15 Locations for Free Camping Margaret River (Locals Guide 2024)

Are you looking for free camping Margaret River?

A unique and budget-friendly way to experience the beauty of Margaret River could be free camping! Free camping spots in Margaret River offer stunning scenery and an opportunity to get up close to nature without breaking the bank. Whether it’s by the beach or amongst tall trees, there are plenty of great free camping spots in Margaret River to explore.

I am a Margaret River local with 7 years of experience in the tourism industry in Margaret River, and I also love to camp, so I am here to guide you on the best free camping sites in and around this stunning region, so you can plan your next adventure with ease!

Free Camping Margaret River – What Are The Rules?

Unfortunately, free camping is not allowed in the Shire of Augusta Margaret River. This includes national parks, car parks, coastal areas or remnant bushland. Camping in the Shire of Augusta Margaret River is classified as sleeping in a tent or vehicle. Camping is only permitted in designated areas, and on private land with the landowner’s consent.

Unauthorized camping causes irreparable harm to the environment and increases wildfire risk in remote areas, posing a significant danger to the community.

If you are looking for a place to camp in the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, check out my list of best campgrounds in Margaret River.

There are several other rules to observe if you camp in the area:

• Campfires are only permitted at designated campsites, and there is a prohibited burning period from late December to late February every year, as this area is prone to bushfires
• To help keep the environment safe and pristine, please keep off the dunes
• Use designated footpaths and walking trails
• Bring along reusable cups and water bottles
• Dispose of rubbish thoughtfully
• Don’t use the bush like a toilet, but if you must, dig a hole at least 30cm deep and bury any toilet paper you use at the same time

🏕️🏕️🏕️NOT WHERE YOU WERE LOOKING FOR? Check out my other guides: Free Camping Busselton, Free Camping Albany, Free Camping Esperance and Free Camping Kalbarri so you can free camp your way around WA! 🏕️🏕️🏕️

Free Camping Near Margaret River

If you’re looking for free places to camp in Western Australia, there are plenty of options available if you start to consider roadside rest areas. Bigger rest stops often allow you to stay for up to 24 hours, just make sure not to set up camp and stay any longer than that. You can also try bush camping or other areas, as long as you don’t leave behind litter or cause a disturbance.

The rules are simple: you can camp at a caravan park or campground, or you may camp elsewhere under the following rules:

• Stay for up to 24 hours in your caravan, car, or RV at any roadside rest area.
• Stay for up to 24 hours in a road reserve if you need to rest in an emergency
• On land that is set aside for camping
• On unallocated land or in an unmanaged reserve
• Within a 28-day period, you can camp on land with the permission of the landowner for up to 3 days

If you find yourself in a situation where moving your caravan/vehicle would cause danger, it is permissible to stop and take a break. As long as you are not blocking the road, endangering other drivers, resting if feeling tired is allowed. The laws governing camping and caravans were put into place with the intention of discouraging vagrancy, and disruptive groups of people, along with generally guarding against disturbances within neighborhoods.

As long as you are respectful, quiet, and tidy when camping or caravanning, chances are you won’t run into any problems. Just make sure to pick your spots carefully and not cause any disruption or leave anything behind and you should be ok.

Free Camping In Margaret River – Sites Within 100km Of Margaret River

If you are looking for free camping in the surrounding areas of Margaret River, there are a few options available. Here is my list of best options within 100km or so of Margaret River:

1. Capel RV Stop

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 75km

⏰Time Limit: 24 hours

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: No

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: 2WD, Caravans

This free camping spot in Margaret River is the perfect place to stop over and enjoy your visit. Located 75km away from Margaret River, it offers three sites all within walking distance of some of the most popular spots in town. You can enjoy complete tranquility and privacy here as it’s rarely crowded and very secluded.

The site is fully bitumen and quite level, and it’s only 10 minutes away from the main street of Capel that offers a supermarket, liquor store and several cafes. The spot is suitable for self-contained campers only. You can also bring your furry best friend along and there is even a dog park nearby.

There is no grey or black water drop on the ground allowed, but there is a dump point available at Buchanan Road. Enjoy this peaceful spot and make the most out of your overnight stay!

