Albany is a gem of a place nestled away on the South Coast of Western Australia. With so much to do, Albany really has something for everyone. For those who are visiting Albany and seeking out free camping spots in the area, there are heaps of accessible options with beautiful views and ideally positioned locations. From small bush reserves through to larger camping grounds, Albany has no shortage of sites where you can enjoy all the amenities necessary for comfortable camping without having to pay a cent. So if youโre after a unique getaway without breaking the bank and taking advantage of some of WA’s best free camping spots, why not consider making Albany your next destination?
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Free Camping Albany
Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot near the beach or a vibrant campsite close to town, Albany has some great free camping spots to choose from. Here are our top free spots from West to East.
#1 Dunsky Beach Camp
46 mins drive (40.2km) from Albany Town Centre
Free
Beach camp
Accessible by 4WD only
No facilities
Small site suitable for 1 or 2 vehicles.
#2 Narrikup Gravel Pit
28 mins drive (33.8km) from Albany Town Centre
Free
Ideal for an overnight stay
Flat, gravel base
No facilities
#3 King River Rest Area
17 min drive (14.2km) from Albany Town Centre
Free
No facilities
Good for an overnight stay
Plenty of room with level ground
#4 Kalgan Road Side Stop
24 min drive (25.8km) from Albany Town Centre
Free
No facilities
Suitable for an overnight stop
Close to road
#5 Woogenellup North Rest Area
45 min drive (61.2km) from Albany Town Centre
Free
No facilities
Ideal for an overnight stop
Great view of Stirling Ranges
Some road noise but okay after 9pm
#6 East Bay Campground
44 minutes drive (51km) from Albany Town Centre
Free
Toilets
Great spot for up to 7 nights during peak periods
No mobile reception
#7 Bettys Beach
42 minutes drive (50km) from Albany Town Centre
Free
Toilets
Beautiful beach camp
Perfect for a longer stay
Try Normans Beach if this campground is full
#8 Normans Beach
40 minutes drive (49.5km) from Albany Town Centre
Free
Toilet
Small campground
Beach camp
Try Bettys Beach if this campground is full
#9 Green Range Parking Area
42 minutes drive (56.7km) from Albany Town Centre
Free
No facilities
Secluded spot for an overnight stay
Level, solid ground
#10 Green Range Rest Area
52 minutes drive (73.2km) from Albany Town Centre
Free
No facilities
Basic spot for an overnight stop
Good solid gravel base, easy to level up.
Bit of road noise but gets quieter after dark
Good things to know before free camping in Albany
Western Australia offers numerous opportunities for free camping, allowing visitors to enjoy its natural beauty and wilderness. However, it’s important to note that regulations and available camping sites may change over time. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check for the latest information before planning your camping trip. Here is some general information about free camping in Western Australia:
- National Parks and Conservation Parks: Western Australia has several national parks and conservation parks where free camping is allowed. However, certain areas within the parks may have designated camping zones or require permits, so it’s essential to check park-specific regulations. Some popular options include Cape Range National Park, Fitzgerald River National Park, and the D’Entrecasteaux National Park.
- Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW) Campsites: DPaW manages various campsites throughout Western Australia. While some of these sites require fees, others offer free camping options. These campsites often provide basic facilities such as toilets and picnic tables. The availability of free sites may vary, so it’s recommended to check the DPaW website or contact them for up-to-date information.
- Rest Areas and Roadside Stops: Western Australia has rest areas and roadside stops along major highways, where camping is often allowed for short stays. These areas typically offer basic amenities like toilets and picnic tables. They are convenient for travelers looking for a place to rest overnight during their journey.
- Crown Land and State Forests: In some cases, camping may be allowed on Crown Land or in State Forests. However, it’s important to research and obtain any necessary permits or approvals before setting up camp. Local government websites or the Department of Planning, Lands, and Heritage can provide information on camping regulations for Crown Land.
- Private Property and Farm Stays: There are also opportunities for free or low-cost camping on private property or farm stays in Western Australia. Some landowners allow campers to stay on their land in exchange for a small fee or voluntary contributions. These arrangements can provide unique camping experiences and opportunities to explore rural areas.
Remember to practice responsible camping by respecting the environment and leaving no trace. Follow fire safety guidelines, pack out your rubbish, and be mindful of the local flora and fauna. Always check for any fire bans or other restrictions in place during your visit.
If you know of any other awesome free camping spots in Albany please let us know in the comments or email hello@waadventurer.com.