Camping, Propane (LPG) Availability and Fuel Prices in
Australia and New Zealand
Updated May 2018
General information:
Overnight Locations:
Their are many camping options available to you in both Australia and New Zealand. Everything from full on holiday park resorts to national and regional parks to recognized free camping spots available in book form or via apps on your phone or tablet to park anywhere places you find yourself. Both Australia and New Zealand have different resources available to you for locating recognized camping locations so we will cover each of them individually below. We list the locations we have used below. For New Zealand, our listings are shown in alphabetical order by the name of the nearest town and are broken into South Island and North Island. For Australia, we have switched to a chronological order for the listings, which allows you to follow our route, with headings for the state or territory. The numbers in parentheses indicate the (month/year) we were there.
GPS Coordinates: We show coordinates for each overnight spot we stayed at and also include elevation (in meters) for the locations where we think that may be a consideration to other travelers.
Propane (LPG):
RVs like our Tiger, with a chassis mounted propane tank, in some countries need to go to a different location than those with removable tanks that sometimes can be refilled but also can be exchanged. In some regions one type of tank may be easier to fill than the other while in other areas the reverse may be true. In both Australia and New Zealand, with thousands of rental camper vans in addition to many locally owned motorhomes and caravans, LPG is readily available at many, perhaps as many as half, of the stations that carry petrol and diesel fuel. Of those stations with LPG, some will only be able to fill replaceable tanks, but many will have the 1 3/4” Acme thread fitting needed for fixed tanks. We had no trouble locating LPG for the rental van we were using in New Zealand, and we would also have had no difficulty getting LPG for the Tiger if we had had it with us. Australia, if anything, will prove to be even easier to locate propane.
Fuel Prices:
These prices give the range of what we paid in each country. We have a diesel engine; the diesel prices are actual. We have included the estimated prices for regular unleaded gasoline, called petrol here. All fuel prices are shown with both the actual local cost and with that cost converted into US gallons and US Dollars at the time of our visit.
US Credit Cards:
Credit cards in both Australia and New Zealand have an embedded chip and use a PIN for security. These cards do not require a signature. While US cards are beginning to move to chip technology, many continue to be based on a magnetic strip. Either way, most US cards still require a signature rather than a PIN and ours are this type. There do seem to be more financial institutions in the US that will issue a chip and PIN based card and we know people who are using them in Europe. Here, we’ve had no trouble using our chip and signature cards at any location with an attendent/cashier and magnetic strip cards would work as well. The main limitation is that our cards will not work at an unmanned 24/7 fuel station, but then our Debit card with PIN doesn’t work at these stations either so we cannot say for sure whether a US issued chip and PIN card would work. We have not seen very many unmanned service stations where this might be an issue.
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Australia:
Exchange rate: When we arrived in mid-June 2017, the Australian Dollar was at a rate of about $1.32 to one US Dollar ($1Aus = $0.755US). This is a good rate for us as back in 2011-2013 the US Dollar had fallen to less than the Aus Dollar and we had decided to skip coming to Australia all together. Over the time we’ve been here the rate has fluctuated some but has remained roughly between $.75 to $.80 US to $1.00 A. Posted prices in Australia seem rather high to us for things like eating out, groceries and alcohol, but at the current rate of exchange things are not particularly expensive. As always we must say that we travel in a rather basic manner. We seldom stay in campgrounds, don’t take tours or scenic flights, don’t eat out in restaurants often, etc. The posted prices for all of these things are high so other travelers should consider everything they may want to do in determining their own budget. It is safe to say that Australia can be an expensive travel destination depending on what you choose to do and what your native currency exchange is at the time of your visit.
Overnight parking regulations: Bush camping is readily available in Australia and it is not difficult to find suitable locations. We are currently spending a lot of time in the outback areas of South Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland and Western Australia and bush camping places are everywhere, as are other options such as campgrounds and National Parks. In more populated areas options may be more limited. There are numerous printed atlases such as the Camps 9 series (also available as an app) to help you find bush camping options as well as caravan parks. Many travelers, including us, rely on the WikiCamps app, which is less pricey and has been working well for us. This app can be set up to only find free camping places or Holiday Parks, National Parks or whatevery you want, including dump stations.
National Parks: Just a word on this subject. Australia has over 500 designated National Parks, but they are administered separately by the State or Territory. The result is a complex system of fees and rules that you just have to feel your way through as you go. For example, there is no national discount pass such as is available in the US. The most famous parks such as Uluru/Ayers Rock and Kakadu are pretty pricey to get into, but most parks do not have any entrance fee at all so it evens out. There is generally a fee for camping in national parks, but it is fairly low. Once you give up on looking for the easily explainable solution that you think must be there, it all works out ok. Western Australia is different in that they do offer a month long or annual pass to cover entry fees, which all WA national Parks seem to have. Camping is also more expensive in WA National Parks; in 2017 camping fees were $11/person/night. However, these funds appear to be put to good use as National Park campgrounds and other facilities are uniformly excellent in WA. RV Friendly towns, visitor centers in many towns and excellent travel guides and brochures all help make WA a great overlanding destination.
Fuel: Fuel prices tend to be pretty consistent in populated areas, varying only a few cents per liter, and Diesel and Unleaded petrol tend to be pretty similar in cost. Supermarket chains are affiliated with fuel stations and provide fuel discount schemes that are worthwhile to use. In the Outback, prices will be a lot higher in out of the way places, but not in major centers like Alice Springs or Mount Isa. We have been seeing Diesel usually in the mid $1.20s to $1.30s/liter Aus, but in more out of the way places it has gone up to anywhere from $1.42 to $1.89/liter, so be sure to fill up when it’s lower before heading out in the dirt. With the current exchange rate fluctuating as noted above, it’s a little hard to be precise, but we’ve generally paid from $3.59 to $4.09 per gallon US in built up areas, but up to $5.25/gallon in the Outback. The most expensive region for Diesel we’ve seen so far (other than in the Outback) has been in the Southwest, below Perth, where Diesel often runs in the $1.40s and is frequently 10-12 cents higher than unleaded. We use the WikiFuel app to research fuel prices. During our twelve month stay, prices increased to the point where Diesel was more frequently in the $1.40 to 1.50/liter Aus range in most areas.
Propane: LPG is readily available throughout Australia. As noted above, whether you have a fixed tank or removable cylinders you will have no difficulty finding LPG, which is referred to as LPG on signage, but as gas in conversation. It is also cheap, at least in built up areas. We’ve only had to get it twice, when the Tiger first arrived, and again after six months. We paid AUS $0.679/liter, or US $1.96/gallon the first time and A $0.799, or US $2.33/gallon the second time. This is less than half what we were paying in New Zealand, and even less than we average in the US. In Outback locations expect to pay about twice these amounts.
Location, Type/Cost and Description (Listings are in chronological order. Numbers {6/17} indicate month/year of travel.)
Victoria
Heathcote Overnight Parking Free S36.92394 E144.71146
Heathcote is a nice small town in wine country off B75 not far from Bendigo. We were given several free overnight spots to use for one night each. We parked on Barrack Street near the footie grounds. (6/17)
Heathcote Overnight Parking Free S36.92893 E144.70442
We spent a second night in this area, this time parked about 1/2 mile west of town up the road to the Pink Nature Reserve. We parked in the parking lot at the trail head, across the road from Louis De Castella Wines. Quieter. (6/17)
Huntley Camping area Free S36.66968 E144.32651
On the edge of town we spent 2 nights in the Lions Club Park; small but sufficient. Nice flush toilets BBQ, running water. (6/17)
Bendigo Dump Station S36.73859 E144.27332
Free dump and water available at the town showgrouns. No casual amping. Trash and recycling and toilet block. (6/17)
Echuca Area Bushcamping Free S36.04276 E144.60451
Right on the Murray River, with lots of room. This is a great spot. Plenty of trees but lots of open ground as well. No services. Head towards the river from Wharparilla. Goes through some private land but is well signed as okay. (6/17)
Robinvale Area Bushcamping Free S37.75422 E143.23322
Large open land area (with trees) near the Murray River; many possible spots. Turn off B400 about 45 kms east of town at Narrung State Forest Camp One; Narrung is the closest village to the camp spot. If traveling west, the turn will be shortly after the turn to Heywood Lake. (6/17)
We returned to Victoria in January 2018 after five months in northern and western Australia.
