Places to Stay in WA Off the Beaten Track

What’s Western Australia known for?

Western Australia is a land of contrasts, where endless desert landscapes meet the deep blue hues of the Indian Ocean. It's also the largest state in Australia, renowned for its vast and diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique cultural experiences. WA is the custodian of the iconic Pinnacles Desert, with its alien limestone formations and the mesmerising inland Wave Rock. 

The state boasts a coastline stretching over 12,000 kilometres, home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and vibrant coral reefs, including the world-renowned Ningaloo Reef. Here, adventurers can swim alongside the gentle giants of the sea – the whale sharks. Then there is Perth, the sun-soaked capital. This city marries modern urban living with nature, offering everything from sophisticated dining to sandy beaches within a stone's throw.

Not to be overlooked, in the far reaches of the north, the Kimberley region is a rugged landscape ripe for off-grid adventure. It's a place where ancient Aboriginal rock art adorns the walls of deep gorges, telling stories as old as time itself. Beyond these, WA is dotted with hidden jewels such as the wildflower carpets of the Midwest, the wine regions of the Southwest, and the goldfields that reflect the state’s rich gold-mining history. 

 

Why is WA great for camping?

Western Australia offers an unrivalled off-the-beaten-track camping experience, thanks to its huge and diverse landscapes. Whether you're navigating the rugged coastline in a campervan or setting up camp under a canopy of stars at one of the desert-secluded camping spots, Western Australia has something to offer every kind of explorer. Here are a few reasons why WA is great for camping:

• Stargazing Havens: The remote expanses of the WA Outback serve as the perfect stage for stargazing. Far from the city lights, campervan travellers can enjoy a celestial show every night.

• Rich Aboriginal Heritage: WA’s landscapes are steeped in Aboriginal history, offering campers a chance to connect with Australia's ancient culture. From the mystical rock art of the Kimberley to the spiritual Dreamtime trails, these sacred sites offer a glimpse into the ancient history of the land.

• Family-Friendly Adventures: With plenty of campgrounds offering modern amenities and activities for kids, WA is an ideal destination for family getaways. Campervan travel allows families the flexibility to explore at their own pace, making memories in some of Australia’s most scenic locations.

• Free Camping: Embrace the freedom of the open road by exploring the best free camping spots in WA – with so much wide-open space, there are plenty of them! 

Best of all, with a campervan, exploring WA becomes an adventure without bounds, offering the freedom to discover the state’s hidden treasures at your own pace. Whether you're seeking solitude under the stars or the thrill of uncovering ancient landscapes, WA is a camper's paradise. 

 

The top 6 most unique places to camp in Western Australia

Western Australia, with its vast landscapes and untamed wilderness, is a haven for campers seeking solitude and adventure. In this section, we dive into the top 6 most unique places to camp across this sprawling state, each offering an unparalleled connection to nature. From the serene waters of Lake Brockman to the ancient gorges of Karijini, these spots provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable camping experience. 

READ MORE: Most of these sites are freedom camping campgrounds in WA, allowing you to immerse yourself in WA's natural beauty. Be sure to check out the guidelines for free camping before setting off on your Australia road trip.

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

1. Lake Brockman Tourist Park, Cookernup

Nestled amidst the lush forests of Cookernup, Lake Brockman Tourist Park is a gem waiting to be discovered by those traversing WA in a campervan. The park's centrepiece, a stunning freshwater dam, invites campers to dive into activities like swimming, water skiing, and fishing, making it a perfect waterside retreat. Offering everything from BBQ areas to clean shower blocks, this caravan park in WA ensures you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. 

Located a mere 1.5-hour drive from Perth, Lake Brockman Tourist Park is easily accessible, making it an ideal weekend getaway or a stop on a longer WA road trip. For campervan travellers, the park provides spacious sites with ample room for parking, ensuring your home on wheels is perfectly positioned to explore all the area has to offer. Plus, the park's close proximity to nearby hiking trails and scenic lookouts means you're never far from your next adventure.

 

2. Karijini Eco Retreat, Karijinji National Park

For a truly unique camping experience, the Karijini Eco Retreat in the heart of Karijini National Park offers an eco-friendly way to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of WA's rugged landscapes. This eco-retreat is easily one of the best campgrounds in WA to explore the ancient gorges, slot canyons, and serene waterholes that make Karijini National Park a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

The retreat offers a range of accommodation options, from eco tents to campgrounds, all designed to minimise environmental impact while maximising comfort. Facilities include an on-site restaurant serving up local delicacies, guided tours, and the unforgettable Night Sky Tour, where the mysteries of the cosmos come to life under the clear Outback sky.

