Free camping on our own......

Wirroff · Senior Member

Free camping on our own......

Gerty Dancer · Guru

It might have something to do with the time of year Wirroff. Theres a huge GN migration northward for winter which fills pretty much every camp

freehazzas · Senior Member

We have been at a couple in Vic by ourselves, then the next night have heaps move in. Its nice at times to have it yo yourself.

03_troopy · Guru

It's nice most times to have it all to yourself

Vic41 · Guru

Wirroff wrote:
I can't believe how many times we have parked up, both in SA and WA and have been the only ones there! From recommended rest stops to free camps, 90% of the time we have been on our own. This wasn't the case at all in NSW or QLD where we had at least one other (usually two or three) campers/caravans/motorhomes to keep us company. We always try and get to these places before 3pm and still no luck! Is it us?
Anyone have any idea why (apart from the obvious that NSW and QLD have got bigger populations)?

How did you get on finding a free camp at Esperance, did you find one ok????

billeeeeeee · Guru

20 Klm west of Esperence on dirt ,,,free camp right on the beach ,,,,,,,, Billeeeeeee

Wirroff · Senior Member

We didn't actually find any free camping in Esperance and spent most of the time at the Bushlands CP which at $25 a night, considering the season, wasn't too bad. We're currently in the Margaret River area and are finding the same thing; i.e. huge lack of 'free camps' anywhere and many, many signs pointing out the fines for not parking in designated camping or caravan areas!

As owners of a full, self-contained vehicle, the CP's have really got to stop ripping us of. We have been quoted up to $65 a night to park our rig in their CP and use, maybe $3 worth of power. Ridiculous!

Vic41 · Guru

Someone (Dunmowins I think) mentioned a free camp just 27 kms north of Esperance called Gibsons Soak, I haven't been there but will keep that in mind. http://www.wacountrypubs.com/australias_south_west/the_gibson_soak_hotel.php

Towards the beginning of 2013 (School Holidays), I wanted an unpowered tent site at Bremer Bay, they wanted $42, no need to say they didn't get my business. I also stayed at the Bushlands C/P on Yeoeleven,s recommendation from when he was there, not flash but much cheaper than others in the district.

The closest "low cost" camps I can think of near Margaret River are Alexander Bridge and Sues' Bridge, both in the Camps book.

-- Edited by Vic41 on Sunday 5th of January 2014 11:11:51 PM

beiffe · Guru

One of the reasons many of us have crossed the west off our to visit list.
They are known for their NO CAMPING SIGNS and the gestapo rangers who travel around looking for people to move on.
I prefer to travel where I am welcome and give my money to their communities.
Regards
Brian

_wombat_ · Master (of Mischief)

NEVER had any problems free camping in WA, do you use a deodorant? biggrin biggrin

PeterInSa · Guru

Re [i.e. huge lack of 'free camps' anywhere and many, many signs pointing out the fines for not parking in designated camping or caravan areas!]

As a Caravanner for umpteen years+, we tend to overnight in rest areas and if no rest area then its a Caravan Prision. I think the mindset from being a caravanner to a motorhome/campervan owner is still the same for a number of years after the transition.

Where as experienced freedom campers in mh's/campervanners, will overnight down bush tracks, side streets in towns, industrial areas, cemetries parking areas, 24hr servos in cities ( after permission), back corner of ovals/showgrounds/tennis court parking areas, an an..... providing there are NOT No Camping signs posted.

Peter

native pepper · Senior Member

Until about 5 years ago we always went to the west as it has some lovely places, last time we came across the top and down. Only to find most of the places we camped were either closed, overflowing with noisy vanners and generators, or had draconian restrictions and charges. To make matters worse, prices had skyrocketed for food and just about everything else you have to buy.

We got to Albany to visit friends and were moved on from where we normally camped with threats of fines if we didn't stay at the van parks. This was more than 20 klms from Albany and off the highway, couldn't work out how the bloke knew we were there so quickly. Seems he followed us.