Casterton RVFT Overnight parking area Free S37.58104 E141.39906
This is a beautiful place, a large open grassy area next to a lovely, shaded lagoon with birds. Self-contained only allowed, 30 days max. You can easily walk into town, with all the needed services. Picnic tables, trash. (1/18)
Grampians NP Plantations camping Area (Brabuk) Free S37.05906 E142.51431
This nice, large, open camping area has water and toilets, and a cold-water shower. It is located up Mt Zero Rd from Halls Gap. (1/18)
Grampians NP Bushcamping Free S37.28076 E142.41083
This pretty, open area is at the junction of Serra Rd and Glenelg River Rd, in the interior of the park; it is about 15 kms west on Serra Rd from where it leaves Grampians Tourist Rd, perhaps 25 kms south of Halls Gap. On gravel road. No services; had been suggested as a good spot by the visitors center. (1/18)
Stawell area Camping area Free S37.00941 E142.61928
Lake Lonsdale is west of Stawell and east of the Grampians; there are several free camping areas along the lake; we stayed at Flat Rock for 2 nights. Lots of room and trees. No services. (1/18)
Bendigo area Rest area Free S36.99856 E144.29051
The Oak Forest rest area is north of Harcourt, and about 27 kms south of Bendigo. It is in a small grove of trees in the hills above town; very pretty, but they seem to be developing this area, so come early and be prepared to move on if the spot is no longer available. (1/18)
Wangaratta area Bushcamping Free S36.41494 E146.45717
The Tarrawingee Bushland Reserve camping area is along a bend in the Ovens River. To reach the area, turn south off Highway B5000 approximately 15 kms southeast of Wangaratta. Lovely spot, and very quiet except for some crickets! (1/18)
Towong Rest Area Free S36.12314 E148.00011 Elevation 262 meters
East of town, this lovely open grassy field with trees is next to the Murray River. 4 weeks max staying time. No services except trash and a reputedly stinky toilet. Just a minute west of the NSW border. (1/18)
Corryong RVFT Rest Area Free S36.19336 E147.89995
Kind of nondescript area next to a large concrete pad that is probably the official site; very hot so we parked under nearby trees. No one objected. No services. (1/18)
Alpine NP Bushcamping Free S36.73130 E147.73228 Elevation 546 meters
This is the Shannonvale Hut rest area, about 11 km north of Benambra, on the C545 unpaved road. Toilets; big grassy area near a lovely stream. (1/18)
Paynesville area Parking area Free S37.88890 E147.67485
Get off the C604 onto Eagle Point Road, then go left on Eagle Point Rd, then take Rivermouth Rd, then left immediately (opposite the RV park entrance), then down to the river. Lovely, grassy area. Dog walkers and fishermen, and rowers on the river. Delightful. (1/18)
Errinundra NP Campground Free S37.34252 E148.70076 Elevation 239 meters
Camping in old growth rainforest, at the Goongerah campsite. Toilets. This site is up the C612 from Orbost to a spot 25 km belong Bonang and about 46 kms above Orbost. (1/18)
McKillops Bridge area Rest area Free S37.09072 E148.61403 Elevation 463 meters
Along the Deddick River, about 3 kms east of Tubbut, is a camp spot with trash. Not perfect, too close to the road, otherwise okay. This is on the C611. (1/18)
Alpine NP Camping Area Free S36.89572 E148.08955 Elevation 1170 meters
The Native Dog Flat Campground is very nice, large and open, but with lots of shade trees; grassy, and with a small stream. There are also horse corrals, a short distance away. This site is on Limestone Road, driving between the Suggen Buggen area and Benambra. Stayed 2 nights and could have stayed a week. Toilet. (1/18).
Harrietville area Smoko camping area Free S36.82745 E147.07861 Elev 428 meters
South of Harrietville on B500, the Great alpine Road, various overnight spots among the trees down along the river. Not special, but okay; heavily used. (1/18)
Mansfield area Lake Eildon camping area Free S37.12201 E145.96297
The Island camping area along the lake. Go south from Mansfield, take C111 toward Jamieson. At Piries turn left and head toward Goughs Bay. Just as enter the village there will be a Walshs road off to the right, heading toward the campsites. This becomes/is a gravel road 23 kms from Mansfield. Walshs will also say Delatite Plantations Rd for a while; you are in Delatite Arm Forest Reserve. You will travel 16 kms on gravel. There are many campsites along the lake. (1/18)
Mansfield area Mt Buller camping area Free S37.11160 E146.40114
Kingsporn Bridle Track is in a field on the south side of Mt Buller Rd, east of Mansfield, just before the entrance to the ski area. Very pretty, with a grassy area and trees, a stream, toilets. Hard to get level. Area is called Mirimbah. (2/18)
Mt Buller Camping Area Free S37.08788 E146.57248 Elev 768 meters
In Alpine NP, Upper King Hut camping area; off the Circuit Route of the mountain. Large open area with lots of room on King Basin Rd off Speculation Rd off Circuit Rd in Mt Buller Recreation Area. Can reach by taking Speculation off the Circuit Rd in the northeast quadrant of the loop. There will be no river crossings if approach from this end. You go in on Speculation Rd approximately 6 kms. (2/18)
Mansfield area Toombullup SF Camping Area Free S36.88818 E146.23509 Elev 857 Meters
Toombullup School Site; circular area with several camping spots, picnic tables, toilet. In the woods; off of C517, Tatong Tolmie Rd off C521, the Mansfield-Whitfield Rd. This is all north of Mansfield. It was quite nice. (2/18)
Myrtleford area Buffalo River SF Camping Area Free S36.82199 E146.66124 Elev 300 Meters
Blades Campground is a small campground but with plenty of open ground for finding a good space; few trees. Tables and grills. Quite. Myrtleford is 30 km north. (2/18)
Bright area Bush camping Free S36.75554 E147.02238
Going north out of town, after 10 kms you turn left onto Snowy Creek Rd, and shortly turn left on a dirt road just before the bridge. Follow the track all the way to the end; you will find a lovely spot right next to the river. Delightful. (2/18)
Seymour Bush camping area Free S37.01969 E145.11526
The Northwood Reserve bush camping area is across the river from the town of Seymour, which is on the M31 (Hume Highway) north of Melbourne about 90 kms. It’s a large area along the river, quite popular but with plenty of room. Quite nice. Lots of grass and shade trees. (2/18)
Melbourne Street parking Free S37.83728 E144.92731
Waiting near the dock to load onto the ferry to Tassie the next morning, we were told we could free camp on Beacon Street west of the terminal and parallel to the water. There is also parking a bit further west, on Boulevard, along a green belt. Be sure to get there early. No services. (2/18)
— — — — After our return from Tasmania — — — —
Nambrok RVFT Overnight Parking area Free S38.06983 E146.85452
Large sports field with plenty of parking; self-contained only. Quiet superior. No time limit. In Gippsland area, north of Rosedale into the country. Stayed several days. (4/18)
Maffra RVFT Overnight Parking area Free S37.97316 E146.98386
At the East Gippsland Motor Museum; nice shady lawn area in front of museum. No rubbish containers, but toilets when museum is open. Covered BBQ area with tables. Splendid. (4/18)
Mitta Mitta area Bush camping area Free S36.45788 E147.31682
Katie Peters Reserve; lovely. Located about 13 km north of town along a bend in the river. Open grassy area with tons of spots. Toilets. (4/18)
Geelong area Roadside rest area Free S38.09888 E144.06468
Approximately 25 kms west of the city, and a bit east of Inverleigh, there is an official overnight spot. Clean, grassy, room for about 10 vehicles. Some trees. Picnic tables, no services. (4/18)
Colac area Roadside overnight area Free S38.27048 E143.61450
Meredith Park is about 9 kms north of Colac along Lake Colac. Nice open area along the water, with toilets. Colac is along the A1 highway, west of Geelong about 75 kms. (4/18)
Yea Roadside overnight area Free S37.21287 E145.43892
Rest area east of town along the B300; between mansfield and the Hume Highway. Rural area with trees and picnic tables near the river. No services. (5/18)
South Australia
Renmark Overnight Parking Free S34.16916 E140.74486
Public park in town, with trees, playing fields, swimming pool. Dump and water available. (6/17)
Burra Area Camping Free S33.66981 E139.10167
Just west of town is the Red Banks Conservation Preserve camping area, 10 km in on gravel road, then turn south at the Redbanks Street sign. Charming and quiet; pit toilets. Stayed 2 nights. (6/17)
Port Augusta Area Overnight Free S32.46262 E137.96864
About 18 km out of town on the road to Quorm there is a large rest area with plenty of open areas fairly far off the road. Pretty area next to a cliff. (6/17)
Flinders NP Campgrounds Pay S31.35740 E138.58186
We investigated each of the campgrounds along the interior gorge loop, and decided this one, the Cambrian Campground, was the best. We paid $10 for a one week SA NP pass, and $15/night for this campground. It has toilets and water.