📍Capel RV Stop Address: Berkshire Street, Capel WA | Google Maps

2. Darradup Roadside Rest Area

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 60km

⏰Time Limit: Minor rest area/no 24-hour camping

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: No

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: 2WD, Caravans

This minor rest area is a great spot to take a break. It’s situated 60km away from Margaret River, so it won’t take too long to get there. Although no overnight or 24-hour camping is allowed, this is a wonderfully peaceful environment where road noise is minimal after dark.

There’s plenty of room for caravans in the thick forest and pets are welcome too. Phone service is best with Telstra, so it’s worth double-checking that before you set out. Unfortunately, there are no amenities here but if you’re looking for a tranquil place to rest, this is an option.

📍Darradup Roadside Rest Area: Brockman Highway, Darradup WA | Google Maps

3. Brockman/Stewart Rest Area

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 65km

⏰Time Limit: 24 hours

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: Yes

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: 2WD, Caravans

This free overnight rest stop is a great place for those who want to enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located on Brockman Highway, just 65km from Margaret River and 35km south of Nannup, it has all the necessary amenities such as toilets, wheelchair access and picnic tables.

If you’re looking for somewhere peaceful to stay overnight in your self-contained vehicle, then this is the spot for you. The maximum stay here is 24 hours and camping in tents isn’t allowed, but caravans are welcome if you have a leveling ramp (as not many sites are level). Pets are also allowed so feel free to bring your furry friends along! Phone service is good here with Telstra, so you won’t have to worry about being disconnected.

📍Brockman/Stewart Rest Area Address: Brockman Highway, Scott River East WA | Google Maps

4. Sleeper Hewers Hut And Campsite

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 65km

🐶Pets Allowed: No

🚻Toilet: No

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: Hiking/Biking access only

If you are walking along the Timberline Loop near Nannup, this is a free campsite for you! Sleeper Hewers Camp is ideal for a bush walk. It’s only 5 kms from Barrabup Pool, so 10 km round trip should be easy to do with older kids as well.

There are toilets, picnic tables and plenty of wildflowers to admire on your walk. You can also access the river for swimming if you feel like taking a dip. The camp also has a hut with bunk beds that can sleep 8 people, and a rainwater tank to fill up your water bottles.

This is the perfect spot for a relaxing weekend away and it’s great for those who don’t want to go too far from Margaret River! Just remember to bring all the gear you need for an overnight stay and you’ll be set for a memorable trip.

Just a reminder, there is NO CAR ACCESS here. You will need to park at Barrabup Pool and hike/bike along the Old Timberline Trail to access.

📍Sleeper Hewers Hut and Campsite Address: Access via Barrabup Pool, Barrabup WA | Google Maps

5. Chappels Bridge Campground

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 115km

⏰Time Limit: None

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: Yes

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: 4WD

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and have an adventure, then Chappels Bridge Campground is the perfect spot! Nestled away among tall Karris in a very secluded area, it provides just what you need for a few days of peace and solitude.

The road down to the camp is steep and gravel so make sure you have a 4WD to take you down there. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of firewood around and a lovely river perfect for swimming right beside it.

So if you’re looking for the ultimate off-the-grid experience, look no further than Chappels Bridge Campground! Just make sure to bring your mozzie repellent – the mozzies are in full attendance!

📍Chappels Bridge Campground Address: Chappell Road, Glenoran WA | Google Maps

6. Willow Springs – Davies Camp

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 99km

🐶Pets Allowed: No

🚻Toilet: Yes

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: Off-Road Caravans, Camper Trailers

If you’re looking for a beautiful, peaceful getaway in the forest, Willow Springs – Davies Camp is the perfect spot! Located an hour from Margaret River in the Shire of Nannup, this free campground has plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable. Accessible to camper trailers and off road caravans (2WD accessible!), there’s a drop toilet that’s very well maintained, and several fire pits and picnic tables.

You won’t get any phone signal here, but that’s all part of the charm! There’s a hut onsite with two bunks and a fresh water tank just in case you need it – plus it’s close to the Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail. So, pack your camping gear and head for a wonderful weekend of outdoor exploration at Willow Springs – Davies Camp!

📍Willow Springs – Davies Camp Address: Gold Gully Road, Donnelly River WA | Google Maps

7. Karri Gully Picnic Site

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 109km

⏰Time Limit: 24 hours

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: Yes

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: 2WD, Caravans, Tents

If you’re looking for a tranquil overnighter surrounded by the majestic Karri trees, then Karri Gully Picnic Site is the perfect spot! With its basic amenities and access to the Bibbulmun Track, this free campsite is great for tents, caravans and 2WD vehicles and can accommodate around 10 vehicles.

