Glen Mervyn Dam — Free Waterfront Camping in WA’s Collie Region: Senior Grey Nomad Guide 2026
Glen Mervyn Dam is one of the most beautiful free waterfront camps in Western Australia’s South-West — and almost nobody planning a grey nomad route between Perth and the Southern Forests knows it is there. Clear freshwater backed by jarrah forest. Free camping right on the dam edge. Fishing for rainbow trout, redfin perch, and marron in season. A boat ramp. The Bibbulmun Track crossing the dam wall. A pub five minutes down the road. And it costs absolutely nothing to stay.
But Glen Mervyn has five things that catch senior grey nomads completely off guard — and not one of them appears on any tourism listing or camping app entry. There is a complete fire ban that some rangers apply to gas stoves as well. There is no drinking water anywhere on site. The western bank access track will strand your caravan. Long weekend noise from boats and locals can be severe. And the two camping areas — eastern and western bank — have completely different access rules, facilities, and suitability for caravans.
This guide covers everything a senior grey nomad needs before pulling in — GPS for every stop, hospital location and phone, permit truth, water warning, fire ban clarity, weekend noise reality, and the complete senior checklist.
📋 Table of Contents
- Why Senior Grey Nomads Stop at Glen Mervyn Dam
- Is a Permit or Parks Fee Required? The Clear Answer
- Glen Mervyn Dam at a Glance — Key Facts
- Eastern Bank vs Western Bank — Which Is Right for Your Rig?
- The Fire Ban Reality: What It Means for Cooking at Glen Mervyn
- No Drinking Water — The Most Critical Thing to Know
- Weekend Noise Warning: What Happens on Long Weekends
- What Glen Mervyn Dam Listings Never Tell You
- Access Directions: How to Get to Glen Mervyn Without Getting Lost
- Glen Mervyn Dam Facilities — Full Senior Review
- Free and Low-Cost Camping Near Glen Mervyn Dam
- Senior Base Camp: Collie Visitor Caravan Park
- Full Facilities Comparison Table
- Rates — All Options 2026
- The Glen Mervyn Dam Day Plan for Senior Grey Nomads
- What to Do Near Glen Mervyn — Senior Activities Guide
- Senior Checklist — Glen Mervyn Dam
- GPS Master Table — Save Every Stop Before You Leave Wi-Fi
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Quick-Reference Card — Screenshot and Save
1. Why Senior Grey Nomads Stop at Glen Mervyn Dam
Glen Mervyn Dam sits in the Preston Valley, approximately 18 kilometres south of Collie in WA’s South-West — surrounded by jarrah forest, in a setting that is genuinely beautiful at dawn and dusk. The dam was built across the Collie River’s Preston Branch and holds clear freshwater popular for waterskiing, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Free camping is permitted along most of the dam’s banks. The Bibbulmun Track — one of Australia’s great long-distance walks — crosses directly over the dam wall, giving grey nomads immediate access to one of the most iconic walking trails in the country.
The dam is administered within the Donnybrook-Balingup Shire and sits in a broader Wellington District recreation precinct managed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. Camping is free, no permit is required, and there is no booking system. The dam is large enough that even on busy weekends you can find your own space — though senior grey nomads need to know when that stops being true.
For grey nomads building a south-west WA route, Glen Mervyn sits perfectly between Donnybrook and Collie on a drive that takes in the karri and jarrah forests before continuing south to Bridgetown, Greenbushes, or Pemberton. The Mumballup Tavern — known locally as the Mumby Pub — is just five minutes from camp and serves genuinely good food. That combination of free waterfront camping plus a proper pub meal is rare anywhere in Australia.
Autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) are the best seasons for senior grey nomads — mild temperatures, wildflowers in the surrounding jarrah forest in spring, and quieter weekdays. Summer (December to February) brings water-skiers and weekend crowds. Avoid public holiday long weekends entirely — the noise and crowd level from local recreation users can make a restful senior stay impossible. Mid-week visits in autumn are the sweet spot for quiet, clear water and birdlife.
2. Is a Permit or Parks Fee Required at Glen Mervyn Dam? The Clear Answer
Glen Mervyn Dam is completely free to camp at. There is no daily fee, no DBCA parks pass, no Shire permit, and no online booking system. You drive to your preferred bank, set up in a marked area, and stay as long as you like — there is no published maximum stay limit, though common courtesy applies in peak periods. No paperwork. No app. No payment terminal anywhere on site.
Glen Mervyn Dam is a DBCA-managed recreation site within the Wellington District. It is not inside a gazetted national park requiring a parks pass. There is no entry fee, no camping fee, and no self-registration station. The DBCA and Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup jointly oversee the precinct. Camping is permitted in marked areas on both banks — though the western bank access is restricted for caravans (see Section 4).