At S31.52441 E138.60571 we also spent a night at the Wilpena Pound visitor center campground, for $25/night/no power. It has fuel, dump station, water, showers, and other amenities. Powered sites are also available at this location. (6/17)
Blinman Area Bushcamping Free S30.95558 E139.21550
About 70 km east of town on a gravel road is the Chambers Gorge Camping area, at the base of Mt Gammon, south of the Vulkathunha Gammon NP visitors center. No services. This is an open area along a dry creek bed, with indigenous engravings up the canyon. (7/17)
Gammon NP Campground Pay S30.55520 E139.17180
Italowie Gorge camping area. Nice open campground, good base for exploring the NP; $12/night. Toilets and water. (7/17)
Marree Area Bushcamping Free S29.64683 E137.63867
About 25 miles northwest of town, along the Oodnadatta Track there is a pull off into trees near a train trestle. Quiet, open and lovely at night; it is a dry stream bed. No services. Turn off at the Alberrie Creek sign. (7/17)
Oodnadatta Area Bushcamping Free S27.90420 E135.81071
East of town about 55 km, at the Algebuckina Crossing sign, there is a large open area near the trestle; spent 2 nights. Great spot. (7/17)
Cadney Park Area Bushcamping Free S27.94497 E134.15169
About 12 km east of town (Cadney Park is on the A87), on the Painted Desert Highway, there is a patch of open ground; west of Copper Hill, beside the sign saying Evelyn Creek Waterway. Quiet. (7/17)
We returned to South Australia in December 2017 after five months in northern and western Australia.
Border Town Overnight parking area Free S31.66043 E129.10330
Just after crossing into SA from WA, there are several free overnight spots along the Bunda Ciffs above the coast, starting about Peg 10 east of town. You can park near the highway, or just follow the gravel road towards the water. Great views; a perfect spot; windy. This spot is in Nullarbor NP. (12/17)
Ceduna area Overnight parking area Free S31.93914 E133.39587
This is a casual pull-off that went back a fair distance from the highway, with trees and open areas. No services, but it was just fine. It was 33 km west of Ceduna and 36 km east of Penong. Very quiet. (12/17)
Kimba RVFT Overnight parking area Free S33.13298 E136.41486
This is a great spot for a respite along this long, desolate highway. This place is on the edge of town, on gravel, with water, toilets and dump nearby. 5 nights max. There is another place, in the center of town, which is smaller and doesn’t work as well. Better to come out here. (12/17)
Port August West area Overnight parking area Free S32.55651 E137.65544
About 12 kms south of the town, on a road that parallels the highway (A1), alongside the water pipe line, on Caroona Rd, near the Army Training area, is a hill with marvelous views and a great open place to park; we stayed 2 nights. Full internet/phone coverage. (12/17)
Kapunda area RVFT Overnight parking area Free S34.27319 E138.76817
On the edge of open field outside the small farming town of Tarlee. Toilets. Approximately 15 kms northwest of Kapunda. (12/17)
Strathalbyn area Overnight parking area Free S35.29904 E139.04222
The Frank Potts Reserve is a rest area on the edge of the smallish community of Langhorne Creek, right off the B45. Toilets, picnic tables; plenty of trees. Spent 3 nights. (12/17)
Coorong NP Overnight parking area Free S36.65784 E139.85437
This parking area is marked as the Granite Rd/Old Coorong Rd exit from Princes Highway (B1), about 15 kms north of Kingston S.E. Just behind the dunes with excellent beach access. No services. (12/17)
Mt Gambier area Overnight parking area Free S37.62765 E140.79887
The Tarpeena local football club has a grassy parking area that is quite nice. Dump and water were available. This is just off the A66 33 kms north of Mt Gambier. (12/17)
Peterborough RVFT area Overnight parking area Free S32.97440 E138.82326
Large open field with trees around the edges; 72-hours max; self-contained only. (4/18)
Northern Territory
Uluru (Ayer’s Rock) NP Area Bushcamping Free S25.22249 E131.04367
Roughly 12 km east of the park entrance there is a big open grassy field with trees. Lots of folks camp here between visits to the park. No services. Spent 2 nights. (7/17)
Watarrka (Kings Canyon) NP Area Bushcamping Free S24.64653 E132.31827
Along Luritja Rd, heading north off the Lassiter Hwy toward Watarrka NP, just south of the junction with Giles Rd, there is a wide open area for overnight parking. Can get quite a distance from the road. No services; very quiet. (7/17)
Watarrka NP Area Overnight Parking Free S24.06077 E131.40849
About 20 cm north of Kings Canyon Resort there is a large parking area among trees at the Morris Pass Lookout. Quiet. (7/17)
West MacDonnells NP Area Bushcamping Free S23.67811 E132.67305
Across from the Glen Helen Resort, the Finke River Bushcamp has loads of spots for overnight camping; it’s a super place, along the creek bed, quite lovely; 4x4 only. (7/17)
Alice Springs Campground Pay S23.72167 E133.87030
The Gap View Hotel, at the south end of town, has both unpowered ($15/night) and powered ($25/night) sites behind the hotel. Quite popular as we think it is the least expensive in town. Showers, laundry, and water. 7 day limit, supposedly. Dump station is not far away, at the showgrounds (S23.73253 E133.86014). (7/17)
Alice Springs Bush Camping Area Free S23.79204 E133.87273
Drive south from town on A87 (the Stuart Highway), after about 5 miles the road turns west and then southwest, heading for the junction with the Lassiter Highway (to Uluru). Very soon after the first turn west, you will see a large open area to your south; this is the free bush camping area. There is no time designation; no services. We have spent much of a two-week period parked out here. There is a fair amount of highway noise, but not bothersome. Plenty of people, but plenty of room. (7/17)
Alice Springs area Campground Pay S23.52306 E137.39700
Trephina Gorge Nature Park is a lovely nature park 85 kms east of Alice Springs on the Ross Highway; paved part way. We stayed 2 nights in the Panorama Campground, which we thought was the best of the four available. Cost was $6.60/p/night for two people. No entry fee to the park; great hiking. Toilets and water available (should filter before drinking, didn’t taste that great). Quiet area. (7/17)
Alice Springs area Bush Camping Area Free S22.95035 E133.54297
Along the Stuart Highway (87), north of Alice and just north of the turn onto the Plenty Highway, there is a large rest area with picnic tables. It’s a very nice, quiet spot. There were 6-8 vehicles there with us, but still plenty of room. (8/17)
Devil’s Marbles Campground Pay S20.56860 E134.26401
The campground at this nature park on the Stuart Highway is quite basic but right next to the marbles; cannot be beat. Cost was $3.30/per/person/night. Toilets. Lots of space. (8/17)
Tennant Creek area Bushcamping Area Free S19.84242 E136.15504
Along the Barkly Highway (66), east of the Barkly Homestead Roadhouse, is the Wonara rest area, a nice spot set a ways back from the road. Worked out well. Note that both the Stuart and Barkly highways have well marked rest areas that are available for overnight stops. (8/17)
We returned to Northern Territory after a few weeks in Queensland.
Borroloola area Bush Camping Free S16.93202 E137.35399
About 180 km east of Borroloola, just west of the Calvert River crossing, there are lots of places to bush camp, along Highway 1. This open ground worked well for us. No services. (8/17)
Daly Waters area Bullwaddy Rest Area Free S16.45149 E13
Along Highway 1 (Carpentaria Rd), shortly west from Bullwaddy Conservation Reserve, about 85 km east of Daly Waters. Nice and big; worked out well. (8/17)
Katherine area Bush Camping Free S14.35759 E132.13936
About 18 km north of town, an open free camping area. A bit noisy, and trashy in places, but lots of room. Dusty. Stayed several nights over the next couple of weeks. (8/17)
Litchfield National Park Campground Pay S13.09267 E130.78479
Florence Falls 4WD campground; $6.60/person/night. Lovely campground with showers and toilets. Easy walk to the falls, where you can swim. Close at hand is a 2WD camping area. (8/17)
Batchelor area Rest Area Free S12.83722 E131.13373
About 20 km north of turnoff towards Batchelor off Stuart Highway, and just north of the Manton Rec Area is the Manton Rest Area. Large area with some shade; close to highway and train tracks (one train came by during the night). (8/17)
Pine Creek area Rest Area Free S13.67880 E131.98482
At Pine Creek Highway 21 goes northeast to Kakadu NP. About 30 km up the road, there is a side road off the highway, to the Harriet Creek Rest Area. Quite nice, plenty of room; stayed a total of 3 nights at different times. No services. (9/17)
Kakadu National Park Campground Pay S12.94144 E132.55386
Jim Jim Billabong Campground. Lovely, along Jim Jm Creek. $6/person/night. Toilets. (9/17)
Kakadu National Park Campground Pay S12.76732 E132.75539
Malabanjbanjdju Caravan Campground. $6/person/night. Small site, not as nice, but okay. Toilets. (9/17)
Katherine area Rest Area Free S14.82933 E131.91661
Limestone Rest Area, about 60 kms west of town along Victoria Highway. Toilets. Quiet and nice. (9/17)
Judbarra National Park Campground Pay S15.61207 E130.40173
Big Horse Creek Campground. $3.30/person/night. Nice open area, well maintained. Toilets, grills, picnic tables. Ten km west of Timber Creek. Grove of boab trees; near the river. (9/17)
Keep River National Park Campground Pay S15.87539 E129.05122
Goorrandalng Campground. $3.30/person/night. Lovely little spot among nifty sandstone rock formations. Toilets. (9/17).
