo Coast UNESCO World Heritage Area, recognised for its exceptional combination of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The limestone gorges and caves formed through water erosion of the range, creating the dramatic landscape visible today.

Warnings

Campgrounds Require Advance Booking And Fill QuicklySome Beach Access Roads Require 4WDNo Potable Water At Most Campgrounds — Bring Your OwnExtreme Summer Heat (Nov–Mar) — Avoid Midday

Getting There

Map of Cape Range National Park

Enter from Exmouth via Murat Road, then south on Yardie Creek Road. Sealed road to most major sites.

Parking

Free parking at visitor centre and trailheads. Most parking areas are unsealed; capacity varies by site. Some beach access roads require 4WD vehicles — standard vehicles may not be suitable. Overflow parking limited during peak periods; arrive early or book accommodation in advance.

Visitor Tips

  • Pick up a free tide chart at Milyering Visitor Centre
  • Yardie Creek gorge boat tour runs in peak season — book ahead
  • Osprey Bay is best for camping with ocean views
  • Hike Mandu Mandu Gorge at sunrise or sunset for best light

Cultural Significance

Cape Range National Park protects an ancient limestone ridge forming the spine of the North West Cape peninsula, sculpted over millions of years by geological processes. The park is part of the Ningaloo Coast UNESCO World Heritage Area, recognised for its exceptional combination of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The limestone gorges and caves formed through water erosion of the range, creating the dramatic landscape visible today.

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

UNESCO
World Heritage Site
Significance
World Heritage

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Paid
Duration
2–5 days
Best Time
April to October (cooler months)
Hours
Open 24 hours. Milyering Visitor Centre daily 9am-3:45pm.

Good to Know

Wheelchair AccessibleAll ages

Highlights

Yardie Creek Gorge Boat ToursTurquoise Bay Drift SnorkelBlack-Flanked Rock Wallabies At Yardie CreekMandu Mandu Gorge WalkMilyering Visitor Centre

Activities

SnorkellingGorge WalksBirdwatchingWildflower ViewingCampingFishingSwimmingWildlife Watching4WD Touring

Family & Visitor Info

Ages
All ages
Shade/Cover
Limited shade
Pram Friendly
No

Food & Drink

Picnic AreaBYO Food OK

No food vendors in park. Bring all supplies or purchase in nearby towns (Exmouth ~40 km). BBQ facilities at campgrounds.

Features

Available:Wheelchair Accessible
Not available:Dog Friendly
Not available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

Milyering Visitor CentreCampgrounds (Yardie Creek, Kurrajong, Osprey Bay, Mesa)ToiletsBBQsBoat RampsUniversal Access Walk Trails

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Nearby

Dump Points(2)

6.6km

Cape Range Milyering Visitor Centre

Free · 6.6km

19.9km

Exmouth Dump Point

Free · 19.9km