Adventurers Diary
17 Handy Items for Families Travelling with Kids
Travelling around Australia has become very popular for families with young children and we have had the pleasure of meeting many awesome families on our travels so we have compiled 17 Handy Items for Families Travelling with Kids.
We wish we had seized the opportunity to travel Australia with our boys when they were young but we did have the greatest experience having our eldest son travel with us for the first 2 years of our adventure.
Not only are these handy items for families travelling with kids but a number of them make great gifts for travelling families as everything you pack into your caravan or motorhome has to be practical and have maximised space efficiency.
Table of Contents
Here is our list of 17 Handy Items for Families Travelling with Kids:
1. Travel Journal
This Australian made Travel Journal is packed with 92 journal pages and are not only great for kids but also grown-ups to document daily experiences of your adventures on the road, weekends away or international travels.
You can even draw, write or attach a photo.
By documenting your daily experiences in your Travel Journal, you can enjoy looking back on your cherished memories in the months and years to come.
Not only are the travel journals handy items for families travelling with kids, they are suitable for travellers of all ages.
They are wire bound with a protective plastic sleeve.
So, you can make the most of your Travel Journal, it also comes with a handy plastic-coated Checklist which can be used and re-used time and time again.
Simply tick the boxes with a non-permanent marker or wax pencil, then rub off after you unpack, back at home, ready for your next trip.
There’s also a plastic-coated Address Book so you can jot down names and addresses of friends and family plus any new friends you meet on your travels.
Also included are some Activity Pages at the back of the Travel Journal for you to photocopy and the kids can fill them in on each new trip.
Each child can use their journal to have fun practising their writing, finding the numbers of the date and drawing exciting pictures about their day.
Travel Journals are proudly designed and printed in regional Victoria.
Purchase 2 Travel Journals and save!
2. Adventurer’s Binoculars
The Adventurer’s Binoculars are ideal for budding little birdwatchers and junior secret agents. They are also great for whale watching and spotting dolphins and turtles in the water.
These binoculars are a good quality introductory set of lightweight, robust binoculars and compact in size measuring 12 x 5 x 12cm which is perfect for travelling families.
The binoculars are 4 x 30 Magnification and suitable for ages 3+ yrs.
They also come with a canvas carry case so kids can wear them on their belt.
Also included are rubber grips for comfortable handling, tinted lenses to help reduce glare, a neck strap and lens cleaning cloth.
3. Family Quiz Book
The Travel Australia with Kids “Family Quiz Book” is designed for all the family to compete against each other.
It has Questions for all members of the family with 10 rounds, 12 subjects in each round with 8 questions in each subject, totalling 960 questions!
There’s one question for Pre-Primary children aged 3 – 5; two questions for young children aged 6 – 8; two questions for older children aged 9 – 12; one questions for teenagers and two questions for Adults. This allows you to choose which level of question difficulty for your child or you!
Subjects in The Family Quiz book include:
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A message from the Author – Mandy from Travel Australia with Kids:
To get the best out of the TAWK Family Quiz Book, I suggest one person read out the questions and one person keep score. The quiz master asks the appropriate question to the appropriate age group. At the end of the question, he goes through the answers (which are on the following page) with everyone and congratulates, or corrects and discusses the answers.
4. Slide n’ Dry Pegless Clothesline
The Slide n’ Dry Pegless Clothesline is a very handy item for families travelling with kids as washing is a regular part of your week.
It is super easy with the Slide n’ Dry Pegless Clothesline, no struggling to hold the clothes and reach for the pegs at the same time. Simply slide your washing into the slots to dry.
To make work even easier, why not teach the kids how to hang up the clothes as one of their jobs while you travel.
They are perfect for all types of travelling adventures… Camping, Caravanning, Cruising, Hiking, Fishing, Backpacking and even when staying in Motels.
The Slide n’ Dry Pegless Clothesline is available in White, Pink, Blue, Yellow, Rainbow, Coral, Green & Orange. They practically come in every colour in the rainbow PLUS they come in rainbow! 😊
The UV protected plastic means they will not go brittle or fade and capable of holding wet towels, jeans and all the heavy stuff.
You can make it as long or as short as you require – perfect for outside and indoors too. Use separately or simply join more than one together.
5. Reusable Caravan Tote Bag
The Reusable Caravan Tote Bag is not only great for kids but also the adults as well! They’re great to take to the shops or the beach, you can take them anywhere.
Made of 100% rip stop nylon, lightweight and durable, the Handy Tote Bag features caravan illustrations. They are available in Blue, Red, Teal, Yellow, A World of Caravans & Pre-Order ‘Destinations’ Grey.
The Tote comes with an attached zip pocket that doubles as storage for small items like keys, cards and cash.
When the bag is in use it measures approx. 45 cm x 36 cm plus the handle. Then the bag folds away back into the pocket.
The Reusable Caravan Tote Bag is designed in Australia.
Help to save our environment and sea creatures by rejecting plastic bags and reusing this handy tote bag!
6. Playing Cards
It’s always good to have a pack of cards on hand at home or especially while travelling.
They take up very little space at all in the caravan or motorhome! You can easily have multiple packs, a pack or two for the kids to play with and have a separate pack on hand for the adults.
The Australia’s Wildlife Playing Cards by Hema Maps come in two 2 designs – Australian and Australia’s Wildlife. Australia’s Wildlife themed playing cards feature 54 separate themed cards of wildlife.
Play a game of Solitaire on your own or teach the kids how to play cards and have heaps of fun with the whole family.
5 Essentials – Outside RV Accessories
- To plug your RV with standard 15amp in to standard residential 10amp power source you will need a converter. We love our waterproof Ampfibian and after over 4 years it’s still perfect.
- Most people carry a Generator for back up power. 4wd Supacentre has a good low cost and popular generator while the Yamaha 2000w is a robust yet quiet excellent performer.
- A 20m 15amp Power Lead will ensure you reach your power source in Caravan Parks and Campgrounds.
- You will want a good blue Drinking Water Hose. Your typical green garden hose is not suitable for drinking from.
- A 4 way tap handle will help you find water whenever you need it
7. Car Seat Organiser
For the ultimate, convenient storage solution for all your travel needs you need the Playette Car Seat Organiser!
Featuring a heavy duty, easy to wipe clean design, it easily attaches to back of your car seat. It even has a removable waste compartment and tissue dispenser.
Features:
- Colour: Black
- Heavy duty design
- Convenient storage solution for all your travel needs
- Removable waste compartment & tissue dispenser
- Attaches easily to back of seat
- Wipes clean easily
- Materials: Nylon
This great organiser is guaranteed to take the stress out of car trips and a very handy item for families travelling with little kids!
8. Adventurer’s Headlight
This handy headlight is great for the kids when caravanning, camping or fishing. It gives them independence and is great when walking them to the toilet at night.
A tough little headlight with high power light-emitting diodes that provides extremely bright, stark and long-lasting, hands free illumination.
9. Cooling Towel
Keep the kids and yourself cool this summer with a Cooling Towel!
Long walks around canyons, hiking into gorges, exploring rainforests and going on adventures are all super exciting but you can heat up quickly.
Make your walks more comfortable with a cooling towel. They are great for the whole family.
Simply by keeping these towels wet with a little bit of water, they will keep you cool for longer.
Their fabric is specially constructed to maximise the cooling power of rapid evaporation – you can either wear it around your neck or over your head.
The Cooling Towel is supplied with Travelling with Kids logo and comes in a storage pouch with full instructions.
Available in 6 fantastic colours, simply choose from the drop down box. They measure 95cm x 30cm and can also be used as a regular towel.
10. Handy First Aid Kit
Hands up if you carry a First Aid Kit in your caravan or motorhome?
Most of us do, and sometimes they can be really big and not ideal for when you leave the caravan for a day out exploring. You never know when you are going to need one especially when you have kids.
This Handy First Aid Kit is small enough to throw in your backpack or handbag and still contains all the essential first aid items.
They are the perfect size to take on hikes into gorges, walks up mountains, trips to the beach, picnics and everything in-between. Perfect for travelling or at home.
Just 13cm x 8.5cm approximately in size, the Handy First Aid Kit comes in a canvas bag with handle & zip.
It has 30 PIECES including:
- Scissors x 1
- Tweezers x 1
- Plastic Strips x 10
- Safety Pins x 6
- Alco Wipes x 4
- Disposable probes x 2
- Burn Sachet x 1
- Antiseptic Sachet x 1
- Stop Itch Sachet x 1
- 2.5 Conforming Bandage x 1
- Gloves x 1
- Safety Leaflet x 1
Plus, they are assembled with love in Australia.
11. Padded Travel Tray
The Padded Travel Tray is another one of the handy items for families travelling with kids.
It has a sturdy flat surface with padded sides to keep toys or snacks on the tray, it’s a great way to keep your child entertained.
No more finding sultanas and crackers down the side of the seat!
Travel trays are great for many reasons. It attaches to the seat belt, has a great rubber backing so it won’t slip around, has an elastic cup holder and can be used in and out of the car.
12. Coin Purse
Aussie designer Victoria has created some gorgeous caravan inspired pieces and these great coin purses are just part of her original collection!
Exclusively designed in the shapes and colours of iconic caravans, these coin purses are unique, as well as practical.