Queensland
Mount Isa area Rest Area Free S20.37417 E139.26387
About 50 km west of Mount Isa, the rest stop is along the Barkly Highway (66) and is really quite nice. It is a huge area, and goes back off the road for a long ways, among the trees. Toilets, picnic spot, and a WWII monument. Lovely and quiet. (8/17)
Cloncurry/Mount Isa road Rest Area Free S20.80043 E139.99641
Again, along the Barkly Highway (66), the Fountain Springs rest area is halfway (60 kms) between the two towns. We didn’t stop, having found a deserted spot closer to Mount Isa, but this should work quite nicely. (8/17)
Cloncurry/Normanton road Bush Camp Free S19.29131 E140.30190
Going north on Hwy 83 towards Normanton, about 5 miles south of the intersection where Hwy 84 bisects this road, we pulled aways off the road on the left, and overnighted quietly in the bush. (8/17)
Normanton Town Bushcamp Area Free S17.66141 E141.08688
At the north edge of town, cross the river and then turn left into a very large bush camping area near the river; take note of the crocodile warnings. The camping is free but a permit from the visitor’s centre is required (when we arrived at the visitor center a sign said closed today and no permit required). Plenty of room; no services and a bit dusty. Nice and quiet. (8/17)
Georgetown area Rest Area Free S18.29971 E143.34955
Cumberland Chimney Historic Site bush camp along the Savannah Way 20 km west of town. Toilets. Pond. Very popular. We parked a bit away from where most folks were. Quiet and full of birds to watch. (8/17)
Ravenshoe area Rest Area S17.64640 E145.34644 Elevation 650 meters
About 15 km west of town there is an overnight rest area that’s quite open. Too close to busy road but quite pleasant. Grassy area and toilets; river nearby. (8/17)
Kairi Rest Area S17.21637 E145.54321
East of Atherton, town has a nice grassy overnight parking area opposite the Kairi Hotel. Quiet town; toilets. (8/17)
Mareeba area Rest Area S16.66631 E145.32832
Mount Molloy rest area north of Mareeba on Highway One. Bare bones and a bit dusty under the trees. Lots of space and plenty of folks. this is the closest free rest area to the south end of the Daintree NP. Toilets. (8/17)
Cooktown area Overnight parking area S15.67957 E145.20804
On Highway 40, heading east toward Cooktown, shortly before the turn to Rossville, there’s a right hand turn marked Little Annon River, that leads to an open parking area used as a gravel storage site. Can walk down to the river cataracts from here. Well off the highway. Stayed 2 nights. No services; not pretty but good location. (8/17)
Cooktown area Bush Camping area S15.60387 E145.32687
Along Highway 81, 15 k south of Cooktown, there is a turnoff marked Archer Point, and you travel 11 kms toward the water. The road is gravel but in good shape. Great beach and parking on the bluff overlooking the ocean. Go on beyond an organized overnight area (full and messy), for another 200 meters or so. Lovely. Stayed 2 nights. No services, great view (8/17)
Laura area Overnight parking area S15.43757 E144.42676
Going north from Split Rock Aboriginal site, about halfway between the town of Laura and where Battle Camp Road takes off going east, there is a large pullout area by a river crossing with trees; we had a nice, quiet night. This is a few miles south of where the road into Rinyirru (Lakefield) NP begins. (8/17)
Rinyirru National Park Sweetwater Lake Cpg area Pay S14.66218 E143.83789
At Musgrave Roadhouse on Highway 81 turn east 43 kms on the gravel road into the park, and the right turn for Sweetwater will appear quite shortly. The camping spot is next to a lagoon with birds and crocodiles (reportedly). Cost: $6.30/pp; booking ahead is required; no cash accepted. (8/17)
Burke Developmental Road/Dunbar area Bush Camping area S15.87160 E142.45407
Above the Dunbar Station, on the unpaved Dixie Road, about 25 kms northeast toward Artemis and Highway 81, we parked overnight beside a lovely lagoon with some shade. Very pleasant, with lots of birds and wallabies to enjoy. (8/17)
Normanton area Bush Camping area S17.29330 E141.58342
Along the Burke Developmental Road, about 80 km from town, we stopped for the night near a waterhole away from the road, with plenty of shade, wallabies and birds. Delightful. (8/17)
Cloncurry/Mount Isa road Rest Area Free S20.80043 E139.99641
Again, along the Barkly Highway (66), the Fountain Springs rest area is halfway (60 kms) between the two towns. We didn’t stop, having found a deserted spot closer to Mount Isa, but this should work quite nicely. (8/17)
Cloncurry/Normanton road Bush Camp Free S19.29131 E140.30190
Going north on Hwy 83 towards Normanton, about 5 miles south of the intersection where Hwy 84 bisects this road, we pulled aways off the road on the left, and overnighted quietly in the bush. (8/17)
Normanton Town Bush Camp Free S17.66141 E141.08688
At the north edge of town, cross the river and then turn left into a very large bush camping area near the river; take note of the crocodile warnings. The camping is free but a permit from the visitor’s centre is required. Self-contained vehicles only, maximum of 2 days. Plenty of room; no services and a bit dusty. Nice and quiet. Dump station out airport road. We spent one night, and then returned for 2 nights more later in the month. (8/17)
Georgetown area Rest Area Free S18.29971 E143.34955
Cumberland Chimney Historic Site bush camp along the Savannah Way 20 km west of town. Toilets. Pond. Very popular. We parked a bit away from where most folks were. Quiet and full of birds to watch. (8/17)
Ravenshoe area Rest Area Free S17.64640 E145.34644 Elevation 650 meters
About 15 km west of town there is an overnight rest area that’s quite open. Too close to busy road but quite pleasant. Grassy area and toilets; river nearby. (8/17)
Kairi Rest Area Free S17.21637 E145.54321
East of Atherton, town has a nice grassy overnight parking area opposite the Kairi Hotel. Quiet town; toilets. (8/17)
Mareeba area Rest Area Free S16.66631 E145.32832
Mount Molloy rest area north of Mareeba on Highway One. Bare bones and a bit dusty under the trees. Lots of space and plenty of folks. this is the closest free rest area to the south end of the Daintree NP. Toilets. (8/17)
Cooktown area Overnight parking area Free S15.67957 E145.20804
On Highway 40, heading east toward Cooktown, shortly before the turn to Rossville, there’s a right hand turn marked Little Annon River, that lets to an open parking area used as a gravel storage site. Can walk down to the river cataracts from here. Well off the highway. Stayed 2 nights. No services. (8/17)
Cooktown area Bush Camping area Free S15.60387 E145.32687
Along Highway 81, 15 k south of Cooktown, there is a turnoff marked Archer Point, and you travel 11 kms toward the water. The road is gravel but in good shape. Great beach and parking on the bluff overlooking the ocean. Go on beyond an organized overnight area (full and messy), for another 200 meters or so. Lovely. Stayed 2 nights. No services (8/17)
Laura area Overnight parking area Free S15.43757 E144.42676
Going north from Split Rock Aboriginal site, about halfway between the town of Laura and where Battle Camp Road takes off going east, there is a large pullout area with trees; we had a nice, quiet night. This is a few miles south of where the road into Rinyirru (Lakefield) NP begins. (8/17)
Rinyirru National Park Sweetwater Lake Cpg area Pay S14.66218 E143.83789
At Musgrave Roadhouse on Highway 81 turn east 43 kms on the gravel road into the park, and the right turn for Sweetwater will appear quite shortly. The camping spot is next to a lagoon with birds and crocodiles (reportedly). Cost: $6.30/pp; booking ahead is required. (8/17)
Burke Developmental Road/Dunbar area Bush Camping area Free S15.87160 E142.45407
Above the Dunbar Station, on the unpaved Dixie Road, about 25 kms northeast toward Artemis and Highway 81, we parked overnight beside a lovely lagoon with some shade. Very pleasant, with lots of birds and wallabies to enjoy. (8/17)
Normanton area Bush Camping area Free S17.29330 E141.58342
Along the Burke Developmental Road, about 80 km from town, we stopped for the night near a waterhole away from the road, with plenty of shade, wallabies and birds. Delightful. (8/17)
Burketown area Bush Camping area Free S17.90357 E139.26604
Approximately 25 miles west of town, on the north side of the road, there is open ground with plenty of trees; less then a mile after closing a large floodway, while going west. Along the Savannah Way (Highway 1). Pretty far off the road. This would be a nice spot. There is a Wikicamp listing at the floodway — too small, and junky, so we moved on. Quiet. (8/17)
