The Southern Forests region in Western Australia boasts a range of lakes and dams that offer recreational activities and stunning landscapes. Notable spots include Big Brook Dam in Pemberton, surrounded by Karri trees with picnic areas and walking trails. Wellington Dam near Collie provides water sports and four-wheel driving, along with a lookout, meals, and mountain bike hire. Logue Brook Dam, also known as Lake Brockman, between Yarloop and Harvey, offers basic bush camping in a jarrah forest setting and is popular for water-based activities. Lake Navarino, or Waroona Dam, is a man-made lake about an hour and a half from Perth, known for water sports, adventure, fishing, and vibrant wildflowers in spring.
The South West region of Western Australia is home to the Blackwood River, the state's longest continually flowing river at over 300 km. Activities such as canoeing, camping, and events along the riverbanks are common in towns within the Southern Forests and Valleys. Other popular waterways in the area include the Margaret River, Walpole Wilderness, and the Leschenault Inlet near Bunbury. These water bodies provide additional opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration in this scenic region.