When caravanning with kids, they will love to keep their ice cream money or pocket money in them? Parents can use them to store their coins for when they need to head to the laundromat or to do laundry at a Caravan Park.
These zipped coin purses will come in very handy on any camping or caravan holiday.
They’re also perfect to give as small gifts for friends and family for Christmas and Birthdays.
Just 11cm in length, 2.5cm in width and 7.6cm in height.
Available in Autumn Tear Drop Yellow; Spring Mini Red and Summer Wings Teal.
13. Cap
Also as part of Aussie Designer Victoria’s original collection are the caravan inspired caps!
These caps with the unique caravan design area available in a ‘one size fits all’ so they suitable for kids of all ages as well as adults.
Caps are available in seven exclusive designs:
Teardrop Magical Mornings Kranklin Mini
Hippy Days Wings Silver Bullet
Also they’re great for Christmas and Birthdays presents!
14. ClipCroc® Clip Together Crockery
ClipCroc® are all proudly designed & made in Australia, are a super cool design and are available in Clip Together Dish Sets, Cup Sets, Bowl Sets & Plate Sets.
The world’s first ‘clip-together’ crockery range is perfect for any outdoor eating occasion!
It’s packed with unique features and perfect for Camping, Motorhomes, Caravans, Boats, Picnics, BBQs, Pools, Kids, Decks or around the Home & Garden!
Available in 4 different colours: Midnight Black, Ice White, Sky Blue, Rose Pink
ClipCroc® FEATURES:
CLIPCROC®: Uses ClipLip technology™ to become the World’s first clip-together crockery!
CLIPQUIET™: Unique anti-rattle design ensuring the ultimate peace and quiet.
CLIPCLEAN™: Clip dirty crockery together for cleaning later!
CLIPCOOL™: Clip two together to create a heat-insulating barrier – no more hot hands or laps!
CLIPGREEN™: Reusable ClipCroc® helps eliminate 500+ BILLION ‘single-use’ plates, bowls, dishes & cups from landfill p/a.
FOOD GRADE: Made with Food Grade Polypropylene that’s FDA approved, BPA free, dishwasher & freezer safe!
LOW PROFILE STACKING: Ultra-compact design since we know just how important space is.
ANTI-SLIP BASE: Smart base design, ensuring your crockery stays put, whether in your hand, lap or table.
SAFESTACK™: ClipCroc® can be safely and securely stacked and free from falling whether on a boat, RV or caravan.
WIPE CLEAN: A glossy eating surface ensures ClipCroc® is one of the most wipe-clean ranges on the market!
SHAKE DRY: Give your ClipCroc® a couple of shakes after washing to dry almost immediately.
MIX AND MATCH: All colours clip to all colours allowing you to create your own unique personalised colour combinations!
PATENTED: Our unique and innovative designs are World’s first and patented.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA: All ClipCroc® products are proudly designed & manufactured in Australia.
15. Samitomato Drawing Game
This is a non-competitive drawing game that can played alone, or in a group. It’s designed to open up creativity in children and adults and to allow them to have a lot of silly fun with drawing!
Samitomato Drawing Game is unique, fun, educational and Australian Made!
Here a few words from Sami the designer of the Samitomato Drawing Game:
“I designed and created Samitomato drawing game for that young kid inside all of us, that kid who delights in drawing fun, silly things!
With over 800 000 fun drawing options in each drawing game pack, you and your kids 5yrs+ will draw with delight for hours!
To play; separate the cards into four coloured piles; pink, green, blue and yellow, then roll the dice to create e a crazy fun task to draw! Like; ‘a happy polka dotted giraffe tap dancing’.
This super cool drawing pack includes dice and instructions and comes in an ‘easy to pack in your handbag’ drawstring bag.
16. Icy Pole Moulds
We Might Be Tiny Frosties Icy Pole Moulds are soooo good to make up healthy treats for the kids. Create frozen yoghurt treats and explore with freezing pureed fruits. You can even make healthy muffin pops for morning or afternoon snacks.
These fun moulds are made from food-safe silicon and are freezer safe, microwave safe, oven proof and dishwasher safe.
Kids will love the hot or cold treats in the shape of a cat, bunny and bear. They are available in a range of colours – Charcoal, Blue Dusk, Minty Green, Powder Pink and Dusty Rose.
Purchase a bag of 500 Icy Pole Sticks here>
17. Colourful Fire Packets
Mystical Fire is a unique product that creates a brilliant display of colourful flames on wood burning fires!
Use them to delight the kids, awe your friends, amuse your mates or amaze aspiring magicians. Everyone who enjoys the allure of firelight will love Mystical Fire.
We were first introduced to them over in WA by our good travelling buddies Scott and Kerry from Wagga.
Just toss 1-3 unopened packets into the flames and you can turn any wood-burning fire into a mesmerising show of vibrant colours of red, green, blue, pink, orange and violet and more within seconds.
They last up to an hour or longer! Mystical Fire is a safe and easy to use the product with no mess, no fuss and no preparation required.
Pin -17 Handy Items for Families Travelling with Kids
We hope our 17 handy items for families travelling with kids come in handy. Whether you are planning your road trip or even while you are already travelling this amazing country of ours, many of these items will come in very handy!
Quite a number of items are not only practical for travelling families they suit travellers of all ages. Plus, they also make great gift ideas for Christmas and Birthdays. Simply click on the relative link to place your order.
Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.
Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.
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Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.
Samsung s21 Phone – https://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Nikon Coolpix p1000 – https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.
Lenses
Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/2yQwPed This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.us/br9MeO This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/2XlOZ0I – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – http://ebay.us/zWvfuI – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.to/38wMc7V – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
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Adventurers Diary
Camping NSW North Coast
There’s so many amazing places to go Camping in NSW North Coast along the Coastline between Sydney and Brisbane.
We love this stretch of Australia’s Coastline with so many stunning beaches, great waves, good fishing and fantastic places to go camping.
Much of the Camping in NSW along the Coastline is National Park which are wonderful places to enjoy the amazing wildlife in the area.
Table of Contents
Great Camping Sites in the NSW North Coast region:
Free Camping NSW North Coast
There are very few free camping opportunities between Brisbane and Sydney on NSW North Coast.
Here are four that we know of but you may be aware of more and also enjoyed an overnight free camping stay at.
Branxton Park
Location:
Branxton, Hunter Valley region, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Branxton Park – 795.6kms
Sydney to Branxton Park – 180.4kms
What facilities are available:
Camping is permitted in Self-contained vehicles only and you must have a toilet, waste water collection along with washing and cooking facilities on board.
There are toilets available at the Branxton Park Free Camp as it is the old sports grounds. It is within easy walking distance to the local IGA.
Both Potable and non-drinking water, rubbish bins and picnic tables are also available.
Type of Sites:
No designated sites and the camping area is all unpowered.
How much does it cost?
Cost to stay is Free!
How to book?
No booking is required as it is a Free Camping facility
Maximum Stay:
72 hours in any 14 day period
Is it Pet Friendly?
Yes however dogs must be on a lead
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
Accessible to Motorhomes, Caravans and Big Rigs as long as vehicle is self-contained. Tent camping and camping in non self-contained vehicles is not permitted.
Mobile Phone Service:
Good Telstra and Vodafone coverage
Contact Details:
Phone: N/A
Address: John Rose Avenue, Branxton New South Wales
Website: N/A
Things to do in the Branxton region:
Hunter Valley Wine Region
Big Kookaburra, Kurri Kurri
Big Ugg Boots, Thornton
Read more: Branxton Park
Kew Driver Reviver Rest Area
Location:
iKew Visitor Information Centre, Kew, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to iKew Visitor Information Centre – 559.5kms
Sydney to iKew Visitor Information Centre- 354.1kms
What facilities are available:
Camping overnight is permitted at the iKew Visitor Information Centre for a donation. They also operate a Driver Reviver Community Program during each school holidays.
There are toilets available at the iKew Visitor Information Centre as well as drinking water, rubbish bins, picnic tables and kids playground.
Type of Sites:
Limited number of spots in the car park and all unpowered.
How much does it cost?
Cost to stay by donation! Donation Box is located near the toilets
How to book?
No booking is required as it is a Community Initiative
Maximum Stay:
Overnight stay only
Is it Pet Friendly?
Yes
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
Accessible to Motorhomes, Caravans and Campervans. No tent camping is permitted.
Mobile Phone Service:
Good Telstra and Vodafone coverage
Contact Details:
Phone: 02 6559 4400
Address: 133 Nancy Bird Walton Drive, Kew, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the Kew region:
The Big Axe
Queens Lake
Laurieton
Read more: Big Things of Australia
Truckers Memorial Rest Area
Location:
Grafton, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Truckers Memorial Rest Area – 313.0kms
Sydney to Truckers Memorial Rest Area – 608.4kms
What facilities are available:
Camping is permitted in Self-contained vehicles only.
There are no facilities available at the Truckers Memorial Free Camp in South Grafton. It is close to Macdonalds and Bunnings. There is also a fuel station and boat ramp nearby.
Type of Sites:
No designated sites and the camping area is all unpowered.
How much does it cost?
Cost to stay is Free!
How to book?
No booking is required as it is a Free Camping facility
Maximum Stay:
Overnight stay only
Is it Pet Friendly?
