We have been caravanning for around 12yrs & only free camped once.
Free camping seems to have grown amazingly in popularity over the years, so it must have something going for it.
Can you tell me what attracts you to free camping & how you go about it.
We always choose a CP site that has a view of whatever the particular area offers .. Ocean, river or just bush. Then we set up the van & head off to explore & enjoy the area.
There are invariably many great people to share happy hour with & form sometimes lasting friendships. We even have an evening camp fire on (rare) occasions.
How do you go about seeing the sites when free camping. Can you leave your van & go off during the day?
What is it that attracts you to free camping?
What's good & what's not so good about it?
Bent Axle Bob said
08:31 AM Nov 20, 2011
I try to use free camps when travelling between centres. A couple of days here and there makes a big budgetary difference. It is a way to break up the days travelling. Security can be a problem but usually free camps are in the more isolated areas and normally not a lot in that area to see anyway. A couple of days relaxing is always good and stress levels drop dramatically. CP's can be expensive, but do offer ammenities not available when free camping. With most charging a minimum of around $30+ a night single, I can do without a powered site,running water and shady trees.
_wombat_ said
08:42 AM Nov 20, 2011
It's free
rockylizard said
08:59 AM Nov 20, 2011
Gday...
May I begin by saying that I find the term "free-camping" a misnomer. If "free-camping" means going to a place beside a river, creek, lake, or just a spot the bush and setting up your camp (whether it be swag, tent, camper, campervan, motorhome or caravan) then I have been doing it since I was in my mid-teens. Some people do the same thing but at a van park. We generally call this "having a holiday".
I think the term "free-camping" should be changed back to "camping" as some of the places we "free-camp" do attract fees albeit usually low-level or "donation".
That said, and in answer to your query -
How do you go about seeing the sites when free camping. I am an 'internet researcher', ie Googling for information/background on the places I am about to visit. I also visit Info Centres in towns I pass through or camp near and of course, the locals know their area pretty well and love to tell you about the good spots.
Can you leave your van & go off during the day? I have no issue leaving my van at camping spots and going off for a few hours (or the day) bushwalking, seeing the sights or even getting supplies. I do not leave my van unattended at 'wayside stop' spots for instance, but if camped away from the town, highway etc it is just as safe as leaving my tent and equipment all alone in the bush when I visit a National Park or State Forest.
What is it that attracts you to free camping? I love meeting and talking to people (but hate crowds) and I love the isolation of camping somewhere in a pretty and seculuded spot. I love cooking on the open fire and sitting around staring into it of an evening. The quiet of the bush is so invigorating and rejuvenating - especially if broken by the sounds of birds
What's good & what's not so good about it? I think I have covered this above, but what is not so good? Hmmm - it is hard to answer really. I cannot think of things that I don't like when camping. Perhaps it is not having a long hot shower - which I never miss until I do get to a van park and have one then I realise I how much I relish having a shower
Finally, I guess I would be lying if I did not also like the budgetary aspects of camping - great spots and low fee or no fee. It certainly helps me stretch my limited income. Having said that, I have been camping for more than 50 years and even when I was earning large annual incomes, I still went camping in the bush for my holidays.
I recently met a couple who had never "free-camped" when I was in Charters Towers so I offered to 'motherhen' them at a free camp for the coming week. They decided to accept and at the end of the second day they were convinced they would do it more often. I left on the fourth day and they stayed on for a few more days.
Your reticence to leave the "security" of van parks is fully understandable. But I am sure if you found a good spot (and there are many on this site under the heading of "Free/budget damps etc") you would begin to find it is so fulfilling.
I guess this has got a bit long-winded - typical of me once I get started.
Cheers
John
-- Edited by rockylizard on Sunday 20th of November 2011 08:59:39 AM
-- Edited by rockylizard on Sunday 20th of November 2011 09:08:24 AM
Ma said
09:13 AM Nov 20, 2011
I agree John. We "camp" probably about 90% of the time and only go to van parks when we want a little bit of pampering, ie: hot shower, laundry etc.
Admittedly we are in a park in Stanley Tas. at the moment and this time we are pleased that we did. The weather has been fairly ordinary and gale force winds and hail predicted for later today and the site we have is fairly well protected.
