How To Find Yourself a Quiet Campsite

Here at We Are Explorers we know that there’s something rather special about going on any kind of camping trip. Nothing beats getting out there and sleeping under the stars but there’s also something special about getting away from the crowds.

Why You Want a Quiet Campsite

Last January I headed to the Snowy Mountains for a quick overnighter, camped by the Thredbo river and then mountain biked, swam, and trail ran at Lake Crackenback. Perhaps it’s because I’ve only lived in Australia for six years, but I didn’t even register the fact that it was January 26th – apparently this is something of a big deal for Australia (rightly or wrongly) – and also a massive weekend for camping.

It was on this trip (while sleeping in a tent wedged between my rear wheel, a puddle, and the dirt road) that I realised there are just some things that are almost guaranteed to take the shine out of your trip.

So if you want to go camping without listening to old mate next door telling stories of conquests past, without being woken by someone else’s party playlist and without waking up with your feet in a puddle, here are five top tips for finding a quiet campsite.

1. Camp In Winter

Seriously, this is quiet campsite 101. There are so many benefits to camping in winter – quieter campgrounds, cooler temperatures in your tent, and fewer snakes just to name a few.

Read more: Why Winter is Secretly The Best Season for Camping

2. Keep Your Distance From Big Towns

There’s nothing better than heading out after work on a Friday night and arriving at your campground an hour or two later. But drive just another hour further and the bounty will be yours, all yours. Your next adventure is closer than you think!

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

3. Dirt Roads Are Your New Best Friend

The less mainstream the road, the less mainstream the campsite. While many Aussies seem to love their off-road vehicles, most get around without a speck of dirt, leading me to think that they – like my mother-in-law – rarely take them past the city limits. So take your trusty Toyota Corolla or tricked-out adventure beast and get off the asphalt!

Check out this guide before you leave! How To 4WD For Beginners

4. Instagram Stalk the Location

In this world of Insta-fame and chasing likes, when it comes to quiet camping, the fewer hashtags and check-ins the better (for you). So run your intended location through your fav social media search and if it’s not popular on the ‘gram, then make it your own. Just remember to keep it that way.

Read more: The Effect Of Instagram On #Adventure

5. Go Mid-Week

Another one from the quiet camping playbook. Yeah, you might have to use up one or two precious days of annual leave, but by adventuring midweek, you could find yourself camping in the prime position with nothing but the stars above and nothing and no-one to disturb your well-deserved slumber.

Shot by Fin Matson

FAQs Quiet Campsites

How do I know if a campground is open?

Campgrounds may be affected by natural disasters or severe weather, so always check the national parks website in your state or contact local council areas for up-to-date information on closures before you leave home.

How can I camp for free in Australia?

There are plenty of free campsites around Australia that won’t cost you a penny to stay at. However, each state and territory runs the booking of campgrounds a little differently to the next so it’s best to check the relevant national park or state forest website for the area you’re planning to camp in before you head out.

How long can you stay at a free campsite?

As long as you’re camping you can stay as long as you like.

What’s the best campsite in Australia?

Lucky Bay on WA’s South West Edge has previously been named the best beach in the world. We Are Explorers head honcho Henry and his family travelled over 1,000km to camp there. Is is the best campsite in Australia? Probably!

What are the best free campsites in Australia?

There are so many great free campsites to enjoy in Australia. We’ve made a list of the best free places to camp near Melbourne, in NSW, in QLD, and some in SA on the Yorke Peninsula.

Where are some great places to camp on the beach in Australia?

Camping on or near the beach is magical. We’ve rounded up some great coastal campsites in NSW, Victoria, and WA! Want a guide for another location? Let us know in the comments!

Everything you need to know for an upgraded camping trip!

• The Car Camping Gear You Need for Winter
• 9 Things to Think About Before Your First 4WD Trip
• The Hidden Cost Of Free Camping
• Cheap Camping Gear: What To Splurge on and Where You Can Save

Photography by @ainraadik & feature photo by @mattiejgould