Yes
Dump Point:
No
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
Accessible to Motorhomes, Caravans as long as vehicle is self-contained. No tent camping or camping in non self-contained vehicles is permitted.
Mobile Phone Service:
Good Telstra coverage
Contact Details:
Phone: N/A
Address: Spring Street/Big River Way, Grafton, New South Wales
Website: N/A
Things to do in the Grafton region:
Clarence Gorge
Jacaranda Festival
Read more: Everything you need to know to go Free Camping
Macksville Overnight Parking Area
Location:
Macksville, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Macksville – 439.9kms
Sydney to Macksville – 473.5kms
What facilities are available?
Camping overnight is permitted in Self-contained vehicles only and you must have a toilet, sleeping and cooking facilities located within the vehicle and all waste water able to be collected and disposed of at a lawful location.
Toilets are available at the Macksville Overnight Parking Area as well as non-drinking water. Please take your rubbish with you.
There are picnic tables and a boat ramp is nearby.
Type of Sites:
4 parking bays only and the area is all unpowered. Vehicles must only be parked in marked bays.
How much does it cost?
Cost to stay is Free!
How to book?
No booking is required as it is a Free Camping facility
Maximum Stay:
1 night only
Is it Pet Friendly?
Yes but must be restrained
Dump Point:
No – Dump Point is available at the Nambucca Tourist Information Centre and Nambucca Highway Service Centre
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
Accessible to Motorhomes and Campervans under 6metres only and as long as vehicle is self-contained. No tent camping or camping in non self-contained vehicles is permitted.
Mobile Phone Service:
Good Telstra coverage as well as other mobile providers
Contact Details:
Phone: N/A
Address: Western end of River Street, Macksville, New South Wales
Website: N/A
Things to do in the Macksville region:
Valley of the Mist
Mary Boulton’s Pioneer Cottage and Museum
Nambucca Foreshaw Walk
Read more: Our Best Free Camps in Australia
NSW North Coast Camping in Showgrounds and Sporting grounds
A number of showgrounds and sporting clubs along the NSW North Coast offer low-cost camping.
We have personally stayed at many showgrounds and sporting grounds and found them a great place to stay and explore the region.
Tuncurry Sporties
Location:
Tuncurry, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Tuncurry – 632.6kms
Sydney to Tuncurry – 305.7kms
What facilities are available:
The Sporties Tuncurry RV Friendly overnight reserve is for Self-Contained RV with their own internal toilet and shower on board. Tents are not allowed.
Drinking water and bins are available however there are no other facilities in the camping area.
Type of Sites:
The Sporties Tuncurry RV Friendly overnight reserve is for Self-Contained RV with their own internal toilet and shower on board. Tents are not allowed.
No designated sites and camping area is all unpowered
How much does it cost?
$5 per person per night
How to book?
Please pay at Sporties Tuncurry Reception or to the Duty Manager located in the club
Maximum Stay:
48hrs
Is it Pet Friendly?
Yes but must be on a leash
Dump Point:
Yes – it is located on the other side of the sporting grounds
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
Yes but not after 8pm
Accessibility?
Accessible to Motorhomes, Caravans and Big Rigs as long as vehicle is self-contained
Mobile Phone Service:
We had excellent Telstra and Vodafone coverage
Contact Details:
Phone: 02 6554 9270
Address: 66 Beach Street, Tuncurry New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the Tuncurry region:
Forster
Seal Rocks
Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse & Blowhole
Read more: Sporties Tuncurry
Wauchope Showground
Location:
Wauchope, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Wauchope Showground – 544.4kms
Sydney to Wauchope Showground – 376.2kms
What facilities are available:
Basic facilities include drinking water, toilets and hot showers as well as bins. Toilets and showers are coded.
Water fill-up if not staying at the Wauchope Showground is $5.
Type of Sites:
16 Powered sites. Camping is not available during the Wauchope Show
How much does it cost?
Power & Water – $20 per night for 2 Adults and $5 per additional person
How to book?
You must book in advance with the On-site Caretaker by calling 0475 111 074
Maximum Stay:
No maximum listed
Is it Pet Friendly?
Yes
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
Accessible to all size vehicles and tent camping is allowed
Mobile Phone Service:
We had good coverage with Telstra as well as Vodafone
Contact Details:
Phone: 0475 111 074
Address: 93A High Street, Wauchope New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the Wauchope region:
Wauchope Country Club
Port Macquarie Koala Hospital
Billabong Zoo
Read more: Wauchope Showgrounds
Maclean Showground
Location:
Beside the Clarence River, Maclean, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Maclean Showground – 272.2kms
Sydney to Maclean Showground – 641.4kms
What facilities are available:
Maclean Showground offers camping only for Self-Contained Vehicles with facilities same as in a home – living area, kitchen, sleeping area, toilet and shower.
Camping facilities at the Maclean Showground are limited. There are toilets but no showers. Drinking water and bins are available and it is just an 800 metre walk into town.
Type of Sites:
Maximum of 10 designated sites, some along the river bank with the remainder around the main showground ring
How much does it cost?
$10 per night for 2 people
How to book?
No bookings – it is a first in first served basis
Maximum Stay:
72hrs
Is it Pet Friendly?
Yes – must be on a leash
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
Accessible to Motorhomes, Caravans and Big Rigs as long as vehicle is self-contained. No camping in tents, campervans or camper trailers is allowed.
Mobile Phone Service:
We had good Telstra, Vodafone and Optus service during our stay
Contact Details:
Phone: 0487 101 151
Address: 12 Cameron Street, Maclean New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the Maclean region:
Clarence River
Maclean Lookout
Check out the power poles painted with the Scottish Tartans
Read more: Maclean Showgrounds
Nambucca Bowls Club
Location:
Nambucca Heads, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Nambucca Bowls Club – 431.6kms
Sydney to Nambucca Bowls Club – 487.4kms
What facilities are available:
Camping is limited to Self-Contained vehicles with their own toilet, shower, fresh and grey water tanks, fridge and own power by way of solar or generator.
No washing, drying or cooking outdoors is permitted and no alcohol is allowed to be consumed on the camping grounds.
There are no facilities provided in the camping area alongside the Nambucca Bowls Club
Type of Sites:
6 – all unpowered
How much does it cost?
Free and only available to Nambucca Bowls Club Members. Cost of once-off membership is $5
How to book?
Telephone the Club on 02 6568 6132 or pop into the bar upon arrival
Maximum Stay:
24hrs
Is it Pet Friendly?
No
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
Yes – between 8.30am – 9pm
Accessibility?
Accessible for Club Members with Self-Contained Motorhomes and Caravans only
Mobile Phone Service:
We had good Telstra and Vodafone coverage during our overnight stay
Contact Details:
Phone: 02 6558 6132
Address: 12-18 Nelson St, Nambucca Heads, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the region:
The V-Wall – check out the painted rocks along breakwater
Captain Cook Lookout
Read more: Nambucca Bowls Club
Coffs Leagues Club
Location:
Coffs Harbour, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Coffs Leagues Club – 388.7kms
Sydney to Coffs Leagues Club – 523.8kms
What facilities are available:
Camping facilities at the Coffs Leagues Club include toilets, showers, camp kitchen, bins and drinking water is also available.
Type of Sites:
A small number of Powered and Unpowered sites are available.
How much does it cost?
Powered Site – $25 per night for 2 people
Unpowered Site – $20 per night for 2 people
How to book?
Bookings are essential. Office hours: Monday to Friday 8am – 2pm and 10am – 12noon on Saturday and Sunday
Maximum Stay:
7 days
Is it Pet Friendly?
Yes
Dump Point:
No
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
Unknown
Accessibility?
Accessible for Motorhomes, Caravans, Camper trailers and tent camping
Mobile Phone Service:
Telstra and other mobile network coverage available
Contact Details:
Phone: 0412 722 942
Address: 1 Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales
Facebook:
Things to do in the region:
The Big Banana Fun Park
Coffs Harbour Muttonbird Island
Forest Sky Pier
Dolphin Marine Conservation Park
Read more: Our Best Low Cost Campgrounds in Australia
Great Low-Cost Camping grounds in NSW North Coast
We love the beach and are always searching out great low cost camping grounds alongside the beach or somewhere with river or lake views.
All of these great NSW North Coast camping grounds are located beside the ocean or alongside a creek or river.
These campsites not only provide an awesome place to stay but you also have the added advantage of a stunning beach close by and possibly an opportunity for fishing.
Ingenia Holidays, Lake Macquarie
Location:
Lake Macquarie, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Ingenia Holidays Lake Macquarie – 812.4kms
Sydney to Ingenia Holidays Lake Macquarie – 115.4kms
What facilities are available:
The Ingenia Holiday Park, Lake Macquarie has great facilities including a camp kitchen, communal BBQs, laundry, swimming pool, kids playground and jumping cushion.
Type of Sites:
Grassy Powered sites, Waterfront Powered sites with lake views and Tent Camping sites
How much does it cost?
Waterfront Powered Site – Midweek From $32/Weekend From $45
Powered Site back from the Water – Midweek From $28/ Weekend from $40
Early Bird 20% off – when you book 28 days or more in advance
Mid Week 30% off – when you book 2 or more nights between Sunday and Thursday
Seniors 10% off – standard rate
Value Seeker – Stay 4 pay 3
How to book?
Book on-line or call 02 4359 1033
Maximum Stay:
N/A
Is it Pet Friendly?
