Free camping in Australia: How does it work?

Travelling across Australia by road means embracing a way of life that’s both free and closely connected to nature. However, the cost of accommodation can quickly add up and become a real strain on your budget. Fortunately, there’s a smart alternative: free camping in Australia. Setting up camp in stunning, often remote locations, far from the crowds and immersed in unspoilt landscapes, is entirely possible without spending a penny.

But how exactly does it work? Where is free camping allowed? What are the legal rules? Which apps are most useful? And above all, how do you find a van that’s suited to this kind of travel? In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about free camping in Australia, before sharing our favourite spots across the country.

Understanding free camping in Australia

1) What is free camping in Australia?

Free camping in Australia refers to a practice that’s both straightforward and appealing: pitching your tent or parking your van in designated areas without paying any overnight fees. These sites allow travellers to stop and rest completely free of charge, whether in a campervan, a motorhome or a simple tent.

That said, facilities are basic. These aren’t traditional campsites but more often rest areas or even basic car parks where overnight stays are permitted. Some locations are entirely without amenities, while others may offer a few essentials such as toilets, picnic tables or, occasionally, showers (either free or coin-operated).

These spots can be found in a wide range of environments, including:

• State forests and conservation areas
• Public land or Crown Land
• Some national parks or roadside rest stops
• Coastal areas or remote bushland, as long as camping is explicitly permitted

2) Free camping vs wild camping: A crucial distinction

It’s important not to confuse free camping in Australia with wild camping. While they may seem similar, wild camping is typically riskier and often prohibited outside of designated areas.

• Wild camping involves setting up camp outside of authorised zones, usually in remote natural spaces. It’s generally done without permission and sometimes even on private property.

• In contrast, free camping in Australia takes place in areas that are officially permitted or regulated. These sites are usually listed on dedicated camping apps and are clearly identified as legal overnight options.

Camping for free doesn’t mean pitching up just anywhere. Understanding the difference is essential, not only to avoid fines, but also to protect fragile environments that are already under pressure from heavy use.

Essential regulations for free camping in Australia

1) Rules that vary from state to state

In Australia, free camping is legal, provided that it is done within a clearly defined framework. This framework varies depending on the state, local councils and the type of land involved. That’s what makes free camping in Australia both appealing and, at times, a little complex. Just because a spot appears quiet and deserted doesn’t necessarily mean you’re allowed to spend the night there.

Some areas are more relaxed and tolerate informal camping, while others are strictly regulated. In tourist-heavy or protected zones, authorities may enforce the rules more strictly. Simply overstaying your welcome, whether in a rest area or a nature reserve, can be viewed as a breach of regulations, potentially leading to hefty fines or being asked to leave the site.

2) Only camp in authorised areas 

To avoid any misunderstandings, there’s one golden rule: always camp in clearly designated “free camps” or “overnight rest areas”. These spots are usually signposted, shown on official maps, or listed in specialised camping apps (see below). By choosing these authorised areas, you ensure a peaceful, stress-free night without the risk of fines or being moved on.

3) Respect the maximum stay limits 

Most free camping areas in Australia come with time limits, usually between 24 and 48 hours. The purpose is simple: to give as many travellers as possible the chance to enjoy these spaces without turning them into long-term campsites. Overstaying the allowed time can be seen as taking advantage of the system. In some cases, it may even lead to the site being closed permanently for future travellers.

4) Campfires: A responsibility not to be taken lightly

During dry seasons, campfires can pose a serious risk in Australia. Before lighting any fire, it is essential to check the local regulations in place. Many states impose total bans on open fires during high-risk periods in order to prevent bushfires.

If fires are permitted, they must be kept under constant supervision and fully extinguished before you leave the site or go to sleep. It’s worth remembering that free camping in Australia is a privilege, made possible by the collective respect of those who use these sites.

5) Travelling with a pet: What are the rules?

