Heading out for a 4WD and camping adventure in the Australian bush? Before you set up your rooftop tent or camper trailer and light up the campfire, let’s talk about the unwritten rules of campsite etiquette! Whether you are staying at a campsite with plenty of amenities or free camping at a bush site, here are 10 pointers to ensure everyone enjoys the great outdoors:
1. Respect thy Neighbour
Keep noise levels down, especially during quiet hours. Keep your belongings contained on your site and don’t play music too loud.
2. Leave No Trace
Nature is our playground, but it’s not a dumping ground. Pack out what you pack in and leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. You can be fined up to $5,000 for littering offences and up to $62,500 for illegal dumping in WA.
3. Mind the Fire
Always follow fire safety guidelines. Western Australia has partial and total fire bans in the warmer, drier months, so be sure to find out the fire restrictions in the areas you are travelling to. The Emergency WA page has an interactive map of current fire bans, fire danger ratings, reported bushfires and prescribed burn-offs. Current fire rating signs are also posted along major roads. If you are travelling at a time when campfires are allowed, keep fires in designated areas, fully extinguish them before leaving, and never leave them unattended.
4. Share the Space
When you’re staying at a campground, remember that the amenities are shared. Make sure you clean up after yourself if you use the camp kitchen, BBQs, bathrooms and other amenities. Be mindful of your campsite size and don’t encroach on neighbouring sites. Everyone deserves their slice of wilderness paradise!
5. Keep Wildlife Wild
Admire wildlife from a distance and never feed them. Respect their habitat and refrain from leaving out food scraps that could attract unwanted guests. If you leave them alone, they’ll leave you alone.
6. Be Kind to Flora and Fauna
Stay on marked trails to preserve vegetation and wildlife habitats. Leave flowers, rocks, and other natural treasures where you find them. 85% of our flora and fauna is unique to Australia, so it’s important to protect it.
7. Respect Quiet Hours
Some campers come to relax and enjoy the sounds of nature. Tent and caravan walls are thin, and sound travels in the wilderness! Keep voices low and refrain from loud activities during designated quiet hours.
8. Be Prepared
Plan ahead, bring essentials, and be self-sufficient. This includes food, water, first aid supplies, toilet paper and anything else you might need during your stay. In remote areas, towns can be few and far between, so it’s important to make sure you have enough fuel to make it to the next town.
9. Follow Park Rules
Each campground may have specific rules and regulations. Familiarise yourself with them and abide by them to ensure a smooth camping experience for all.
10. Be Friendly
Everyone is there to have a good time. Spread positive vibes and be courteous to fellow campers. A simple smile or wave can go a long way in creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Let’s make every camping trip memorable for all the right reasons! Contact us today or get a quote and start planning your next adventure!