Yes – Seasonal and at the Park Manager’s discretion
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
All RVs and tent camping
Mobile Phone Service:
We had good Telstra and Vodafone coverage
Contact Details:
Phone: 02 4359 1033
Address: Monterey Avenue, Mannering Park, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the region:
Lake Macquarie boating, fishing or kayaking
Lake Macquarie Cruise
Caves Beach
Catherine Hill Bay Beach
Read more: Ingenia Holiday Parks Lake Macquarie
Diamond Head Campground
Location:
Crowdy Bay National Park, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Diamond Head Campground – 569.7kms
Sydney to Diamond Head Campground – 350.5km
What facilities are available:
Facilities at the Diamond Head Campground include flushing toilets, cold showers, beach showers, sheltered areas with picnic tables and BBQs.
No water is available so you need to bring along your own. Firewood and Ice can be purchased from the on-site office.
Type of Sites:
75 grassed campsites – all are unpowered and some are shaded
How much does it cost?
$12 per Adult per night plus Park Entry Fee of $8 per vehicle per day. Note – if you are visiting a number of NSW National Parks it is worthwhile purchasing an Annual Pass
How to book?
Book on-line or call 1300 072 757
Maximum Stay:
21 days
Is it Pet Friendly?
No – as it is in Crowdy Bay National Park
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
Yes – fires are permitted in on-the-ground braziers only. Brazier Hire and firewood is available from the office.
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
Accessible for motorhomes, caravans, campervans, camper trailers and tents
Mobile Phone Service:
We had both Telstra and Vodafone coverage during our stay
Contact Details:
Phone: 1300 072 757 or 13000 PARKS
Address: 763 Diamond Head Road, Diamond Head, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the Crowdy Bay National Park region:
North Brother Mountain Lookout, Laurieton
Diamond Head Loop Walk
Check out the amazing Split Rock
Read more: Diamond Head Campground
Trial Bay Gaol Campground
Location:
South West Rocks, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Trial Bay Gaol Campground – 489.0kms
Sydney to Trial Bay Gaol Campground – 458.4kms
What facilities are available:
Camping facilities at the Trial Bay Gaol Campground include 3 amenities blocks with toilets and showers accessed with a Pin-code, camp kitchen, barbecues and laundry facilities.
There are picnic tables, a boat ramp and the Trial Bay Kiosk Restaurant is a short walk from the campground.
Drinking water and bins are also available throughout the campground.
Type of Sites:
Powered and Unpowered Sites, some with direct ocean views
How much does it cost?
General Unpowered Site – From $34.85 per night
Bay View Unpowered Site – From $45.10 per night
General Powered Site – From $45.10 per night
In addition, Park Entry Fee of $8 per vehicle per day also applies. Note – if you are visiting a number of NSW National Parks it is worthwhile purchasing an Annual Pass.
How to book?
Book on-line or call 1300 072 757
Maximum Stay:
21 days
Is it Pet Friendly?
No – as it is in the Arakoon National Park
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
Accessible for motorhomes, caravans, big rigs, campervans, camper trailers and tents
Mobile Phone Service:
We had great Telstra and Vodafone coverage during our stay
Contact Details:
Phone: 1300 072 757 or 13000 PARKS
Address: 2 Cardwell Street, South West Rocks, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the South West Rocks region:
Trial Bay Gaol Tour
Mermaid Pools
Smoky Cape Lighthouse
South West Rocks Country Club
Read more: Trial Bay Gaol, South West Rocks
Smoky Cape Campground
Location:
South West Rocks, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Smoky Cape Campground – 487.5kms
Sydney to Smoky Cape Campground – 457.0kms
What facilities are available:
Basic facilities are available at the Smoky Cape Campground including non-flush toilets, bins and picnic tables.
There is no water available so you will need to bring along a supply of water and drinking water.
Type of Sites:
20 campsites, all are unpowered and most are shaded
How much does it cost?
$12.30 per night for 2 people
In addition, Park Entry Fee of $8 per vehicle per day also applies. Note – if you are visiting a number of NSW National Parks it is worthwhile purchasing an Annual Pass.
How to book?
Book on-line or call Trial Bay Gaol Visitor Centre on 02 6566 6168
Maximum Stay:
21 days
Is it Pet Friendly?
No – as it is in the Hat Head National Park
Dump Point:
No – however there is a Dump Point at the Trial Bay Gaol Campground nearby
Are you allowed to have a fire?
Yes – only in an above-the-ground firepit or brazier
Are Generators permitted?
Unknown
Accessibility?
Accessible to Caravans, Motorhomes, Camper Trailers and tent camping is permitted.
Mobile Phone Service:
There is no phone service in the Camping Area however there is some on the beach
Contact Details:
Phone: 02 6566 6168 or 1300 072 757
Address: 73 Trial Bay Gaol Road, Arakoon, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the South West Rocks region:
Smoky Cape Lighthouse
Trial Bay Gaol
Mermaid Pools
South West Rocks Country Club
Read more: Smoky Cape Campground
Gumma Reserve
Location:
Gumma via Macksville, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Gumma Reserve – 446.2kms
Sydney to Gumma Reserve – 479.8kms
What facilities are available:
Basic facilities include an amenities block with flushing toilets, cold showers, drinking water and bins. There is drinking water, picnic tables and BBQ facilities.
The road to the campground is now sealed and there is a boat ramp.
Type of Sites:
Limited campsites are available. There must be 6 metres between caravans and 3 metres between tents. No camping within 10 metres of the creek bank.
How much does it cost?
$25 for Families up to 4 people all year round
$20 for 2 people off season and $25 in peak season (NSW School Holidays – Apr, Sep/Oct & Dec/Jan)
$15 for 1 person and $20 in peak season
$8 for each additional person
Camping fees are to be paid by EFTPOS and collected by Council Caretaker anytime between 9am – 4pm daily
How to book?
Bookings are not taken. Availability can be checked prior to arrival by calling the Council Caretaker between 8am and 12 noon daily on 0429 366 456
Maximum Stay:
50 days in any one financial year
Is it Pet Friendly?
Yes – dogs must be on a leash at all times. Maximum 2 dogs
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
Yes – only when there are no bans are in place. BYO Firewood as it cannot be collected from the park or surrounding areas
Are Generators permitted?
Unknown
Accessibility?
Accessible for Motorhomes, Caravans, Camper trailers, Big Rigs and tent camping is permitted
Mobile Phone Service:
Limited mobile phone coverage is available
Contact Details:
Phone: 02 6568 2555
Address: Boultons Crossing Road, Gumma via Macksville, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the Macksville region:
Scotts Head
Collect oysters from Nambucca River
Reflections Red Rock Caravan Park
Location:
Red Rock, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Reflections Red Rock Caravan Park – 355.2kms
Sydney to Reflections Red Rock Caravan Park – 570.0kms
What facilities are available:
Reflections Red Rock has several amenities blocks, a camp kitchen, barbecue facilities, a number of laundry blocks, an on-site Cafe/Kiosk and a Boat Ramp.
Water is available from rain water tanks. Water from site taps is bore water and not suitable for drinking therefore we suggest you bring your own drinking water.
Type of Sites:
Powered and Unpowered sites
Cabins and Glamping Beach Tents are also available
How much does it cost?
Powered Site – From $42 per night for 2 people
Unpowered Site – From $33 per night
How to book?
Book on-line or call Reflections Holiday Parks, Red Rock on 02 6649 2730
Maximum Stay:
N/A
Is it Pet Friendly?
Yes – only during Off Peak Season and on selected sites only
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
Unknown
Accessibility?
Accessible for Motorhomes, Caravans, Camper trailers, Big Rigs and tent camping is allowed
Mobile Phone Service:
We had good Telstra and Vodafone coverage during our stay
Contact Details:
Phone: 02 6649 2730
Address: 1 Lawson Street, Red Rock, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the Red Rock region:
Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Coffs Harbour Butterfly House
Carobana Confectionery Factory
Read more: Reflections Holiday Parks Red Rock
Illaroo North Campground
Location:
Yuraygir National Park, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Illaroo North Campground – 334.6kms
Sydney to Illaroo North Campground – 631.5kms
What facilities are available:
Facilities at the Illaroo North Campground include toilets, picnic tables, barbecues and bins.
There are also drinking water taps at each end of the park.
Type of Sites:
60 unpowered campsites in total for Illaroo North and South Campgrounds
How much does it cost?
Tent/Trailer/Campervan/Small Caravan Site – From $24.60
Motorhome/Caravan Hardened Surface Premium Site – From $34.85
Group Tent/Trailer/Campervan/Small Caravan Site (suitable for 3 set-ups) – From $73.80
In addition, Park Entry Fee of $8 per vehicle per day also applies. Note – if you are visiting a number of NSW National Parks it is worthwhile purchasing an Annual Pass.
How to book?
Sites must be pre-booked. Book online or call National Parks Contact Centre on 1300 072 757
Maximum Stay:
21 days
Is it Pet Friendly?
No – as it is in the Yuraygir National Park
Dump Point:
No
Are you allowed to have a fire?
Yes – only when there are no fire bans in place
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
Accessible for Motorhomes, Caravans, Campervans, Camper trailers and tent camping is allowed. Access road to the campground is unsealed and can become boggy in wet weather.
