TIPS & TECH: HOW TO FIND FREE CAMPS
Want to find a free camp? Here are our top resources for true camping adventures
Australia’s vast and diverse landscape offers countless opportunities for free camping, providing adventurers with the chance to explore the country’s natural beauty without the constraints of traditional caravan parks. Whether you’re planning a road trip across the Outback or a coastal escape, knowing where to find the best free campsites is crucial. Here’s a guide on the best ways to find free campsites in Australia, including top apps, websites, and other valuable resources.
WikiCamps Australia
WikiCamps is one of the most popular camping apps in Australia, offering a comprehensive database of free campsites, caravan parks, and other points of interest.
Features: User reviews, offline maps, filters for amenities (like toilets, water, and BBQs), and a trip planner.
Availability: iOS, Windows and Android.
Camps Australia Wide
This app is an extension of the well-known Camps Australia Wide guidebooks, providing an extensive list of free and budget campsites.
Features: Detailed site descriptions, GPS coordinates, offline maps, and user reviews.
Availability: iOS and Android.
CamperMate
CamperMate is designed for travelers in Australia and New Zealand, offering information on free campsites, caravan parks, and essential services.
Features: Real-time alerts, offline maps, user-generated content, and nearby attractions.
Availability: iOS and Android.
Hipcamp
Hipcamp focuses on unique camping experiences, often on private land.
Features: Booking capabilities, detailed descriptions, photos, and reviews.
Availability: iOS and Android.
Full Range Camping
This app lists over 11,000 free and low-cost campsites across Australia, along with other useful travel resources.
Features: Offline access, detailed campsite information, and a community forum for advice and tips.
Availability: iOS and Android.
ExplorOz Traveller
The ExplorOz Traveller is a comprehensive resource for Australian travelers, providing detailed information on campsites, trip planning tools.
Availability: iOS, Windows and Android.
ExplorOz
Although they’ve released a campsite app, ExplorOz still offers a great deal online including campsite locations, trip planning tools, and an active community forum.
Full Range Camping
In addition to its app, Full Range Camping offers a robust website with an extensive directory of free campsites, tips for free camping, and a community forum.
National Parks websites
Description: Each Australian state and territory has its own national parks website, providing information on free and paid campsites within national parks.
New South Wales: NSW National Parks
Victoria: 13 19 63 / Parks Victoria
Queensland: Queensland National Parks
Western Australia: Parks and Wildlife Service
South Australia: National Parks and Wildlife Service
Northern Territory: Northern Territory Parks
Tasmania: Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service
There are plenty of other helpful resources available when it comes to finding free campsites in the land of Oz. Social media and online communities is a great place to start. You can join groups like “Free Camping Australia” and “Aussie Free & Budget Camping” to connect with fellow campers and get real-time recommendations.
If you’re not the “online” type, the good old local tourist information centres are often well-informed about free camping options in their area and can provide maps and brochures. Oh, and last but not least, don’t be afraid to get the low-down on a cracking campsite via word of mouth. Other travellers and local residents can often direct you to some real unknown gems!
THE WRAP UP
Finding free campsites in Australia can be an adventure in itself, leading you to some of the most beautiful and secluded spots in the country. By utilizing these apps, websites, and resources, you can plan a cost-effective and memorable camping trip. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a newcomer to the world of free camping, these tools will help you discover the best that Australia has to offer. Happy camping!