Western Australia (in WA all national parks have an entry fee; best to buy a month or annual pass to cover time you are there)
Kununurra Rest Area Free S15.86931 E128.37097
Open area west of town about 30 kms, at junction with road that goes south to Bungle Bungles. Toilets, water, dump. Lots of activity and rather noisy. (9/17)
Gibb River Road Bush Camping area Free S15.86931 E128.37097
This delightful spot is just north of the junction of the Gibb and the road to Kalumburu. Turn up the road, and shortly you will come to the crossing of the Gibb River. On both sides of the road, on both sides of the dry river bed, there are many places to overnight among the trees. Wonderful spot for birds. (9/17)
Gibb River Road Bush Camping area Free S17.14487 E125.50766
Graves Creek crossing, 2-3 kms east of Inmintzi. Quiet night. (9/17)
Derby area Bush Camping area Free S17.63422 E123.74233
South of Derby, intersection with Great Northern Road rest area. We turned east onto the GN Road, and parked in the bush near the information sign. Quiet night near a few cows. (9/17)
Broome area Bush Camping area Free S17.65573 E123.13322
Overnight spot along Highway One 100 kms east of Broome. Nillibubbica rest area. Toilets; grills. Picnic areas. Some shade. (9/17)
Broome area Bush camping area Free S18.01422 E122.59526
Unofficial parking area 57 kms south of town, well protected from Highway One. No services. Lots of room. (9/17)
Port Hedland area Bush camping area Free S20.30526 E119.24821
On DeGrey Road. Turn west off Highway One 70 km east of Port Hedlund. This turn is opposite an official rest area. Plenty of trees and birds. We spent 2 nights. (9/17)
Port Hedland area Parking area Free S21.24509 E118.70055
South of town on Highway 95, heading toward Karijini NP, go about 104 kms to a parking area a few miles before the turn into the park. No shade, and some road noise, but adequate. (9/17)
Karijini National Park Camping Pay S22.46852 E118.54720
Dales Gorge Campground Cost is $11/person/night. Simple but lovely camping area. Toilets, grills, picnic tables. Lovely. (9/19)
Tom Price area Bush Camping area Free S22.73150 E117.84231
About 7 km southeast of town on the Paraburloo Highway. Small but secluded. (9/17)
Tom Price area Bush Camping area and truck stop Free S22.60282 E118.06796
Very large parking area about 40 kms east of Tom Price on Karijini Drive. Some truck noise, but not bothersome. Near RR track crossing, so some train noise. Coming from Karijini, it is shortly before the tracks and shortly before the turnoff to the Marandoo Mine Site. (9/17)
Millstream Chichester National Park Camping Pay S21.58740 E117.07148
Miliyanha Campground; $11/person/night. Lovely spot near a stream, homestead to investigate, and kangaroos to be charmed by. Really enjoyed this spot and this park. (10/17)
Karratha area Rest Area Free S20.85350 E116.61251
Miaree Pool rest area, about 30 kms south of town, along the highway. This is an incredibly beautiful spot, well off the road. Fair amount of room in various places along the tree-lined waterfront on both sides of the road, both before and after the road crosses the river. (10/17)
Exmouth area Parking area Free S22.49572 E114.00288
Titled Termite Nests, the large parking area is a good place to stop along the way up to Exmouth. It is about 20 kms north of the junction of Burkett Road and Minilya-Exmouth Road. Not special, and windy, but okay and well used. (10/17)
Cape Range National Park Camping Pay S22.17746 E113.85983
Kurrajong Campground is south of the Marine Center and has toilets only. No generators. Very close to the beach. Cost is $11/person/night. Must book ahead at parkstay.dpaw.wa.gov.au. Very nice, quiet because it is small. (10/17)
Quobba Point Camping Pay S24.48144 E113.40846
This is a magnificent spot and worth driving down to. Cost is posted at $11/person/night, but no one came around to collect; maybe we were too late in the season. Leave NW Coastal Highway north of Carnarvon onto paved road marked Quobba Blowholes. Travel about 50 km on paved road to the blowholes, turn left down unpaved road until you reach these coordinates. Superb ocean views and blowholes! No services. (10/17)
Carnarvon area Rest Area Free S25.45878 E114.05869
The Edaggee Rest Area is about 70 km south of Carnarvon on the NW Coastal Highway. Large, with lots of places to be and a fair amount of shade. toilets, picnic tables, and a dump point. Some road noise, but quite pleasant. (10/17)
New South Wales
South East Forests NP Bushcamping Free S36.64539 E149.41214 Elevation 1085 meters
In on Packers Swamp Rd on B72 west of Bega about 3 kms is the Green Patch Camp area. Deep in forest, it is a grassy pullout among trees and ferns; quite lovely, cool and quiet. No services. (1/18)
South East Forests NP Bushcamping Free S36.78674 E149.53 Elevation 455 meters
The 6 Mile Creek Rest Area camping place is a lovely spot among trees and ferns; there is a creek and boardwalk. It is located along Tantamangalo Rd west of the Princes Highway; east of Bombala about 30 kms, and west of Candelo about 14 kms. Stayed 3 days. (1/18)
Kosciuszko NP Bushcamping Free S36.52551 E148.19330 Elevation 1001 meters
The Leatherbarrel Creek Rest area is rather small, but cooler than the Snowy Creek RA, about 5 miles ahead towards Khancoban, but considerably lower in elevation. Picnic tables. This spot is located along Alpine Way, about 8 km east of Tom Groggin (as the crow flies). Toilet. (1/18)
Broken Hill area Bushcamping area Free S31.71876 E141.57407
North of town about 15 miles along the B79 highway there is a rest stop called Yanco Glen Creek. No services. (4/18)
Kinchega NP area Bushcamping area Free S32.31615 E142.46709
Take Menindee Rd out of Broken Hill for about 100 kms, then turn left at the sign to the Main Weir and drive on dirt about 2 kms. Will start to see left turns down into the trees along Lake Pamamaroo. This is all on sand now; take care. No services, but a lovely area with emus. This is outside the park. (4/18)
Pooncarie Bushcamping area Free S33.39336 E142.57150
At the south end of town, along the east side of the river is a large open area for overnight parking. No services but plenty of room. This is south of Kinchega NP, heading for Mungo NP. (4/18)
Cobar area Overnight parking area Free S31.55780 E145.18835
The Meadow Glen rest area along Highway 32 is 63 kms west of Cobar. Plenty of room. No services. (4/18)
Cobar RVFT Overnight parking area Free S31.49964 E145.84540
Rest area on east side of town, shortly beyond the tourist office (dump and water available) and the big COBAR (mining) sign. Toilets and trash containers. Small but adequate. Excellent tourist office. (4/18)
Warren RVFT Overnight parking area Free S31.68553 E147.83202
Bob Christianson Reserve, outside town along a bend in the road. Open field beside a levee. No trash bins or services. Trees and quite pleasant, with lots of room. (4/18)
Bathurst RVFT Overnight parking area Free S33.42388 E149.54967
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park. Paved parking lot with covered picnic tables; turn onto Boundary Rd off Highway 32 on the west side of town, and proceed to park. No toilets but lots of trash cans. Small but adequate; lots of traffic with dog walkers, etc. (5/18)
Cowra RVFT Overnight parking area Free S33.83537 E148.68230
Rest area across the street from the tourist office. Small but next to a lovely park and stream. Picnic tables, toilets, dump point and water available. (5/18)
Bowning Overnight parking area Free S34.77084 E148.82152
There is parking along the sports field; toilets available. This country town is just 12 kms west of Yass on the Hume Highway. Some highway noise. This is a pretty good spot to overnight before heading to Canberra, which is about 56 kms to the south. There are also places in Yass. (5/18)
Yass RVFT Overnight parking area Free S34.83846 E148.90465
The Joe O’Conner Park is a nice spot to park for a few days; right along the river, in a park you reach from a turnoff of the main street in town; trees and birds. 48-hour max, self-contained only. Quiet and roomy. (5/18)
Springdale RVFT Overnight parking area Free S34.46715 E147.72606
Rest area along the highway, much nicer than most. Totally redone in 2003, with a very nice WWI memorial area. Toilets, and large parking areas, some under trees; some areas paved. Truck traffic during the night. East of Temora about 18 kms. (5/18)