DBCA Wellington District: 08 9752 1677
Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup: 08 9731 1617 | donnybrook-balingup.wa.gov.au
Explore Parks WA: exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au
3. Glen Mervyn Dam at a Glance — Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address (Eastern Bank — main camp) | 1660 Collie-Preston Road, Mumballup WA 6225 |
| GPS — Eastern Bank Campground | -33.4967, 116.0984— approx, public mapping data — verify on arrival |
| GPS — Dam Wall / Bibbulmun Track | -33.4967, 116.0984 — approx, public mapping data |
| Managed by | DBCA Wellington District / Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup |
| Cost | Free — no fee, no permit, no booking |
| Permit / parks pass | ❌ None required |
| Maximum stay | No formal limit — respect other campers in peak periods |
| Eastern bank road access | ⚠️ Last 7km unsealed gravel — 2WD passable in dry conditions, can be rough |
| Western bank road access | ❌ Narrow unsealed track — NOT suitable for caravans or large motorhomes |
| Toilets | ⚠️ Drop/long-drop toilets only — NO flush toilets anywhere at the dam |
| Hot showers | ❌ None |
| Mains power (240V) | ❌ None — unpowered only |
| Drinking water on-site | ❌ NONE — you must carry all drinking water from Collie or Donnybrook |
| Camp fires | ❌ Complete fire ban — no open fires, no cooking fires |
| Gas stoves / BBQ | ⚠️ Officially: camp and cooking fires banned. Some rangers interpret this to include gas — confirm with DBCA before each visit (see Section 5) |
| Dump point | ❌ None on-site — nearest in Collie (~18km north) |
| Dogs / pets | ✅ Generally pet-friendly — confirm with DBCA as baiting may occur nearby |
| Swimming | ✅ Permitted — water is cool, clear, and mildly acidic (may irritate sensitive eyes/skin) |
| Fishing | ✅ Rainbow trout, redfin perch, marron (in season — check Fisheries WA rules) |
| Waterskiing / boating | ✅ Permitted when water levels are sufficient — check current levels before visiting |
| Bibbulmun Track | ✅ Crosses dam wall — immediate access in both directions |
| Phone coverage | ⚠️ Limited — Telstra variable, Optus unreliable in the valley. Save all GPS and emergency numbers before leaving Collie |
| Weekend noise | ⚠️ Significant on long weekends — boats, loud music, late-night activity reported by reviewers |
| Nearest hospital | Collie Hospital, 40-52 Deakin Street, Collie WA 6225 — 08 9735 1333 — 24hr emergency — ~18–20km north |
| Nearest pub | Mumballup Tavern (the Mumby Pub) — ~5 minutes from camp — food and cold drinks |
4. Eastern Bank vs Western Bank — Which Is Right for Your Rig at Glen Mervyn Dam?
This is the most critical access decision at Glen Mervyn Dam — and the one detail that most listing pages get completely wrong by not explaining it at all. There are two distinct camping areas here, and they are not interchangeable for senior grey nomads towing a caravan or driving a motorhome.
The western bank of Glen Mervyn Dam is accessed via a narrow unsealed track. Multiple sources — including DBCA’s own Wellington District visitor guide — specifically state that this track is not designed for towing caravans. If you arrive at the western bank with a caravan, you risk getting stuck, bogged, or unable to turn around. Do not take a caravan to the western bank under any circumstances. The western bank is for tents, small campervans, and 4WD-accessible vehicles only.
Eastern Bank — the correct choice for caravans and motorhomes: The eastern bank provides the main overnight campground with toilets (drop toilets), picnic tables, and the boat ramp. Access is via the main Collie-Preston Road approach. The last 7 kilometres is unsealed gravel — bumpy but passable by 2WD in dry conditions. Caravans and motorhomes use this side. There is ample space around the eastern bank for large rigs. The ski boat ramp area is the easiest entry point — drive in via the ski boat area and position your van on the eastern side before driving around the dam perimeter.
Western Bank — day use and tent/small vehicle camping only: The western bank has a day rest area and some camping space, and there is a toilet on this side. The views are excellent and it is quieter than the eastern bank. But it is accessible only via a track that is tight, rough, and not designed for towing. If you are in a campervan without a trailer, it may be achievable in dry conditions — but confirm current track conditions with DBCA on 08 9752 1677 before attempting.
The flattest, most accessible, and most caravan-suitable camping at Glen Mervyn Dam is near the eastern bank ski boat ramp area. Reviewers consistently describe this area as the easiest entry, with the most space for large rigs. In sandy conditions, avoid driving your van to the very water’s edge — stay on firmer ground. In wet conditions, call DBCA before you travel as the access track can become slippery.
5. The Fire Ban Reality: What It Means for Cooking at Glen Mervyn Dam
Every listing for Glen Mervyn mentions that camp and cooking fires are not permitted. What almost no listing explains is the gas stove question — and this is the detail that genuinely catches senior grey nomads off guard at this site more than any other.
