CAMPING FAQs

Where can I camp for free?

Check with Main Roads for information on 24-hour rest areas within the Shire of Carnarvon.

Blowholes is currently an unserviced camping area where free camping is allowed. Please note that this arrangement may change in the future.

Other than Blowholes and Bush Bay/New Beach, it is an offence to camp anywhere other than in a registered caravan park, designated camping ground, or nature-based camping area.

How long can I stay at one campground?

The maximum legislated stay at any campground is ninety (90) days in any calendar year and 30 days during peak season (1^st of April to the 1^st of October).

Can I have a Campfire?

Yes, between the months of 1 May to 30 September only. Outside these dates, a permit is required.  Campfires must be fully contained with a 5m clearing around the fire pit.

Burn/Fire restrictions are enforced from 1 October to 30 April of any year. They can be enforced at any time throughout the year as conditions are demanded by an appointed fire control officer.

Fire ratings can be found on the BOM website at http://www.bom.gov.au/wa/forecasts/fire-danger.shtml  Look for Gascoyne Coastal for Shire of Carnarvon Fire Ratings.

Can I drive on the beaches?

Most of the beaches within the Shire of Carnarvon are turtle nesting areas.  On the conservation side it is best to check with the Department of Biosecurity, Conservations and Attractions (DBCA) – Parks and Wildlife before you venture out on a beach to see where and when the turtles are nesting.

Driving off-road is permissible were signposted.  Access points of areas where you can drive on beaches/off-road are signposted.  If there are no signs, then beach driving is not permitted, unless signposted otherwise. 

Can I camp on private land?

Yes. As per legislation, a person can camp on any land on which they own, with owners consent or are legally permitted to camp on for no longer than three (3) consecutive days in any 28-day period.

Can I bring my pet?

Pets are welcome; however, all animals must always be kept on a lead. You must never leave your pet unattended and are responsible for cleaning up after your pet.

Who can I call for any damages to the camping grounds?

If you see any damages to the camping grounds i.e., the honesty boxes please call us on (08) 9941 0000. If there are any emergencies, please call emergency services on 000.

Are there bathrooms/toilets available at the camping grounds?

No.  You must provide your own chemical toilet as there are no amenities at any of the campgrounds.  If you are caught defecating on campgrounds without proper use of a chemical toilet, it will result in a fine.

Sullage dump points are located at the entrance of all campgrounds and there are 2 sullage dump points in town.  One at the information bay where you can also refill your water tanks and one on Hill Street (left turn after Chicken Treat).

There are toilets at the day visiting area at the Blowholes.  These are not for use of campers.

I need firewood, can I collect it from surrounding areas?

No.  Firewood is available from the hardware stores and services stations in Carnarvon or surrounding townships.  Firewood cannot be collected from surrounding areas or bushland.

How do we pay our camping fees?

Please be aware that you are paying a camp fee and not booking a camp site.

Is there drinking water available at campgrounds?

No!  There is no water available at any of the Nature Campgrounds.  You need to ensure you carry plenty of water for drinking, cooking, and washing.

• Hill Street adjacent to the Dump Point
• Long Vehicle Parking to the rear of the Visitors Centre, opposite the Tropicana
• Festival Grounds, East Carnarvon, opposite the netball courts. 

There is a free supply of drinking water at the Information Bay on North West Coastal Highway.

Can I launch my boat at the campgrounds?

Yes.  You can at the designated boat ramps. 

Is there Internet and Phone networks available at campgrounds?