Wagga Wagga RVFT Overnight parking area Free S35.10010 E147.371
Wilks Park is along a bend in the Murrumbidgee River, at the northern end of town. Very large open area, very busy. Some highway noise. Toilets. (5/18)
Tasmania
Ulverstone RVFT parking area Free S41.15812 E146.16215
Parking lot near boat launch at Nicholson Point. Self-contained only, 48 hours max. Nice, quiet spot next to the water, at the edge of town. No services. Be sure not to block the launch ramp. (2/18)
Railton/Kimberley area Bushcamping Free S41.39862 E146.48448
Open bush camping area along Mersey River; one of the nearest overnight spots after arriving on the Devonport ferry. No services; pretty close to road. Neither clea nor interesting, but does the job. (2/18)
Railton CMCA campground S41.34301 E146.42249
Private membership campground; $3/night/person. Dump and water; trash. Nice spot for regrouping before shoving off. Stayed on 3 separate occasions for a total of 6 nights. (2-3/18)
Cressy RVFT parking area Free S41.68180 E147.08324
Sportsfield with nice open area; self-contained only. Trash.. Nice small country town. Quiet except for neighborhood dogs. (2/18)
New Norfolk RVFT open field Free S42.78208 E147.08458
Pretty large field for parking; self-contained only. Very popular, and people unhook from caravans for sight-seeing during the day. About 45 minutes from Hobart. Slopes and can be hard to get level. About 2 km east of town. There is a dump point in town. Trash, and toilets near. (2/18)
Maydena area Open parking Free S42.77197 E146.39670 Elevation 496 meters
Open gravel area about 19 kms west of town on the Gordon River Rd heading toward the dam; just west of the M25 sign when heading east. No services. (2/18)
Hobart area Parking area Free S42.93053 E147.35704
On southern edge of town at base of Mt Nelson; quiet parking area with no signage and no restrictions. No services. View of the water. On Sandy Bay Rd, where Hobart meets Shire of Kingsborough. (3/18)
Hobart area Community recreation area Free S42.94877 E147.34769
A local left us a note saying we would be happier, quieter if we dropped down to this new spot; they were right. The town of Taroona has a nice open parking area for locals (and visitors) to access the water and use services (toilets, grills, covered area). Quite nice. As you continue south on Sandy Bay Rd, turn left towards the water where you see a sign saying Medical Centre. (3/18)
Freycinet NP area Bush camping Free S42.02688 E148.22188
Next to the Friendly Beaches area within the park, but outside it, is the Moulting Lagoon, which has open camping. We spent 3 nights there, while enjoying the park. You wind through trees to various open spots near the lagoon. No services. (3/18)
Bicheno area Beach camping Free S41.65041 E148.29498
Along the A3 north of Bicheno, at Lagoons Beach, there is plenty of camping among the trees just in from the beach. Very busy. Two entrances, use either. Some toilets. Pretty. (3/18)
Fingal RVFT Parking area Free S41.63745 E147.96875
Town along the A4 (Esk Highway) west of St Marys. Large grassy area near a dump point and toilet/shower block. Some slope. Picnic tables, playground, BBQ grills. Very pleasant. Stayed two different times. (3/18)
Mathinna area Open parking area Free S41.46339 E147.88945
About 1 km north of town, at the junction of B43/C401/C423 and a river crossing. Plenty of open camping, toilets and rubbish bin. More camping is in Griffith, a bit west along the road on the north side of the river. Quiet. (3/18)
Evandale RVFT Parking area Free S41.57279 E147.23862
Parking area called Honeysuckle Banks, on the edge of town. Park on gravel only. Trash. Part of a riverside access area for fishing/kayaking etc. there is a dump point in town. Pleasant, but noisy, as near highway. (3/18)
Underwood Parking area Free S41.29199 E147.20508
Off the B81 on the road thru the hamlet. Parked beside water; no services. Quiet. About 8 kms south of Lilydale. (3/18)
Pyengana area Bush camping area Free S41.31211 E147.93469 Elevation 344 meters
Inside the St Columba Falls Forest Reserve, about 13 kms from Pyengana, by the bridge over the stream. About 100 meters further west after the pavement stops along the main road (C428). Tiny spot, but absolutely charming. (3/18)
Bay of Fires area Beach camping Free S41.06281 E148.29102
Policeman’s Point Conservation Area camping area off south side of Anson’s Bay on the northern end of the Bay of Firest. Large, open area; toilets. (3/18)
Campbell Town RVFT parking area Free S41.93309 E147.49414
Large open parking area (gets very busy) available to self-contained vehicles; 48 hours max. Along the river; very pretty; near the old bridge. Can walk into the village in minutes. Charming spot. We stayed 2 different times. (3/18)
Launceston area Parking area Free S41.29428 E146.97256
About halfway up the Tamar River Valley Rd, at the village of Gravelly Beach, heading toward the ocean, very nice open parking area with boat ramp. Park nearby, with toilets, playground. Trash. Nice little spot; self-contained only. (3/18)
Narawntapu NP Campground Pay S41.16220 E146.56812
Bakers Beach campground is down near the water, and quite nice. $13/night for up to 6 people. Toilets, grills, dump point. Nice spot; we enjoyed the park a lot. (3/18)
Mole Creek RVFT Overnight parking area Free S41.55568 E146.40115
The Mole Creek Hotel welcomes overnight guests, self-contained only. Delightful, nice garden, grassy area; 24 hours max. reportedly excellent food. Along Highway B12 west of Deloraine, in the Cradle Mountain vicinity. (3/18)
Wilmot area Overnight parking area Free S41.37797 E146.21025
Community rural park near a local lake. BBQ, toilets, trash. We were headed toward Burnie from Cradle Mountain on the C132, and this was along the way; quite nice and a good stop. (3/18)
Burnie RVFT Overnight parking area Free S41.03850 E145.87720
Cooee Point Reserve, just north of town off the Bass Highway is available for self-contained units; 48 hours max, and must get permit at the Burnie Visitor’s Centre (easy to do, but check VC hours); dump and water on site; right on the ocean. Great spot. (3/18)
Corinna area Bush camping area Free S41.32669 E144.97964
Lindsay River crossing on C249 (Road to Nowhere) about 55 kms north of Corinna; best of the 3 listed camping spots along this road (unpaved). No services; essentially a gravel maintenance area, but quite nice, and close to the river. Stayed 2 nights. (3/18)
Queenstown RVFT Destination Parking lot Free. S42.08025 E145.55341
The Railway Hotel has a small parking lot in town across from the railway station; will hold 3-4 vehicles carefully parked. Close to shopping and the center of this nice old town. Worked out quite well. Self-contained only. (3/18)
Ellendale area Parking area Free S42.53619 E146.72966
Grassy open area along the River Derwent just west of Dunrobin Bridge on the C608 (the short cut down to the Gordon River Rd) a short ways west of the Lyell Highway (A10). Great spot right along the river; lots of room. Toilets; 7 days max. (3/18)
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Canberra Campground Pay S35.22644 E149.14940
The Exposition Park Campground is part of a large complex; the produce market and special events are held there and it is next to the racetrack. It cost $30.00/night for an unpowered site, not in high season. It is rather old, and funky, but very adequate and casual. There is water and dump, as well and showers and laundry facilities. Go to the internet to get more information. It’s a great location for visiting the capital city. The new light rail, when complete, should make it so you don’t need to drive in to see the sights. (5/18)
www. Travelin-Tortuga. com
New Zealand:
Exchange rate: During our visit in April/May 2017, the New Zealand Dollar was at a rate of about $1.44 to one US Dollar ($1NZ = $0.68US). This is a very favorable rate for us as in recent years the rate had been more like $1.18 NZ to $1.00 US ($1NZ = $0.85US). At the current rate of exchange we did not find New Zealand to be particularly expensive, but as always we must say that we travel in a rather basic manner. We seldom stay in campgrounds, don’t take tours or flights to the glaciers, eat out in restaurants often, etc. The posted prices for all of these things are high and have risen considerably over the past five years as tourism of all types has increased dramatically in New Zealand. It is safe to say that NZ can be an expensive travel destination depending on what you choose to do and what your native currency exchange is at the time of your visit.
