The park contains the Kent Street Weir, originally constructed in 1927 to prevent salt water from moving upstream.
The wetlands within the park are classified as part of the Swan-Canning Riverpark, a protected conservation area.
It supports the endangered Carnaby’s cockatoo during its foraging season.
The park encompasses the site of the former Wilson weir, which historically influenced the river's salinity levels.
The area is home to the Canning River Eco Education Centre, which focuses on sustainability and regional ecology.
Remnant vegetation within the park provides a rare glimpse of the original wetlands that existed before urban development in Perth.
The park acts as a natural bio-filter, helping to improve the water quality of the Canning River before it reaches the Swan River estuary.
Canning River Regional Park is a 265-hectare riverine parkland protecting a significant estuarine ecosystem within the Perth metropolitan area. The park features the Canning River wetlands, which serve as a critical habitat for over 100 species of waterbirds. Visitors primarily utilize the park for non-motorized watercraft activities, including canoeing and kayaking, due to the river's calm flow. An extensive network of dual-use trails accommodates both pedestrians and cyclists along the riverbanks. The area includes the Castledare Miniature Railway, which operates within the park boundaries. Significant biodiversity includes riparian vegetation such as paperbarks and saltmarshes. The park facilitates environmental education through interpretive signage detailing local flora and fauna. Facilities are distributed across various access points, including Kent Street Weir and Wilson Park. It functions as a managed conservation zone under the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
The wooden boardwalk near the Kent Street Weir at sunrise.
Check the daily tide and water quality reports on the Explore Parks WA website before launching a canoe.
Bring binoculars if visiting during the spring migration season to spot rare shorebirds.
Stick to marked trails to protect the fragile saltmarsh vegetation from erosion and trampling.
Do not feed the wild ducks or waterbirds, as human food causes nutritional issues and aggressive behavior.
Keep dogs on a leash at all times to protect ground-nesting birds; remove all trash to maintain the wetland ecosystem.
