What should you know about free camping?
Thinking of doing a lap? Or just a longer road trip? We’re fortunate that we have so many camping options available to us. While some people prefer to stay in caravan parks, there are also so many other options available – and one of our favourites are free camps. So, what should you know about free camping.
Firstly, can you free camp anywhere?
Unfortunately, no – you can’t just pull up anywhere and set up for the night. Free camps are designated spots where you are allowed to camp for free (or nominal donation).
Where are they and how can you find them?
There are many websites, apps and books available that can point you in the right direction. Some of our favourites are:
- Free Camping Australia
- Camps Australia Wide Shop: Camping & Tourist Park Guide Books & App
- WikiCamps Australia | Camping app | Travel | iPhone iPad iPod Android Phone Tablet | Camping, Caravan Parks, Backpacker Hostels, Day Stops, Rest Areas, Information Centres, Points of Interest, POI, Dump Points
You can also follow travel bloggers – as many of them do stories on the best ones around the country. One to check out is Our Best Free Camps in Australia – Indefinite Leave.
How long can you stay in free camps?
The length of time you can stay in free camps will vary between camp sites. There is usually a sign on the site that will advise you of the maximum length you are allowed to stay. These can range between 24 hours to 30 days generally – but always check to make sure you aren’t overstaying your welcome. This ensures that everyone gets a fair stay as they travel through. Ignoring this can ruin it for everyone and is why free camps can close down!
What do you need to consider when free camping?
Facilities
Again, there can be a vast difference between facilities – and maintenance of these – in free camps.
- Some may have toilets, others not. And if they do, they could be drop toilets. Also, it’s always prudent to BYO toilet paper!
- Unlikely there will be showers, but you might find water taps – just check it is potable water before drinking or using to wash dishes
- Many have BBQ’s available – but again, this isn’t a given
- There may be rubbish bins, but not always, and it is always good practice to take your waste with you anyway
- Campfires are allowed in some free camps – and there may be designated fire pit areas. Alternatively, there are a number of portable fire pit options available to travel with. However, always check the local fire conditions and adhere to any current fire warnings.
- Some free camps now stipulate that you need to be completely self-sufficient to stay there. By this they mean your own shower and toilet, water and a plumbed in grey water tank – best to check whether this is the case before you set up camp!
The main takeaway of this is to make sure you are relatively self-sufficient if you want to stay in free camps, as facilities available vary greatly.
Power
If you are planning on staying in free camps, make sure you have sufficient gas, solar and battery power. Also ensure that your batteries are charged – as mains power is unlikely to be available. You may also need to reconsider the use of appliances such as air conditioning as it may deplete your power supply prematurely!
If you intend to use a generator, firstly check whether they are allowed in that camp area (as some camp sites don’t allow generators). Additionally, be mindful of your fellow travellers – as not everyone appreciates the sound they emit. You don’t want to be ‘that person’ in the campground.
Availability
While being a free spirit sounds good in theory, the reality is that some of these free camps fill up really quickly. And if you want the best spots, you may need to stalk people as they pull out in the morning. Always plan ahead to have a rough idea of where you are headed for and aim to be there by early afternoon in order to secure your spot! Also, you may need to have a Plan B or C up your sleeve in case there aren’t any more sites available at your first choice.
Road noise
There are many free camps along our highways and main roads. These are usually accessible to a town or a nearby pub, which is great. But some are also located close to these main roads, so road noise may be a consideration. There’s nothing quite like the sound of a B-double using his air brakes at 3am…. especially annoying if you’ve got a big day of driving ahead and need a good night’s sleep!
Is it a party place for locals?
99% of the time these free camps are peaceful and the other campers respectful. But there are the odd occasions where the camp might be a local hangout where people come to congregate and party. You generally can get a feel for the site as you pull in, so we recommend to always go with your gut!
Where can you NOT free camp?
There are a couple of no-go areas that you should be mindful of when selecting a free camp. These include:
Designated truck stopping bays/rest areas
It’s particularly bad form to utilise these areas as our truck drivers need to have access to them so that they can get their required amount of rest. Plus, they are generally in quite barren surroundings and extremely noisy – so not the best place to spend the night
Carparks
Not only do they generally not have enough space for your vehicle, they are also usually council controlled and have time limit and camping restrictions. If you are caught, you could face a hefty fine! If you are wanting to stay close to town, best book yourself into a caravan park if there are no free camps around
Low-cost camping options
If free camping isn’t for you but you still want to be frugal with your travel costs, you can also consider camping in National Parks and State Forests. Many of these offer low-cost camping fees but with the benefit of being able to camp in a pristine environment. Each state has their own website that will give you information regarding camping within their parks. Here’s a link to find them all in one place.
Free camping is a great way to travel – and there are some AMAZING spots you can stay. They are a great way to help you save money on your travels and we’re fortunate to have so many options available to us! Happy Travels!