Complete Guide to Heartbreak Trail in Pemberton & Draftys Camping

Welcome to Heartbreak Trail, nestled in the stunning Warren National Park near Pemberton. Just a four-hour drive south of Perth, this trail offers an enchanting escape into the heart of nature, where ancient Karri and Marri forests meet the tranquil waters of the Warren River.

Join us as we dive deep into this comprehensive guide, detailing everything from the serene campsites at Draftys and Warren Camps to the vibrant flora and fauna you’ll encounter.

Get ready for practical tips and a breathtaking photo gallery that will equip you for an unforgettable adventure.

Exploring the Wonders of Heartbreak Trail

Heartbreak Trail is a 12-km drive on a one-way loop that weaves through the majestic Karri Forest. The loop is a gravel road with steep inclines and narrow sections, making it unsuitable for trailers, motorhomes, and caravans.

Along the way, tune into 100FM to immerse yourself in the story of the trail.

The trail is part of the larger Karri Forest Explorer Trail, which starts in Pemberton and meanders through four of the State Forests.

For the more intrepid, the 10.5 km Warren River walking Loop beckons. WA Trails recommends traversing it anti-clockwise. This walk promises an explosion of wildflowers in the spring, transforming the path into a vibrant tapestry of colour.

National Park Fees

National Park Fees apply if you drive into the Park (not applicable if you walk into the park). We have a year’s pass, but you can buy a pass for the day or a holiday pass for 5 or 14 days or 4 weeks. The pass is valid for all of the WA National Parks.

Maiden Bush

The first stop along Heartbreak Trail is Maiden Bush. A short path leads down to the water, where you could launch a canoe and enjoy the forest.

Camping at Draftys Campsite

Next, you’ll come to Draftys Campsite. At Drafty’s, the essence of wilderness camping comes to life. Here, it’s first-come, first-served, so arriving early to choose a prime spot is advisable.

The campsite, which has 22 pitches, offers a rustic yet functional setup. It includes a camp kitchen with gas BBQs—ideal for a hearty meal under the stars.

Draftys Registration and Fees

No cash is accepted onsite, and camp fees are $15 per person. For convenience, payments can be made via email, phone, or in person at the Pemberton Tourist Office.

Remember, national park fees apply, and pets are not allowed, ensuring the preservation of the natural habitat.

Wildlife Encounters at Drafty’s Camp

During our stay, the symphony of kookaburras greeted us at dusk and dawn, their calls echoing through the camp. However, be prepared for the less welcome wildlife. We were there in summer, in February, and the horse flies are prevalent and persistent.

We found that repellents, long sleeves, and trousers are must-haves to keep them at bay. Despite this, the other camp wildlife encounters make up for it.

On our first day, we watched, spellbound, as a little mouse climbed a nearby tree. Its tiny form against the vast backdrop of ancient Karri trees reminded us of nature’s delicate balance and beauty.

What we initially thought was a common mouse turned out to be a marsupial mouse distinguished by its elongated snout—a lovely first-time sighting for us.

Warren Camp

Warren Camp is a little further on from Draftys and has 6 campsites and one drop toilet.

We walked along the river trail from Draftys to Warren Camp, which is part of the larger walking trail around Heartbreak Trail. It was a lovely walk, with the occasional wooden bridge to cross.

Warren Lookout

You can reach Warren Lookout by a walk from the camp or can continue along the road to the lookout over the Warren River below.

Blackbutt

This stop along Heartbreak Trail leads to the river, where you’ll find a picnic bench and steps leading into the Warren River. It’s another gorgeous spot to sit and take in the sights and sounds of nature.

Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree

This remarkable tree, once the world’s highest treetop lookout at 65 meters, later became a popular visitor attraction where adventurous souls could climb to the top via pegs hammered into its trunk. It’s closed now for safety reasons, a fate shared by other climbable trees in the area.

My children had the chance to climb it when they were younger, and although I’ve never been keen on heights, watching them tackle the climb was a mix of awe and nerve-wracking moments!

Similarly, the Diamond Tree and Gloucester Tree, which also offered thrilling climbs in the past, are now closed to climbers due to concerns for visitor safety.

At the Bicentennial Tree, there is a short 5/10-minute walk through the forest, the Lorikeet Trail, where you might spot the purple-headed lorikeet.

Marianne North Tree

Not just a part of the local landscape, this tree has international fame thanks to Marianne North, an intrepid artist who travelled to remote corners of the world to paint its flora.

In 1880, she visited the southwest of Western Australia, and her painting of this very tree on Heartbreak Trail is now housed among over 800 of her works in the Marianne North Gallery at Kew Botanical Gardens in London.

Best Time to Camp at Heartbreak Trail

When we visited in February, we braved the heat and the flies, which, while bothersome, didn’t detract from the area’s beauty. However, for those looking to capture the essence of Pemberton’s natural splendour, a spring visit might be preferable.

The landscape bursts into a vibrant display of wildflowers, offering not just cooler temperatures but also a picturesque setting unmatched in other seasons.

Exploring Heartbreak Trail, Pemberton … That’s a Wrap

Leaving Heartbreak Trail, our journey continued across Yeagarup Dunes and Beach, with memories of river walks and natural beauty fresh in our minds.

If you love nature and art – don’t miss the nearby Understory Art and Nature Trail at Northcliffe (it’s about a 30-minute drive from Drafty’s).

If you enjoyed our journey through Heartbreak Trail and are eager to uncover more gems, jump across to our Western Australia page.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an epic road trip, our detailed guides and insider tips will help you plan the perfect adventure tailored to your interests.

Explore more to see why there’s no place like Australia for incredible outdoor experiences.

We recognise and acknowledge Bibulmun/Piblemen people as the traditional owners of Warren National Park.

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