Chandler Ruins are the remnants of a small and short-lived mining community near Lake Campion in the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia. They are located 40km north-east of Nungarin.
How we discovered Chandler Ruins
As we drove towards Talgomine Reserve, before our camping spot at Lake Brown and Eaglestone Rock we noticed a lake on our left. Stopping there turned into an unexpected little adventure. A tourist sign drew us in, so we decided to stop. The kids immediately started exploring the old concrete remains scattered near the lake. With no onsite information and nothing available at the Nungarin Visitor Centre, the ruins felt mysterious at first.
Later research revealed their story. These remnants belong to Chandler, a World War II–era chemical mining settlement and potash processing plant established in 1942 to address fertilizer shortages. At its height, Chandler had more than 70 homes, a powerhouse, and even a school. After the war, operations briefly shifted to gypsum. However, by 1952 the entire town was shut down, sold off, and dismantled.
What you see today along the lake’s edge are the last traces of that vanished community. There are concrete foundations, kiln bases, and scattered industrial relics from Western Australia’s short‑lived wartime town.
A note for other explorers
If you are interested in exploring this little gem of history, please note that there is no proper sign or information provided at the site. However, there is a tourist attraction sign near the lake, where you can stop. On one side of the road is the old Potash mine and the salt lake with a few remnants. This is where we stopped and explored that area. We didn’t know until later, but apparently, on the other side of the road you can see what’s left of the structures of past buildings.
Sandford Rocks Nature Reserve is one of the Wheatbelt’s most significant granite outcrops, offering visitors the opportunity to experience and appreciate nature in its original and unique form. A moderately challenging 2 km loop trail leads to the summit of the rock before finishing at the bird hide.
Home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, Sandford Rocks is also a paradise for nature photographers. We spotted several ornate dragon lizards, although they were far too quick for me to capture on camera. One of the highlights was discovering tiny ducklings swimming in a gnamma hole, while our younger son was excited to find a tadpole there as well.
I was particularly delighted to come across a beautiful granite sun orchid Thelymitra petrophila, adding another special moment to our visit.
Tiny orchids like Prasophyllum gracile make their home in the shallow soil pockets on top of Sandford Rocks.
In the past Sandford Rocks used to have a name Yorky rocks, as quite a few locals told us.
Sandford Rocks Nature Reserve is located just 10 km north-east of Westonia in Western Australia’s Wheatbelt region. The reserve is easily accessible, with only a short detour from the main road required to reach the site. There are picnic facilities for visitors, making it a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy the surrounding landscape, although there are no toilets.
Once used as a freshwater supply for the nearby town of Wongan Hills (11 km to the east) in the Wheatbelt, Lake Ninan is now quite salty. It serves as a great picnic area and a free 48-hour camping spot. Facilities include picnic tables and shaded areas only. There are no toilets or bins, making this place more suitable for self-sufficient campers.
Lake Ninan can be very scenic and offers excellent photographic opportunities. It is also a well-known astrophotography location thanks to its low levels of light pollution. Unfortunately, the weather was gloomy and overcast during our visit, eliminating any chance of astrophotography. I did, however, enjoy the dramatic sunset and serene sunrise.
Overall, it is a pleasant short-term stopover, either on its own while travelling through the region. Wongan Hills is a known hot bio-diversity spot and Lake Ninan makes a good base to explore it, if you prefer bush style camping. We certainly do!
Discover the best free camping and RV‑friendly overnight spots across the Avon Valley. A quick guide to peaceful riverside stops, bush settings and convenient rest areas we’ve explored in the region.
Beverley
We always enjoy stopping in Beverley, especially for its beautiful nature reserve where I regularly check on the orchids. Like many small Avon Valley towns, Beverley offers a 24‑hour RV stop, and we’ve found it to be a peaceful, welcoming spot in a quiet township. You can stay for up to 72 hours, and the area is well set up with picnic tables, toilets, shelters and bins. It’s an ideal stop if you’re self‑sufficient and want to explore the Avon Valley or Beverley itself. With its gliding club and growing astrotourism scene, the town has more to offer than you might expect from a small outback community.