Overnight parking regulations: Freedom camping, as it is referred to here, is allowed in New Zealand, but it is controlled and the controls have tightened over recent years due to a great increase in tourism using rental vans. We are traveling here very much in the shoulder season of April and May, which is autumn in the southern hemisphere. Still, when we have visited the most popular spots we have noticed the impact caused by the number of rental vans; we can only imagine how busy it must be in the summer months of December to February. Locating approved free overnight spots is not difficult using an app for your phone or tablet. We used one from Rankers (www.rankers.co.nz), a company that is a great source of information on everything to do with camper van travel in NZ; from choosing your rental company to organizing your travel. Their app also lists dump stations, regular camp sites and many other items that will be useful to you. We recommend them highly.
DOC (Department of Conservation) operates New Zealand’s national parks, public lands and campgrounds. Basic DOC sites are sometimes free, but camping rates for sites with fees have increased dramatically within the past few years. A weekly pass is available from Rankers that will save money if you plan to use DOC campgrounds frequently. Also, if you plan to spend more time in NZ than we did, joining the Camping Club (nzcma.org.nz) may make sense and they have longer term DOC passes available.
Fuel: Fuel prices vary only somewhat on South Island, but for some reason much more on North Island. Prices are generally posted clearly other than at unmanned 24/7 stations. Diesel prices are significantly lower than Petrol, by around $.70NZ/liter, but this is somewhat misleading. Local residents pay an annual fee when they register their Diesel vehicle while most, but not all, rental companies charge a Diesel Surcharge of $0.06NZ/kilometer for diesel powered vans, paid when you return the rental at the end of your visit. This fee makes up most of the difference in the lower cost of Diesel vs Petrol, but not all. During our stay we paid between $1.05NZ and $1.35NZ/liter of Diesel ($2.70US to $3.50US/gallon). Supermarket chains provide either fuel discount coupons or use a shopping card plan to give you discounts for fuel each time you shop. Mobil stations also give a discount for fuel purchases over $40NZ, so watch for those as well.
Propane: LPG is readily available throughout New Zealand. As noted above, whether you have a fixed tank or removable cylinders you will have no difficulty finding LPG, which is referred to as LPG on signage, but as gas in conversation. LPG is sometimes charged by the Liter and sometimes by the Kilogram (one KG = almost two liters), but either way, the price reflects the different method of measurement. It is rather expensive at between $4.50/$5.00 US per gallon after conversion.
Location, Type/Cost and Description (listings in alphabetical order)
South Island
Charteris Bay Overnight $10pp/night S43.65908 E172.70709
We ended up at Orton Bradley Park in this small corner of Lyttelton Harbor because we couldn’t find the designated free-camping spot at Governor’s Bay and were too tired to keep looking. This is a private community park, quite lovely, with extensive grounds in a rural area, not far from Diamond Harbor. Our site was without power, the serviced sites were $12pp/night. The road follows the edge of the bay; we accessed by taking a “faster” route, thanks to our GPS, which took us over Dyer’s Pass, a huge mistake. Much better to come through Lyttelton. (4/17)
Cromwell area Overnight Free S45.00779 E169.21411
North of town approx. 2 miles on SH6, going up the west side of the lake, stop at Lowburn Harbor. There is a large grassy area by the water. Very pleasant; toilets, no dump. Dump in tow at PB station. Stayed again later in the month. Quiet night. (4/17)
Cust Overnight Free S43.30172 E172.37010
We spent two nights at the Domain park in this small community west of Christchurch. Very simple, but quiet and peaceful. There is a children’s play area and open fields. The only facilities were toilets. It was great. (4/17)
Dunedin area Overnight & Dump Free S45.94826 E170.33516.
Brighton Domain sports field. Lots of parking areas around the field. Toilets. We parked right on the edge of the cliff over the ocean at Brighton Beach. Max 2 days. There is a dup across the way at Brighton Motor Camp (probably not free). Took about 1/2 hour to get into Dunedin each day. We also found a second dump (this one free) near Brighton at S45.93755 E170.35686 (4/17)
Dunedin Day Parking $5.00/all day/ free on Sundays S45.87473 E170.50993.
We parked at the railway station two days running. It is plenty close enough to walk into the center of town to see the sights, and there is wifi in the railway cafe. Use the lot at the east end of the station, as it has some larger spaces. (4/17)
Fortrose Overnight Free S46.58575 E168.80206
East of town take Boat Harbor Rd off the coastal scenic route and follow it to the cliffs next to the edge of a golf course. Delightful and quiet; watch for muddy areas when rainy. If you are approaching this site from Fortrose itself, take the road through the village and you will come to another site first, Morley Terrace. It is more level and may suit you better, but we liked the cliff site a lot. (4/17)
Franz Josef Glacier area Overnight $13pp/night S43.29746 E170.22440
Lake Mapourika DOC Campground is a short distance north of the FJ Glacier. As you enter, you can go right (to the MacDonald area), or to the left, to Otto’s Corner. Go left. It’s a small, delightful area right near the lake and is just great. Flush toilets! (4/17)
Glenhope area Overnight Free S41.57676 E172.76953 Elevation 350 meters
The Clark Valley Recreation site on SH6 north of where SH63 turns east to Blenheim, and situated between Glenhope and Korere made a good overnight stop. It has large open areas with lots of trees. Somewhat close to the road; toilet. (4/17)
Gore area Overnight & Dump $10.00 pp/night S46.06322 E168.82722
Council Domain campground with power and facilities near Gore in the Hokonui Hills. Lovely. In nearby Croyden, turn in at the Croyden Motel/Lodge off SH94 and follow signage to Dolamore Park. Signage not great, but visible. Toilets, dump, showers. As you leave, you will cross a little bridge, and if you angle off to the left, you will see the dump at the left end of the toilet block across the field. (4/17)
Haast area Overnight $13 pp/night S43.72168 E169.41121
Lake Parina DOC campground north of the town of Haast. Right on the lake; quite charming. Sandflies not bad. Pit toilets. (4/17)
Invercargill area Overnight Free S46.28478 E168.08537
A bit north of Thornbury, about 30 km west from Invercargill off SH99 heading towards Riverton. Grassy areas on both sides of the highway. Signed as a picnic area; it is just after you cross the bridge. Toilets and trash dumpster. We came back for a second night. (4/17)
Katike Overnight Free S45.40017 E170.83946
Close to SH1 in a grove of trees right next to the beach, a short distance north of the village. Going south, turn just after the bridge crossing the train tracks. No services. (4/17)
Lake Ellesmere Overnight Free S43.79848 E172.36893
Lakeside Domain along one arm of the lake. Short distance on gravel. Water and toilets. (4/17)
Lawrence Overnight Free S45.87860 E169.68620
Gabriel’s Gully Rd comes out of the middle of this small town on SH90 and carries you out about 3.5 km to the Historic Preserve. Take the small gravel road down to a small pond; lots of room, and lovely. There are dump and fresh water in town. Turn right where Gabriel’s Gully Rd joins SH90 and go a short distance; they are opposite the police station. (4/17)
Nelson area Overnight Free S41.18481 E173.48686
About 30 km east of Nelson on SH6 between Nelson and Rai Valley we spent the night at the Graham Stream Picnic area. Possibly the nicest spot yet. Large grassy area midst trees; quiet except some road traffic. No facilities. (5/17)
Picton Overnight Street Parking
We wandered until we found a street that was off the main thoroughfare but not in a residential neighborhood, and parked for the night. There is a parking lot across from the ferry terminal, and we had been directed there, but it said no overnight camping. Confused and very tired, we simply found a spot in town and stopped. We were not disturbed during the night. There is a designated Freedom Camping area about 8-10 km south of town, but it was already full; there is nothing closer. (5/17)
Pleasant Point Overnight $12.00/person. S44.26205 E171.14417
Pleasant Point Domain Tennis and Rugby Club. Full services beside the field; pretty spot. No dump. Pay and get key ($20 deposit) at Pleasant Point Dairy in the village. $9/person w/out power. Very large and can handle lots of people. (4/17)
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks Overnight Free S42.10669 E171.33969
About 1km north of the Rocks visitor center there is a parking area called Pororari River Track Carpark; the village nearby is Punk. Just a parking lot, with no services. Somewhat buggy, even this far from the water, but it’s about to rain. Quit a nice spot. This is a DOC Freedom camping spot for self-contained vehicles only. (4/17)
