Free camping sites are a great way to make your dollar stretch further on road trips, especially if you are on the road for extended periods of time. They are also a great way to create a unique camping experience for yourself, away from the usual crowded places. The good news is that not everyone knows how or where to find free camping sites in Australia, and there are thousands of free camping sites located all around the country. You may well find a secret piece of paradise and have it all to yourself.
What are the Benefits of Free Camping?
- No need to book in advance. Just turn up and try your luck at getting a site.
- Stay as long (or as short) as you want. If you really like your free camping site you can stay a few more days longer than originally planned.
What are the Challenges of Free Camping?
- Need to be set up for off grid camping including being self sufficient for power and water, and having your own toilet.
- Some free camping sites can be difficult to access (this is why they are free!)
What’s the difference between Wild Camping (or Stealth Camping) and Free Camping?
Wild camping/stealth camping is illegal in Australia. Camping in residential areas is a big “No-No” and rangers will fine you if they catch you. It is also illegal to camp anywhere that has a sign saying “No Camping or Staying Overnight” (or similar). Disregard these rules and you could find yourself with a big fine to pay, which is definitely not free camping! Legitimate free camps are designated campsites. If in doubt, check with the local Tourist Information office or Council office as to whether a camping site is legal or not.
How do you find Free Camping Sites in Australia?
This is why you are reading this article, right! Make yourself and cuppa and settle in to learn how to find free camping sites in Australia.
1. Check with the local Tourist Information office
Yes, I know you thought I would lead with Wikicamps, but for a truly unique and free camping experience you need to tap into the local knowledge. The local Tourist Info will have up to date information on the local area, and there is a chance they might have information on free camping sites that are not available on the travel apps.
2. Community Campsites
Community Campsites are found mainly in country towns and are run by the local community. The idea is to attract campers to their town through free or low cost camping sites, and as a result the campers will (hopefully) spend money within the town. They can dine at the local pub, restaurants and café’s, and spend money at the local shops.
A great example of this is the town of Greenock in the Barossa Valley, South Australia. They have a community campsite set up in the pine forest by the local oval. Visitors can camp for a maximum of 7 days, and in return they ask for a donation of $5 per night. The camping site is a short walk away from the Greenock Brewery, a selection of winery cellar doors, the Greenock Tavern and El Estanco Restaurant. This is a fantastic destination for campers who love wine, beer and food. They can indulge in all three whilst getting to meet the locals!
3. Travel Apps for Free Camping Sites
There’s an app for that! Technology is fantastic for all sorts of bus life tasks, and finding free camping sites in Australia is one of them. Here are the best apps to find free camps.
WikiCamps is the most popular and well-known camping app. Yes, it has a small, one-off fee to download it, but the value it provides is worth much more. It is easy to use, has the ability to download maps and trip plans so you can access them off-line, has details of both free and paid camping sites, and shows points of interest and facilities along your chosen route.It has the largest database of camping sites, and its rating and review feature is also a great source of information on camping sites. If you are only going to download one app, this would be the one: https://wikicamps.com.au
CamperMate is similar to WikiCamps but a little less detailed. Also, it is free! So if paying a small fee for an app is not something you want to do, then CamperMate is the app for you. Another point of difference is that CamperMate has the ability for you to book accommodation directly through the app. Get it here: https://campermate.com/en
Camps Australia is the original resource for campers. Their printed maps and guide books first appeared 30 years ago and have been regularly updated since then. It is now available as an app that has a small annual cost. It’s point of difference is that it shows up-to-date fuel prices (updated every 20 minutes) and also shows where you can get your gas bottle refilled. Here is the link: https://www.campsaustraliawide.com
CMCA Connect app can be downloaded by members of theCamper Van and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA).Being a member gives you access to some great benefits including getting a discount on your insurance, access to low cost accommodation at CMCA RV parks, access to the Geowiki X travel app and website, and lots more. https://benefits.cmca.net.au/
4. On-line Communities
Facebook groups and forums dedicated to Toyota Coasters and Camping can be a great resource of helpful information in regards to finding free camping sites in Australia. Fellow travellers often share their personal experiences of free camping sites, including tips on selecting a site, and the best time of year to visit.
Here are some of my favourites:
- Coaster Sisters
- Toyota Coaster Lovers Living the Dream
- Toyota Coaster Lovers of Australia
5. National Parks
National Parks are a fantastic option for free camping sites in Australia. They are protected regions and as a result you can find yourself up close and personal with the best nature experiences that Australia has to offer. Stunning views, native animals, beautiful forests and gorgeous wildflowers – it can all be experienced in Australia’s national parks.