We find that people who "camp" seem more friendly and approachable.
Like you we hate crowds and the further "out the back" we go the better it is.
Spooky said
09:28 AM Nov 20, 2011
G'day to you all,my firs replay just joined this morning...
I believe there is a lot of travellers out there that relay on some free camping...Unless you hawe your bank manager tayed to your roof rack.
I read many times that at free sites people will look after each others rigs that is if your life experince tels you that the situation is OK...So they can skip out for suplay or sight seing...I belive that is what is all about...trust and sharing creates lasting memorys...Cheers...
Dougwe said
09:32 AM Nov 20, 2011
Cricky John I was going to spend the day reading but I have just read your novel. All jokes aside though all your comments have got me interested now I will include some "Camping" or at least give it a try on my 6 week trip to Townsville in April/May 2012. It's always good to read the various comments and replies to questions in "The Grey Nomads" site I am going to post a question myself but not in this reply. I am away near the "Prom" Victoria as we speak and just woke up to sunshine after 2 days of storms, thunder, lightening and heavy rain and about 4" of water around me but not directly around my camper as I luckily set up on a little rise in the back corner of the site.
rockylizard said
09:37 AM Nov 20, 2011
Gday...
Hey Spooky - welcome to this mob - you'll find it a great place to be.
There are some characters (especially one who lives in a hole in the ground) and lots of wit, experience, humour and camaraderie - oh yeah, and information too.
Cheers and may meet you in the bush somewhere
John
rockylizard said
09:39 AM Nov 20, 2011
Gday...
Hey Dougwe ....... your avatar seems to reflect your current situation
Cheers
John
Gerty Dancer said
09:50 AM Nov 20, 2011
Welcome to the forum Spooky.
We do a mixture of "free-camping" and caravan parks and National Parks which are not always free.
When in a caravan park we are more secure, have more amenities like long hot showers, laundry facilities, and with mains power can use the heater or cooler. And you have a manager to call if theres a problem. It can be expensive, especially in the busy season.
Free-camping is free. But our experiences have been varied from peaceful and scenic areas, to crowded noisy (generators, dogs, late night drinkers etc) and dirty, with other peoples toilet waste in the campsite. Mostly we use these places just as overnighters, and yes it helps the budget.
We would stay in National Parks by choice for a de-stress. The fees vary, but theres usually bbq's, toilets, often showers, and firewood supplied. And by their nature theres bushwalking, scenic picnic spots, birds and wildlife to enjoy.... aahh, the serenity!
Clare46 said
09:51 AM Nov 20, 2011
As when I travel it is in a rented Toyota Hiace so I only have enough power for a couple of nights. I tend to camp enroute and when I'm in larger places and want to spend a few days I will stay in a caravan park. Works for me and saves some $$$$
rockylizard said
10:01 AM Nov 20, 2011
Gerty Dancer wrote:
Welcome to the forum Spooky.
----SNIP---- Free-camping is free. But our experiences have been varied from peaceful and scenic areas, to crowded noisy (generators, dogs, late night drinkers etc) and dirty, with other peoples toilet waste in the campsite. Mostly we use these places just as overnighters, and yes it helps the budget. ----SNIP----
Gday...
Good to see a balanced response ... and I must admit I have heard of people who have experienced what you have experienced.
I have been on the road for nearly three years now and the only condition you mention above at a "camp" is the 'crowded bit'.
Thankfully that has only been when I have been travelling on the major highways and stay on the "highway spots". This has usually been when up north (of NSW and QLD mainly) with "southerners" (mexicans? ) getting away from that dreaded southern winter. For instance, I travelled the Capricorn Hwy from Westwood to Longreach in July this year and the highway (free)camps were absolutely chockers by 3.30pm each day.
I guess when you have to travel in the 'peak periods' it does get busy.
If I experienced those (free)camps regularly, I would stop travelling.
Cheers
John
Happywanderer said
10:43 AM Nov 20, 2011
Not sure if anyone has mentioned Camps Australia Wide. Couldn't see it anywhere above. If you want to know where al lthe free camps are that is where you will find them. Bought from any good book store. Its now at No 6. Have to agree with all the above.
