How to Find Free Campsites in Australia with WikiCamps & CamperMate

For RV travellers exploring Australia, nothing beats the freedom of pulling up to a scenic spot, setting up camp, and waking up to the sound of kookaburras without paying a cent. Free camping—also called freedom camping or bush camping—is one of the most rewarding aspects of the Aussie road trip lifestyle. Whether you’re a budget-conscious backpacker in a campervan, a grey nomad chasing the sun, or a young family on a long-term lap around the country, finding reliable, safe, and legal free campsites can make all the difference to your experience.

But where do you find these hidden gems? That’s where apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate come in. These two platforms have become the digital toolbox for every road tripper in Australia, helping RVers locate free campsites, rest areas, public facilities, dump points, and even safety alerts—all from the convenience of a smartphone.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use WikiCamps and CamperMate to find the best free camping spots in Australia. From understanding how each app works to tips for staying legal, safe, and comfortable on the road, this article covers everything you need to roam confidently and cost-effectively.

Whether you’re doing the Big Lap, chasing weekend getaways, or just dipping your toes into vanlife, you’ll find practical tools and insights here to make your trip smoother and more spontaneous. Let’s dive in.

Why Free Camping is Popular in Australia

Free camping has become a cornerstone of the RV lifestyle in Australia—and it’s not just about saving money. It represents freedom, flexibility, and a deeper connection to the country’s vast natural beauty. With over 7.6 million square kilometres of land, much of which is open and sparsely populated, Australia offers the perfect backdrop for off-grid adventures. But let’s explore why so many RVers—from grey nomads to international backpackers—choose free camping as their preferred way to travel.

1. It’s Budget-Friendly and Accessible

The most obvious appeal is cost savings. While caravan parks can cost between $30 to $70 per night depending on location and amenities, free campsites are—true to their name—completely free. Over the course of a multi-week or multi-month journey, these savings can be substantial. Many travellers use free sites in between paid campgrounds to stretch their budget further without compromising the travel experience.

2. Freedom and Flexibility

Free camping allows you to stay spontaneous. You’re not tied to pre-booked locations or strict arrival times. You can decide on a whim to spend an extra night at a peaceful rest stop, or keep driving toward the coast if the weather changes inland. Apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate enable real-time decisions with up-to-date reviews and availability info.

3. Closer to Nature and Remote Beauty

Some of the most picturesque campsites in Australia aren’t behind a boom gate—they’re nestled in forests, beside rivers, or overlooking wide-open plains. Free campsites often bring you closer to nature, far away from the crowded commercial parks. You’ll find stargazing without light pollution, morning walks among gum trees, and the chance to hear nothing but wind, waves, or wildlife.

4. Ideal for Self-Contained Travellers

If you’re in a self-contained RV or motorhome—with your own toilet, shower, water, and power—you don’t necessarily need the facilities of a caravan park every night. That makes you perfectly equipped for free or low-service sites. As long as you follow Leave No Trace principles, it’s a sustainable way to explore.

5. Encouraged by Many Regional Communities

Surprisingly, many rural councils support free camping—especially in towns affected by drought, bushfires, or tourism downturns. They set up free or low-cost campgrounds near town centres, hoping travellers will spend on fuel, groceries, or dining. It’s a win-win: you get a free night’s rest, and the town benefits from your presence.

6. Suited to All Traveller Types

Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple doing the Big Lap, a digital nomad in a converted van, or a retired couple chasing warmer weather, free camping offers a common advantage—low cost and high reward. You can mix it with national park stays, powered sites, or holiday parks for variety.

Overview: WikiCamps vs CamperMate

When it comes to finding free campsites and essential facilities on the road in Australia, two apps dominate the RV travel scene: WikiCamps and CamperMate. Each has its loyal fans, distinct features, and specific strengths. Before diving into how to use each platform, it’s worth comparing them side by side to understand which might suit your travel style best—or how using both together can give you the most complete experience.