Multiple CamperMate reviewers specifically report being told by rangers that there is a complete fire ban including gas stoves at Glen Mervyn Dam. The official DBCA and tourism listings state “camp and cooking fires are not permitted.” The interpretation of whether this includes enclosed gas stoves varies by ranger and by season. During high fire danger periods, rangers have enforced a total gas ban. During lower risk periods, enclosed gas stoves have been permitted. The only safe approach: call DBCA Wellington District on 08 9752 1677 the day before you arrive and ask specifically about gas stoves. Do not assume. Do not rely on what other campers at the site tell you. Ask the ranger directly.
What this means practically for a senior grey nomad planning a stay: you cannot rely on the campsite gas BBQ that other WA free camps provide — there is no gas BBQ at Glen Mervyn. If gas stoves are being enforced as banned on your visit, your only cooking option is food that requires no heat preparation — cold meals, pre-cooked food, or food from the Mumballup Tavern five minutes away. This is a significant consideration for seniors who need to manage dietary requirements, medications that need to be taken with warm food, or simply want a reliable hot meal.
For any stay at Glen Mervyn Dam, plan at least one full day of meals that require zero cooking regardless of whether your gas stove is permitted. Stock your van with foods that can be eaten cold — deli meats, cheese, crackers, tinned fish, fresh fruit, muesli with long-life milk, and pre-made sandwiches from Collie or Donnybrook before you arrive. The Mumby Pub covers your evening meal problem. Having a cold meal plan also means a relaxed morning without waiting for a cooking clearance from a ranger.
6. No Drinking Water at Glen Mervyn Dam — The Most Critical Thing to Know
This is the single most dangerous omission on every listing page for Glen Mervyn Dam. There is no potable water on site — on either bank, at any facility point. The dam water is mildly acidic from past mining activities and is not suitable for drinking. You must carry every litre of drinking water you need for your entire stay. Fill your tanks completely in Collie (18km north) or Donnybrook before you leave sealed roads. For a multi-night stay in warm weather, a senior grey nomad should carry a minimum of 10 litres per person per day — more in summer. Running out of drinking water at Glen Mervyn is not an inconvenience — it is a medical risk for older travellers in warm conditions.
The dam water is described in official DBCA documentation as “very cold and mildly acidic” due to past mining activities in the catchment. It may irritate swimmers’ eyes or sensitive skin — wear goggles if you swim and rinse off after any immersion. The water is safe for swimming but not for drinking or cooking.
Collie: Fill tanks at any service station, caravan park, or public tap in Collie — 18km north via Collie-Preston Road.
Donnybrook: IGA supermarket and service stations — approximately 35km south-west via the South Western Highway.
Mumballup Tavern: Confirm with the pub if emergency water is available — 5 minutes from camp.
Fill completely before leaving your last town. Do not assume you can get water at the site.
7. Weekend Noise Warning: What Happens at Glen Mervyn Dam on Long Weekends
This is the second critical detail that no tourism listing ever mentions about Glen Mervyn Dam. The site has a genuine split personality. On quiet mid-week days in autumn and spring it is one of the most peaceful free camps in WA’s South-West. On summer long weekends, it can be the opposite.
Multiple CamperMate reviewers specifically describe long weekend stays at Glen Mervyn Dam as involving “locals doing burn-outs, playing loud music and creating a massive bonfire” and “lots of swearing” — with the dam acoustics amplifying noise across the water so it is audible from every campsite. For senior grey nomads who need consistent quiet, regular sleep schedules, or have hearing sensitivities, a long weekend stay at Glen Mervyn Dam in summer is a specific risk. The same reviewers describe weekday visits as “beautiful and really quiet” and “so peaceful.” Plan your visit for mid-week arrivals and departures.
The dam is a popular local recreation destination and the combination of speed boats, water-skiers, and weekend campers from Collie and Bunbury means that summer weekends — particularly Saturday afternoon through Sunday — bring a significantly different atmosphere than mid-week. If you find yourself at Glen Mervyn on a Friday when the crowds begin to arrive, the Collie Visitor Caravan Park 18 kilometres north offers powered sites, hot showers, and complete quiet for seniors who need to move on.
8. What Glen Mervyn Dam Listings Never Tell You
Every online entry for Glen Mervyn covers: free, swimming, fishing, waterskiing, Bibbulmun Track. Here are seven things no listing mentions that senior grey nomads specifically need to know.
1. The dam acoustics work against you. The open water creates a natural amphitheatre effect. Sound from one side of the dam travels clearly to the other. A noisy group on the far bank is not distant noise — it is as clear as if they were camped next to you. This is the reason long weekend noise is such a specific problem at Glen Mervyn compared to other free camps. Position yourself as far from the boat ramp area as practical if you are visiting on a weekend.
2. The Bibbulmun Track is right there — but most grey nomads never walk it. The Bibbulmun Track crosses the Glen Mervyn Dam wall. From the dam wall, you can walk north or south on one of Australia’s great trails — through genuine jarrah forest — from the door of your caravan. A 2–3km section each direction is flat and manageable for senior walkers at a comfortable pace. This is extraordinary access to a world-class walking trail from a free camp, and almost nobody mentions it.