If you’re travelling with a dog or another pet, be aware that not all free camping sites in Australia allow animals. In national parks and certain protected areas, pets are strictly prohibited, primarily to safeguard local wildlife. On sites where animals are permitted, they must be kept on a lead at all times, and all waste must be picked up without exception.

6) Respecting nature: The leave no trace principle

One of the core principles of free camping in Australia is respect for the environment. As a traveller, you have a responsibility to leave no trace of your stay. This means:

• Taking all your rubbish with you including biodegradable waste
• Never disposing of grey water in the natural environment
• Avoiding any disturbance to wildlife and not picking plants or flowers
• Staying within designated areas to prevent damage to delicate soils

The best apps for finding free camping in Australia

Fortunately, you’re not alone in navigating this maze of regulations. Several apps are available to help you identify suitable free camping in Australia. Most offer filters to narrow down your options based on vehicle type, available facilities or permitted length of stay.

Here are the most reliable tools:

1) WikiCamps Australia: The go-to app for free camping in Australia

Among the most popular resources for travellers in Australia, WikiCamps Australia stands out as a must-have app for anyone interested in free camping.

Key features

• Extensive database. Access over 60,000 locations across Australia, including free campsites, rest areas, national parks, water points, showers, dump stations, and more.
• Customisable filters. Refine your search based on your needs: pet-friendly sites, suitability for larger vehicles, available facilities, and more.
• Offline access. Download essential site information in advance for offline use, particularly helpful when travelling through remote regions.
• Reviews and ratings. Read feedback from other travellers to help choose the best spots and avoid the less reliable ones.
• Trip planner. Build and organise your itinerary, add notes, and sync your travel plans across multiple devices.

Pricing

WikiCamps is available on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store for a one-off fee of 9.99 AUD, with no ongoing subscription.

2) CamperMate : Your travel companion for free camping in Australia

CamperMate is another essential app, this time free of charge and designed to be highly intuitive.

Key features

• Comprehensive database. CamperMate offers an extensive directory of free and paid campsites, rest areas, national parks, dump stations, public toilets, showers, petrol stations, supermarkets, and more.
• Online and offline maps. Download the maps you need before your trip so you can access them without an internet connection.
• Customisable filters. Filter your search based on specific needs: pet-friendly locations, suitability for non self-contained vehicles, available amenities, etc.
• Reviews and ratings. Browse feedback from other users to identify the best spots and avoid unpleasant surprises.
• Exclusive deals. Receive notifications for special offers on nearby accommodation and local attractions.

These tools not only help you locate free camping areas in real time, but also provide photos, traveller reviews and updates on current conditions, making it easier to plan with confidence.

In addition to using apps, consider stopping by local visitor information centres, which often have up-to-date lists of campsites and accommodations in the area. Social media can also be a goldmine: Facebook groups for travellers in Australia regularly share helpful tips, recent experiences and great camping recommendations.

Why having a self-contained van is a major advantage

One of the main reasons free camping in Australia appeals to so many travellers is the unique sense of freedom it offers. But with that freedom comes a certain level of responsibility: self-reliance. In a country as vast and sparsely populated as Australia, it’s essential to be able to rely on yourself, your vehicle, and what you carry with you. This is where a self-contained van becomes an invaluable asset.

A self-contained vehicle allows you to:

• Camp legally in areas reserved for self-sufficient travellers
• Manage your own resources responsibly (water, power, waste) 
• Sleep in remote locations without needing access to public toilets or external power
• Extend your autonomy and your route, without being tied to caravan parks or powered campsites

Where to hire a van suited for free camping? With Vanz Travel!

If you don’t own your own van or are simply looking for a reliable option for your road trip, we’ve got you covered. At Vanz Travel, we specialise in campervan rentals across Australia and New Zealand, offering vehicles that are fully equipped and ideal for free camping.