Geoff n Jen said
10:58 AM Nov 20, 2011
We find that in your planning of a trip the Bible, camps 6 in absolutley indispensable, it gives you a detailed list of free camps with what they have to offer as well as how long your allowed to stay,and sites that are not free but very cheap eg as little as $6 or a gold coin donation you can get it if you are a member of RACQ for $55 very quickly recouped.
We also find that if you are heading in a general direction you can mix it up and save lots of money. Planning a CP whenever nesessary to recharge batteries with power if you need to, do the washing, empty toilets and fill up the water tanks etc.
there's a lot of helpful advice already given so you just have to give it a go and see
Gerty Dancer said
11:12 AM Nov 20, 2011
rockylizard wrote:
Thankfully that has only been when I have been travelling on the major highways and stay on the "highway spots". This has usually been when up north (of NSW and QLD mainly) with "southerners" (mexicans? ) getting away from that dreaded southern winter. For instance, I travelled the Capricorn Hwy from Westwood to Longreach in July this year and the highway (free)camps were absolutely chockers by 3.30pm each day.
I guess when you have to travel in the 'peak periods' it does get busy.
If I experienced those (free)camps regularly, I would stop travelling.
Cheers
John
Thankfully we have had only 1 camp like that, as we simply move on, but sometimes its a long way to the next stop. Theres been many chockers situations though... thats just what happens when you are part of the migration of Southerners who overwinter up North.
We have found some lovely spots out of the busy season, and still only stay for a max of 3 days... dont know what people find to do all day.
So how do people fill their time when camping in a free camp in the bush?
rockylizard said
11:20 AM Nov 20, 2011
Gerty Dancer wrote:
----SNIP---- and still only stay for a max of 3 days... dont know what people find to do all day.
So how do people fill their time when camping in a free camp in the bush?
Gday...
Hmmmmmmm ...... that is what my navel is for - contemplating
Well, just like anywhere else - eating, reading, walking, taking photos, eating, doing odd-jobs on van and vehicle, eating, gathering firewood, eating, more walking, watching the birdies/wildlife, smelling the flowers - oh yeah, did I mention eating ? ?
Cheers
John
Ma said
11:22 AM Nov 20, 2011
Was just in the process of replying to Gert and you got there before me John.
That's what I was going to say as well.
Oh and don't forget..................EATING
JRH said
11:32 AM Nov 20, 2011
rockylizard wrote:
Gerty Dancer wrote:
----SNIP---- and still only stay for a max of 3 days... dont know what people find to do all day.
So how do people fill their time when camping in a free camp in the bush?
Plenty of reading and just sitting and relaxing to the sounds of the bush, some bush walking for exercise( must go and wash my mouth out, EXERCISE??????). Heaven on earth.
Spooky said
11:41 AM Nov 20, 2011
Gerty Dancer wrote:
Welcome to the forum Spooky.
We do a mixture of "free-camping" and caravan parks and National Parks which are not always free.
When in a caravan park we are more secure, have more amenities like long hot showers, laundry facilities, and with mains power can use the heater or cooler. And you have a manager to call if theres a problem. It can be expensive, especially in the busy season.
Free-camping is free. But our experiences have been varied from peaceful and scenic areas, to crowded noisy (generators, dogs, late night drinkers etc) and dirty, with other peoples toilet waste in the campsite. Mostly we use these places just as overnighters, and yes it helps the budget.
We would stay in National Parks by choice for a de-stress. The fees vary, but theres usually bbq's, toilets, often showers, and firewood supplied. And by their nature theres bushwalking, scenic picnic spots, birds and wildlife to enjoy.... aahh, the serenity!
Hi,
I agree with your description......I suppose it might be a bit like "little bit of everything in moderation..."...Thank you, and lizard for the welcome......Cheers...
tezza said
12:04 PM Nov 20, 2011
Hi, just to address your concern with security, we have met many people who have had stuff go walkabout in caravan parks but as yet have met no-one who has had stuff disappear while free camping. Perhaps because ussually at camps people are aware of who belongs in which rig but in bigger parks often one has no idea who belongs in the annexe 2 vans down. Also stayed in a park on the south coast nsw where we were warned by the manager that a particular couple of families that lived just over the fence made a living off of unsecured items in the park. As far as camp sites go we use camps 4 a little( bit outdated I know) but often in the more popular areas find those site crowded so tend to look for unlisted sites and there are plenty out there if one slows down a little and perhaps gets off the main drag.
