Has anyone used the private road which is adjacent to the Karratha turnoff and runs to Tom Price and then through the two WA National Parks to come out near Newman?

Apparently its a gold coin donation to use it, but not tar sealed - is if ok to tow a standard 'van down it, or is it too rough and what about through the two National Parks (we want to camp in both)

Our other options are to either back track significantly to used the main Tom Price road which is sealed or go almost north to Hedland and hand a right and go down the Great Northern Highway - both these options are long kms......

We were in the area earlier this year (May) and unfortunately this road was closed due to wet weather. We had to travel from Karijini to Port Headland, then back to Cleaverville.  Did make a slightly longer trip, but interesting all the same.  You do have to apply for a permit to travel the private road, don't know about a gold coin donation though

Sounds like Rio Tinto Iron Ore's railway access road. You can find information on access here. It's likely to be well maintained as it's essential to keeping their trains running.

We drove from Karratha to Pannawonica along the rail service road in 2006.
You need to get a permit (from the visitor information centre in Karratha) and watch a 15 minute instructional video. Then obey the rules issued.
The road was good. If it is not good, they will close it to visitors.

They will require 4WD.

Cheers,

Peter

I looked at this road just recently and you do need a permit and watch a video and also there is a 8m length restriction on your vehicle. With rock barriers along its length so I guess that means no caravans. 

Great pics buy the way.