Karijini Eco Retreat is approximately a 14-hour drive from Perth, making it a remote but rewarding destination for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and easy access to the natural wonders of Karijini.  

 

3. Lucky Bay Campground, Esperance

Lucky Bay Campground near Esperance is an iconic WA road trip experience. Known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Lucky Bay sets the stage for an unforgettable stay. What makes this campground in WA truly special, however, is the chance to snap a selfie with the friendly local kangaroos that often visit the beach – this is a unique wildlife encounter you won't find many other places on your Australia road trip.

Situated within the breathtaking Cape Le Grand National Park, Lucky Bay offers campers plenty of activities. From exploring hidden coves to hiking scenic trails, the natural beauty of this area is unmatched. Facilities at the campground include toilets and solar-powered showers, ensuring a comfortable and off-grid style adventure.  Lucky Bay is approximately an 8-hour drive from Perth, making this secluded camping spot in Western Australia an ideal escape for those looking to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of WA's southern coast.  

 

4. Elachbutting Rock Campsite, North East Wheat Belt

The Elachbutting Rock Campsite is a hidden gem in the North East Wheat Belt of WA, offering a serene camping experience amidst spectacular natural beauty. This  secluded camping spot in Western Australia is easily one of the best free camping spots in WA, renowned for its incredible rock formations and, if visited during the wildflower season from mid-July to late October, a vibrant display of native flora. This campground in WA provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, surrounded by the stunning landscapes and tranquillity of the Wheat Belt.

Facilities at Elachbutting Rock are basic, catering to the needs of campers seeking an authentic bush camping experience. Here, travellers can enjoy bushwalking, exploring the rock formations, and discovering secluded spots within the reserve. It's a place where you can truly unwind and detach from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Elachbutting Rock is approximately a 4-hour drive from Perth, making it an accessible weekend getaway or a worthwhile detour on a broader WA road trip.   

 

5. Coalmine Beach Holiday Park, Walpole

Coalmine Beach Holiday Park is a serene getaway nestled in the heart of the Walpole wilderness in the South West. Located around a 5-hour drive from Perth, this family-friendly campground in WA is perfectly situated for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Walpole-Nornalup National Park. With facilities including powered sites, modern camp kitchens, and clean amenities, it has everything you need to refuel on your WA road trip.

What sets Coalmine Beach Holiday Park apart is its proximity to some of WA's most spectacular natural attractions. Just a stone's throw away, the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk offers visitors a bird's eye view of ancient tingle forests, while the national park surrounds you with pristine beaches, peaceful rivers, and dense bushland. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or simply soaking up the beauty of nature, this campground is an ideal base.

 

6. Osprey Bay Campground, Ningaloo Marine Park

For those seeking an ocean adventure, Osprey Bay Campground in the Ningaloo Marine Park is an unparalleled destination and easily one of the best free camping spots in WA. This beachside campground in WA offers direct access to pristine waters, where swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are just a few of the ways to enjoy the marine biodiversity of the world-famous Ningaloo Reef. The highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to swim with whale sharks between March and late June, an experience that epitomises the magic of Western Australia's Coral Coast.

Osprey Bay Campground is equipped with basic facilities to ensure a comfortable stay, allowing visitors to focus on the natural beauty surrounding them. The unpowered sites are ideal for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the tranquillity of this coastal paradise. Situated approximately a 12-hour drive north of Perth, Osprey Bay is a remote destination that promises an unforgettable camping experience on your WA road trip.

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Ready for your next adventure?

Western Australia is a land of breathtaking landscapes and unique camping experiences. Whether you’re camping in ancient forests, alongside serene beaches, or within a stone’s throw of the vibrant underwater world of Ningaloo Reef, each of these secluded camping spots in Western Australia offers its own special connection to nature. With a Britz campervan, the freedom to explore these remarkable places is in your hands. Looking for more tips for where to stay in WA? The thl Roadtrip App is an invaluable resource, offering detailed information on the best free camping spots in WA as well as the best caravan parks in WA.  

Ready to set off on your WA road trip adventure? Book your Britz campervan online today and pick it up from any Britz branch across Australia. With all the information and inspiration you need at your fingertips, the only question left is, where will you go first?