3. Marron fishing is in season and exceptional. Marron — the large freshwater crayfish native to WA’s South-West — are present in Glen Mervyn Dam and may be targeted in season. Marron season is generally open in summer (check the current Fisheries WA season dates before fishing as these change). A WA freshwater fishing licence is required for marron. Rainbow trout and redfin perch are available throughout the year. For a senior grey nomad who fishes, this is a genuinely exceptional opportunity — a free camp with a dam full of rainbow trout and marron is not common.
4. The Mumby Pub solves the cooking problem. The Mumballup Tavern — a few kilometres down the road — serves food and cold drinks. Multiple grey nomad reviewers specifically call it out as “amazing food” and worth the stop. For senior travellers managing the gas stove uncertainty, planning one evening meal at the Mumby Pub removes the cooking stress entirely and gives you a proper hot meal, a cold drink, and a conversation with locals who know the area.
5. The water level affects everything. Glen Mervyn Dam’s water level fluctuates significantly between seasons. At low levels — which multiple reviewers note have occurred in recent visits — waterskiing is prohibited, fishing is poor, and the waterfront camping experience is reduced. At higher levels in late winter and spring the dam is full, the fishing is excellent, and the waterfront sites are stunning. Check with DBCA on 08 9752 1677 before your visit for current water levels.
6. Phone signal is unreliable in the valley. The Preston Valley location means mobile coverage is variable. Telstra has some signal at the dam but it is not consistent. Optus coverage is unreliable. This matters for senior grey nomads who need to call for help, manage health appointments, or contact family. Save all GPS and emergency contact numbers before leaving Collie. Do not arrive at Glen Mervyn Dam assuming you can call out if you need to.
7. Poison baiting may occur in nearby forest areas. The broader Wellington District is subject to Western Shield baiting programs for the protection of native animals. DBCA’s own documentation notes that poison baits are laid in forest areas in this district. If you travel with a dog, confirm current baiting status with DBCA on 08 9752 1677 before arriving. Keep dogs on a lead and away from the surrounding forest scrub at all times.
9. Access Directions: How to Get to Glen Mervyn Dam Without Getting Lost
Navigation to Glen Mervyn Dam is straightforward from Collie but requires the correct turnoffs from the Collie-Preston Road. Do not rely on general mapping apps alone — save the GPS coordinate and follow the directions below.
From Collie (approaching from the north): Take the Collie-Preston Road from the eastern end of Collie. Follow for approximately 17.3km, then keep right onto Best Road. After 1.5km turn left. After a further 700m turn left again. Follow to the campground a further 2.2km. Total distance from Collie: approximately 22km.
From Donnybrook (approaching from the south-west): Take the South Western Highway north to the Collie-Preston Road turnoff. Follow Collie-Preston Road north-east through Mumballup. The dam turnoff is signposted from this road.
GPS for navigation: -33.5357, 116.0946 (Eastern Bank Campground)
The final approach to Glen Mervyn Dam eastern bank is approximately 7km of unsealed gravel road. In dry conditions this is manageable for 2WD vehicles and caravans at slow speed. After significant rain, the road becomes slippery and boggy. Do not travel to the dam in wet conditions without first calling DBCA on 08 9752 1677 to confirm road passability. If you get bogged in the valley, recovery assistance is a significant distance away.
10. Glen Mervyn Dam Facilities — Full Senior Review
Here is the honest breakdown of every facility at Glen Mervyn Dam, written specifically for senior grey nomads making real decisions.
Toilets: ⚠️ Drop/long-drop toilets only. There are no flush toilets at Glen Mervyn Dam on either bank. On the eastern bank there are multiple drop toilets including near the boat ramp and picnic area. On the western bank there is one toilet, which can be a considerable distance from some camping spots. For senior grey nomads who rely on flush toilets for continence management or who have mobility concerns using a drop toilet at night, this is a significant factor. The toilets are reported clean by most reviewers — the DBCA maintains them — but they are drop toilets. Plan accordingly.
Hot Showers: ❌ None. There are no showers at Glen Mervyn Dam on either bank. Bring a portable solar shower or plan a shower run to Collie Caravan Park 18km north.
Mains Power: ❌ None. Entirely unpowered. CPAP machine users must bring a lithium battery with sufficient capacity for their full stay. For multi-night stays without any power source, calculate your CPAP battery needs precisely before departure.
Drinking Water: ❌ Absolutely none on site. Carry all drinking water from Collie or Donnybrook. The dam water is mildly acidic and not potable. This is non-negotiable safety information for senior travellers.
Swimming: ✅ Permitted and popular. The water is cool and clear at good water levels. Note that the water is mildly acidic from past mining activities — this may irritate sensitive eyes or skin. Wear goggles, rinse off after swimming, and if you have sensitive skin bring a fresh water rinse in a bucket from your tanks. No lifeguard — do not swim alone.