What is WikiCamps?

WikiCamps Australia is a community-driven app that allows users to share, rate, and review camping sites, caravan parks, dump points, rest areas, and public facilities. It’s known for having the largest, most detailed campsite database in Australia. Whether you’re looking for a beachside freedom camp or a quiet outback rest stop, chances are it’s already listed on WikiCamps.

Key Features:

  • Massive database of campsites and amenities

  • Custom filters (e.g. “Free campsites”, “Pet-friendly”, “Toilets available”)

  • Offline maps and data for remote travel

  • Built-in trip planner

  • User-submitted reviews, photos, and updates

One-time cost (approx. $8 AUD) makes it ad-free and highly valued by long-term travellers.

What is CamperMate?

CamperMate is a free app that provides similar services, including finding free and paid campsites, dump stations, petrol stations, public toilets, and attractions. It’s especially beginner-friendly and offers a sleek, map-first design with real-time user reports and tourism deals.

Key Features:

  • Free to download and use

  • User reviews with real-time updates

  • Interactive map with icons for campsites, toilets, fuel, ATMs, and more

  • Highlights tourism operators and nearby deals

  • Offers road safety alerts and civil defense notifications

While its database is slightly smaller than WikiCamps, its ease of use and real-time community updates make it popular among weekend travellers and short-term road trippers.

Which App is Better for Free Camping?

The answer often comes down to personal preference and your travel style:

  • If you’re doing a long-term trip or travelling in remote areas where offline access is essential, WikiCamps offers better depth and control.

  • If you’re after ease of use, local insights, and you’re sticking to more populated routes, CamperMate is intuitive and helpful—especially for casual or first-time RVers.

Many seasoned RVers actually recommend using both apps together. They often cross-reference reviews and features before deciding on a site. What one app misses, the other may capture—and together they offer a near-complete picture of what’s available on the road.

Pros & Cons Compared

WikiCamps

  • Pros:

    • Massive database of free and paid campsites, dump points, and amenities

    • Detailed filters let you narrow down to exactly what you need (e.g. pet-friendly, water available, accessible toilets)

    • Offline access makes it ideal for remote and off-grid travel

    • Built-in trip planner helps map out long routes with overnight stops

    • One-time cost means no ads and full access forever

  • Cons:

    • App interface can feel overwhelming or complex for new users

    • Requires upfront payment (around $8 AUD)

    • Some user-submitted info can be outdated if not reviewed

CamperMate

  • Pros:

    • Completely free to download and use

    • Simple, clean interface with a strong visual map-based design

    • Real-time updates from fellow travellers help assess site quality and road conditions

    • Includes safety alerts and location-based tourism deals

    • Great for beginners, backpackers, and casual RVers

  • Cons:

    • Smaller campsite database compared to WikiCamps

    • Limited offline functionality unless data was preloaded

    • Some reviews may lack detail or consistency

Step-by-Step Guide: Finding Free Campsites with WikiCamps

WikiCamps is one of the most powerful tools for RV travellers in Australia, and once you learn how to use it properly, it can save you hundreds of dollars in accommodation costs—while helping you discover hidden gems you’d never find on a highway sign. Below is a detailed walkthrough on how to use WikiCamps effectively to find free campsites, especially if you’re travelling off-grid or through remote regions.

1. Downloading and Setting Up WikiCamps

  • Search for “WikiCamps Australia” in the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).

  • The app has a one-time cost (approx. $8 AUD)—well worth it for frequent travellers.

  • Once downloaded, enable location permissions so the app can show nearby sites based on your GPS location.

  • Create a free account if you wish to save favourites, submit reviews, or build trip plans.

2. Using Filters to Show Only Free Campsites

  • Tap the “Map” tab to view all pins around your current or chosen location.

  • Tap the “Filters” button—this is your best friend.