Northam
Katrine Crossing Campground (also known as Katrine Viveash Reserve) is a lovely free camping spot in the Avon Valley, just 10 minutes from Northam and right off the Northam–Toodyay Road. The campground itself is a simple clearing among the trees, but the setting on the banks of the Avon River makes it feel special. Facilities are great for a free site — flushing toilets, water, picnic tables and good mobile reception. Some areas are a bit tight for caravans and not all sites are level, but we still found a comfortable spot for the night.
It’s an excellent overnight stop when exploring the Avon Valley. Just keep an eye out for the turn‑off, especially in the dark — it’s easy to miss! The entrance is just before Katrine Road, if you travel from Northam.
York
If you are looking for a free camping spot near York, we recommend Gwambygine Rest Area. It is 10km, south of York, and it is very lovely. The campground is spacious and set right along the Avon River Ascent, giving it a peaceful, scenic feel.
Facilities are great for a free overnight stop — flushing toilets, picnic tables, BBQs, shelter, bins and water, and it’s pet friendly too. The only downside is that fires aren’t permitted, but with the rain during our stay, we wouldn’t have had one anyway.
There’s a 24‑hour limit, which makes it perfect for a quick stop while exploring the Avon Valley region. It’s also very easy to find, located just 11 km south of York on Great Southern Highway.
A simple, convenient and comfortable place for an overnight stay.
Dumbleyung, like many Wheatbelt towns, is steeped in history. This South Wheatbelt community is known for two standout features. One is Lake Dumbleyung. The other is the Blue Bird — the speedboat in which Donald Campbell set a new world water‑speed record on Lake Dumbleyung in 1964. To this day, he remains the only person to break both the World Land Speed Record and the World Water Speed Record in the same year.
As we drove through town, we noticed a sign in the window of the local pub offering free camping, along with free showers and toilets. It sounded like an incredibly generous deal. We assume the idea is that you buy dinner or at least a drink in return. We didn’t try it ourselves, but definitely made a mental note. If you’re passing through and need an overnight stop, it’s worth checking out.
And of course, the “Dunny” sign caught my eye — not every loo comes with its own painted artwork 😊.
Lake Dumbleyung
Lake Dumbleyung is the main attraction in the town that shares its name. It’s the largest natural inland lake in Western Australia, and its water levels shift dramatically depending on seasonal rainfall. Because the lake is so vast, its depth varies too. Some sections remain as salty flats, while others hold substantial water. In good years, the lake can reach depths of around 4.5 metres. Fittingly, the name Dumbleyung comes from the Aboriginal word dambeling, meaning “large lake”.
Today, most of Lake Dumbleyung is protected as a nature reserve, supporting local wildlife. When water levels allow, parts of the lake are also used for recreational activities. Visitors will find excellent picnic facilities, including toilets, tables, and non‑drinking water. Camping isn’t permitted, but it’s a lovely spot to stop for a picnic.
While the picnic area sits at the lower end of the driveway, a short climb leads to Pussy Cat Hill Lookout and the Donald Campbell Memorial.
From the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views across the lake and surrounding landscape.
Gorge Rock Reserve is a peaceful spot with free camping and a pleasant picnic area, 20 km east of Corrigin in the Central Wheatbelt. Facilities include a clean drop toilet, shelter, non-drinking water and picnic tables.
The actual Gorge Rock sits a short distance from the campground. The rock forms part of a dam that once served as the local swimming pool, before the Olympic‑size pool was built in Corrigin. That pool was built by local farmers, was drained every year, allowing winter rain to fill it up again. Locals still fondly and proudly tell visitors stories of the old days. The information boards tell the history of the place too. You can’t swim in the dam today, but it’s a lovely place for a walk, with tracks leading around and over the rock.
Gorge Rock Reserve makes an easy, comfortable overnight stop — or a longer stay if you want to explore more of the surrounding area.
Nearby attractions
Corrigin Dog Cemetery
Corrigin Dog Cemetery is one of the Wheatbelt’s most unique roadside attractions. It honours generations of beloved working dogs and draws visitors travelling through Corrigin. You will find it just 5 km west of town.