Picnic Tables: ✅ Picnic tables are provided on the eastern bank day use area and near the dam wall.
Boat Ramp: ✅ A boat ramp is available on the eastern bank. Waterskiing is permitted when water levels are sufficient — check current levels with DBCA before arriving with a boat.
Dump Point: ❌ None on-site on either bank. The nearest dump point is in Collie. Confirm the current Collie dump point location with the Shire of Collie on 08 9734 1007 before your visit.
11. Free and Low-Cost Camping Near Glen Mervyn Dam
The Collie–Donnybrook–Preston Valley corridor has several strong options for van life savings spots that suit different senior grey nomad setups.
| Site | Address + GPS | Cost | Senior Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glen Mervyn Dam — Eastern Bank | 1660 Collie-Preston Rd, Mumballup WA 6225 GPS: -33.5357, 116.0946 |
Free | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stunning waterfront. No water, no flush toilets, fire ban, weekend noise. Mid-week visits only for seniors. |
| Balingup Transit Park | 53 Jayes Road, Balingup WA 6253 GPS: approx -33.7870, 115.9820 |
Free (donate) | ⭐⭐⭐ Sealed access transit stop. Good overnight before or after Glen Mervyn. Flush toilet. |
| Greenbushes Pool Campground | Spring Gully Road, Greenbushes WA 6254 GPS: -33.8499, 116.0470 |
Free (donate) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Fully sealed, flush toilets, tap water, wheelchair boardwalk, dogs. 40km south. Our full guide to Greenbushes Pool. |
| Collie Visitor Caravan Park — Powered | Collie WA 6225 GPS: approx -33.3667, 116.1500 |
~$35–45/night | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best powered senior base. Full facilities, hot showers, 2km to hospital. Use when you need to recharge CPAP. |
12. Senior Base Camp: Collie Visitor Caravan Park
Collie Visitor Caravan Park is the best powered senior base for the Glen Mervyn Dam region. Located in Collie township — just 18 kilometres north of the dam — it provides powered sites, hot showers, full facilities, and proximity to Collie Hospital for senior grey nomads who cannot camp without mains power or who need regular dump point access.
Collie itself is an interesting town — a former coal-mining centre in transition, with mountain bike trails rated among the best in Australia, good supermarkets (Coles and IGA), a pharmacy, and a relaxed character that suits grey nomads who like a town with genuine history. For seniors doing a loop through the South-West, using Collie Caravan Park as your powered base and doing Glen Mervyn as a day trip or one-night mid-week stop is the most comfortable approach — particularly for CPAP-dependent travellers.
Collie WA 6225
Shire of Collie: 08 9734 1007 | collie.wa.gov.au
Ask: powered site for my rig length; drive-through availability; dump point location; hot showers; pet policy.
If you are heading west from Collie toward the coast after your Glen Mervyn stay, the Coalmine Beach Holiday Park near Walpole and the broader south coast is one of WA’s most scenic coastal stops for senior grey nomads and makes a natural continuation of a South-West loop from the Collie region.
13. Full Facilities Comparison: Glen Mervyn Dam vs Collie Caravan Park vs Greenbushes Pool
| Facility | Glen Mervyn Dam | Collie Caravan Park | Greenbushes Pool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | ~$35–45/night powered | Free (donate) |
| Mains power | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Flush toilets | ❌ Drop toilets only | ✅ | ✅ |
| Hot showers | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Drinking water on-site | ❌ NONE — carry all in | ✅ | ✅ Free tap |
| Fire / cooking | ❌ Complete ban — gas stoves variable | ✅ Seasonal rules | ❌ Perm ban / gas BBQ provided |
| Dump point | ❌ None on-site | ✅ | ❌ None on-site |
| Swimming | ✅ Dam — cool, mildly acidic | ⚠️ Check locally | ✅ Natural pool |
| Fishing | ✅ Trout, redfin, marron | ❌ | ❌ |
| Dogs / pets | ✅ Generally — confirm bait status | ⚠️ Check with park | ✅ On lead |
| Sealed road all the way | ❌ Last 7km unsealed gravel | ✅ Full sealed | ✅ Full sealed |
| Phone coverage | ⚠️ Variable — valley location | ✅ Full town coverage | ✅ Good |
| Weekend noise risk | ⚠️ High on long weekends | ✅ Town quiet | ⚠️ Mine noise only |
| Hospital proximity | ~18–20km Collie Hospital | ~2km Collie Hospital | ~20km Bridgetown Hospital |
| Senior overall rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Outstanding mid-week. Avoid long weekends. | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best powered base | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best free camp in region |
14. Rates — All Options Near Glen Mervyn Dam 2026
| Option | Rate | Booking | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glen Mervyn Dam — Eastern Bank | Free | None required | No water. Drop toilets. Fire ban. Gravel road last 7km. Mid-week visits strongly recommended for seniors. |
| Collie Visitor Caravan Park — Powered ← Senior Recommended | ~$35–45/night | 08 9734 1007 | Full facilities, hot showers, powered, 2km to hospital. Best CPAP option. |
| Greenbushes Pool Campground | Free (donate) | None required | 40km south. Sealed road, flush toilets, tap water. 3-night max. See full Greenbushes Pool guide. |
| Balingup Transit Park | Free (donate) | None required | Good overnight transit stop. Flush toilet. Sealed access. |
All rates are a guide only. Confirm directly before arrival.