Queenstown area Overnight Free S44.99245 E168.43150
North of town, on SH 91 along Lake Wakatipu, we spent the night at the DOC free camp at 25 mile bridge. No services. Right on the water; delightful; some sand flies. Room for several rigs. (4/17
Richmond. Dump and water S41.32917 E173.19028
This is an excellent free public facility not far from Nelson with plenty of room to maneuver; right next to the bay. There was one RV there which looked like it was staying the night; no adverse signage. A great spot. (5/17)
Takaka Overnight Free S40.83151 E172.79253
Waitapu River Bridge overnight spot didn’t have much to offer, it’s just a gravel dump area near the river. But it was quiet and there is a toilet. It’s about 2-3 miles above the town of Takaka, on SH60 along the road to Collingwood. Lots of room. (5/17)
Te Anau area Overnight $13pp/night S44.89452 E168.07613
Cascade Creek DOC Campground along the road between Te Anau and Milford Sound. Toilets; campfires permitted. Large open field with plenty of room. About 1/3 way to the Sound. (4/17)
Te Anau area Overnight $13pp/night S45.40942 E167.70702
Henry Creek DOC Campground. First camping opportunity after leaving Te Anau headed for Mildred Sound. Smallish but adequate; toilets only. There are numerous DOC sites between Te Anau and Milford Sound. (4/17)
Twizel area Overnight Free S44.18330 E170.15369
North of Twizel, turning east on SH8, at the foot of Lake Pukaki, a little east of the Visitors Center, there is a large free camping area used by many folks as it has a terrific view of the Southern Alps at Aoraki/ Mt Cook. Delightful. (4/17)
Winchester area Overnight Free S44.18237 E171.2749
Winchester Bridge Reserve. Trash barrels and pit toilets. Quiet despite being near the road. (4/17)
North Island
Auckland Museum Street Parking S36.85975 E174.77524
There is some motorhome-specified parking near the museum, but it was full. We found street parking nearby; it varied between 2-3 hours free parking. We moved to a second spot in order to have more time at the museum. There is no adverse O/N parking signage, but very sloping. (5/17)
Auckland area Overnight Free S36.85963 E174.71599
While visiting the museum, we got permission to stay the night in the parking area at the MOTAT Aviation Collection. Quiet during the night. No services. (5/17)
Auckland Area LPG fill at BP station on Cavendish S36.99076 E174.86787
Cape Pelliser Camping Donation S41.58939 E175.23303
short of Cape Palliser is the Ngawi-Pelliser Domain. We were parked on the edge of the water, with a great view. The fish and chips shack was close at hand but they were closed, probably because it was Monday. Trash only; n other services. We gave a $2.00 donation. (5/17)
Cape Reinga area Overnight Free S34.94521 E173.18677
Lake Waiparara overnight spot along SH1 about 6-8 miles before reaching Cape Reinga. Camping area is next to the lake; about 18km south of Pukenui. Lovely spot; no services; one of the best yet. (5/17)
Drury Dump Station S37.10238 E174.95287
If you are heading for the Auckland airport area from the south, this is an excellent place to dump your waste tank before turning in a rental vehicle. Take the Drury exit off SH1 and go east to Norris Road, where you go right then almost immediately left onto Tui Street. Go directly ahead to the yellowish building (Drury Hall). No fresh water. (5/17)
Gisborne Camping Free S38.66610 E178.02902
There is designated parking along the river marina. A gorgeous, lovely, perfect spot. Short walk into center of town. Toilet block on site. Room for about a dozen rigs. (6/17)
Gulf Harbor Overnight Free S36.62479 E174.78589
Take exit 398 off SH1 to avoid toll road ahead, then follow signage within Gulf Harbor to Whangaparoa and on to end of road. There is a designated motorhome parking area, 2 night maximum. Toilets and dump, but no water. Excellent spot. (5/17)
Hamilton area Overnight Free S37.40621 E175.14792
Te Kauwhata Rugby Club field and large parking area with plenty of room. Toilets and trash receptacles. A little unkempt but serviceable and friendly. Some 25 miles north of Hamilton on SH1; not far off the highway and into the village. (5/17)
Kaikohe Overnight Free S35.41067 E173.80382
Lindvart Park parking area, along edge of field in town of Kaikohe on SH12 about 10km west of where SH12 goes west off SH1 in Northland. No services. Dump station is at S35.41184 E173.80110; right on the road but hard to see due to lack of signage, it is a little further west on the same road, and across the street, just west of the Pioneer Village sign; has fresh water. (5/17)
Masterton Camping Free S40.95097 E175.67830
Lake Henley is on the east edge of town and there are two large parking areas; no adverse signage. The town is along SH2. Very nice area; quite popular with locals during the day. Walks around the lake, etc. Toilets over near the primary school. Stayed 2 nights. (5/17)
Matakohe Overnight Free S36.12952 E174.18480
Asked and received permission to stay the night at the Kauri Museum; quite sloping, but manageable. The Kauri Museum is excellent; along SH12. (5/17)
Napier Camping Free S39.47813 E176.89592
Perfume Point parking area has 4 designated spots in its lot; this is towards the north end of town. We chose to park in another spot in the lot. At 10pm the police came by and said we needed to move, as there were no designated spots available. He guided us over to a spot further south on the Marine Parade. This lot had plenty of space, and a dump/water station on site. It was at S39.50940 E176.91817. It was a good spot; no problems. 6/17)
New Plymouth - Mt Taranaki area Overnight Free S39.26980 E174.09645 Elevation 928 meters
The North Egmont Visitor Center allows overnight parking in the lot for the center. There are toilets at the building, but not sure they are available overnight. Terrific place to wake up on a clear morning, though cold due to elevation. (5/17)
Otaki area Overnight Free S40.72112 E175.24733
Waikawa DOC Campground. Take Manakau Road North going east off SH1; this is a few miles north of Otaki. Travel 2 miles in to reach a lovely forest park. Toilets and cooking shelter near a pretty river. Quiet. (5/17)
Pukehina Beach Camping Free S37.76035 E176.48405
Gorgeous spot. Follow the road to the end, which is Dotterel Point. Couldn’t be finer. We stayed 2 nights. Toilets on site. About 6 spaces designated for motorhomes. Fish and chips available at The Store, which is 4.8 km back along the road. We left a chair in our spot to hold it, and nobody bothered us. A great finish to our time here. (6/17)
Te Kaha area Camping Free S37.72765 E177.69470
The Maraetai Bay/Te Kaha Recreation Reserve a bit north of the town of Te Kaha is a nice little community park. 3 night maximum. Toilets. Pretty close to the road but very near the water. Quiet night. (6/17)
Te Kiuti area Overnight Free S38.35715 E175.19330
The Mangoakewa Reserve is south of town on SH30 maybe 8-10 miles, then left into a lovely gorge with stream and lake. Gorgeous and quiet; a special space. Tons of room; sites with grills, toilets, play area. Little sun in winter, but still quite splendid. (5/17)
Turangi Overnight Free S38.98686 E175.81651
Picnic area on north edge of town. Large open space and plenty of trees; can get away from the road (SH1). (5/17)
Waikane Overnight Free S40.87488 E175.05078
Smallish city park along Park Avenue. Nice area of town. We couldn’t find the official site that is listed near here, but no one bothered us. Lovely park with children’s play area. (5/17)
Whangarei Overnight Free S35.72633 E174.32890
Parking area alongside the Town Basin; quite lovely. Only 8 designated spaces; if they are full, you can o/n in another space and then move to be properly parked as a space becomes available during the day (if staying). No services, but can walk to everything in town. Dump and water a mile or so away, with clear directions at entrance to the lot. (5/17)
Whanganui Overnight Free S39.93143 E175.04796
Parking lot for the RSA Center; donations accepted. Apparently no time limit. This is a unique and terrific spot in an excellent location mid-town. There are two power plugs available in one corner of the lot. Check in with the RSA office. No other services. Cafe on site; plenty of cafes nearby. (5/17)
Wellington area Overnight Free S41.09769 E174.86861
This is a brilliant location. North of Wellington in the town of Mana, is the Ngatitoa/Parameta Domain camping area, right along the water in a lovely community park area. The train station is very close for getting into Wellington (maybe 30 miles away), and a supermarket just beyond it. It is free and signed 3 nights only, but we were told no one would shove us off if we stayed longer. No water or dump on site, but the nearby BP station has a dump, and there is potable water available behind the building across from the toilet block that you pass as you enter the camping area. Just perfect. We stayed 3 nights. (5/17)
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