Last Updated on October 3, 2025
Thinking about a Wheatbelt Way road trip but not sure where to start? As a local who grew up on Western Australia‘s long open roads, I can tell you it’s one of the best ways to see the real heart of WA. The Wheatbelt Way is a fantastic self-drive route that takes you away from the coast and into a landscape full of massive granite rocks, amazing history, and tiny towns with big personalities. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a genuine, off-the-beaten-path experience.
This trip is for travellers who want to swap city noise for huge skies and charming country towns. I’ll show you how to plan a simple 3-5 day trip that balances sightseeing with plenty of time to relax. So, grab a cuppa, and let’s get your Wheatbelt getaway sorted. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
Here’s a quick look at what makes this trip special:
- Natural Wonders: You’ll get to climb incredible granite outcrops like Beringbooding Rock and Elachbutting Rock, which are perfect for a bit of a bushwalk and seeing wildflowers in season.
- Local History: There are some real gems out here, like the historic Mangowine Homestead and the impressive CBH Agricultural Museum.
- Free Camping: The route has 12 free campsites, many right next to the main attractions, making it easy and budget-friendly.
- Best Time To Go: Aim for July to October. The weather is cooler and it’s peak wildflower season.
Your Trip Planning Guide
Route Map and Distances
The Wheatbelt Way officially kicks off in Dowerin, which is about a two-hour drive from Perth. From there, it loops through nine friendly country towns: Wyalkatchem, Koorda, Bencubbin, Beacon, Westonia, Mukinbudin, Nungarin, and Trayning. The whole circuit is around 800 to 1,000 km, and I’d recommend setting aside at least four days to properly enjoy it without feeling rushed. This gives you enough time to see the sights and soak up the local atmosphere.
Must-See Stops
The trail is dotted with 24 interpretive sites that tell the stories of the area’s nature and history. The official Wheatbelt Way app is really handy here, as it gives you audio guides and info for each stop.
Natural Highlights
- Beringbooding Rock: This is a massive granite outcrop with great views. It’s known for having Australia’s largest rock water catchment tank, built in 1937, which can hold over two million gallons of water. You can also see some Kalamaia tribe hand paintings in a cave here.
- Elachbutting Rock: Famous for its colourful, wave-like formation that’s similar to Wave Rock but often less crowded. It also has a 40-metre tunnel you can walk through, and the acoustics are fantastic if you want to test out your echo.
- Marshall Rock Reserve: A top spot for a bushwalk, especially if you’re keen on bird watching or seeing wildflowers. The view from the top lets you see for miles over the farmland and across to Lake McDermott.
Historical Gems
- Mangowine Homestead: This beautifully preserved homestead from 1876 gives you a real feel for pioneer life. It used to be an inn for prospectors heading to the goldfields, and it’s a fascinating step back in time.
- Hood Penn Museum: Located in Westonia, this museum showcases early life in the shire with realistic scenes, including an old pub, a garage, and even a vibrating mine tunnel that simulates an underground blast. The collection was generously donated by the Hood-Penn family, who used to own the local Burracoppin Store.
- Nungarin Heritage Machinery and Army Museum: This place is huge and housed in a massive timber workshop built during WWII as part of the No. 5 Base Ordnance Depot. You’ll find an impressive 10th Light Horse collection, old tanks like a Stuart Tank, and all sorts of vintage farming equipment.
Local Experiences
- Koorda Drive-In Theatre: Catch a movie under the stars at one of WA’s last operating drive-ins for a bit of retro fun.
- Dowerin’s Rusty and Rosey: You can’t miss these iconic tin dog sculptures. They were a local project started by students from the Dowerin District High School in 2003 and have become a beloved photo stop.
- Local Bakeries and Pubs: Part of the charm is stopping in the local towns. The Mukinbudin Cafe or the heritage-listed Westonia Tavern are great spots to grab a bite and chat with some locals.
What to Pack
Being prepared is key for a smooth trip in this part of WA. Here’s what I always make sure I have.
Vehicle and Navigation Essentials
- A physical map is a great backup, as phone service can be patchy.
- A good vehicle kit with repair tools, a spare tyre, and at least one fuel jerry can is a must. Fuel stations can be far apart and aren’t open 24/7.