Corrigin Wildflower Drive
Corrigin Wildflower Drive is a 4 km self‑drive loop that begins opposite the Dog Cemetery. It’s a little paradise for wildflower lovers and anyone who enjoys wandering through nature. Something is always in bloom here, no matter the season, though spring is when the whole landscape truly erupts in colour.
Granite and Woodlands Discovery Trail is a 300km unsealed road that links Hyden and Norseman. It features 16 interpretive sites with walking trails, picnic and camping areas. As you drive along this scenic route, you will see how the scenery changes from section to section – from low heath, to shrubs, to eucalyptus woodlands.
Starting at Hyden
Our journey began in Hyden, where a visit to the iconic Wave Rock felt like a rite of passage. Though we’d been before, it was the first time for our children. It was a moment of shared wonder beneath the ancient wave-shaped granite.
Holland Track Intersection
Our first stop along the Granite and Woodlands Discovery Trail was the Holland Track intersection.
Originally, we’d planned to drive the Holland Track itself, but towing a caravan—even a small off-road one—proved impractical. The entry looked deceptively smooth, but we knew the track beyond was riddled with deep washouts. Instead, we lingered at the interpretive sign, absorbing the history and admiring the wildflowers. What a delicate bursts of colour against the rugged terrain.
Grevillea excelsior (Flame Grevillea) stood tall and radiant (below left). Striking Hakea francisiana (Emu Tree) was also fascinating to see (below right).
We watched the sun dip below the horizon, its golden light filtering through the foliage, then gathered around a campfire under the stars.
The Breakaways
Perhaps the most picturesque stop along the trail, The Breakaways offered a sense of peace and timelessness. The rock formations here are captivating—layered with colour, texture, and quiet mystery. We wandered for hours, tracing the contours of the land and soaking in its stillness.
The site is well-equipped, with a spacious picnic and camping area, tables, fire rings, and a toilet. Though tempted to stay, we chose to continue our journey, carrying the calm of The Breakaways with us.
Eucalyptus vittata (ribbon mallet) is a unique eucalyptus tree that sheds its bark in long ribbons that sway gracefully in the wind, composing a soothing bush melody.
McDermid Rock
Our second stop along the Granite and Woodlands Discovery Trail (Hyden–Norseman Road) was McDermid Rock, site #9 on the trail. This striking granite outcrop is a wonderful place to pause—whether for a wander, a picnic, or an overnight stay.
The site is well-equipped with a toilet, picnic tables, and fire rings, making it both scenic and practical.
You can climb McDermid Rock and explore the surrounding area via a 1,271-meter interpretive trail. The walk begins with a steep ascent but soon levels out into an easy and enjoyable loop, dotted with informative signs that highlight the area’s natural and cultural history.
We camped there during the September school holidays, and while it was a popular spot, we arrived early enough to secure a great site. We loved our time at McDermid Rock—scrambling over the granite, soaking in the views, and gathering around a campfire under the stars.
Lake Johnston
Lake Johnston is site #10 on the Granite and Woodlands Discovery Trail. It is a striking salt lake.
This tranquil spot offers a small but welcoming area for picnicking or camping, complete with a toilet and picnic table. It’s an ideal place to pause, take in the expansive views, and enjoy the serenity of the landscape.
Disappointment Rock
Our journey along the Granite and Woodlands Discovery Trail concluded at Disappointment Rock. Though there are no facilities here, the area features a scenic 1.9-kilometre hiking trail that traverses the rock and includes 17 interpretive signs offering insights into the local geology and ecology.
We didn’t have time to complete the full walk, as my main focus was spotting an open granite sun orchid (Thelymitra petrophila). After encountering many closed blooms, it was a true delight to find one fully open—thanks to the keen eyes of my youngest son.
Along the way, we also spotted a few lemon-scented sun orchids (Thelymitra antennifera) and were treated to the sight of numerous Ornate Crevice-Dragon lizards basking in the sun.
Ornate Crevice-Dragon lizards were abundant at Disappointment Rock (below).