  • To find free camps:

    • Select “Camping Grounds”

    • Tick “Free” under the price filter

    • Optionally filter by:

      • Toilets

      • Pet-Friendly

      • Water available

      • Vehicle type (e.g. RV access)

These filters help narrow your options to only the campsites that suit your setup and comfort level.

3. Interpreting the Site Information and Reviews

Once you click on a campsite pin:

  • You’ll see a full listing page with:

    • GPS coordinates

    • Photos submitted by users

    • User ratings and written reviews

    • Amenities available (icons show water, bins, toilets, etc.)

    • Site conditions and access (e.g., 2WD or 4WD recommended)

Pay special attention to:

  • Recent reviews (to check for road access updates or closures)

  • Photos (to assess flatness, shade, and space)

  • User tips (some mention ranger patrols, local rules, or best arrival times)

4. Using Offline Mode in Remote Areas

One of WikiCamps’ best features is offline access. Before heading into areas with poor reception:

  • Go to “Settings” > “Download Content for Offline Use”

  • Choose entire states or regions to download

  • This ensures you can still search, filter, and navigate campsites without mobile signal

This feature is especially useful in Outback areas, national parks, or coastal zones with spotty coverage.

5. Planning Routes with the Trip Planner Tool

If you’re travelling over several days or weeks:

  • Use the Trip Planner tab to build your route

  • Add specific campsites as waypoints

  • You can estimate daily driving distances and add notes for each stop

Many RVers use this to plan a balance of free camps, paid campgrounds, and dump point stops along their trip.

6. Extra Tips for Using WikiCamps Like a Pro

  • Cross-check the local council rules if you’re unsure about legality. Reviews often mention whether rangers enforce camping bans.

  • Set arrival alerts—some free camps fill up early, especially near coastal areas or popular routes.

  • Update listings if you find a site closed or upgraded, to help other travellers.

Step-by-Step Guide: Finding Free Campsites with CamperMate

CamperMate is a trusted app among RVers, vanlifers, and car campers throughout Australia and New Zealand. Its clean interface, community-driven updates, and free access make it especially appealing to short-term travellers or first-timers. While it may not be as extensive as WikiCamps in terms of database size, it shines in usability and local tips. Here’s how to use it effectively to uncover free camping options across Australia.

1. Downloading and Setting Up CamperMate

  • Find “CamperMate” in the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).

  • The app is completely free to download and use.

  • After launching, enable location access to show nearby campsites and amenities.

  • You don’t need to create an account, but doing so allows you to leave reviews and save favourite locations.

2. Navigating the Map and Filters

  • Open the main map screen—you’ll see colourful icons scattered across Australia.

  • Tap the layers or filter icon to customise what shows on your map.

  • For free camping, choose:

    • Camping – Free

    • You can also tick:

      • Toilets

      • Potable water

      • Showers

      • Dump stations

      • RV/Vehicle access

CamperMate’s icons are easy to understand, and tapping on each will reveal details for that spot.

3. Understanding Site Listings and User Reviews

When you select a site pin, CamperMate displays:

  • Photos

  • User ratings

  • Google directions

  • Facility icons

  • Travel tips from others (e.g. “gets busy by 5pm”, “watch for mozzies”, “no overnight parking enforced last week”)

Pay attention to:

  • Date of the latest review (especially for enforcement updates)

  • Community feedback on safety, noise levels, or cleanliness

  • Whether the site has any usage limits or vehicle restrictions

The app often includes council-provided free camps that have signs posted nearby.

4. CamperMate’s Real-Time Benefits

  • It integrates with civil defence and road authorities, giving alerts about:

    • Flooding

    • Fire bans

    • Road closures

    • Safety announcements

This is incredibly valuable when travelling through remote or disaster-prone areas.

  • You can also view local deals and promotions for tours, food, and attractions near your location—handy for budget-conscious travellers who still want to enjoy the experience.

5. Offline Use and Downloading Maps

While CamperMate isn’t fully offline like WikiCamps, it allows for limited data caching:

  • Pre-load your intended route before heading into areas with no reception.