Safety and Comfort
- Plan for at least 5 litres of water per person, per day. You can never have too much.
- A well-stocked first-aid kit is essential.
- Sun protection, a good insect repellent like Bushman, and layers of clothing are important as the weather can change quickly.
- For emergencies, consider a satellite phone or a two-way radio, especially if you’re going off the main track.
Camping Gear
If you’re hiring one of our OffGrid Campers, you’ll be well set up with everything you need. This includes solar power, a big fridge, a comfy rooftop tent, a full camp kitchen, and reliable water storage to keep you going.
Handy Travel Tips and Information
Best Times to Visit
I definitely recommend planning your Wheatbelt Way road trip between July and October. The days are usually warm and sunny, the nights are cool, and the wildflowers are absolutely spectacular. This part of WA is a global biodiversity hotspot, and you’ll see thousands of species, including carpets of pink, white, and yellow everlastings. Keep an eye out for unique local orchids too.
Weather and Fire Safety Considerations:
- Be aware that burning restrictions often start in mid-September.
- A total fire ban is enforced from 1 November to 31 January, which means no campfires or solid fuel cookers.
Local History Sites
The Wheatbelt is full of stories, from its deep Aboriginal roots to the tales of early settlers. The whole area is rich in history.
This area is the traditional land of the Njaki-Njaki Nyoongar, the Ballardong Nyoongar, and the Kalamaia peoples. When you visit Aboriginal heritage sites, it’s so important to be respectful. This means not touching rock art and keeping a safe distance from culturally sensitive areas. Acknowledging the Traditional Owners is a simple but meaningful way to show respect.
| Heritage Trail Highlights | Historical Significance |
|---|---|
| Mangowine Homestead | Built in 1876, it served as a wayside inn for travellers on the gold rush tracks. |
| CBH Agricultural Museum | Located in Wyalkatchem, it shows the region’s history as a leader in grain farming. |
| Beringbooding Rock | Features one of Australia’s largest rock water catchment systems, built with sustenance labour in 1937. |
| Trayning Gnamma Holes | These are natural cavities in granite outcrops that have served as vital water sources for thousands of years. |
Responsible Travel
It’s our job to help keep this beautiful area pristine for others to enjoy. Choosing one of our OffGrid Campers WA solar-powered vehicles is a great start to lowering your environmental footprint.
Eco-Travel Tips:
- Always carry reusable water bottles to cut down on plastic waste.
- Support the local communities by shopping at small businesses and roadhouses.
- Stick to marked tracks when driving or walking to protect the native plants.
- Use biodegradable soaps and cleaning products.
- Always follow the “Leave No Trace” principles and take all of your rubbish with you.
Before you go, it’s a good idea to pop into a local visitor centre for the latest on road conditions or wildflower hotspots. For phone coverage, a Telstra SIM card generally gives you the best reception in the region. And for staying connected, we offer Starlink connectivity with our campers, which is a great backup.
The Big Trip Episode 10 – WA’s Wheatbelt Way | Fabulous Free Camping | Dowerin | Dumbleyung
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Where to Stay on Your Wheatbelt Way Road Trip
Once you’ve got your route planned, you’ll need to think about where you’ll be pulling up for the night.
Camping Spots
One of the best things about the Wheatbelt Way is the 12 free campsites scattered along the route. You’ll find everything from basic bush camping spots to more established caravan parks in the towns. The caravan parks are great if you need power, showers, and laundry, while the free sites near the rock formations offer a more rustic experience with basic toilets and BBQ areas.
Top Free Camping Locations:
- Beringbooding Rock: This is a fantastic spot with picnic tables, fire pits, and a walking trail. You get to camp right near the impressive rock and the historic water tank.
- Billiburning Rock: Located north of Beacon, this is another beautiful reserve with designated camping areas, toilets, and incredible sunset views from the top of the rock.
- Elachbutting Rock: About 100 km north of Westonia, this campsite has toilets and picnic facilities, making it a perfect spot for self-contained campers who want to be close to the “wave”.
