Free/Low cost camps are some of the best camps we have come across. We much prefer those over the super busy and chaotic caravan parks. Don't get me wrong we still go to the caravan parks too, the kids love all the fancy water parks and attractions. (And I'm quite a fan of the cocktail jugs some of them have by the pools). We have made a small list of some of the best we have come across on our travels. I think number one will be on a lot of people's lists.
#1: Perlubie Beach Campground, South Australia
Perlubie Beach is about 15 mins out of Streaky Bay and you are allowed to camp on the actual beach. Its so relaxing falling asleep to the sound of the waves and such a beautiful view for your morning coffee. There are toilets at the entrance but other than that you need to be self sufficient. There is also a donation/honesty box at the entrance. It does get busy here and sometimes completely full. Its first in, best dressed. We found the sand does get softer the further you go down the beach BUT its totally worth it. If beach camping is your thing, put it at the top of your list!
#2: Royal Hotel Mount Hope, New South Wales
The Royal Hotel is a great roadside camp roughly mid way between Cobar ( approx 160km north) and Hilston (95km south) on The Kidman Way. There are flushing toilets and showers at the hotel that are free to use. The hosts just like you to come in for a drink or a meal, and trust me your missing out if you don't! The meals are well priced and huge. The publicans are so friendly and welcoming. The area to park your van is huge and easily accessible. There is no power or dump point. This is one we will visit again!!
#3: Pettmans Beach Camping, Victoria
Pettmans Beach Camping is a free campsite and it is located within the Lake Tyers State Park, about an hour from Bairnsdale at the end of Pettman Road. The campground consists of approximately ten campsites and has direct beach access. (Its pretty rough for swimming) The road in is unsealed and quite bumpy but we took a 22ft van in with ease. Again its first in, best dressed to get a site and it gets packed so get in early! . There are drop toilets but other than that you have to be fully self contained. One tip is take a boogie board for the kids. There is a huge sand hill and the kids love sliding down it on the boards. Oh and watch out for the extra friendly goannas!
#4. Camerons Arm Lake Tyers, Victoria
Camerons Arm was one of the first campsites we ever camped at. We loved it so much it became a regular. Camerons Arm Campground is one of four camping areas in the Lake Tyers State Park. The main access in is via Lake Tyers House Road, then after approx 5.2km turn right into Camerons Arm Track No.1. The roads are all unsealed and can be quite bumpy. We have taken a camper trailer and an 18ft van in but yet to take the big girl! Camerons Arm campground is right near Lake Tyers and so great access to fishing. Staying at the campground there is an easy 200m walk to the lake. There are picnic tables and you can have a campfire but no toilets or bins. Camping at Camerons Arm is free of charge and there are 4 small to medium campsites available.
#5 Huggets Crossing Campsite Monomack, Victoria
Huggets Crossing is a great campsite close to the Avon River. Huggets Crossing is about 40 mins from Heyfield and located at the end of Kentucky Road, Monomak. Camping at Huggets is free and there are lots of sites to choose from. It does get pretty busy because its popular for motorbike riding and 4wding. Fires are allowed and there is a toilet and picnic tables. The tracks easily accessible with a 4wd and I have seen smaller caravans down there. After rain it is a bit slippery getting back out. There's always something to do here too, fishing, bushwalking and 4wding.
Happy Travels
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