Note, some sites are paid, and some are free, and the ones that are free are usually the hardest to get to. Also, accessing National Parks usually comes with an entry fee, and it is wise to book your campsite in advance through the relevant website. Keep in mind that most offer multi-day passes for extended stays which could save you some money.
6. Stay in Rest Areas
As a female traveller I am going to say No to staying in rest areas alongside highways as I feel it is not a safe option. I would be too worried about safety to enjoy the experience. Having said that though, it is definitely a free camping site option, so make your own decision with this one.
Best Tips for Free Camping
Now that you know how to find free camping sites in Australia, here are some tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Safety First: Research the Area
Read reviews by other campers and note if there any negative comments about safety and security. Also find out if the camp site has mobile coverage or not (for emergency calls). If you are travelling solo, be safe and pick a camp site where you can at least see other campers. Avoid isolated areas and trust your gut feeling. If a site doesn’t feel safe then don’t hesitate to move on to another destination.
Check the Rules Before Setting Up
How long can you stay for? Are there designated camping sites within the area? Have you booked a specific site number? Are camp fires allowed?
Arrive Early to Choose a Safe Spot
Some free camps fill up quickly so arrive early in the day to secure a spot. At the very least, arrive before dark to give you a chance to choose a safe, flat location.
Prepare Well, and Be Self-Sufficient
Plan your itinerary and know how many days you are likely to be at your free camp. Facilities at free campsites can vary from a patch of dirt to camp on, some offer toilets, showers, picnic tables, bbq’s, drinking water, fire pits. Research in advance and prepare accordingly.
Bring everything you need with you for that time period – food, drinks, firewood, drinking water. Also make sure that your water tanks are full, solar panels are working, and that your toilet and shower are in working order before you leave home. Once you find a safe spot, you don’t want to leave it to go and get supplies.
Be wary of water useage. Most campers run out well before they think they will. Showers and flushing toilets are big users of water so minimise their use where possible.
To make the most of your time on the road, I recommend staying at a caravan park or other type of powered campsite every 3rd or 4th night. This will enable you to charge your devices, fill up your water tanks, and do your washing and any other task that requires power and water.
How to Set Up Your Camp Site
Once you reach a free camp, think about where to park your Toyota Coaster bus. In summer you want to face the front or rear of the bus north to minimise exposure to the sun. In winter, face the non awning side of the bus to the north to maximise exposure to the sun for natural heating.
Make sure your solar panels have full exposure to the sun. Roof top panels get most of their sunlight between 11am and 3pm. Use external solar panels to maximise sun exposure and electricity generation. Limit electricity use by minimising use of appliances. You are camping after all! A back up generator could be handy for prolonged periods of cloudy weather.
Keep Your Valuables Secure
Lock your doors and secure valuables before going to bed or heading out to explore. Use window covers to block any views inside the Toyota Coaster bus, maintaining privacy. Get more safety tips here.
Get Familiar With Free Campsite Etiquette
“Leave No Trace” is the mantra of free campers. Clean up after yourself, take all your rubbish with you when you leave, and stick to designated camping sites to protect the environment, flora and fauna. Speaking of fauna, don’t feed the wildlife; they are completely capable of finding their own food and it is much healthier for them.
Check the rules on having campfires. If you are allowed to have a fire, keep an eye on emergency weather information in case of fire risk, and bring your own firewood – don’t collect it from the bush. Make sure the fire is completely extinguished when you depart, and take care to leave the natural environment just how you found it.
Also be considerate of other campers and keep your noise down whilst camping in free camps. Adhering to this etiquette will help ensure free camping sites remain available well into the future.
Time to Go Find Your Free Camping Sites In Australia
Now you are armed with all the information you need to find and enjoy free camping sites in Australia!
Use the apps to plan your trip, check in with the local Tourist Information office at your intended destination for any secret nuggets of information, prepare your Toyota Coaster Motorhome for your free camping adventure, pay attention to your personal safety and obey the free camping etiquette to get the most out of your adventure.
Remember, free camping is a great privilege! If we all treat it as a privilege then we will be able to keep on enjoying these free camping sites in Australia into the future.
If you are looking for some ideas for free camping sites in Australia, I found this list on Nigel and Sue’s Adventures website that looks fascinating. I’m looking forward to checking them out myself. Also, check out this page on this website for more destination ideas for you and your Toyota Coaster.
