Spent 3 nights on the weekend before last, at Baden Powell Campground in the Lane Poole Reserve, Dwellingup. This was to test out our van for free-camping. A great location within an hour and a half from Perth. Its a really nice drive in through the hills.
We did have a drama with people occupying our camp site when we first arrived, which put the dampener on things a bit, but still really enjoyed the location. As you can see it was "too tense".
Ground is gravel, so bloody hard to get in tent pegs for screens. Tried using a cordless drill with masonry bit, but pretty hopeless. Just had to pick the softer spot. We also set up the satellite tv, so watched the dockers win. Surprising to get signal through the trees.
Tested out the camp shower in the ensuite tent, which worked out really well after some fine tuning. Used a butane burner to heat up water for shower. Approx 5 litres per shower, that's much better than at home. Even had the basin and mirror setup. Who needs a hotel!
Not so successful cooking breakfast. 10 minutes later still waiting for toast. Chucked this invention in the bin. Opted for the griller in the van. Much better.
We didn't get to test our portable toilet as the drop toilets were clean and very close by. Mind you they did start to have a slight aroma after the 3 days. Maybe lucky we were leaving.
Managed to take a drive around Lane Pool Reserve. Some of the roads are a bit corrugated but pretty good. Found some nice rock pools on the Murray River. Would be great to visit in Spring.
Dwellingup is a quaint little town and worth a visit to the Blue Wren Cafe for a coffee or lunch. Also the nearest phone and internet reception. The town is only about 10 kms from Baden Powell.
There are also some good looking camps futher down towards the river such as Nanga Mill which is less organised, so you can park where you want.
Definitely worth the trip, and good value at $20 per night.