  • You can zoom in on maps and let them load before the trip—this caches data temporarily.

For travellers who stick to sealed roads and regional towns, this limited offline support is often enough.

6. Extra Tips for Finding Great Free Camps with CamperMate

  • Use the “report” feature to notify others if a camp has closed or changed conditions.

  • Zoom into rural and regional zones—free camps are often listed just outside town centres.

  • Cross-check with street view when in doubt about road access or signage.

  • Set notifications for new reviews or alerts in areas you plan to travel through.

Many travellers also like to compare CamperMate reviews with WikiCamps to verify accuracy—especially where enforcement or crowding is an issue.

Tips for Choosing the Right Free Campsite

Finding a free campsite is easy with apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate—but choosing the right one takes a bit more thought. A site may be free, but is it safe, accessible, clean, and actually legal to stay overnight? Below are essential tips to help you make the best call when selecting a free camping spot in Australia, whether you’re staying one night or settling in for a few days.

1. Prioritise Safety First

Safety is non-negotiable, especially if you’re travelling solo or with young kids. Before committing to a site:

  • Check user reviews in both apps for comments about lighting, isolation, or local behaviour (e.g. hoons, break-ins, late-night noise).

  • Look for camps set back from major highways—rest areas near the road can be noisy and risky for side swipes.

  • If a site feels off, trust your instincts and move on.

2. Consider Accessibility and Vehicle Suitability

  • Confirm whether the road to the site is sealed or 4WD-only.

  • Look at photos and reviews to judge turning space and flat ground—essential for motorhomes and caravans.

  • Check if there’s a limit on vehicle size or number of nights.

Many free sites are best suited to self-contained setups, and some may not accommodate larger rigs.

3. Proximity to Amenities and Towns

A remote riverside camp might be stunning, but you’ll need:

  • Access to toilets, fresh water, or dump points—either on-site or within 20–30 minutes.

  • Fuel stations and groceries nearby, especially if staying multiple nights.

  • A backup site if your first choice is full.

You can usually find this info through app filters or in the review comments.

4. Look for Council-Approved Free Camps

Some of the best free camps in Australia are council-designated. These are usually well-signed, maintained, and often near showgrounds, rest areas, or recreation reserves.

Benefits include:

  • Clearly marked overnight zones

  • Toilets, bins, and water taps

  • Defined time limits (e.g. 24–72 hours)

  • Encouragement to spend in the local community

Apps like CamperMate often flag these camps in the listing description.

5. Be Aware of Rules and Signage

  • Look out for “No Camping” or “No Overnight Stays” signs—ignoring these can result in fines.

  • Some rest areas allow overnight stops for fatigue management but not “camping” (i.e. no setups like awnings, chairs, or campfires).

  • Follow time limits. Rangers or police may check, especially in coastal zones or busy tourist towns.

If in doubt, call the local visitor centre or council office for clarification.

6. Respectful Camping Etiquette

Even when a site is free, the way you camp matters:

  • Keep noise down—especially after sunset.

  • Take all rubbish with you.

  • Use portable toilets or designated facilities—don’t go bush near waterways.

  • Don’t hog space if others arrive late.

  • Leave the site better than you found it.

This kind of respectful behaviour helps preserve access for all future travellers.

Legal & Practical Considerations for Free Camping in Australia

While free camping is a beloved part of the RV lifestyle, it’s not a free-for-all. Regulations vary significantly across Australia, and misunderstanding the rules can lead to unwanted fines, confrontations with rangers, or even the closure of popular sites for everyone. To camp responsibly and legally, here’s what every traveller should know.

1. Rules Vary by State, Territory, and Local Council

There is no single, nationwide rulebook for free camping in Australia. Instead:

  • States and territories have broad guidelines (e.g. fatigue management laws that allow rest area stays).

  • Local councils control most camping regulations, including where overnight stays are allowed or prohibited.