When we inquired about van park prices, decided to return to the east that day and haven't been back. Our friends tell us it's worse now with dedicated camping police harassing and following travelers to see where they are going to stop and then moving them on. Even if they just stop to shop, people have been harassed by council police. Seems if you're not in a van park, they go for you.

-- Edited by native pepper on Monday 6th of January 2014 10:45:14 AM

_wombat_ · Master (of Mischief)

native pepper wrote:
Until about 5 years ago we always went to the west as it has some lovely places, last time we came across the top and down. Only to find most of the places we camped were either closed, overflowing with noisy vanners and generators, or had draconian restrictions and charges. To make matters worse, prices had skyrocketed for food and just about everything else you have to buy.

We got to Albany to visit friends and were moved on from where we normally camped with threats of fines if we didn't stay at the van parks. This was more than 20 klms from Albany and off the highway, couldn't work out how the bloke knew we were there so quickly. Seems he followed us.

When we inquired about van park prices, decided to return to the east that day and haven't been back. Our friends tell us it's worse now with dedicated camping police harassing and following travelers to see where they are going to stop and then moving them on. Even if they just stop to shop, people have been harassed by council police. Seems if you're not in a van park, they go for you.

-- Edited by native pepper on Monday 6th of January 2014 10:45:14 AM

I have never heard so much crap in all my life, however I do respect your opinion.

I do agree that van parks are overpriced in WA

I have a printed A4 sheet that ask's the council guy to provide info and sign before I move on, also you only need to say sorry ossfier I have had too much to drink and I cannot drive today, or take a few slugs of whiskey then phone the real cops and ask them to come out and give you a breath test while the council guy is still there.

BTW I have never had to use my A4 printed sheet ever anywhere in Australia.

Vic41 · Guru

A lot depends on when you visit, if you visit beach/coastal areas during school or public holidays (or weekends) then prices like over in Queensland beach or coastal areas etc, are going to be high and crowded.

WA is still a great place to visit, but you have to choose your time and place, like anywhere in Oz. Wiroff has already said the free camps are less crowded than over east, so it is not fair to pick on WA only.

The only time I have ever been harassed by a Council Ranger was at Eacham in Qld at a Rest stop on the highway, Qld Main Roads put out a map showing free overnight camping spots, however the Council had other ideas and the Ranger said a few choice words about the Main Roads map and told everyone to move on.

I am reminded about a NSW caravan owner I met on the Nullabor who complained bitterly about the heavy rain down south of WA and how it rained constantly, I mean he was there in the middle of winter, but apparently by his reckoning it doesn't rain in winter in southern NSW, Victoria and other southern areas in winter. Some people have no common sense when travelling.

I prefer travel in mostly the shoulder months in southern WA (not school holidays) for coastal areas, or inland where prices are so much better in small towns and a lot more free camps.

_wombat_ · Master (of Mischief)

well said Vic, you can be my mate now, but only for this week, next week well that's a long way away for a wombat biggrin biggrin biggrin

spida · Guru

North of Perth there are heaps of free camps with toilets and dump points - especially up the Great Northern road. I think the south west is more populated so camping not encouraged so much. National Parks are cheap.

Vic41 · Guru

_wombat_ wrote:
well said Vic, you can be my mate now, but only for this week, next week well that's a long way away for a wombat

Ok, but don't tell Doug or Dazren, I don't want them getting Jealous ! wink

native pepper · Senior Member

_wombat_ wrote:
native pepper wrote:
Until about 5 years ago we always went to the west as it has some lovely places, last time we came across the top and down. Only to find most of the places we camped were either closed, overflowing with noisy vanners and generators, or had draconian restrictions and charges. To make matters worse, prices had skyrocketed for food and just about everything else you have to buy.

We got to Albany to visit friends and were moved on from where we normally camped with threats of fines if we didn't stay at the van parks. This was more than 20 klms from Albany and off the highway, couldn't work out how the bloke knew we were there so quickly. Seems he followed us.