Mobile Phone Service:
We had no Telstra or Vodafone coverage during our stay but there is Optus
Contact Details:
Phone: 1300 072 757 or 13000 PARKS
Address: Illaroo Road, Minnie Water, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the Minnie Water region:
Angophora Grove Walk
Shoalhaven Zoo and Adventure World
Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk
Read more: Illaroo North Campground
Sandon River Campground
Location:
Yuraygir National Park, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Sandon River Campground – 301.7kms
Sydney to Sandon River Campground – 671.8kms
What facilities are available:
Sandon River facilities include non-flushing toilets, shelters with lights, picnic tables and electric barbecues.
Tank water is available for general washing and your own camp showers, but not suitable for drinking. Bring along your own drinking water.
Rubbish and recycling bins are available at the entry to the campground and there is a boat ramp.
Type of Sites:
29 Unpowered sites. Campsites are not suitable for large caravans or motorhomes over 7.5m.
How much does it cost?
$24.60 for 2 people
In addition, Park Entry Fee of $8 per vehicle per day also applies. Note – if you are visiting a number of NSW National Parks it is worthwhile purchasing an Annual Pass.
How to book?
Book on-line or call the Grafton Office on 02 6641 1500
Maximum Stay:
21 days and a 2 night minimum stay applies during NSW and Qld School hols and on NSW Long Weekends
Is it Pet Friendly?
No – as it is in the Yuraygir National Park
Dump Point:
No
Are you allowed to have a fire?
Yes – only in the designated wood barbecues or in your own off-ground fire brazier. Collection of firewood from the park is prohibited so BYO firewood.
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
Accessible for Motorhomes, Caravans, Camper trailers and tent camping is allowed. Unsealed gravel access road can become boggy in wet weather and water flows over the little bridge in heavy rainfall.
Mobile Phone Service:
Limited mobile reception. There is a coin-operated Public Phone located at the access ramp of the main toilet building.
Contact Details:
Phone: 02 6641 1500
Address: Sandon River Road, Yuraygir National Park, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the Sandon River region:
Brooms Head
Yamba River Markets
Yamba Ocean Pool
Woody Head Campground
Location:
Bundjalung National Park, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Woody Head Campground – 270.0kms
Sydney to Woody Head Campground – 669.3kms
What facilities are available:
Facilities at the Woody Head Campground include toilets, cold showers or hot showers are $1 for 4 minutes, picnic tables and barbecue facilities.
Free Gas/electric barbecues and wood barbecues with wood supplied.
There is drinking water available and a boat ramp.
Type of Sites:
94 sites – all sites are unpowered
How much does it cost?
$34.85 per night for 2 people
In addition, Park Entry Fee of $8 per vehicle per day also applies. Note – if you are visiting a number of NSW National Parks it is worthwhile purchasing an Annual Pass.
How to book?
Book on-line or call 1300 072 757
Maximum Stay:
21 days
Is it Pet Friendly?
No – as it is in the Bundjalung National Park
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
Yes – only in wood barbecues provided or your own small off-the-ground braziers but it must have a solid base able to catch all ash and coals, be 300mm off-ground and under 300mm diameter in size
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility?
Accessible for Motorhomes, Caravans, Camper trailers and tent camping is allowed.
Mobile Phone Service:
We had good reception with both Telstra and Vodafone during our stay. A Telstra Public Phone is also available near the Woody Head Office.
Contact Details:
Phone: 02 6646 6134 or 1300 072 757
Address: 92 Woody Head Road, Woody Head, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the Illuka region:
Illuka/Yamba Ferry
Illuka Rainforest Walking Track
Illuka Museum
Read more: Woody Head Campground
Black Rocks Campground
Location:
Bundjalung National Park, New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane & Sydney:
Brisbane to Black Rocks Campground – 245.4kms
Sydney to Black Rocks Campground – 711.2kms
What facilities are available:
Black Rocks Campground has non-flush toilets however there are no showers, water or rubbish bins available.
You will need to bring your own water supply and drinking water and take your rubbish with you.
Picnic Tables and free gas/electric and wood barbecues are available throughout the campground.
Type of Sites:
50 Unpowered sites. There is a clothes line, picnic table and fire ring at each of the private individual campsites
How much does it cost?
$24.60 for 2 people
$147.60 for 27m x 20m Group Tent site – Max 30 people
In addition, Park Entry Fee of $8 per vehicle per day also applies. Note – if you are visiting a number of NSW National Parks it is worthwhile purchasing an Annual Pass.
How to book?
Book on-line or call 1300 072 757
Maximum Stay:
21 days
Is it Pet Friendly?
No – as it is in the Bundjalung National Park
Dump Point:
Yes
Are you allowed to have a fire?
Yes – in the fire ring provided as long as there are no fire bans at the time. BYO firewood as it cannot be collected from within the park
Are Generators permitted?
Unknown
Accessibility?
Accessible for Motorhomes, Caravans, Camper Trailers and Campervans. Camping in tents is also permitted.
Mobile Phone Service:
Limited Telstra phone reception and Vodafone reception is sporadic
Contact Details:
Phone: 02 9585 6831 or 1300 072 757
Address: The Gap Road, Bundjalung National Park, New South Wales
Website:
Things to do in the Black Rocks region:
Jeruselum Creek
Evans Head
Read more: Black Rocks Campground
Best time to go camping between Brisbane and Sydney
We found the best time to do a camping trip of the NSW North Coast between Brisbane and Sydney was in the warmer months of the year.
Wanting to escape the heat of Brisbane, we travelled south down along the NSW North Coast in search of cooler temperatures in November and December returning for Christmas before doing a trip of the NSW South Coast in February – April.
Things to take with you when exploring Brisbane to Sydney
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Snorkel Gear
- Speargun
- Wetsuit
- Hema Maps
- Water Bottle
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Torch
- Hiking Shoes
- Swimmers and Towel
- First Aid Kit
- Cooling Towel
- Insect Repellent
Check out these other great blogs on camping:
Pin – Camping NSW North Coast
Have you stayed at any of these great camping sites on the NSW North Coast? Tell us if you have stayed at any other awesome NSW North Coast camping grounds, showgrounds, free camps or caravan parks.
Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.
Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.
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Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps.
Samsung s21 Phone – https://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Nikon Coolpix p1000 – https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.
Lenses
Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.us/br9MeO – This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – http://ebay.us/zWvfuI – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
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Adventurers Diary
12 Ways to Stay Awake when Driving on Long Trips
If you are looking to roadtrip Australia, you will want to find ways to stay awake when driving on long trips.
It’s been 6 years now since we packed up, sold off and gave away all our belongings and left our home to Travel Australia.
Every moment has been amazing and we wouldn’t change a thing.
We have been all of the way around the Country including Tasmania and in the meantime we have racked up plenty of kilometres along the way.
The East Coast is fairly easy with most days consisting of short drives to reach your destination but the Northern Territory and Western Australia are often longer days with big stretches before reaching your next camp site.
These days can be exhausting.
Fatigue when driving can happen anytime, not just on long drives.
For me I notice I get tired more when I’m driving long straight boring roads. This can happen regardless of how long I’ve been driving that day.
Driving when tired as we all know is a very common cause of traffic accidents and we need to ensure we do everything possible to prepare for long road trips and take the right precautions should we feel tired.
Table of Contents
Our 12 Ways to Stay Awake when Driving Long Trips
Here are some ideas and tips to ensure you stay awake when driving on long trips and arrive at your destination safely.
1. Sleep
Getting good sleep at night is paramount to handling days on the road driving the highways on our adventures.
Did you know, when you are fatigued even without falling asleep our brain can have short “microsleeps”, which are short periods of sleep.
Microsleeps can last from a fraction of a second up to 10 full seconds.
It’s important to recognise the signs of driving tired. These include:
- Yawning
- Blinking more often
- Stiffness, cramps, aches and pains. Sore shoulders or neck areas.
- Losses of concentration and daydreaming
- Drifting across lanes or onto the edge of the road
- Eyes become sore or lose focus
Take regular breaks and share the driving if you can.
If you feel tired then stop, refresh and have something healthy to eat and drink. Try not to have too much sugar which will give you a quick hit of energy but will likely leave you feeling fatigued soon after.
2. Meals
On days where you are driving consider what you eat and it’s possible effects on how it may make you feel.
It’s a well known fact that speakers at conferences and seminars who talk after lunch are getting the graveyard shift. It’s the hardest session to keep the audience awake and alert.
What you eat at meal times can have a big influence on your fatigue factor.
Fresh foods, fruits and drinking water is ideal and limiting Pasta, Rice and other high in Carbs meals as well as Sugar and Trans fats will all assist you to keep alert and stay safe when driving long trips.
Making your own meals when on the road rather then stopping at a Fast Food outlet or Highway Truck Stop will likely help reduce tiredness as you drive.
3. Alcohol
It goes without saying that we should never drink alcohol whilst driving or straight after consuming too much.
However, what about the night before?
A night of heavy drinking can take your body 18 hours to get back to zero blood alcohol concentration level.
Alcohol effects us all very differently based on:
- our weight
- our age
- if we are male or female
- the metabolism of our individual bodies
- type of alcohol we are drinking
- food we have consumed and when we ate
- stress levels
We all understand the consequences of driving over the limit however what about the effect drinking the night before has on our ability to remain focused and vigilant the next day despite being under the alcohol limit.
