Free camping in Australia: 6 things you should know

Australia is a country made for exploring. There's so much to see you won't want to miss one square kilometre of it, and there's no better way to do that than hitting the road in your campervan and searching for that perfect spot. Free camping in Australia gives you plenty of opportunities to soak in the beauty and solitude of special spots!

You'll find hundreds of fantastic places for free camping, organised camping, RV resorts, you name it, and we're here to give you lots of ideas about what you can find around the country.  If your goal is to hit the road and be spontaneous - great. But, a little planning goes a long way and this is where we can help you by answering questions, helping you get inspired, getting organised, and really getting excited about your next camping adventure somewhere in Australia.

1. Is free camping in Australia available everywhere?

Australia can easily boast having some of the nicest campgrounds in the world that fit all budgets. Freedom or free camping in Australia is possible, but it isn't allowed just anywhere. There are specifically designated areas across the country that are either free or very inexpensive. If your main reason for free camping is saving money, be very careful! That free camping deal just might turn into an expensive affair if you are fined for camping in a restricted area.

Camping in Australia: enjoy the amazing view at remote campsites

2. Is freedom camping safe?

Freedom camping is generally considered to be a safe venture. There are thousands of like-minded people on the road enjoying free camping in Australia these days. It's very common to meet couples enjoying retirement, young adventurers, and families who, for the most part, are eager to be friendly and share their travel experiences with you. Of course, it is important to be well prepared for whatever may come up while you are travelling, like extreme weather conditions, or storing enough food and drinking water, for example.

3. How do you find free and budget camping sites in Australia?

Finding the perfect camping spot is now just a click away with the free Spaceships Camping App available for Apple or Android. Whether you are looking for a place to free camp (without the danger of paying a fine), an affordable campground, or a camp space in one of Australia's amazing national parks, you can get that information with this helpful app. You'll also find out what deals are available close by, where to find WiFi hotspots, road warnings, and where petrol stations are located. No more guessing or wandering around aimlessly.

Your Spaceship campervan also comes with a free copy of the Camps Australia Wide guidebook. This guidebook contains heaps of information about all the main holiday parks and free and budget campgrounds in Australia. It's a great addition to the budget & free campsites listed in the free Spaceships camping app.

4. What kind of facilities do free and budget campsites have?

Because it depends on the type of campsite, using the free camping app by Spaceships or WikiCamps app will tell you what facilities are available at individual sites. Generally, when it comes to free camping in Australia, it is no-frills camping.

When you have everything you need in your campervan or RV, it isn't a problem. Facilities at budget campsites also vary. Some have flush toilets, hot showers, and shady camp spots. Others have non-flushable toilets, no showers. Rest stops on highways allow you to park your campervan or RV for 24 hour periods, but facilities are usually limited to public restrooms.

Cooking yummy meals at amazing free or budget campsites in Australia

5. Is camping allowed in national parks in Australia?

Australia's national parks are stunning places to visit and explore. Camping is allowed in many of the parks and they are listed on the site. Campsites in the national parks are very affordable and most offer basic facilities. Prices vary depending on what facilities the park has, the park's location, and the season you are travelling. If it's peace, quiet and natural beauty you want, the national parks of Australia is where you'll find it.

See for more information about camping in National Parks in Australia these official sites:

• National Parks in New South Wales
• Queensland's National Parks
• National Parks in Victoria
• Western Australia National Parks

6. Camping tip: leave no trace!

Wherever you decide to spend the night, at a holiday park, free campsite or a budget campground, please look after Australia during your travels. Leave no trace when (free) camping in Australia:

• Plan ahead and prepare
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces
• Dispose of waste properly
• Leave what you find
• Minimise campfire impacts
• Respect wildlife
• Be considerate of your hosts and other visitors

Travelling and camping in Australia is an experience of a lifetime. The diversity of Australia offers travellers something new at every turn. From the expansive outback to the Great Ocean Road in the south, or the peaceful wilderness of the west coast, Australia has hundreds of perfect places to explore, admire and enjoy. So, pack up your campervan, or RV, with everything you need and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure.

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