_wombat_ said
12:25 PM Nov 20, 2011
Re the Camps 6 book, you can also get a download from their site to install on a GPS, I have it on my Garmin, they do it for other makes also.
JRH said
12:33 PM Nov 20, 2011
_wombat_ wrote:
Re the Camps 6 book, you can also get a download from their site to install on a GPS, I have it on my Garmin, they do it for other makes also.
And very handy they are too, I have them installed on my Garmin also.
Boroma577 said
12:37 PM Nov 20, 2011
I think it is what your definition is.
To me.......free camping is not about money but more about camping 'free' of any rules, regulations, restrictions etc imposed by CPs.
Beth54 said
12:40 PM Nov 20, 2011
_wombat_ wrote:
It's free
Ditto!
rockylizard said
12:54 PM Nov 20, 2011
Beth54 wrote:
_wombat_ wrote:
It's free
Ditto!
Gday...
Actually ... even if caravan parks were free, I would prefer to sit in the bush on a creek etc and have seclusion - even if that was a small 'donation' or fee.
A crowded (free)camp is just as bad as a crowded van park.
Cheers
John
Ma said
01:06 PM Nov 20, 2011
Very true John. Sounds like you suffer from the same ailment as Blue.
Beth54 said
01:32 PM Nov 20, 2011
Boroma577 wrote:
I think it is what your definition is.
To me.......free camping is not about money but more about camping 'free' of any rules, regulations, restrictions etc imposed by CPs.
Agree Boroma. The only benefits I see with using CP's is the use of washing machines, or to charge everything up. Most towns have a laundromat, so even that is not enough reason for me to use them.
Beth54 said
01:34 PM Nov 20, 2011
rockylizard wrote:
Gday...
Actually ... even if caravan parks were free, I would prefer to sit in the bush on a creek etc and have seclusion - even if that was a small 'donation' or fee.
A crowded (free)camp is just as bad as a crowded van park.
Cheers
John
Yes, too true John. Love love love to be camped by water...ocean, river, creek or lake.
Boroma577 said
01:37 PM Nov 20, 2011
Beth54 wrote:Agree Boroma. The only benefits I see with using CP's is the use of washing machines, or to charge everything up. Most towns have a laundromat, so even that is not enough reason for me to use them.
And filling the water tanks Beth..........unless we are working; then it is a necessary and expensive evil.
Boroma577 said
01:38 PM Nov 20, 2011
Beth54 wrote:
Yes, too true John. Love love love to be camped by water...ocean, river, creek or lake.
Me too and had some really good ones recently......water views
Hi ..
We have been caravanning for around 12yrs & only free camped once.
Free camping seems to have grown amazingly in popularity over the years, so it must have something going for it.
Can you tell me what attracts you to free camping & how you go about it.
We always choose a CP site that has a view of whatever the particular area offers .. Ocean, river or just bush. Then we set up the van & head off to explore & enjoy the area.
There are invariably many great people to share happy hour with & form sometimes lasting friendships. We even have an evening camp fire on (rare) occasions.
How do you go about seeing the sites when free camping. Can you leave your van & go off during the day?
What is it that attracts you to free camping?
What's good & what's not so good about it?
I try to use free camps when travelling between centres. A couple of days here and there makes a big budgetary difference. It is a way to break up the days travelling. Security can be a problem but usually free camps are in the more isolated areas and normally not a lot in that area to see anyway. A couple of days relaxing is always good and stress levels drop dramatically. CP's can be expensive, but do offer ammenities not available when free camping. With most charging a minimum of around $30+ a night single, I can do without a powered site,running water and shady trees.
It's free
Gday...
May I begin by saying that I find the term "free-camping" a misnomer. If "free-camping" means going to a place beside a river, creek, lake, or just a spot the bush and setting up your camp (whether it be swag, tent, camper, campervan, motorhome or caravan) then I have been doing it since I was in my mid-teens. Some people do the same thing but at a van park. We generally call this "having a holiday".