The Jam Patch is a large bushland reserve in North Lake Grace in the southern Wheatbelt, named for its many Jam Trees (Acacia acuminata). This protected area is a haven for native flora and fauna, lovingly cared for by volunteers from the Lake Grace Land Conservation District Committee.
Picnic and free camping area
Near the entrance, there’s a designated camping area for caravans. It’s simple and free, with no facilities apart from toilets—which, unfortunately, were unusable during our visit in early October 2025 due to lack of maintenance. Further into the reserve, the picnic area offers tables and barbecues. While it’s unclear whether camping is officially permitted there, we did see a few people sleeping in swags. The camping area itself is modest in size and was fairly busy, but we managed to find a spot. Despite the limited amenities, it’s a peaceful place to spend a night or two, surrounded by bushland and birdsong.
Bush walks and wildflowers at the Jam Patch
The Jam Patch features several walking trails with interpretive signs. Two trails loop around flat granite outcrops, while a third traces the edge of a salt lake. These walks offer quiet immersion in nature and glimpses of wildflowers along the way.
Although we arrived a little late for peak bloom—donkeys and cowslips had already finished flowering—we were still treated to the delicate beauty of lemon-scented sun orchids, little laughing orchids, and granite sun orchid.
Even with fewer flowers, the walks were serene and restorative, offering solitude and a deep sense of connection to the land.
Talgomine Reserve is a large picturesque area around the rock, 12 km east of Nungarin in the Сentral Wheatbelt. Talgomine rock was ‘originally named Mount Moore’. In the 19 century the place was used as a stopping place for travellers and stock passing through the area. The reserve became an important watering place. Particularly, it served as a community sheep dip to treat skin infection of animals.
Facilities
There is a free campground at the base of a rock. Facilities at Talgomine Reserve include a picnic table and a long drop toilet, as well as bins. We enjoyed having the place all to ourselves for the night. It turned out to be a much nicer and cozier place than Danberrin Rock where we stopped initially but had to leave due to ants’ infestation.
Nice walks and nature at Talgomine Reserve
In the morning, I wandered through the area, climbing over granite outcrops and circling the boulders. Just a few weeks ago, this place would have been ablaze with wildflowers—especially everlastings. Now, only the orange immortelle (Waitzia acuminata) remained, still flowering but past its prime. Aside from that, little else was in bloom.
Yet the landscape held its own quiet beauty. The granite shimmered softly in the morning light, birds chirped cheerfully in the stillness, and a sense of peace settled over everything. We felt grateful to have spent the night here, far from the buzz and bustle of city life—a gentle pause in nature’s embrace.
Toapin Weir is a great picnic and free camping spot near the dam in the Central Wheatbelt. It is located 8km north of Quairading and is easily accessible. Built in 1912, Toapin Weir is the largest privately constructed water storage scheme in WA. It is still used to supply water to Quairading and surrounding area. It is also a popular recreational site.
Picnic and camping at Toapin Weir
The picnic area near the dam has a few picnic tables, shelters, flushing toilet, drinking water, electric bbqs, rubbish bins and fire pits. There is also a larger camping area, suitable for big rigs and large caravans a short walking distance from the dam.
Interpretive signs, benches, and small stairs make the dam even more accessible and attractive for easy exploration. You can climb onto the granite rock, where the dam is. Or you can take a circular walking trail around the weir. A few different varieties of wildflowers can be found in spring, including some orchids.
We stayed at Toapin Weir over the June long weekend for a couple of nights. It was a busy place, but we had our quiet spot closer to the dam. We enjoyed the campfire, beautiful sunset and exploring the area.
Nookaminnie Rock Nature Reserve
Located 3km west of Quairading town in the Central Wheatbelt, Nookaminnie Rock Nature Reserve is a great hiking place for nature enthusiasts. The highlight of the reserve would be the Nookaminnie Rock. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, we didn’t get to the rock – it is a 6km return walk. Instead, we took a shorter Nookaminnie Creek walk.
Not much was flowering early June. But the gum trees looked quite majestic, especially lit by the rays of the setting sun. Wandoo, Salmon gums and York gums dominate the reserve. The walks trails are easy and are clearly marked.
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