When we inquired about van park prices, decided to return to the east that day and haven't been back. Our friends tell us it's worse now with dedicated camping police harassing and following travelers to see where they are going to stop and then moving them on. Even if they just stop to shop, people have been harassed by council police. Seems if you're not in a van park, they go for you.

-- Edited by native pepper on Monday 6th of January 2014 10:45:14 AM
I have never heard so much crap in all my life, however I do respect your opinion.
I do agree that van parks are overpriced in WA
I have a printed A4 sheet that ask's the council guy to provide info and sign before I move on, also you only need to say sorry ossfier I have had too much to drink and I cannot drive today, or take a few slugs of whiskey then phone the real cops and ask them to come out and give you a breath test while the council guy is still there.
BTW I have never had to use my A4 printed sheet ever anywhere in Australia.

What is it with those who first insult and denounce others opinions, then try to make out they didn't do it, pathetic ego probably and inability to cope with the facts as others experience. A glaring symptom of our times seen more and more on the road as more and more weekend warriors who think they know everything and only their opinion counts, hit the road and ruin it for everyone.

The problems on the road with free camping etc, have only raised their head in the last 5 years, before it was great. No prizes for guessing what has made things change, try any free camp on the main highways and tourist trails to get the facts. Those living in denial, either have no real experience, or are only holidaying. You want crap, look in the mirror you'll get all you need there.

Vic41 · Guru

spida wrote:
North of Perth there are heaps of free camps with toilets and dump points - especially up the Great Northern road. I think the south west is more populated so camping not encouraged so much. National Parks are cheap.

Funny Spida, I was just thinking about you and your visit to WA, you found and shared some great free camps. I was also thinking of Yeoeleven's trip and blog when he was over this way, he didn't seem to have any problems to speak of.

RV life is what you make it, for instance I would be reluctant to go north of WA on the coast at this time of the year, same as in Qld because of the cyclone season, yet some seem to thrive on being in these places at any time. Uluru is a good example also some like to visit in the wet to see water cascading down the rock, as per John Williamsons song, Raining On The Rock......

Like anywhere in Oz, study the seasonal weather patterns and do your research and most times it will work out fine, also use your free camp guides, Camps books, Camps GPS guide, Wikicamps and other guides to plan your trip loosely (don't be stuck with a rigid plan, however for those on a tight schedule (I'm going to swear here, like getting back to "work" or for family reasons you need to be practical.

_wombat_ · Master (of Mischief)

native pepper wrote:
_wombat_ wrote:
native pepper wrote:
Until about 5 years ago we always went to the west as it has some lovely places, last time we came across the top and down. Only to find most of the places we camped were either closed, overflowing with noisy vanners and generators, or had draconian restrictions and charges. To make matters worse, prices had skyrocketed for food and just about everything else you have to buy.

We got to Albany to visit friends and were moved on from where we normally camped with threats of fines if we didn't stay at the van parks. This was more than 20 klms from Albany and off the highway, couldn't work out how the bloke knew we were there so quickly. Seems he followed us.

When we inquired about van park prices, decided to return to the east that day and haven't been back. Our friends tell us it's worse now with dedicated camping police harassing and following travelers to see where they are going to stop and then moving them on. Even if they just stop to shop, people have been harassed by council police. Seems if you're not in a van park, they go for you.

-- Edited by native pepper on Monday 6th of January 2014 10:45:14 AM
I have never heard so much crap in all my life, however I do respect your opinion.
I do agree that van parks are overpriced in WA
I have a printed A4 sheet that ask's the council guy to provide info and sign before I move on, also you only need to say sorry ossfier I have had too much to drink and I cannot drive today, or take a few slugs of whiskey then phone the real cops and ask them to come out and give you a breath test while the council guy is still there.
BTW I have never had to use my A4 printed sheet ever anywhere in Australia.

