How Do I Find A Secluded Spot For Camping?

Spending a night or two out in the bush can be good for the soul and a great way to spend time with friends and family. There are places throughout the State on land managed by the Department of Environment and Conservation where camping is welcomed.

How do I find a secluded spot?

There are some easily accessed, developed campsites with toilets and picnic tables scattered throughout the south-west. To find more secluded locations you will need to purchase some good maps which show land tenure so that you can tell what is State forest, and whether it is open to the public (i.e. not closed as a disease risk area). The StreetSmart touring maps are good base maps, more specific information is available from the CALM 1:50,000 series maps. Both are available from DEC's Kensington Headquarters.

Having found your spot:

• Camp in existing cleared areas, but please don't clear new areas. Dig a pit toilet if toilet facilities are not provided. Always make sure that a dug toilet is at least 400 metres from rivers or streams.
• Some areas of the south-west have total fire bans (including campfires) all summer. In areas where campfires are permitted, don't light them on hot windy days. Better still, reduce the potential for a bushfire by using portable fuel stoves at all times.
• Take your rubbish home with you. If you can carry it in you can carry it out.
• Not all campsites allow the use of generators.