Pets are welcome here too but you must check for 1080 bait as there is plenty of that around. This free campsite is on a main road but you’ll find it to be very quiet after dark.

📍Karri Gully Picnic Site: Brockman Highway, Maranup WA | Google Maps

8. Dardanup Hall Car Park

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 103km

⏰Time Limit: 24 hours

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: Yes

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: 2WD, Caravans

The Shire of Dardanup has allocated a couple of sites within its shire where fully self-contained RVs and caravans can park free of charge.

The first is Dardanup Hall Car Park, and while it’s not the most scenic of locations, it’s close to the pub and bakery and has all the amenities you need – toilets, clean drinking water, phone service, TV reception and dog-friendly access. Plus it’s only 103km from Margaret River.

To stay here, you will need to be self-contained and vehicles can camp within the designated bays of the RV Parking Area for a maximum of 24 hours within any six consecutive days. Just make sure to follow the signage and keep it to it’s limit of three vehicles.

📍Dardanup Hall Car Park Address: 19 Ferguson Road, Dardanup West WA | Google Maps

9. Cambray Siding

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 66km

⏰Time Limit: None

🐶Pets Allowed: No

🚻Toilet: No

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: 4WD, Off-Road Caravans

Cambray Siding is the perfect spot for off-roaders and 4WD fanatics. Located just 66km from Margaret River, this remote camping site offers spectacular views of St John Brook, a tributary of the Blackwood River.

The site has a long history dating back to the times when it was used by steam trains, and is currently being restored by the Department of Conservation.

Unfortunately, due to its remote location, there are no facilities like toilets or showers available here, so it’s best suited for experienced campers who come fully self-contained. Pets are not allowed either. Additionally, due to the rough terrain and lack of proper signage, it’s recommended that only 4WDs or off-road caravans access the area.

But with its natural beauty and serenity, Cambray Siding is definitely worth a visit if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. So pack your camping gear and take advantage of this unique camping opportunity.

📍Cambray Siding Address: Barrabup WA | Google Maps

10. Gardiner Reserve Burekup

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 115km

⏰Time Limit: 24 hours

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: Yes

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: RVs, Caravans

The Shire of Dardanup has allocated a couple of sites within its shire where fully self-contained RVs and caravans can park free of charge.

The first is the Dardanup Hall Carpark, which I mentioned above, and the second is Gardiner Reserve, Burekup.

Gardiner Reserve, Burekup is the perfect spot for anyone looking for a peaceful overnight stay without spending a penny. Located 115km from Margaret River, this campsite offers basic amenities with plenty of room for caravans and RVs.

The designated bays are clearly marked and all vehicles must be fully self-contained in order to stay. There are toilets available, as well as clean drinking water and pet-friendly access (on leads). There is a limit of 3 vehicles allowed here, so make sure you get here early so you don’t miss out.

📍Gardiner Reserve Burekup Address: 1 Sykes Avenue, Burekup WA | Google Maps

11. Greenbushes Sports Ground Complex

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 124km

⏰Time Limit: 7 days

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: Yes

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: RVs, Caravans

Greenbushes Sports Ground Complex is a great spot for anyone looking to camp for free in the Margaret River area. Located just 124km away, this RV Park offers plenty of room and facilities that make it ideal for a longer stay.

The complex has two areas – a top section near the highway and a bottom area which is quieter and more sheltered. The lower area is definitely the better option if you’re looking for a peaceful night stay, but it’s also worth noting that both areas are subject to the 7 day maximum time limit.

The facilities at Greenbushes Sports Ground Complex include medium-sized dirt base parking spots with plenty of shade, toilets, bins, and drinking water. There is also good Optus reception, but poor Telstra signal, and no TV reception available. Pets are allowed on leads.

It’s a great spot for those looking to find a peaceful bushland setting with good facilities – perfect for an extended stay!

And if you want to stay in the area longer, just move to Greenbushes Pool!

📍Greenbushes Sports Complex Address: Charnley Road, Greenbushes WA | Google Maps

12. Greenbushes Pool

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 124km

⏰Time Limit: 3 days

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: Yes

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: RVs, Caravans

Greenbushes Pool is another great free camping spot in the Margaret River area. Located just 124km from Margaret River, this location offers a peaceful setting and plenty of basic amenities that make it ideal for an extended stay.

