Avon Valley National Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Avon Valley National Park Western Australia
IUCN Category II (National Park)
The Avon River and Eastern Railway in Avon Valley National Park
Avon Valley National Park Location in Western Australia
Nearest town or city	Toodyay
Established	1970
Area	43.66 km2 (16.9 sq mi)
Managing authorities	Parks and Wildlife Service
Website	Avon Valley National Park
See also	List of protected areas of Western Australia

The Avon Valley National Park is a special natural area in Western Australia. It's about 47 kilometres northeast of Perth, a major city. This park gets its name from the Avon River, which flows right through it. The park was officially named on October 15, 1971.

The land here is like a gently rolling hill area, with the sides of the valley sloping steeply down to the river. The river is about 200 metres below the top of the valley. You can find large granite rocks and different kinds of soil, including rich loams and gravels.

Exploring Avon Valley National Park

Avon Valley National Park is a great place to explore nature. It offers beautiful views and a chance to see many different plants and animals.

Plants and Trees

The park is home to several types of native trees. You can see tall Jarrah trees, marri trees, and wandoo trees. These trees create a lovely forest environment.

In springtime, the park becomes very colourful. Many people visit to see the amazing wildflowers. You might spot unique flowers like dryandra plants and different kinds of orchids. The bright lechenaultia flowers are also a beautiful sight. Other interesting plants include Conostylis and the rare fringed lily. You can also find Christmas trees and grasstrees scattered throughout the woodlands.

Animals and Birds

Avon Valley National Park is a fantastic spot for bird watching. Over 90 different kinds of birds live here! Keep an eye out for colourful parrots and other native birds. The park's diverse plant life provides a perfect home for these feathered friends.

History and Moondyne Joe

The park has a bit of interesting history. A famous old-time bushman named Moondyne Joe used this area as a secret hideout. His cave and a place where he kept animals were once inside the park. Sadly, these historical spots have been damaged by wildfires over the years. In 1981, a special area called the Moondyne Nature Reserve was created within the National Park to help protect this history.

The Eastern Railway also runs along parts of the park's southern edge, next to the Avon River. This railway line can sometimes be used to access the park, especially during emergencies like bushfires.

Visitor Information

If you plan to visit Avon Valley National Park, there are a few things to know.

Park Facilities

• You will need to pay an entry fee to get into the park.
• Camping fees apply if you want to stay overnight.
• The park has toilets and water available for visitors.
• There are shaded areas where you can relax.
• Wood barbecues are provided for cooking.
• You'll find signs and an information shelter to help you explore.
• A dedicated park ranger is usually on site to help visitors and look after the park.