  • Some towns embrace free camping as part of regional tourism; others strictly enforce bans to protect public spaces.

Always check signs on-site, and where possible, verify through visitor centres, local council websites, or app reviews.

2. Know the Difference: Rest Stops vs Free Camps

  • Rest stops (especially along highways) are often legal for short-term use (up to 24 hours) under driver fatigue laws. However, they may prohibit camping behaviour, like:

    • Setting up awnings or tables

    • Fires or BBQs

    • Leaving waste or using bush toilets

  • Free campsites, on the other hand, are usually designated spaces for overnight stays, often with basic facilities or clear signage.

When in doubt, observe other travellers and read the posted rules carefully.

3. Fines and Enforcement Are Real

While many RVers take their chances, be aware:

  • Fines can range from $100 to over $1,000, depending on the location and offence.

  • Popular coastal areas, national parks, and metropolitan councils are especially strict (e.g. Byron Bay, Margaret River, Hobart).

  • Rangers and police do patrol certain zones regularly—especially during holiday periods or in conservation areas.

If fined, pleading ignorance rarely works. Best strategy? Always plan ahead and carry a backup camping option.

4. The Importance of Being Self-Contained

Some councils allow free camping only for self-contained vehicles. This means:

  • You must have your own onboard toilet (portable or fixed)

  • Greywater must be stored and not discharged onto the ground

  • You can live independently without needing public facilities

Apps like WikiCamps let you filter for “self-contained required” campsites. If you’re not self-contained, you may need to stick to holiday parks, showgrounds, or low-cost community-run sites.

5. Fire Bans, Wildlife, and Remote Conditions

  • Always check local fire bans or restrictions before lighting a campfire, especially in summer or bushfire-prone regions.

  • Be mindful of wildlife regulations—some remote camps are in conservation areas or national parks with strict rules.

  • In remote regions, ensure you have:

    • Enough water and food

    • A charged phone and/or satellite comms

    • Knowledge of the area’s weather and road conditions

Preparedness is key to safe and legal free camping, especially in Australia’s more isolated landscapes.

6. Where to Find Legal Guidance

For up-to-date info, check:

  • Local council websites (search “RV camping [town name] council”)

  • Tourist information centres

  • State parks or conservation authorities (e.g. Parks Victoria, NSW National Parks)

  • App community reviews (often mention if rangers visited or fines issued)

Real Examples: Top-Rated Free Campsites in Australia

To bring everything to life, let’s look at a few real-world examples of highly rated free campsites across different parts of Australia. These camps consistently receive positive feedback on WikiCamps and CamperMate for their location, safety, facilities, and scenery. Use them as inspiration—or as actual waypoints on your next RV journey.

1. Babinda Rotary Park – Queensland

  • Location: Babinda, Far North Queensland

  • Highlights:

    • Popular with grey nomads and backpackers

    • Clean toilets, potable water, shaded sites

    • 72-hour limit enforced by council

  • Why it’s loved: Set near Babinda Creek with mountain views and just a short walk to town for supplies and hot showers (small fee).

2. Cosy Corner South – Tasmania

  • Location: Bay of Fires, northeast coast of Tasmania

  • Highlights:

    • Beachside free camping with dramatic coastal views

    • Toilets on site, but no water or rubbish bins

    • Accessible for most vans and small RVs

  • Why it’s loved: Epic sunsets, white-sand beaches, and the relaxing sound of waves—ideal for off-grid campers and photographers.

3. Lake Crosbie Campground – Victoria

  • Location: Murray-Sunset National Park

  • Highlights:

    • Remote, peaceful, and surrounded by pink salt lakes

    • Pit toilets available, no water

    • 4WD or high-clearance 2WD recommended

  • Why it’s loved: Unique scenery and wildlife, especially during sunrise/sunset. A fantastic base for exploring nearby bush tracks.