A study has shown that even a moderate level of alcohol intake, even below what is legally drunk, along with a bad night sleep produced greater drowsiness and more attention deficit than normal.
Taking it easy the night before a road trip the next morning might be the safe option.
4. Stop & Revive
We know that once we get tired we should pull over to take a rest but what should we do while we are stopped.
If you simply pull over and sit in your drivers seat for a short period you will find you will return back to your original state of drowsiness fairly quickly.
Here are some ideas on what to do while you pull over and take some time out from driving.
- Exercise whilst you are stopped. Do lots of stretches that cover all of your bodies muscles. Walk around and increase your blood flow, oxygen and heart rate.
- Drink water. Our bodies naturally lose fluids each day and re-hydrating is essential. If we become low on fluids we will become tired and weak. Always drink plenty of water whenever driving and taking a rest stop.
- Now is the right time to take a toilet break.
- I”m not sure about you but whenever we hit the highway Adele falls asleep in the passengers seat very quickly. This leaves me with my music and my thoughts. When we arrive at a rest stop I find it important to talk. This helps stimulate my brain and gets my mind functioning and alert at peak levels once again. This is also a good time to make a phone call to family or friends as well as chat with your partner and kids.
There’s lots of Rest Areas all around our country’s highways, make sure to utilise them whenever necessary to ensure you stay awake when driving long trips.
5. Put your left foot in put you’re your left foot out and shake it all about
While you are driving keep stretching and moving wherever you can. Stretch your shoulders, neck and arms however possible.
Apply pressure by stretching them over your head or pushing up and down on solid parts of the inside of your car.
Stretch and move your left leg about and set your cruise control to allow you to do the same with your right leg.
Exerting your tendons and ligaments will help the flow of blood and oxygen and keep your body awake.
6. Music
It’s the first thing I do when I drive. Find some great music that I love and turn it up as loud as Adele will let me. Which isn’t very loud lol.
Great music and singing as you drive is both great for staying awake when driving on long trips but a lot of fun too.
In this article I listed some of my favourite Driving songs I like to play and sign to while I’m driving.
Read more: My 15 Favourite Driving Songs as I Travel
7. Audio Books
These are a great way to keep focused while driving.
You can find all sort of audio books to suit your interests.
From funny and humurous to educational or just great stories, you will find an audio book to suit you.
An Audio Book is book you would normally purchase and read but through audio books you listen while someone reads the book to you.
You can download Audio Books through your Google Play or Apple Books app or you can sign up to places such as Audible which is owned by Amazon.
This is another great way to keep energised and stay awake while driving long trips.
8. Use your UHF
A UHF is an excellent bit of equipment to have when travelling Australia by road.
It’s an essential safety tool and a great method to be aware of changing conditions and monitor roadworks.
A UHF is also a great way to be in contact with truck drivers, other road users or friends you may have in convoy.
Read more: Why Trucks Pass You When You’re doing the Speed Limit
9. Play games
As kids I still vividly remember our camping trips and holidays when we were all in the car playing eye spy or counting specific cars we could see.
No doubt this was done to entertain us 4 boys and keep our minds occupied and stop us from getting bored but it’s also a great opportunity from drivers to stay awake.
In Queensland the Government has even recognised this and installed road signs on the highways with questions and answers designed to keep us alert.
Personally I think those signs should be able to be rotated and each month a new question and answer can be changed over but it’s still a great idea.
We play similar games at times when we are driving just between us.
Now that we drive separate vehicles we will come up with a letter and we both have to name places we have travelled to starting with that letter.
We use our UHF to give our answers.
As we remember places it also reminds us of stories and funny things we chat about that happened during our stay there.
Have some fun playing your own quizzes and games to stay awake on your long road trips and find how it helps break up the monotony of driving.
10. Fresh Air
Every half hour to an hour I like to wind down my window and allow fresh air in to the vehicle.
The air inside gets stale and it can’t hurt to release the carbon dioxide we’ve been breathing out over time.
Most of the time when I’m driving below 80kmh I prefer my window down to the air conditioning anyway.
In the country it’s great to enjoy the wind in your face and the smells of the countryside.
Wind down your window and let some fresh air in. Depending on your vehicle size and how many of you are in the car as to how often.
I often do this as we slow down to drive through small towns along the way.
11. Sit Correctly
It’s a simple thing but I’ve noticed that occasionally when my arms, shoulders or back get sore that my seating position could improve.
Either I’m stretching too far to reach the steering wheel or I’m not quite sitting straight.
Make sure your seat is in the correct position to ensure maximum comfort for you and the correct position to sustain longer periods in the drivers seat.
Over stretching to reach the steering wheel can cause aches and pain in your arms, shoulders and back which can ultimately add to fatigue and making it harder to stay awake when driving long trips.
This might be just a very minor tweak of your seat or your sitting position that can make a big difference on your comfort while driving.
12. Early Morning Driving
Neither Adele or I are naturally morning people and it’s usually mid morning before we hit the road.
To be honest, we often struggle to get out of Caravan Parks before the designated time of 10am on leaving day. It’s one of the extra reasons we love Free camping.
On our recent trip back up to the Northern Territory and North Queensland though we found it great to be up early and on the road around 7.30am, especially on the days we knew we had some bigger kms to travel.
It’s so much cooler and the sun beating in through the side window wasn’t nearly as harsh.
There was less traffic and we could choose to get an extra few kms in and closer to our destination or arrive earlier at a roadside rest stop and get a good position.
The most important thing is to arrive safely.
Make sure you manage your fatigue factor and arrive safely where you are going.
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Summary
These are just some of the many ways to stay awake when driving long trips or driving in general. None of which cost anything to apply but may hopefully help to save your life and lives of others.
- Get good sleep before driving
- Eat well before driving
- Do not drink excessively before driving
- Stop regularly on long trips
- Stretch often
- Listen to Music or Audio Books
- Utilise your UHF
- Breath in fresh air
- Ensure you sit correctly
- Drive early in the morning where possible
Other blogs you may find interesting:
Pin – Ways to stay awake when driving long trips
Do you have any other tips for ways to stay awake when driving on long trips while you are travelling?
Let us know in the comments below.
Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.
Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.
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Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps.
Samsung s21 Phone – https://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Nikon Coolpix p1000 – https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.
Lenses
Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.us/br9MeO – This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – http://ebay.us/zWvfuI – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
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Adventurers Diary
Exmouth Campsites in the Cape Range National Park
Dotted all along the Western Australian coast within the shire of Exmouth are a number of campsites in the Cape Range National Park just south of Exmouth itself.
Exmouth is located on the North West Cape of Western Australia and is the gateway to the magnificent Ningaloo Marine Park.
It’s 1250kms north from Perth between Carnarvon and Karratha and is a drive of approximately 13 hours from Western Australia’s capital city.
The Ningaloo Reef is 260kms long and is located close to the coastline and in some areas it is easy to swim and snorkel amongst the coral and enormous array of marine life.
Migrating humpback whales, Whale sharks, Dugong, Dolphins, Manta Rays, Turtles, beautiful coral and colourful fish are all common residents of the stunning Ningaloo Reef Marine Park.
This is an extraordinary part of Australia’s coastline and there’s some amazing camping areas where you can stay overlooking the reef and enjoy some of the best snorkelling in our country.
In total, there are 11 great campsites within just 100kms of Exmouth all of which have beach access within a short stroll of the campground.
Table of Contents
Exmouth Campsites – Fees and Park Passes
Besides booking the camping fees to stay at these great Exmouth campsites through the Department of Parks and Wildlife, you will also need to purchase a Western Australia Parks Pass to enter the Cape Range National Park.
Types of Park Passes
Park Passes are available as follows:
- Holiday Pass – 5 day, 14 day and 1 month: from $25
- Annual Local Parks Pass (Western Australian local residents and ratepayers only): $25
- Annual All Parks Pass: $120
- Concession All Parks Pass: $75
- Goldstar Subscription Annual All Parks Pass (Annual All Parks Pass & Subscription to Landscope Magazine: $150
Purchase e-passes from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions website
Passes must then be printed and displayed on your vehicle at all times.
11 Great Exmouth Campsites
Here is a list of the 11 great Exmouth Campsites along with details of the camping facilities at each of these beachside camping grounds south of Exmouth.
Mesa Campsite
How far is this campsite from Exmouth?
49.8kms
Location:
Northern end of Cape Range National Park, Western Australia
What Facilities are available?
The Mesa Campground is a beachside campground overlooking the small bay and offers some shade.
It is the most northern of the campsites from Exmouth and the beach is just a 100m stroll away.
Pit toilets are available. Bins and picnic tables are also available. Bring along your own drinking water and general water supply.
Camping in tents and swags is allowed and it is accessible to Caravans, Camper Trailers, Motorhomes and Big Rigs.
Telstra reception is available.
Campground hosts manage the Mesa Campsite from April to the end of November.
Number of Sites:
23 Unpowered – hard surfaced sites
How much does it cost?
Adults – $11 per night
Concession Holders- $7 per night
Children aged 5 – 16 – $3 per night
How to book?
Book prior to arrival via the DPAW website
Maximum Stay:
28 nights and 14 nights if any one night falls within the WA School Holiday period
Is it Pet Friendly?
