Shannon National Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Shannon National Park Western Australia
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Shannon National Park Location in Western Australia
Nearest town or city	Pemberton
Established	1988
Area	525.98 km2 (203.1 sq mi)
Managing authorities	Department of Parks and Wildlife
Website	Shannon National Park
See also	List of protected areas of Western Australia

Shannon National Park is a beautiful national park located on the south coast of Western Australia. It is about 302 kilometers (188 miles) south of Perth. The park is also about 55 kilometers (34 miles) southeast of Manjimup.

This special area was made a national park in 1988. It protects the entire area around the Shannon River. Shannon National Park is also part of a bigger protected zone called the Walpole Wilderness Area. This larger area was created in 2004. It is known as an international biodiversity hotspot, which means it has many different kinds of plants and animals.

About Shannon National Park

Shannon National Park is home to many important natural features. It has rich wetlands and heathlands. These areas are full of unique plants and animals. The park also protects old and new karri forests. Karri trees are very tall and impressive.

A Look Back in Time

For a long time, the Shannon area was mostly untouched by people. It was hard to reach, so not much logging happened there. But in the 1940s, during World War II, there was a big need for timber. Because of this, a timber mill was built in the area. A town called Shannon grew up around the mill.

The town of Shannon was quite busy. It once had over 90 homes for workers and their families. There was also a hall, a post office, a church, and even a nursing station. To make sure the town had enough water, especially in summer, a dam was built in 1949.

The timber mill eventually closed down in 1968. After the mill closed, the houses in Shannon town were sold. They were moved away, and the townsite became empty. Today, a campground stands where the town once was. The area officially became a national park in 1988. It is now a key part of the Walpole Wilderness Area.

Exploring the Park

If you visit Shannon National Park, you can stay at the campgrounds. These campgrounds have useful facilities like toilets and gas barbecues. They also offer hot water showers. There are even two huts available for campers, which you can use if they are free when you arrive. Remember that there is an entry fee to get into the park.

A great way to see the park is by driving the Great Forest Trees Drive. This is a 48-kilometer (30-mile) unsealed road that was finished in 1996. It lets visitors explore many of the park's interesting spots. Along the drive, you will find information stops where you can learn more. There are also picnic areas and places to go for walks.

See also

In Spanish: Parque nacional Shannon para niños