Peak Charles National Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Peak Charles National Park Western Australia
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Peak Charles seen from its eastern side
Peak Charles National Park Location in Western Australia
Nearest town or city	Esperance
Established	1979
Area	399.59 km2 (154.3 sq mi)
Managing authorities	Department of Parks and Wildlife
Website	Peak Charles National Park
See also	List of protected areas of Western Australia

Peak Charles National Park is a special natural area, or national park, located in Western Australia. It's about 507 kilometers (315 miles) east of Perth and 170 kilometers (106 miles) northwest of Esperance. This park was created in 1979 to protect its unique landscape and wildlife.

The park gets its name from one of its most important features: Peak Charles. This is an ancient granite peak that stands tall at 651 meters (2,136 feet) high. Its neighbor, Peak Eleanora, is also a big part of the scenery. Both peaks offer amazing views of the park below. The land around them is mostly made up of dry, sandy areas with low-growing plants called heaths, and also some salt lakes.

Exploring the Park's Nature

Peak Charles National Park is part of a larger natural area known as the Eastern Mallee. This region is known for its special plants and animals.

Unique Plants and Wildlife

The park is home to several rare plants that you won't find just anywhere. One example is a plant called Gastrolobium acrocaroli. These special plants are protected within the park's boundaries. The park's varied landscape, with its sandy plains and salt lakes, creates different homes for many types of wildlife.

Visiting Peak Charles National Park

If you're planning a trip to Peak Charles National Park, there are a few things to know.

What to Expect

There is no fee to enter the park, which is great! However, it's important to know that the park doesn't have many facilities for visitors. You will find a car park, a campground where you can stay overnight, and toilets. Make sure to bring everything else you might need for your visit.

Hiking and Views

For those who love to explore, there's a 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) walking trail that loops around and leads to a lookout point at the top of Peak Charles. This walk can be a bit challenging because it involves some rock scrambling, which means you'll need to use your hands to climb over rocks. But the effort is worth it for the incredible views from the top!