Our fleet includes:

• Self-contained vans with portable toilets, water tanks and auxiliary batteries
• French-speaking assistance, perfect for Working Holiday Makers or holidaymakers from France
• A wide range of vehicles, from compact vans to fully autonomous 4WDs for more rugged routes
• Insurance packages tailored to long-distance travel, so you can hit the road with peace of mind

Two recommended vehicle types

1) High Top Van: Space and comfort

The High Top van is a popular choice among couples and small groups of friends looking for a bit more comfort. Its raised roof allows you to stand up inside, creating a genuine living space on the road.

• Equipment: Fridge, microwave, cooking hobs, sink and full set of kitchenware. Some models also include camping gear and bed linen.
• Advantage: Ideal for longer stays, with more room to cook, eat and relax indoors, even when the weather isn’t on your side.
• Limitation: Slightly more expensive than basic minivans, but offers excellent value for money in terms of comfort, especially for extended trips.

2) Motorhome: Maximum comfort on the road

For families or travellers seeking a more luxurious experience, the motorhome is a true home on wheels. It perfectly combines the spirit of a road trip with the comfort and privacy of traditional accommodation.

• Equipment: Motorhomes come with a fully equipped kitchen (hob, microwave, fridge, sink), a bathroom with shower and toilet, and spacious living and sleeping areas. Some models are also fitted with heating and air conditioning, making them suitable for all seasons.
• Advantage: Ideal for families with children or groups who don’t want to compromise on comfort. These modern vehicles often offer more storage space and premium features.
• Perfect option: For longer trips or for those who prioritise comfort and peace of mind, even when travelling through remote regions.

The best spots for free camping in Australia

Looking for a peaceful place to spend the night surrounded by nature? Here are two standout free camping spots in Australia. One is entirely free, while the other requires only a small contribution.

Bendeela Recreation Area – Kangaroo Valley, NSW

Located about 150 km south of Sydney in the heart of the beautiful Kangaroo Valley, Bendeela Recreation Area is a favourite among nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity. This rustic site, set in lush greenery, offers a regulated wild camping experience in a quiet and unspoilt setting.

It’s also considered one of the best places in the region to observe wombats and kangaroos in the wild. One of our travellers, Manon, shared her experience:

“To end the first day of our road trip, we parked our van at Bendeela Recreation Area. It’s a vast, remote space in the heart of nature. The night cost us just 3 dollars each, and we enjoyed an unforgettable evening under the stars, gently accompanied by kangaroos passing nearby. But it’s at nightfall that the real magic happens, wombats come out quietly to graze in the wide open field behind the site.“

• Type of site: Non-powered camping area, suitable for tents, campervans, caravans and motorhomes.
• Available facilities: Flush toilets and treated drinking water.
• Not available: No showers or electric hookups.
• Booking: Required via the official NSW Parks website, approx. 6 AUD per night.

Bay of Fires – East Coast of Tasmania

Located on the north-eastern coast of Tasmania, the Bay of Fires Conservation Area is a top destination for anyone seeking free camping by the sea. It’s known for its striking white sand beaches, turquoise waters and bright orange lichen-covered rocks. All accessible at no cost.

Camping is only allowed in designated areas, divided into two main sections:

Northern Section – Policemans Point

South of Ansons Bay, this site offers a number of shaded pitches surrounded by coastal vegetation, with beautiful views over the river mouth. It’s a peaceful spot, ideal for self-sufficient campers looking for solitude.

Southern Section – from Binalong Bay to The Gardens

This stretch is home to several popular free camping sites, including Grants Lagoon, Jeanneret Beach, Swimcart Beach, Cosy Corner (North and South), Seatons Cove and Sloop Reef. All provide direct beach access in a spectacular natural setting.

• Facilities: Composting toilets and sometimes picnic tables but no water supply or electricity. Full autonomy is essential.
• Booking: No reservation required. Arriving early is recommended, especially in the peak summer season.

To make the most of the free camping experience in Australia, having a reliable and fully equipped van is essential. At Vanz Travel, we offer a selection of vehicles perfectly suited to this type of journey, combining comfort, practicality and autonomy. Feel free to get in touch with us to find the van that best fits your route and your budget.

Photos : Manon de Goldenturtles