Remote Camping Guide
When you’re camping out in the more remote spots, safety and looking after the environment are top priorities. The region covers several fire districts, so you always need to be mindful of restrictions.
Key Safety Tips:
- Fire Safety: Always check the Fire Danger Ratings before you even think about lighting a fire. The best resources are the emergency.wa.gov.au and bom.gov.au websites, or you can call the DFES hotline on 13 3337.
- Campsite Setup: Please stick to designated camping areas to reduce your impact. Set up your camp at least 60 metres away from any water sources.
- Waste Management: If there aren’t any bins, you must take all your rubbish with you. That includes food scraps! For toilet waste, dig a hole about 15 cm deep and at least 60 metres from any water.
A Few More Pro-Tips:
- Pack extra water and food, just in case your plans change.
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast so you’re not caught out by a sudden change.
- Respect the peace and quiet of the bush by keeping noise levels down.
- I always recommend using a camping stove over an open fire. It’s safer and has less impact.
Final Prep Before You Go
With your stays sorted, a few final checks will make sure your trip is a great one.
Vehicle and Safety Checks
Before you leave, give your vehicle a thorough check-over. It’s also a good idea to download offline maps and the Wheatbelt Way app for local updates and audio tours.
Daily Journey Planning
A little bit of planning each day goes a long way out here.
| Time of Day | Essential Tasks |
|---|---|
| Morning | Check the latest road conditions on the Main Roads WA website and look at the weather forecast. |
| During Travel | Always carry plenty of drinking water, especially if you plan on doing any walks. |
| Evening | Let someone know where you are and what your plans are for the next day. |
Key Route Information
The Wheatbelt Way connects the nine towns of Dowerin, Wyalkatchem, Koorda, Bencubbin, Beacon, Westonia, Mukinbudin, Nungarin, and Trayning. Along this route are 24 interpretive sites. A good tip is to plan your stops to make the most of the daylight, as you don’t want to be driving on unfamiliar gravel roads after dark.
Final Checks
Just before you head off, run through this quick list:
- Got all your camping gear, including biodegradable cleaning supplies?
- Is your vehicle’s load properly balanced?
- Stocked up on snacks, non-perishable food, and extra water?
- Is the fuel tank full? Remember, rural fuel stations can have limited hours.
With these preparations, you’re all set for a fantastic trip through the Wheatbelt!
FAQs
What essentials should I pack for a safe and enjoyable Wheatbelt Way road trip?
Packing the right gear is really important for a trip like this. Make sure your vehicle is equipped with a spare tyre, a repair kit, and a jerry can for fuel. For safety, a good first aid kit and a UHF CB radio are smart ideas. Always have plenty of water and some non-perishable food on hand in case of any delays.
You’ll also want maps or a GPS, and if you plan to camp, your tent, sleeping bag, and cooking gear are must-haves. The Aussie sun is strong, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and some lightweight long-sleeved shirts. Good walking shoes and insect repellent are also things you’ll be glad you brought. Lastly, don’t forget a portable charger for your phone and a camera to capture all the memories!
What cultural guidelines should I follow when visiting Aboriginal heritage sites on the Wheatbelt Way?
When you’re visiting Aboriginal heritage sites, it’s all about showing respect. These are sacred places, so always check if you have permission to enter and follow any signs or advice from the Traditional Owners. A key thing to remember is to leave everything exactly as you found it. That means no touching rock art or artefacts, and only taking photos if you know it’s okay to do so.
A simple and powerful way to show respect is by making an Acknowledgement of Country, recognising the Traditional Owners of the land, such as the Ballardong, Njaki-Njaki or Kalamaia people. Following these guidelines helps protect these incredibly important sites and shows your support for the local communities.
What are some tips for travelling sustainably along the Wheatbelt Way?
Travelling sustainably in the Wheatbelt is easy to do and makes a big difference. Try to use a fuel-efficient vehicle if you can, and always bring reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags to minimise waste. When you do have rubbish, please use the designated bins in towns.
A great way to support the region is by buying from local shops, bakeries, and markets. When you’re out in nature, stick to the marked trails to protect the fragile environment, and always watch wildlife from a distance without disturbing them. These small actions help keep the Wheatbelt beautiful for everyone.