15. The Glen Mervyn Dam Day Plan for Senior Grey Nomads
| Time | Activity + GPS | Senior Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00am | Dawn fishing — eastern bank GPS: -33.5357, 116.0946 |
Best rainbow trout activity at dawn. Bring a freshwater licence. Check marron season dates with Fisheries WA before arriving. |
| 8:30am | Bibbulmun Track — dam wall section GPS: -33.4967, 116.0984 |
Walk north or south 2–3km on the Bibbulmun Track from the dam wall. Genuine jarrah forest trail. Best in the cool of the morning. Wear proper walking shoes. |
| 10:30am | Swimming — eastern bank shallow area GPS: -33.5357, 116.0946 |
Best swimming before midday. Water is cool and clear. Wear goggles — mildly acidic water. Do not swim alone. Non-slip footwear to the water’s edge. |
| 12:30pm | Lunch — cold meal at picnic table or drive to Mumby Pub Mumballup Tavern GPS: approx -33.5357, 116.0946 |
Confirm gas stove status with DBCA the day before. If in doubt, cold meal at your van or drive 5 minutes to the Mumby Pub for a proper hot lunch. |
| 2:30pm | Afternoon rest / kayak / birdwatching Eastern bank, Glen Mervyn Dam GPS: 33.4967, 116.0984 |
Black swans and various waterbirds are regular at the dam. Kayaks and inflatables are popular in the afternoon when conditions are calm. |
| 5:00pm | Evening Mumby Pub — dinner Mumballup Tavern GPS: approx -33.5357, 116.0946 |
If gas stoves are restricted, the Mumby Pub evening meal is your best option. Multiple reviewers describe it as genuinely excellent food. Check opening hours and days before heading over. |
| Dusk | Birdlife at the dam edge — eastern bank | Black swans, ducks, cormorants, and forest red-tailed black cockatoos are all active at dusk. The light on the dam at last light is exceptional. Bring binoculars. |
There are no shops, no petrol, and no supplies within easy distance of Glen Mervyn Dam. Collie has Coles, IGA, a pharmacy, and fuel. Stock all food, water, medications, and fuel before leaving Collie. The Mumby Pub is your only food option within 5 minutes of camp.
16. What to Do Near Glen Mervyn Dam — Senior Activities Guide
| Activity | Address + GPS | Senior Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fishing — rainbow trout, redfin, marron | Eastern bank, Glen Mervyn Dam GPS: -33.5357, 116.0946 |
WA freshwater fishing licence required. Check marron season with Fisheries WA before arriving. Dawn and dusk are best for trout. |
| Bibbulmun Track — dam wall section | Dam wall, Glen Mervyn GPS: -33.4967, 116.0984 |
Walk 2–3km north or south through jarrah forest. Flat, well-marked trail. Bring water from your van as none is available on trail. |
| Swimming and kayaking | Eastern bank shallow area GPS: -33.5357, 116.0946 |
Cool, clear water. Goggles recommended. No lifeguard. Do not swim alone. Best before midday and after 4pm when boat traffic is lighter. |
| Mumballup Tavern (Mumby Pub) | Mumballup WA 6225 GPS: approx -33.5357, 116.0946 |
~5 minutes from camp. Reviewers consistently praise the food. Check opening hours before heading over — rural pub hours vary. Your best cooking backup when gas is banned. |
| Collie town — supermarket, pharmacy, coffee | Collie WA 6225 GPS: approx -33.3667, 116.1500 |
18km north. Coles, IGA, pharmacy, café, fuel, Collie Hospital. Good half-day town trip. Air-conditioned options for hot afternoons. Refill water tanks while here. |
| Birdwatching — black swans and waterbirds | Dam edge, eastern bank GPS: -33.5357, 116.0946 |
Black swans are a constant presence. Cormorants, herons, and duck species active at dawn and dusk. Forest red-tailed black cockatoos in surrounding jarrah at dusk. Bring binoculars. |
17. Senior Checklist — Glen Mervyn Dam
| Item | Why It Matters at Glen Mervyn Dam | ✓ |
|---|---|---|
| Water tanks full before leaving Collie or Donnybrook | No drinking water on site — on either bank. This is non-negotiable. Fill completely before leaving sealed roads. | ☐ |
| Call DBCA day before — confirm gas stove status | Gas stove rules vary by season and ranger. DBCA Wellington District: 08 9752 1677. Ask specifically about enclosed gas stoves. | ☐ |
| Cold meal plan for full stay | Even if gas is permitted, have a full cold meal plan for every day in case rules change on arrival. No cooking facilities provided on site. | ☐ |