No, Mesa Campground is not pet friendly as it is in National Park
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
Yes – between the hours of 8am – 9pm
Accessibility:
Unsealed access but suitable for 2WD
Contact Details:
Phone: 08 9949 2808
Address: Cape Range National Park, via Murat Road, Learmonth-Minilya Road and Yardie Creek Road
Website:
Mesa Campground Activities:
Swimming
Fishing
Snorkelling
Canoeing & Kayaking
Read more: 47 Caravan Motorhome RV & Camping Accessories
Neds Campsite
How far is this campsite from Exmouth?
49.8kms
Location:
Northern end of Cape Range National Park, Western Australia
What Facilities are available?
The Neds Campground is a beachside campground overlooking the small bay and offers some shade. Beach is just a 100m stroll away.
Non-flush toilets and picnic tables are available. Bring along your own drinking water and general water supply.
Camping in tents and swags is allowed and Neds is only suitable for Camper Trailers and Rooftoppers.
Telstra reception is available.
Number of Sites:
9 Unpowered sites
How much does it cost?
Adults – $11 per night
Concession Holders- $7 per night
Children aged 5 – 16 – $3 per night
How to book?
Book prior to arrival via the DPAW website
Maximum Stay:
28 nights and 14 nights if any one night falls within the WA School Holiday period
Is it Pet Friendly?
No, Neds Campground and Day Use Area is not pet friendly as it is in National Park
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility:
Suitable for 2WD vehicles
Contact Details:
Phone: 08 9949 2808
Address: Cape Range National Park, via Murat Road and Yardie Creek Road
Website:
Neds Campground Activities:
Swimming
Fishing
Snorkelling
Bushwalking
Read More: Travelling Australia with our dog MACKS
Tulki Beach Campsite
How far is this campsite from Exmouth?
58.4kms
Location:
Northern end of Cape Range National Park, Western Australia
What Facilities are available?
The Tulki Beach Campsite is the closest campground to the stunning Turquoise Bay.
The campground is located near the mouth of a dry creek system and just a 200m stroll to the beach from all sites.
Pit toilets are available. Bins and picnic tables are also available. Bring along your own drinking water and general water supply.
Camping in tents and swags is allowed and it is accessible to Caravans, Camper Trailers, Motorhomes and Big Rigs. Note – the hard surface makes it difficult to drive pegs.
Mobile phone reception is not available.
Camp hosts are on site at the campground.
Number of Sites:
11 Unpowered sites – compacted surface
How much does it cost?
Adults – $11 per night
Concession Holders- $7 per night
Children aged 5 – 16 – $3 per night
How to book?
Book prior to arrival via the DPAW website
Maximum Stay:
28 nights and 14 nights if any one night falls within the WA School Holiday period
Is it Pet Friendly?
No, Tulki Beach Campground is not pet friendly as it is in National Park
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
Yes – between the hours of 8am – 9pm
Accessibility:
Suitable for 2WD and larger vehicles – unsealed roads within campground
Contact Details:
Phone: 08 9949 2808
Address: Cape Range National Park, Western Australia via Murat Road & Yardie Creek Road
Website:
Tulki Beach Campground Activities:
Swimming
Snorkelling
Canoeing & Kayaking
Turquoise Bay is one of our: Best Beaches in Australia 1-10
North Mandu Campsite
How far is this campsite from Exmouth?
65.9kms
Location:
Cape Range National Park, Western Australia
What Facilities are available?
The Mandu North Campground is a small campground tucked behind the sand dunes providing partial protection against any strong winds. It is only 50metres to the beach from the campsites.
Non-flush Pit toilets are the only facilities available. Bring along your own drinking water and general water supply.
Camping in tents and swags is allowed and it is accessible to Caravans, Camper Trailers and Motorhomes. Surface is hard so driving pegs may be difficult.
There is no mobile phone reception available.
Number of Sites:
5 Unpowered sites
How much does it cost?
Adults – $11 per night
Concession Holders- $7 per night
Children aged 5 – 16 – $3 per night
How to book?
Book prior to arrival via the DPAW website
Maximum Stay:
28 nights and 14 nights if any one night falls within the WA School Holiday period
Is it Pet Friendly?
No, North Mandu Campground is not pet friendly as it is in National Park
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility:
2WD accessible
Contact Details:
Phone: 08 9949 2808
Address: Cape Range National Park, via Murat Road, Learmonth-Minilya Road and Yardie Creek Road
Website:
Mandu North Campground Activities:
Swimming
Bushwalking
Snorkelling
Canoeing & Kayaking
North Kurrajong Campsite
How far is this campsite from Exmouth?
70.7kms
Location:
Cape Range National Park, Western Australia
What Facilities are available?
Adjacent to the North Kurrajong Campground is a beautiful sandy beach and only a short walk from each campsite of the campground which is nestled behind the sand dunes.
You can take in the excellent coastal views from the viewing platform made from recycled plastic.
A modern toilet block with 3 cubicles is available as well as a sheltered picnic area including 4 tables. Bring along your own drinking water and general water supply.
Camping in tents and swags is allowed and it is accessible to Caravans, Camper Trailers and Motorhomes. Surface is hard so driving pegs may be difficult.
There is no mobile phone reception available. Milyering Centre has phone reception.
Camp hosts on site at the campground.
Number of Sites:
10 Unpowererd campsites
How much does it cost?
Adults – $11 per night
Concession Holders- $7 per night
Children aged 5 – 16 – $3 per night
How to book?
Book prior to arrival via the DPAW website
Maximum Stay:
28 nights and 14 nights if any one night falls within the WA School Holiday period
Is it Pet Friendly?
No, North Kurrajong Campground is not pet friendly as it is in National Park
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility:
2WD accessible
Contact Details:
Phone: 08 9949 2808
Address: Cape Range National Park, via Murat Road and Yardie Creek Road
Website:
North Kurrajong Campground Activities:
Swimming
Fishing
Snorkelling
Canoeing & Kayaking
Read more: Best Mobile Network in Australia for travellers
Kurrajong Campsite
How far is this campsite from Exmouth?
70.7kms
Location:
Cape Range National Park, Western Australia
What Facilities are available?
Nestled behind the sand dunes the Kurrajong Campground is a only a 150 metre walk to the beach from all campsites.
The Ningaloo Reef is directly out from the campsite and provides great snorkelling.
Non-flush toilets as well as picnic tables are available. Bring along your own drinking water and general water supply.
Camping in tents and swags is allowed and it is accessible to Caravans, Camper Trailers and Motorhomes. Surface is hard so driving pegs may be difficult.
There is no mobile phone reception available. Milyering Discovery Centre has phone reception.
Camp hosts on site at the campground.
Number of Sites:
26 Unpowered campsites
How much does it cost?
Adults – $11 per night
Concession Holders- $7 per night
Children aged 5 – 16 – $3 per night
How to book?
Book prior to arrival via the DPAW website
Maximum Stay:
28 nights and 14 nights if any one night falls within the WA School Holiday period
Is it Pet Friendly?
No, Kurrajong Campground is not pet friendly as it is in National Park
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility:
2WD accessible– unsealed road within campground
Contact Details:
Phone: 08 9949 2808
Address: Cape Range National Park, via Murat Road and Yardie Creek Road
Website:
Kurrajong Campground Activities:
Swimming
Fishing
Snorkelling
5 Essentials – Camera Equipment
The Mavic Pro 2 will provide you with everything you will need for all of your aerial footage
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.nd some general use.
We both love our Samsung Phones. Most of our photos are simply from our Samsung Phones. Now there’s the new Samsung s21 out and we have friends and our son who have one and they look insane for photography. If you’re looking for a new phone for your road trip I’d be going for this.
The distances you can shoot with the Camera – Nikon P1000 are simply amazing. It has an incredible optical and digital zoom!
We use our HP Sphere 360 Laptop with 8th Generation Intel Core i7 processor for our everyday use and for editing our photos
Osprey Bay Campsite
How far is this campsite from Exmouth?
78.6kms
Location:
Cape Range National Park, Western Australia
What Facilities are available?
Osprey Campground is the largest campsites in the Cape Range National Park south of Exmouth.
It’s just a short walk from the Osprey Campground and day use area to the sandy beach.
Enjoy a walk along the trail that leads to Sandy Bay and look out for echidnas, kangaroos and any birds of prey flying overhead.
Shore based fishing is permitted in the special purpose zone adjacent to the Osprey Bay Sanctuary Zone. Visit the Fisheries website or download a copy of the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Map.
Non-flush toilets and picnic tables are available in the day use area. Bring along your own drinking water and general water supply.
Camping in tents and swags is allowed and it is accessible to Caravans, Camper Trailers and Motorhomes. Surface is hard so driving pegs may be difficult.
There is no mobile phone reception. Milyering Discovery Centre has phone reception.
Volunteer Camp hosts are at the campground.
Number of Sites:
46 Unpowered campsites
How much does it cost?
Adults – $11 per night
Concession Holders- $7 per night
Children aged 5 – 16 – $3 per night
How to book?
Book prior to arrival via the DPAW website
Maximum Stay:
28 nights and 14 nights if any one night falls within the WA School Holiday period
Is it Pet Friendly?
