Kalbarri season is approaching, and with it comes one of the most unique destinations for rock climbing in Western Australia. The sandstone gorges of Kalbarri National Park offer spectacular climbing and abseiling opportunities - but access to these areas depends on climbers continuing to act responsibly and respectfully.

Climbing at Kalbarri is a privilege, made possible through an ongoing relationship between climbers, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), and park staff. Maintaining that relationship requires all climbers to follow the agreed-upon processes, ethics, and access conditions.

If you are planning a trip this season, please take a few minutes to review the updated requirements below.

Registration Required for Z Bend Climbers Camp

The Z Bend climbers camp exists so climbers can stay close to the climbing areas while avoiding sensitive wildlife zones, particularly areas associated with the blank-flanked rock wallaby recovery program.

Because the campsite has limited capacity and operates under specific access conditions, all climbers intending to stay there must register their visit in advance.

• You can download the official registration here.

• The completed form should be sent to: kalbarriadmin@dbca.wa.gov.au

Information required includes:

• Group leader and participants

• Contact email and phone numbers

• Vehicle registrations

• Dates of stay

• Description of activities in the park

The camp operates on a first-in-best-dressed basis, so registering early helps park staff manage capacity.

Camping Conditions

The climbers’ camp operates under specific conditions set by DBCA.

Key points include:

• Camping season: April to October

• Fees apply:

• $10 per adult per night

• $5 per child (6-15 years)

• Fees can be paid at the entry gatehouse, via the fee envelope, or through the park headquarters.

While staying at the climbers’ camp:

• Camp only in designated spaces

• Keep the campground gate closed

• No open or solid fuel fires

• All rubbish must be taken out of the park

• Respect other park visitors

• Follow the Climbers Association of WA Code of Conduct

The campsite must remain low-key and respectful of the surrounding environment. Large or disruptive groups risk jeopardising access for everyone.

Climbing and Abseiling Guidelines

Before climbing or abseiling in the park, climbers should notify the Kalbarri Parks and Wildlife Office.

Contact details:

Phone: 08 9937 1140
Email: kalbarriadmin@dbca.wa.gov.au

Important guidelines include:

• Abseiling is permitted only at the approved Z Bend “Aviary” abseil site

• Climbers should follow CAWA ethics and best practices

• A trained First Aider and a first aid kit should be present in each group

• Participants should use approved climbing equipment

• Climbers must respect other park users

• Commercial guiding requires a Tour Operator Licence

For safety, DBCA strongly recommends carrying satellite communication devices such as a satellite phone, satellite messenger, or PLB when climbing in the gorges.

Protecting Access to Kalbarri

Kalbarri climbing access has been built over many years through cooperation between climbers and park managers.

It is essential that climbers:

• Register their stay

• Follow campsite and park rules

• Climb responsibly

• Keep the camp discreet and low impact

Access can only continue if climbers demonstrate that we are responsible stewards of the area.

If you see behaviour that could jeopardise access, please help by educating others about the expectations in the park.

Learn More

Before visiting Kalbarri, please also read the following responsibilities for climbing in Kalbarri:

Redpoint Coloured Climbing Chalk

1. Toilet Waste: It is important to remember that no toilet waste is allowed within 500 meters of the Promenade/Rock Wallaby site. It is advised to utilise the toilet facilities at the Z Bend carpark before hiking down the gorge.

2. Camping Restrictions: Since the rediscovery of the rare Black-footed Rock Wallabies in 2015, camping is not permitted in the gorge within 1.5 kilometres of the Z Bend Lookout, including the area around the Promenade climbing site.

3. Alternative Camping Area: There is a camping area near the Z Bend carpark specifically designated for school groups, but climbers can also utilise this area. However, it is crucial to register by completing the multi-day registration form (see above).

4. Alternative Camping Area Guidelines: When using the alternative camping area near the Z Bend carpark, please ensure to close the gate behind you when driving in and out. The campsite is located 200 meters past the gate. Use designated sites on a first-come, first-served basis and avoid pitching tents in vegetation regrowth and rehab areas. There are drop-toilets available at the campsite and at the carpark.

5. Fire Restrictions: Due to the elevated risk of bushfires in the sandplain areas, open fires are not allowed in the alternative camping area. Only gas cookers are permitted.

6. Chalk Usage and Clean-up: Please limit the use of excess chalk, especially on overhanging walls, and systematically brush it before leaving the site. The same guidelines apply to boulderers venturing on virgin rocks. Avoid using chalk in high-traffic areas such as the river trail, Aviary, or Tourist Wall. And at the best, use colored chalk - it might not provide the best properties, but that’s a small token we can all do to respect the place.

These resources help ensure the climbing community continues to be trusted partners in managing access to Kalbarri National Park.

If you’re heading north this season, enjoy the incredible climbing Kalbarri offers - and help ensure it remains accessible for years to come.