| Travel insurance with medical evacuation | Collie Hospital is 18–20km away via unsealed road section. Variable phone coverage means a medical event at Glen Mervyn requires insurance that covers evacuation. | ☐ |
| 2-week medication supply | No pharmacy at the dam. Nearest pharmacy is Collie — 18km north. Stock up before leaving Collie or Donnybrook. | ☐ |
| Medicare card + medication list accessible in glovebox | Collie Hospital has 24-hour emergency care. Keep medication list printed and accessible — not packed in luggage. | ☐ |
| Lithium battery for CPAP | No mains power on either bank. CPAP users must have a battery capable of the full stay duration with no recharge. | ☐ |
| Swim goggles | Dam water is mildly acidic from past mining activity. Goggles protect sensitive eyes. Essential for senior swimmers. | ☐ |
| Quality earplugs | Dam acoustics amplify noise across the water. Even mid-week, boats operate during the day. Essential for light sleepers. | ☐ |
| Offline maps downloaded before Collie | Phone coverage is variable in the Preston Valley. Download offline maps and save all GPS coordinates before leaving Collie. | ☐ |
| Dog lead + confirm bait status | Western Shield poison baiting may occur in surrounding forest. Confirm with DBCA on 08 9752 1677. Keep dogs on lead and away from forest scrub. | ☐ |
| Emergency numbers saved and printed | Collie Hospital: 08 9735 1333. DBCA: 08 9752 1677. Emergency: 000. Print and keep in glovebox. Do not rely on mobile data at the dam. | ☐ |
| WA Freshwater Fishing Licence | Required for fishing at Glen Mervyn Dam. Purchase online via Fisheries WA at fish.wa.gov.au or at a Collie licence agent before arrival. | ☐ |
18. GPS Master Table — Save Every Stop Before You Leave Wi-Fi in Collie
Phone coverage is variable in the Preston Valley. Save every coordinate and every emergency number before you leave Collie. This is the standard approach for any senior grey nomad on the road — save before you travel, not when you need it.
| Stop | Full Address + Postcode | GPS (copy to nav app) | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏕️ Glen Mervyn Dam — Eastern Bank Campground | 1660 Collie-Preston Road, Mumballup WA 6225 | -33.5357, 116.0946 Approx — public mapping data. Verify on arrival. |
DBCA: 08 9752 1677 |
| 🌊 Glen Mervyn Dam Wall / Bibbulmun Track | Glen Mervyn Dam, Mumballup WA 6225 | -33.4967, 116.0984 Approx — public mapping data |
— |
| 🍺 Mumballup Tavern (Mumby Pub) | Collie-Preston Road, Mumballup WA 6225 | approx -33.4967, 116.0984 | Check locally for current number |
| 🏘️ Collie town centre / Coles / IGA / fuel | Collie WA 6225 | approx -33.3667, 116.1500 | Shire of Collie: 08 9734 1007 |
| 🚽 Collie Dump Point | Collie WA 6225 — confirm location with Shire before travel | approx -33.3667, 116.1500 — verify with Shire on 08 9734 1007 | 08 9734 1007 |
| 🏥 Collie Hospital — 24hr Emergency | 40-52 Deakin Street, Collie WA 6225 | approx -33.3720, 116.1470 | 08 9735 1333 |
| 📞 DBCA Wellington District | Collie WA 6225 — call for gas stove status, road conditions, bait status | — | 08 9752 1677 |
| 🎣 Fisheries WA (fishing licence + marron season) | fish.wa.gov.au | — | 1800 815 507 |
| 🚨 Emergency (Australia-wide) | — | — | 000 |
Collie Hospital at 40-52 Deakin Street has 24-hour emergency care and is 18–20km north of the dam via mostly sealed road with the final section unsealed. In an emergency, you need this address and phone number already saved — not still being searched for while someone is unwell. Phone: 08 9735 1333. GPS: approx -33.3720, 116.1470. Save it before you drive to the dam.
19. Frequently Asked Questions — Glen Mervyn Dam for Senior Grey Nomads
Is Glen Mervyn Dam free? Do I need a permit or parks pass?
Glen Mervyn Dam is completely free. No permit, no parks pass, no national parks fee, and no booking system is required. You drive in, find a marked camping spot, and stay. There is no self-registration station, no fee box, and no ranger station. The site is managed by DBCA Wellington District — call 08 9752 1677 for current conditions before visiting.
Can I bring my caravan to Glen Mervyn Dam?
Yes — but only to the eastern bank. The eastern bank is accessible for caravans and motorhomes, with the last 7km unsealed gravel (passable 2WD in dry conditions). The western bank has a narrow unsealed track specifically described by DBCA as not suitable for towing caravans. Do not attempt the western bank with a van under any circumstances.