I think the term "free-camping" should be changed back to "camping" as some of the places we "free-camp" do attract fees albeit usually low-level or "donation".
That said, and in answer to your query -
How do you go about seeing the sites when free camping. I am an 'internet researcher', ie Googling for information/background on the places I am about to visit. I also visit Info Centres in towns I pass through or camp near and of course, the locals know their area pretty well and love to tell you about the good spots.
Can you leave your van & go off during the day? I have no issue leaving my van at camping spots and going off for a few hours (or the day) bushwalking, seeing the sights or even getting supplies. I do not leave my van unattended at 'wayside stop' spots for instance, but if camped away from the town, highway etc it is just as safe as leaving my tent and equipment all alone in the bush when I visit a National Park or State Forest.
What is it that attracts you to free camping? I love meeting and talking to people (but hate crowds) and I love the isolation of camping somewhere in a pretty and seculuded spot. I love cooking on the open fire and sitting around staring into it of an evening. The quiet of the bush is so invigorating and rejuvenating - especially if broken by the sounds of birds
What's good & what's not so good about it? I think I have covered this above, but what is not so good? Hmmm - it is hard to answer really. I cannot think of things that I don't like when camping. Perhaps it is not having a long hot shower - which I never miss until I do get to a van park and have one then I realise I how much I relish having a shower
Finally, I guess I would be lying if I did not also like the budgetary aspects of camping - great spots and low fee or no fee. It certainly helps me stretch my limited income. Having said that, I have been camping for more than 50 years and even when I was earning large annual incomes, I still went camping in the bush for my holidays.
I recently met a couple who had never "free-camped" when I was in Charters Towers so I offered to 'motherhen' them at a free camp for the coming week. They decided to accept and at the end of the second day they were convinced they would do it more often. I left on the fourth day and they stayed on for a few more days.
Your reticence to leave the "security" of van parks is fully understandable. But I am sure if you found a good spot (and there are many on this site under the heading of "Free/budget damps etc") you would begin to find it is so fulfilling.
I guess this has got a bit long-winded - typical of me once I get started.
Cheers
John
-- Edited by rockylizard on Sunday 20th of November 2011 08:59:39 AM
-- Edited by rockylizard on Sunday 20th of November 2011 09:08:24 AM
I agree John. We "camp" probably about 90% of the time and only go to van parks when we want a little bit of pampering, ie: hot shower, laundry etc.
Admittedly we are in a park in Stanley Tas. at the moment and this time we are pleased that we did. The weather has been fairly ordinary and gale force winds and hail predicted for later today and the site we have is fairly well protected.
We find that people who "camp" seem more friendly and approachable.
Like you we hate crowds and the further "out the back" we go the better it is.
G'day to you all,my firs replay just joined this morning...
I believe there is a lot of travellers out there that relay on some free camping...Unless you hawe your bank manager tayed to your roof rack
.
I read many times that at free sites people will look after each others rigs that is if your life experince tels you that the situation is OK...So they can skip out for suplay or sight seing...I belive that is what is all about...trust and sharing creates lasting memorys...Cheers...
Cricky John I was going to spend the day reading but I have just read your novel. All jokes aside though all your comments have got me interested now I will include some "Camping" or at least give it a try on my 6 week trip to Townsville in April/May 2012. It's always good to read the various comments and replies to questions in "The Grey Nomads" site I am going to post a question myself but not in this reply. I am away near the "Prom" Victoria as we speak and just woke up to sunshine after 2 days of storms, thunder, lightening and heavy rain and about 4" of water around me but not directly around my camper as I luckily set up on a little rise in the back corner of the site.
Gday...
Hey Spooky - welcome to this mob - you'll find it a great place to be.
There are some characters (especially one who lives in a hole in the ground) and lots of wit, experience, humour and camaraderie - oh yeah, and information too.
Cheers and may meet you in the bush somewhere
John
Gday...
Hey Dougwe ....... your avatar seems to reflect your current situation
Cheers
John
We do a mixture of "free-camping" and caravan parks and National Parks which are not always free.
When in a caravan park we are more secure, have more amenities like long hot showers, laundry facilities, and with mains power can use the heater or cooler. And you have a manager to call if theres a problem. It can be expensive, especially in the busy season.
