Camping Guidelines for Australia
Camping is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Australia's natural splendour. Follow these handy tips when planning an Australian camping adventure.
There is nothing quite like camping to get up close and personal with Australia’s great natural wonders. It’s important to plan ahead and be prepared to get the most out of a camping trip, whether it’s just a few days or a few months. Here are some handy tips for planning a camping adventure in Australia:
- Research where you are going – pay particular attention to conditions, weather, fees and facilities available.
- Test your equipment – try putting your tent up, know how your stove works, double check torches and lamps.
- Check fire regulations – only plan to cook over a campfire if you are confident and familiar with building and controlling fires. Always check to see if fires are permitted before lighting.
- Arrive at your campsite in daylight – setting up a campsite can take time and doing it in the dark can cause undue stress.
- Make torches, food and water easily accessible.
Australia has many camping facilities, from simple tent pitches to fully equipped campsites. Visitors can choose between bush camping, campsites in national parks and stays in holiday or tourist parks.
Camping Rules
Simpson Desert, Northern Territory
Camping rules differ by local council – always check with the local visitor information centre before deciding where to stay. Campers should never leave a trace behind. Dispose of waste properly, respect wildlife, do not tip liquid waste into lakes or rivers and always respect cultural heritage sites.
It is wise to plan meals and make note of the closest supermarket to the campsite. Arrive with adequate supplies for the entire stay and store them in airtight containers to keep fresh and to reduce the likelihood of wildlife or insects getting into them. Always take rubbish away from campsites and allocate space to carry it until an appropriate disposal site is found.
Bush Camping
The Arkaba Walk, South Australia
Bush camping is particularly suitable for adventurous travellers with simple requirements. Designated sites are located in remote areas and can be used free of charge. Since the sites are generally not overcrowded, visitors can find peace and quiet here.
If choosing sites in national parks, running water and toilets can be expected. The individual sites vary in terms of facilities and differ considerably from privately maintained, commercial campsites. Native trees and plants grow in the immediate vicinity which allow wildlife to thrive. There is no power available and generators are also often prohibited, so all guests can enjoy the silence of the bush. If showers are available, they usually do not offer hot water.
Preparation
King Edward River, The Kimberley, Western Australia
In Australia, camping is only possible in designated areas or in regions where there are no state restrictions. Camping on the street, in towns, cities and inhabited areas is prohibited. This is usually only allowed outside of towns and cities and in the countryside or where it is not expressly prohibited by signs. However, wild camping is allowed in more remote areas, provided that no private land or designated protected areas are accessed.
In order to camp in national parks or protected areas, approval from a park ranger or the local council is required. After such permission has been granted, camping is also permitted on the many islands of the Great Barrier Reef.
Remind your clients to plan ahead and think of as much as possible, including sufficient drinking water, and to leave no waste behind. Refer to our handy camping checklist below to assist in the planning process.