What is it with those who first insult and denounce others opinions, then try to make out they didn't do it, pathetic ego probably and inability to cope with the facts as others experience. A glaring symptom of our times seen more and more on the road as more and more weekend warriors who think they know everything and only their opinion counts, hit the road and ruin it for everyone.
The problems on the road with free camping etc, have only raised their head in the last 5 years, before it was great. No prizes for guessing what has made things change, try any free camp on the main highways and tourist trails to get the facts. Those living in denial, either have no real experience, or are only holidaying. You want crap, look in the mirror you'll get all you need there.

No comment

rastas · Senior Member

We spent about 4 months in WA during 2013 and never had trouble finding free camps.

Before we went there we were told that they were not too friendly towards caravanners in WA

but we found they were fantastic. We would go back anytime.

Rastas

Bryan · Guru

I was camped in a no camping zone at the deep river just out of Walpole from boxing day to new year. Ranger came along and saw my boat and with a smile said he assumes I'll be fishing all night. I told him I would be "fishing" for the next couple of nights as well. He saw a tidy site, all the rubbish in the plastic bag tied to the bumper and said if all campers acted responsibly, they would have no problems with campers.

She ll Be Apples · Member

Hi Wombat

I have a printed A4 sheet that ask's the council guy to provide info and sign before I move on,

What's this A4 piece of paper you speak of and would it be possible for you to put up a copy so as to have a gander

Thanks in advance

Cheers

Mick

Vic41 · Guru

Bryan wrote:
I was camped in a no camping zone at the deep river just out of Walpole from boxing day to new year. Ranger came along and saw my boat and with a smile said he assumes I'll be fishing all night. I told him I would be "fishing" for the next couple of nights as well. He saw a tidy site, all the rubbish in the plastic bag tied to the bumper and said if all campers acted responsibly, they would have no problems with campers.

There are some good ones out there Bryan, thank goodness for the boat ! smile

_wombat_ · Master (of Mischief)

She ll Be Apples wrote:
Hi Wombat
I have a printed A4 sheet that ask's the council guy to provide info and sign before I move on,
What's this A4 piece of paper you speak of and would it be possible for you to put up a copy so as to have a gander
Thanks in advance
Cheers
Mick

Mick, just on my way out so will sort that out when I get back later today

_wombat_ · Master (of Mischief)

here tis, just get the officer to fill in ALL of the form or you stay put.

Insert your name in the blank spot or retype this with all of your own details.

She ll Be Apples · Member

Thanks Wombat for quick response

That is gold ,I don't think there would be to many public servants that would be keen to put there name to that for fear of being held liable.

That should pretty much end the conversation with the move along police.

Cheers

Mick

_wombat_ · Master (of Mischief)

She ll Be Apples wrote:
Thanks Wombat for quick response
That is gold ,I don't think there would be to many public servants that would be keen to put there name to that for fear of being held liable.
That should pretty much end the conversation with the move along police.
Cheers
Mick

I don't think it will work with the police but council employee's who think they are coppers may think twice.

I forgot to say, my account is in the post. biggrin biggrin

-- Edited by _wombat_ on Monday 6th of January 2014 08:02:14 PM

Motorhomer13 · Veteran Member

Wombat,

What is written on your A4 sheet?

We are in WA and am about to use free camps down SW area.

Cheers

Frank

brian · Guru

Just be aware that whilst the employee may indeed refrain from signing that document, or moving you along, the fine that they may still issue as per council ordinance, payment of which WILL be enforceable by law, is sure to be a heck of a lot higher than the site fee at the local caravan park.

Getting the employee's dander up by coming this smart ass heavy handed stuff is sure to result in a less than favourable result for you.

In many of these places now, the rangers etc. don't even talk to you about your transgression, they simply photograph your vehicle with time and date stamp plus GPS info. and issue an infringement notice.

It's then up to you to appear in court and state your case of being too tired to move on, good luck with that.

Is it really worth the agro that you will create for both yourselves and others just doing their job?