Free-camping is free. But our experiences have been varied from peaceful and scenic areas, to crowded noisy (generators, dogs, late night drinkers etc) and dirty, with other peoples toilet waste in the campsite. Mostly we use these places just as overnighters, and yes it helps the budget.
We would stay in National Parks by choice for a de-stress. The fees vary, but theres usually bbq's, toilets, often showers, and firewood supplied. And by their nature theres bushwalking, scenic picnic spots, birds and wildlife to enjoy.... aahh, the serenity!
As when I travel it is in a rented Toyota Hiace so I only have enough power for a couple of nights. I tend to camp enroute and when I'm in larger places and want to spend a few days I will stay in a caravan park. Works for me and saves some $$$$
Gday...
Good to see a balanced response ... and I must admit I have heard of people who have experienced what you have experienced.
I have been on the road for nearly three years now and the only condition you mention above at a "camp" is the 'crowded bit'.
Thankfully that has only been when I have been travelling on the major highways and stay on the "highway spots". This has usually been when up north (of NSW and QLD mainly) with "southerners" (mexicans?
) getting away from that dreaded southern winter. For instance, I travelled the Capricorn Hwy from Westwood to Longreach in July this year and the highway (free)camps were absolutely chockers by 3.30pm each day.
I guess when you have to travel in the 'peak periods' it does get busy.
If I experienced those (free)camps regularly, I would stop travelling.
Cheers
John
Have to agree with all the above.
We find that in your planning of a trip the Bible, camps 6 in absolutley indispensable, it gives you a detailed list of free camps with what they have to offer as well as how long your allowed to stay,and sites that are not free but very cheap eg as little as $6 or a gold coin donation you can get it if you are a member of RACQ for $55 very quickly recouped.
We also find that if you are heading in a general direction you can mix it up and save lots of money. Planning a CP whenever nesessary to recharge batteries with power if you need to, do the washing, empty toilets and fill up the water tanks etc.
there's a lot of helpful advice already given so you just have to give it a go and see
Thankfully we have had only 1 camp like that, as we simply move on, but sometimes its a long way to the next stop. Theres been many chockers situations though... thats just what happens when you are part of the migration of Southerners who overwinter up North.
We have found some lovely spots out of the busy season, and still only stay for a max of 3 days... dont know what people find to do all day.
So how do people fill their time when camping in a free camp in the bush?
Gday...
Hmmmmmmm ...... that is what my navel is for - contemplating
Well, just like anywhere else - eating, reading, walking, taking photos, eating, doing odd-jobs on van and vehicle, eating, gathering firewood, eating, more walking, watching the birdies/wildlife, smelling the flowers - oh yeah, did I mention eating ? ?
Cheers
John
Was just in the process of replying to Gert and you got there before me John.
That's what I was going to say as well.
Oh and don't forget..................EATING
Hi,
I agree with your description...
...I suppose it might be a bit like "little bit of everything in moderation..."
...Thank you, and lizard for the welcome...
...Cheers...
As far as camp sites go we use camps 4 a little( bit outdated I know) but often in the more popular areas find those site crowded so tend to look for unlisted sites and there are plenty out there if one slows down a little and perhaps gets off the main drag.
Re the Camps 6 book, you can also get a download from their site to install on a GPS, I have it on my Garmin, they do it for other makes also.
And very handy they are too, I have them installed on my Garmin also.
I think it is what your definition is.
To me.......free camping is not about money but more about camping 'free' of any rules, regulations, restrictions etc imposed by CPs.
Ditto!
Gday...
Actually ... even if caravan parks were free, I would prefer to sit in the bush on a creek etc and have seclusion - even if that was a small 'donation' or fee.
A crowded (free)camp is just as bad as a crowded van park.
Cheers
John
Very true John. Sounds like you suffer from the same ailment as Blue.
Agree Boroma. The only benefits I see with using CP's is the use of washing machines, or to charge everything up. Most towns have a laundromat, so even that is not enough reason for me to use them.
Yes, too true John. Love love love to be camped by water...ocean, river, creek or lake.
And filling the water tanks Beth..........unless we are working; then it is a necessary and expensive evil.
Me too and had some really good ones recently......water views