[2][failed verification] It was still being identified as National Park in the late 1930s,[3][4] and it was not until 1947 that the name change occurred to commemorate Sir John Forrest, the first Premier of Western Australia.

It was bisected by the Eastern Railway when it was constructed in the 1890s and rail traffic passed through until 1966, when the line was closed due to the opening of the Avon Valley route.

While larger kangaroos remain, significant populations of smaller marsupials have been devastated by foxes, feral cats and dogs in this park.

In November 2010 a bushfire, believed to have been deliberately lit, damaged a significant area of the park including part of the Eagle's View trail.

The outside court yard was a popular tourist attraction as native birds and kangaroos, seeking food, approach close to the building.

[13][14] John Forrest National Park has several walk trail options that cater for different abilities and fitness level.