4. Pine Creek Railway Resort Rest Area – Northern Territory

  • Location: Just off the Stuart Highway, Pine Creek

  • Highlights:

    • Grassy area behind the historic railway museum

    • Short walking distance to fuel, shops, and a pub

    • Public toilets and rubbish bins available

  • Why it’s loved: Great overnight stop between Darwin and Katherine with a dose of local history.

5. Peak Hill Showground – New South Wales

  • Location: Central NSW, near Parkes

  • Highlights:

    • Community-supported camping at donation-based pricing

    • Flush toilets, drinking water, level sites

    • Pets welcome

  • Why it’s loved: Quiet country charm with friendly locals and a clean, secure area to rest.

Conclusion

Free camping in Australia is more than just a way to cut travel costs—it’s a lifestyle that embraces freedom, nature, and spontaneity. Whether you’re winding your way along the East Coast, crossing the Outback, or hugging Tasmania’s rugged shoreline, free campsites allow you to immerse yourself in the landscape without breaking the bank. But the key to doing it legally and comfortably lies in good planning and reliable tools.

Apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate have revolutionised the way RVers explore Australia. With real-time reviews, user-submitted updates, and detailed site information, they take the guesswork out of finding great places to stay. WikiCamps offers unrivalled offline capability and depth for long-term and remote travellers, while CamperMate excels in simplicity, community alerts, and added travel perks for casual roadtrippers.

By learning how to filter, assess, and interpret listings in both apps—and by understanding the local laws and expectations that come with free camping—you can confidently explore Australia’s diverse regions, from the rainforests of Queensland to the deserts of the Red Centre.

Just remember: travel respectfully, follow the signage, support small towns when you can, and always leave your campsite better than you found it. When done right, free camping isn’t just sustainable—it’s unforgettable.

FAQs about ydney's RV travel guide

Are free campsites in Australia safe to stay in overnight?

Generally, yes—free campsites across Australia are safe, especially when selected wisely using apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate. Many free camps are council-run rest areas or well-frequented roadside pull-offs with positive community feedback. However, safety can vary depending on location, time of year, and traffic volume. It’s always best to read recent reviews in the app to see what fellow travellers say about noise, lighting, road access, or late-night activity.

For added security, aim for well-reviewed sites with multiple RVs or vans already parked—there’s safety in numbers. Avoid isolated locations unless you’re experienced or well-prepared. Travellers should also lock their vehicles at night, avoid displaying valuables, and trust their instincts. If a site feels off or if there’s suspicious activity nearby, it’s worth moving on—even if it’s late.

In general, free camps in regional areas or those supported by councils are the safest. Urban camping or pulling over in unauthorized zones can attract fines or unwanted attention. Stick to verified listings, arrive before dark when possible, and keep personal safety in mind at all times.

Yes, but it depends on the app and how you prepare before heading offline. WikiCamps offers full offline functionality, which is one of its biggest strengths for RVers. You can download entire states or regions—including maps, site details, and reviews—before entering low-coverage areas. This makes it ideal for Outback travel, national parks, and other remote spots.

CamperMate, on the other hand, has more limited offline support. It can cache map areas and listings you’ve viewed previously, but you won’t be able to load new regions or access community updates unless you’re online. For this reason, WikiCamps is the preferred tool among remote travellers, especially those doing long-term or off-grid journeys.

Regardless of which app you use, it’s wise to preload the data you’ll need for the next few days—particularly maps and campsite details. Some RVers also use printed road atlases or GPS-based navigation apps as backups. In remote Australia, signal drops are common, so being prepared with offline tools is essential.

It varies significantly. Some free campsites are little more than gravel rest areas with no services at all, while others may offer a surprising range of amenities—especially if managed by local councils or communities. Facilities you might find include:

  • Drop toilets or flush toilets

  • Potable water taps

  • Rubbish bins

  • Picnic tables or barbecues

  • Shelters and signage

  • Dump points (less common)

Apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate allow you to filter campsites based on specific facilities. You can also read user reviews to see if things like toilets are clean, functioning, or accessible.