You can bring your furry friend along, as pets are allowed here. Plus there is ample parking for caravans or RVs.

The highlight of this spot has to be the natural pool in a bushland setting. You can take a boardwalk and gravel walk trail around the perimeter of the pool, complete with interpretive signage. There is also a great picnic area with gazebo, BBQ, and childrens play area.

Swimming is not actively encouraged due to bacteria in the water so it’s at your own risk here. Keep in mind that there’s no cover if you get sick.

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to spend some quality time in nature, then Greenbushes Pool is the perfect spot!

📍Greenbushes Pool Address: Greenbushes Loop, Greenbushes WA | Google Maps

13. Wyalup-Rocky Point RV Stop

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 103km

⏰Time Limit: 48 hours

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: Yes

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: RVs, Caravans

The Wyalup-Rocky Point RV Stop is a great choice for anyone looking to spend some time in the Margaret River area. Located just 103km from Margaret River and situated on the beach, this spot offers amazing views over the Indian Ocean.

With a 48 hour time limit, this is ideal for those who want to stay a bit longer and take in all the sights and sounds of the nearby towns.

The RV stop provides visitors with access to public toilets, bins, BBQs, picnic tables and grassed area overlooking the Bunbury Back Beach and ancient basalt rocks. There is also a children’s playground for children to enjoy.

Swimming is permitted in the ocean and visitors are able to walk into the CBD from here if they wish. Pets are welcome, so long as they remain on leads at all times.

Visitors must meet the definition of fully self-contained to utilise these areas, with their vehicle being fitted with on-board facilities such as toilets and sinks. There is no camping allowed here, nor sleeping in your car.

To stay at the Wyalup-Rocky Point RV Stop, you must obtain a permit from the Bunbury Visitor Centre (Haley St in the CBD), and these do get checked every morning by rangers.

📍Wyalup-Rocky Point Address: Bunbury WA | Google Maps

14. Ocean Drive 48 Hour Rest Area

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 103km

⏰Time Limit: 48 hours

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: No

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: RVs, Caravans & Campervans

If you’re looking for a beachside stay that puts you close to the heart of Bunbury, then the Ocean Drive 48 Hour Rest Area is just what you need. This free rest area provides up to four vehicles with 48 hours of stay, and is located just across the road from the Bunbury Surf Life Saving Club and Back Beach Café.

Take in elevated ocean views, soak up the sun and enjoy being only a short stroll away from the Bunbury CBD. Pets are welcome and you can park your RV, caravan, or campervan here for up to 48 hours – perfect for a short getaway!

Just be aware that you must meet the definition of fully self-contained with your vehicle fitted with on-board facilities such as toilets and sinks. No camping is allowed here, nor sleeping in your car. Don’t forget to obtain a permit from the Bunbury Visitor Centre (Haley St in the CBD) before you settle in; these get checked every morning by rangers so make sure you’re up to date!

📍Ocen Drive 48 Hour Rest Area Address: 65 Ocean Drive, Bunbury WA | Google Maps

15. Grimwade Settlement Campground

🚗Distance To Margaret River: 130km

⏰Time Limit: None

🐶Pets Allowed: Yes

🚻Toilet: No

🚿Shower: No

🚐Access: 4WD, Off-Road Caravans

Grimwade Settlement Campground is the perfect spot if you’re looking for an off-grid adventure. Located between Balingup and Noggerup, this former mill settlement provides a scenic bush camping experience that can’t be beaten.

You’ll find plenty of areas suitable for tents, motorhomes, caravans and camper trailers, allowing you to really make the most of the great outdoors. Plus there are lots of tracks for walking, 4WD, dirt bikes and exploring – so you’ll never be short of something to do! The lake is clean and perfect for swimming and canoeing.

The area also offers plenty of shade, as well as a range of wildlife, making it the ideal spot to while away an afternoon. Plus there are geocaching sites nearby and the Bibbulmun Track is right on your doorstep – so you can set off on a whole new adventure.

Just remember that Grimwade Settlement Campground offers no facilities, so come prepared! But if you’re looking for a remote, off-grid experience with stunning natural surroundings – this is the place for you.

📍Grimwade Settlement Campground Address: Preston Road, Grimwade WA | Google Maps

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