Millstream Chichester National Park sits just two hours’ drive south of Dampier – a lush tropical oasis of deep gorges, tree-lined pools, unusual Millstream palms and lily-filled wetlands. Stock up on fuel, water and picnic supplies in Dampier before heading out to spend the day at some of the park’s beauty spots, including Python Pool and Chinderwarriner Pool. Visit from late July to October to spot the blooms of sticky cassia, rock kurrajong, lace flower, sturt’s desert pea, robinson’s desert rose, morning glory, mulla mulla, snappy gum and rock fig. Return to Dampier or find a shady campsite at Deep Reach and Crossing Pool for an overnight stay in the outback. Campers are often rewarded with glimpses of kangaroos, flying foxes and other native wildlife in the late afternoon and early morning. If you’re returning to Dampier on the evening of a full moon between May and October, make your way to Hearson’s Cove – it’s another rare spot where you can witness the Staircase to the Moon. Stay overnight in Dampier or Millstream Chichester National Park.