Are gas stoves allowed at Glen Mervyn Dam?
This varies by season and ranger. The official rule is no camp or cooking fires. Some rangers have enforced this to include gas stoves during high fire danger periods. Call DBCA Wellington District on 08 9752 1677 the day before you arrive and ask specifically. Always have a cold meal contingency plan regardless of the answer.
Is there drinking water at Glen Mervyn Dam?
No. There is no potable water anywhere at Glen Mervyn Dam — on either bank. The dam water is mildly acidic and not suitable for drinking. Carry all drinking water from Collie or Donnybrook before you leave sealed roads. This is non-negotiable safety information.
Can I bring my dog to Glen Mervyn Dam?
The campground is generally considered pet-friendly and multiple sources list it as dogs welcome. However, the broader Wellington District is subject to Western Shield poison bait programs for native animal protection. Confirm current baiting status with DBCA on 08 9752 1677 before arriving with a dog, and keep your pet on a lead and away from surrounding forest scrub at all times.
Where is the nearest hospital to Glen Mervyn Dam?
Collie Hospital — 40-52 Deakin Street, Collie WA 6225. Phone: 08 9735 1333. 24-hour emergency care. Approximately 18–20km north of the dam. Save this before you travel as phone coverage at the dam is variable.
Is Glen Mervyn Dam good for fishing?
Yes — when water levels are adequate. Rainbow trout and redfin perch are present year-round. Marron are available in season (check current season dates with Fisheries WA at fish.wa.gov.au). A WA freshwater fishing licence is required and can be purchased online or at a Collie licence agent before arriving. Water level at the dam affects fishing quality — confirm with DBCA before making a special trip for fishing.
20. Glen Mervyn Dam Quick-Reference Card — Screenshot and Save
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 1660 Collie-Preston Road, Mumballup WA 6225 |
| GPS — Eastern Bank (caravans) | -33.5357, 116.0946 (approx — public mapping data) |
| Cost | Free — no fee, no permit, no booking |
| Maximum stay | No formal limit — respect other campers |
| Road access — Eastern bank | ⚠️ Last 7km unsealed gravel — 2WD passable dry only |
| Road access — Western bank | ❌ NOT suitable for caravans — narrow unsealed track only |
| Toilets | ⚠️ Drop/long-drop toilets only — NO flush toilets |
| Showers | ❌ None |
| Mains power | ❌ None — CPAP users must bring lithium battery |
| Drinking water | ❌ NONE — carry all water from Collie or Donnybrook |
| Fire / cooking | ❌ Complete ban. Gas stoves: confirm with DBCA 08 9752 1677 day before |
| Dump point | ❌ None — nearest Collie; call Shire 08 9734 1007 |
| Dogs / pets | ✅ Generally permitted — confirm bait status with DBCA first |
| Swimming | ✅ Permitted — wear goggles, mildly acidic water |
| Fishing | ✅ Rainbow trout, redfin, marron (in season) — licence required |
| Bibbulmun Track | ✅ Crosses dam wall — immediate access both directions |
| Phone / coverage | ⚠️ Variable — save all numbers before leaving Collie |
| Weekend noise | ⚠️ Significant on long weekends — mid-week visits strongly recommended for seniors |
| Mumby Pub (cooking backup) | ~5 min from camp — Mumballup Tavern, Collie-Preston Rd, Mumballup WA 6225 |
| Nearest hospital | Collie Hospital — 40-52 Deakin St, Collie WA 6225 — 08 9735 1333 — 24hr emergency — ~18km |
| DBCA Wellington District | 08 9752 1677 — call for gas stoves, road conditions, bait status, water level |
| Emergency | 000 |
Glen Mervyn Dam — Eastern Bank
Address: 1660 Collie-Preston Road, Mumballup WA 6225
GPS: -33.5357, 116.0946 — save to navigation app now
DBCA Wellington District: 08 9752 1677 — call day before for gas stoves + road conditions
Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup: 08 9731 1617
No permit. No fee. No booking. Free camping — carry all water from Collie. No open fires.
Collie Hospital (save now): 40-52 Deakin Street, Collie WA 6225 — 08 9735 1333 — 24hr emergency — GPS approx -33.3720, 116.1470 — ~18km north
Dump point: Collie — call Shire on 08 9734 1007 to confirm location.
Use the van life savings spots guide to track all your South-West WA free camp stops on this route.
Disclaimer: Glen Mervyn Dam is a DBCA-managed recreation site. All GPS coordinates listed are approximate and sourced from publicly available mapping data — verify on arrival. Facilities, fire ban rules, gas stove enforcement, road conditions, water levels, and bait status all change without notice. Always confirm current conditions with DBCA Wellington District on 08 9752 1677 before visiting. This article is provided as a guide only. The author and retiretovanlife.com accept no responsibility for changes to site conditions after date of publication.
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