No, Osprey Campground is not pet friendly as it is in National Park
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
Yes – 8am – 9pm in specific sites only
Accessibility:
Accessible for 2WD and large vehicles
Contact Details:
Phone: 08 9949 2808
Address: Cape Range National Park, via Murat Road and Yardie Creek Road
Website:
Osprey Campground Activities:
Swimming
Fishing
Snorkelling
Kayaking
Read about more campgrounds: Our Best Low Cost Campgrounds in Australia
Bungarra Campsite
How far is this campsite from Exmouth?
79.1kms
Location:
Cape Range National Park, Western Australia
What Facilities are available?
Bungarra Campground is one of the small campsites out of Exmouth in the Cape Range National Park making it a peaceful place to stay.
It’s just a short walk from the Campground to the beach where you can enjoy swimming, snorkelling and canoeing.
Non-flush toilets are the only facilities at this campground. Bring along your own drinking water and general water supply.
Camping in tents and swags is allowed and it is accessible to Caravans, Camper Trailers and Motorhomes. Surface is hard so driving pegs may be difficult.
There is no mobile phone reception available. Milyering Discovery Centre has phone reception.
Number of Sites:
5 Unpowered campsites
How much does it cost?
Adults – $11 per night
Concession Holders- $7 per night
Children aged 5 – 16 – $3 per night
How to book?
Book prior to arrival via the DPAW website
Maximum Stay:
28 nights and 14 nights if any one night falls within the WA School Holiday period
Is it Pet Friendly?
No, Bungarra Campground is not pet friendly as it is in National Park
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
No
Accessibility:
Accessible – unsealed roads within in campground
Contact Details:
Phone: 08 9949 2808
Address: Cape Range National Park, via Murat Road and Yardie Creek Road
Website:
Bungarra Campground Activities:
Swimming
Snorkelling
Canoeing
Yardie Creek Campsite
How far is this campsite from Exmouth?
87.5kms
Location:
Southern end of Cape Range National Park, Western Australia
What Facilities are available?
The Yardie Creek Campground is a reasonably small campground near the spectacular Yardie Creek Gorge. All campsites are within 80 metres of the beach.
It’s just a short walk to picnic area and walking trails as well as the departure point for cruises at Yardie Creek.
Non-flush toilets are the only facilities at this campground. Bring along your own drinking water and general water supply.
Camping in tents and swags is allowed and it is accessible to Caravans, Camper Trailers and Motorhomes.
There is Telstra phone reception available. A Dump Point is located nearby off Yardie Creek Road.
Number of Sites:
10 Unpowered campsites
How much does it cost?
Adults – $11 per night
Concession Holders- $7 per night
Children aged 5 – 16 – $3 per night
How to book?
Book prior to arrival via the DPAW website
Maximum Stay:
28 nights and 14 nights if any one night falls within the WA School Holiday period
Is it Pet Friendly?
No, Yardie Creek Campground is not pet friendly as it is in National Park
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
Yes – between 8am – 9pm
Accessibility:
2WD accessible – unsealed roads within in campground
Contact Details:
Phone: 08 9949 2808
Address: Cape Range National Park, via Murat Road and Yardie Creek Road
Website:
Yardie Creek Campground Activities:
Swimming
Snorkelling
Canoeing & Kayaking
Bushwalking
Read more: 17 Handy Items for Families Travelling with Kids
One K Campsite
How far is this campsite from Exmouth?
89.1kms
Location:
Southern end of Cape Range National Park, Western Australia and one of the Exmouth campsites furthest south
What Facilities are available?
The One K Campground requires crossing the tidal Yardie Creek.
Crossing the soft shifting sand is not always possible so therefore access is not guaranteed and is at your own risk.
Check tide predictions and only attempt crossing is you have the appropriate experience and equipment.
Non-flush toilets are the only facilities at this campground. Bring along your own drinking water and general water supply.
Camping in tents and swags is allowed and it is accessible to Off-road Caravans and Camper Trailers.
Campsites at One K are in high demand from Easter through to October.
There is Telstra phone reception available. A Dump Point is located nearby off Yardie Creek Road.
Number of Sites:
7 Unpowered campsites
How much does it cost?
Adults – $11 per night
Concession Holders- $7 per night
Children aged 5 – 16 – $3 per night
How to book?
Book prior to arrival via the DPAW website
Maximum Stay:
28 nights and 14 nights if any one night falls within the WA School Holiday period
Is it Pet Friendly?
No, One K Campground is not pet friendly as it is in National Park
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
Yes – between 8am – 9pm
Accessibility:
Only accessible by 4WD
Contact Details:
Phone: 08 9949 2808
Address: Cape Range National Park, via Murat Road and Yardie Creek Road
Website:
One K Campground Activities:
Swimming
Snorkelling
Canoeing & Kayaking
Bushwalking
Boat Harbour Campsite
How far is this campsite from Exmouth?
90.5kms
Location:
Southern end of Cape Range National Park, Western Australia and the furthest south of the Exmouth campsites.
What Facilities are available?
The Boat Harbour Campground is just 3kms south of Yardie Creek. When accessing from the north it will be necessary to cross the tidal Yardie Creek.
Crossing the soft shifting sand is not always possible and you do so at your own risk.
Check tide predictions and only attempt crossing if you have the appropriate experience and equipment.
Non-flush toilets are available. Bring along your own drinking water and general water supply.
Camping in tents and swags is allowed. Only suitable for Off-road Caravans and Camper Trailers.
Boat Harbour Campground is adjacent to a Recreational Zone of the Ningaloo Marine Park, which allows the launching of small boats. It is the furthest south of the Exmouth Campsites.
There is no Telstra phone reception. A Dump Point is located nearby off Yardie Creek Road.
Number of Sites:
5 Unpowered campsites
How much does it cost?
Adults – $11 per night
Concession Holders- $7 per night
Children aged 5 – 16 – $3 per night
How to book?
Book prior to arrival via the DPAW website
Maximum Stay:
28 nights and 14 nights if any one night falls within the WA School Holiday period
Is it Pet Friendly?
No, Boat Harbour Campground is not pet friendly as it is in National Park
Are you allowed to have a fire?
No
Are Generators permitted?
Yes – between 8am – 9pm
Accessibility:
Only accessible by 4WD
Contact Details:
Phone: 08 9949 2808
Address: Cape Range National Park, Minilya-Exmouth Road via Ningaloo Road and Ningaloo-Yardie Creek Road
Website:
Boat Harbour Campground Activities:
Swimming
Snorkelling
Canoeing & Kayaking
Diving
Fishing
Read more: 49 Amazing Things to do in Western Australia
Exmouth Weather
The weather in and around Exmouth is generally warm and can be quite windy. A great time to visit Exmouth is during the months of May to September with August being the best month of the year.
The coastline from Broome down to Exmouth is the region most prone to cyclones in Australia. Cyclone season runs from 1 November through to 30 April.
July is usually the coolest month with temperatures averaging 24 degrees C. As expected the hottest months are Jan and February with the average temperatures around 37 degrees C.
Read about: Always take the weather, the weather with you
Great Tours around Exmouth and Ningaloo Reef
There are some once in a lifetime tours that you can do out of Exmouth in the amazing Ningaloo Reef region.
Swim with Humpback Whales
One of our most memorable tours to date as we travel Australia has been swimming with Humpback Whales out of Exmouth.
Ocean Eco Adventures have a Gyrocopter above spotting the suitable whales while you are ready to jump off the back of the boat where you can have a humpback whale swim underneath or near you which is such an amazing experience.
Whale Shark Swim
During the months of March to July you can swim with Whale Sharks out of Exmouth in WA.
The 8hr tour includes the amazing in-water experience with the whale sharks and snorkeling the Ningaloo Reef along with lunch and morning and afternoon tea.
Book your: Whale Shark Swim and Catamaran Cruise here>
Muiron Islands Dive Tour
Spend the day exploring and diving the Muiron Islands just a few nautical miles out from Exmouth. This World Heritage area are famous for their colourful soft corals.
An unbelievable aquatic experience where you will be diving among potato cod, turtles, sharks and thousands of fish.
Book your: Muiron Islands Dive Tour here>
Outer Reef or Island Snorkel Tour
Enjoy discovering great snorkelling sites at coral reefs only accessible by boat. Snorkel among beautiful coral gardens and swim alongside turtles and mantarays.
Suitable for all levels of snorkelling experience. Tours operate from March through to December and include complimentary snorkel hire, a pre-packed lunch and refreshments.
Book your: Outer Reef or Island Snorkel Tour here>
Things to take with you when exploring the Exmouth Campsites region:
- Camera
- Snorkel gear
- Wet Suit
- Kayak
- Binoculars
- Hema Maps
- Water Bottle
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Torch
- Hiking Shoes
- Swimmers and Towel
- First Aid Kit
- Cooling Towel
- Insect Repellent
Read more: Winning the War against Midges or Sand Flies
Pin – Exmouth Campsites
Have you stayed in any of these campsites near Exmouth?
Tell us in the comments which of the Exmouth campsites you stayed in and how you rate it!
Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.
Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.
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Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps.
Samsung s21 Phone – https://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Nikon Coolpix p1000 – https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.
Lenses
Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.us/br9MeO – This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – http://ebay.us/zWvfuI – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
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Coledale Camping Reserve, Coledale NSW
Black Rocks Campground, Bundjalung National Park, NSW
Illaroo Campground, Yuraygir National Park, NSW
