Author: Karli Florisson
Published: January 23, 2020
Summer holidays are perfect for camping in the Esperance area. The weather is great, you can spend all day in your bathers, and there’s always plenty to do. The biggest problem that you’ll face is where to go. There is plenty of choices, which is good because some of the campsites can be quite busy. Here are some of the top camping sites around Esperance to check out.
There are dozens of camping places within a short drive from Esperance that are accessible by two-wheel drive cars. Many of them have great facilities and access to amazing beaches. Here are some to check out.
Quagi Beach Campsite
70 km west of Esperance, off Farrell Road, this camping area has plenty of protected bush sites. There are sheltered sites, and access to Quagi Beach, which offers excellent swimming and fishing. Camp fees do apply.
Stokes National Park Campsite
Located 80 km west of Esperance, on Stokes Inlet Road. There is a section of gravel road, but it is still easily accessible with a 2WD. There is a simple bush campsite, with running water and toilets, and access to a calm inlet which is great for swimming and kayaking. The beach is nearby, and there are some great places in the park to explore, such as historical Moir’s Homestead. Camp fees do apply.
Campsites in Cape Le Grand National Park
Offering excellent facilities at both Cape Le Grand and Lucky Bay, with plenty of campsites, these campsites are both accessible by sealed road. Toilets, showers, and BBQ facilities are available, as well as easy beach access, great walking tracks, and stunning views. A booking system is now in place for both of these campsites, so bookings are essential! Check online, or at the Esperance Visitor’s Centre for more information. Park fees and camping fees apply.
Other campsites that are accessible by 2WD vehicle include Thomas River, the Seal Creek campsite at Poison Creek, Starvation Bay and Mason’s Bay.
Alexander Bay
Also known as A-Bay, this picturesque campsite is located 80 km east of Esperance off Alexander Bay Road. The road can be in poor condition, so 4WDs are recommended. There are some sheltered campsites and toilet facilities also available.
Mt Ragged
Located in the Cape Arid National Park, Mount Ragged is only accessible by 4WD. The campground has very basic facilities, and the climb up Tower Peak is quite challenging but offers impressive views as well as beautiful native wildflowers. Campers should be well prepared and experienced with bush driving and camping.
There are many camping areas throughout the Esperance area that are accessible by 4WD only. These include camping areas such as Israelite Bay, Kennedy’s Beach and Membinup Beach. There are many other areas where camping is permitted throughout the national parks and around historical sites such as Balbinya and Deralinya. If in doubt, check with the local rangers or the Esperance Visitor’s Centre.
Munglinup Beach
Located 140 km from Esperance, Munglinup Beach is a beautiful area with a sheltered campsite. Offering toilets and water, with beach access and a protected lagoon that is perfect for swimming or snorkelling, Munglinup Beach is worth a visit. Camp fees apply.
Peak Charles
Peak Charles is located in the Great Western Woodlands, 170 km north-west of Esperance, off the Coolgardie Highway. The 600m granite peak offers a challenging climb, with spectacular views. The campground is very simple, just offering toilets and some cleared sites. Campers should take drinking water and all supplies.
Woody Island
Try something different and take the Woody Island Eco Tours boat to Recherche Archipelago’s most accessible island. Unpowered campsites are available for you to pitch your own tent, or spend a little bit more and book a pre-pitched tent or safari hut which includes made-up beds for you to sleep on. A camp kitchen, toilet and shower facilities and a kiosk and bar also available on site. See Woody Island Eco Tours website for booking info.
Other camping areas that are located within a few hours drive of Esperance include Hopetoun, and the spectacular Fitzgerald National Park, as well as the Cape Arid National Park, which offers some great camping spots.
As summer can be the peak time of year for camping, some campsites may be full, and most cannot be booked in advance, except for Cape Le Grand and Lucky Bay campsites. You should always take plenty of water and expect to be fully self-sufficient. This includes taking away all your rubbish. Don’t attempt remote or 4WD only campsites unless you are well equipped and experienced in 4WDing. Even for experienced campers, you should always let someone know where you are going! Be aware that fire bans will be in place across the whole region, with bushfire danger high, so campfires are not permitted. Take a gas BBQ, and be very careful with anything that could start a fire.
If you need a campsite closer to town, the Esperance Shire will be opening up the overflow camping area at the Greater Sports Ground. And don’t forget that camping is not allowed at any of the beaches in town, fines will apply.
For further information on any of these sites or any other suggestions, you can check with the Esperance Visitor’s Centre.