Travellers with self-contained RVs often seek out sites without facilities to avoid the crowds, while others may prefer locations with basic comforts—especially when travelling with children or pets. It’s important to carry your own water, waste disposal solutions, and a backup toilet if you plan to rely on off-grid sites.

Remember: just because a site is free doesn’t mean it’s unserviced. In many cases, councils provide free amenities to encourage tourism—so use them responsibly and leave everything clean for the next traveller.

No, free camping is not legal everywhere in Australia. Laws vary from one council area to another, and even within the same town you might find zones where overnight stays are banned while others are permitted. Some regions encourage free camping to support local tourism, while others restrict it to protect the environment or manage overcrowding.

Legality often hinges on whether a spot is designated for camping. Rest areas may allow overnight parking for fatigue management but prohibit setups like tents, awnings, or campfires. National parks may require permits or limit where you can camp. Urban areas—especially near beaches or parks—usually have signage stating “No Camping” or “No Overnight Parking.” Ignoring these signs can result in hefty fines.

To camp legally:

  • Use apps to identify verified free campsites

  • Follow posted signage and council guidelines

  • Check with local visitor centres if unsure

  • Stick to areas that clearly allow overnight stays

Being respectful of the rules helps preserve access for everyone and supports the communities that welcome RV travellers.

The best way to confirm overnight RV parking is allowed is to use the filtering and review features in apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate. These apps let you select “free camping” or “24-hour rest areas” and often include user-uploaded photos of posted signage. If multiple reviews confirm it’s permitted and no “No Camping” signs are shown, it’s usually a good bet.

You should also look for:

  • Council-operated free camps with designated signage

  • Sites with toilets or water facilities (often intended for overnight travellers)

  • Official information boards or plaques on-site

When in doubt, it’s worth stopping by the nearest visitor centre or checking the local council’s website. Some councils have clear camping maps or a list of permitted zones for RVs and motorhomes.

Another good tip: arrive before dark so you have time to assess the area. If you see others already set up with caravans or campervans, it’s usually a sign that overnight RV parking is accepted. Still, always scan for new signage that may have been added recently.

It’s a common scenario—especially during school holidays or along popular routes like the east coast. If your chosen free campsite is full, don’t panic. Here’s what you can do:

  1. Open WikiCamps or CamperMate and check for nearby alternatives. Both apps let you zoom in and view surrounding areas. Often, there’s a backup site just 10–15 minutes away.

  2. Look for rest areas or showgrounds—some allow overnight parking even if they’re not traditional campgrounds.

  3. Head toward a low-cost campground—some charge as little as $5–15 per night and have more space.

  4. Use petrol stations or large 24/7 carparks only as a last resort, and only if signage permits. Do not set up camp (awnings, chairs, etc.) in non-designated areas.

To avoid this issue, try to arrive earlier in the day, especially in high-demand regions. Have a shortlist of 2–3 backup sites before setting off. Travellers using self-contained RVs often have more flexibility in selecting quieter or less-used free sites.

Both apps have unique strengths, and many experienced RVers use them together to get the best of both worlds. But depending on your needs, one may suit you better.

Choose WikiCamps if:

  • You’re travelling long-term or full-time

  • You need detailed filters and a massive campsite database

  • You often travel off-grid and require offline access

  • You want to plan multi-day or multi-state routes in advance

Choose CamperMate if:

  • You’re new to RV travel and want a simple, intuitive app

  • You like real-time alerts and traveller feedback

  • You’re staying in well-populated areas with good reception

  • You appreciate deals on attractions, tours, and services

In practice, many RVers cross-reference both apps. If a site is listed and reviewed positively on both, it’s usually a great option. If only one app lists it, you can use reviews and satellite view to verify details. Both apps are valuable companions for navigating Australia’s diverse and ever-changing free camping landscape.

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