Bush Camping 101: Everything You Need to Know

Bush Camping 101: Everything You Need to Know

People use the phrase "bush camping" to describe camping outside permitted campsites in national parks, reserves, and state forests. Throughout the year, many resources and parks will allow self-supported walk-in bush camping. Bush camping in Australia is an excellent opportunity to become more self-sufficient, explore new landscapes, and gain a better understanding of how we interact with nature.

bush camping in australia

Bush camping is an exciting and entertaining way to experience the Australian outback, but it is crucial to have the bare necessities to embark on your journey. This page provides comprehensive information on bush camping, including definition, equipment, preparation, and the top bush campsites in Australia. Furthermore, Jackery Portable Power Stations provide consistent and uninterrupted power to camping appliances on the go.

Key Takeaways:

  • Bush camping aims to foster a deeper connection with the natural world through increased self-reliance and applying acquired skills and knowledge.

  • When planning a bush camping, you should know the necessary skills and essential camping gear, like camping items, navigation tools, clothes, and more.

  • Power is vital in bush camping, and we highly recommend Jackery Explorer 500 or 240 portable power stations with compact size to carry outdoors easily.

  • When planning for bush camping, you should prepare for the weather, plan, notice the wildlife, ensure local regulations, and know your limits.

  • During bush camping, it is essential to find a proper campsite, make a campfire, and leave no trace.

  • Blue Mountains, Redhead Beach, and Flinders Rangers National Park are best for bush camping.


What Is Bush Camping in Australia?

Contrary to covert camping, bush camping is a lawful and permissible pursuit on the condition that one exercises environmental stewardship and recognizes one's constraints. Wild camping, or bush camping, aims to foster a deeper connection with the natural world through increased self-reliance and applying acquired skills and knowledge to ensure secure camping without infrastructure.

Bush camping typically occurs in secluded areas devoid of contemporary conveniences, including technology, campsites, roads, footpaths, and other infrastructure. Wild camping, unlike the more popular glamping and caravan camping in Australia, emphasizes one's capability and expertise to ensure comfort.

By relying solely on your bush talents and experience, you can completely immerse yourself in environments and locations that will inspire, reward, and satisfy you.

Distinct regulations in each Australian state, park, and reserve govern Bush camping. The purpose of these restrictions is to safeguard the limited remaining wilderness areas, as well as the ecosystems, flora, and fauna that reside therein. While this development is beneficial, it may complicate the search for wilderness areas that permit forest and wilderness camping.

Bush Camping VS. Beach Camping

There is nothing quite like experiencing the Australian wilderness and returning to the fundamentals of life. It's an absolute contrast to the pressures of the workplace, deadlines, and tension that you may have been enduring due to the hectic pace of city life. Camping in the bush is an excellent way to unwind, discover, and commune with nature.

Beach camping is ideal to unwind while basking in the sun and smelling the powdery white sand between your soles. You can swim against the tides in the blue ocean or engage in snorkeling in the pristine waters if you desire an additional thrilling experience. Conclude the day with a refreshing beer and a delicious barbeque, and you will have an unforgettable day of shore camping.

Bush Campsite: Fortunately, camping is a popular pastime among Australians, and the nation has "bushy" regions. As a result, bush camping devotees are allowed an abundance of campsites. Nonetheless, you must investigate to identify locations where you can do so. Wild or free camping is strictly prohibited in Australia; therefore, you should limit your visits to designated areas.
Beach Campsite: Camping directly on the shore is generally prohibited; however, a limited number of locations grant this privilege. Enquire about the local regulations and policies in advance to avoid encountering any complications upon your arrival. You may always reach out to the local council when in doubt.

Bush Camping VS. Caravan Camping

Because there are fewer restrictions, bush camping brings you closer to nature. You can camp right on the beach or next to a magnificent river. A bush camp, on the other hand, will not be found near a town because it competes with caravan parks. Similarly, wilderness camps are rarely located near restaurants, cafes, shops, gas stations, or other amenities in a town or city.
While caravan parks can be found throughout the nation, it goes without saying that they are limited in their construction locations. Small towns typically lack caravan parks, whereas larger cities offer more caravan parks. While some caravan parks are situated near picturesque coastlines, rivers, and inlets, the majority are located further inland and within the town.
The nightly rate difference between caravan parks and wilderness camps is the most frequently discussed topic. The cost of bush camping ranges from approximately $14 per person per night to no cost. Since caravan parks operate as enterprises, they are naturally more expensive. Some less costly parks charge between $20 and $33 per night for unpowered sites; after that, the cost escalates significantly.


Bush Camping Gear: What to Pack? 

When planning a journey, you should know the necessary skills and equipment to camp, navigate, and appreciate the surroundings at your designated location. If you're exploring bush camping from a day hiking background, you will already have some camping basics but not others. 
Before venturing off-trail, instruction, and practice will be crucial to your success and enjoyment if you are new to the outdoors. This should not be undervalued. Ensuring one's life and safety are paramount concerns at all times. Pack the following items of bush camping gear for your upcoming or inaugural excursion:

Bush Camping Gear

Camping Tent

Sleeping Bag

Cooking Stove

Cooking Utensils

Water

Foods

Metal Container

Water Filter

Compass

Map

EPIRB

PLB

Multi-Tools

Combustion Device

Parachute Cord

Clothing System

Head Covering

Head Torch

First Aid Kit

Lighter

Small Pack

Toilet Paper

Towel

Duct Tape

Bug Spray

Suncream

Jackery Explorer 500 or 240

Assuring oneself against inclement weather conditions requires the proper equipment and practical experience employing said equipment. Temperature regulation is critical: shelter, appropriate attire, a head covering, warm clothing, fire creation, etc. Maintaining your basal body temperature is of the utmost importance. A few days without food or water is possible during an emergency, but hours of exposure can be fatal.
The portable power station ensures you are powered and connected while bush camping. An example of a power station that guarantees comfort outdoors is the Jackery Portable Power Station, which supplies a dependable and efficient power source. It is a compact and lightweight system designed to provide power for any outdoor activity; its numerous ports enable simultaneous charging of multiple electronic devices. Continue reading for more information!


Jackery Portable Power Stations for Bush Camping

The portable power stations have a rechargeable battery pack, many output ports, and an inverter for converting DC to AC power. They offer sophisticated safety features, are lightweight and adaptable, and can be used for bush camping and other outdoor activities.   

how jackery solar generator works
Jackery is a widely recognized brand that specializes in high-quality solar products - Jackery Portable Power Stations provide camping equipment with a continuous and reliable power supply via lithium batteries. The Jackery Solar Generator effectively maximizes the use of solar energy by integrating Jackery Solar Panels with a portable power station.

Jackery Portable Power Stations have enough power storage to power even the most essential camping equipment for an entire weekend. For extended camping excursions, we recommend integrating Jackery Solar Panels with a Portable Power Station so that you always have access to clean, renewable solar energy.

A wide range of methods are available for recharging a portable power station. An illustration of solar energy harvesting entails the wiring and interconnection of power stations and solar panel connectors. Additionally, charging is possible through a carport or an AC adapter.

Explorer 500

Explorer 240

Capacity

518Wh (21.6V, 24Ah)

240Wh (14.4V, 16.8Ah)

Life Cycle

800 cycles to 80%+ capacity

1000 cycles to 80%+ capacity

Dimensions

24.2x19.3x30cm

19.99x13.31x23cm

Recharging Methods

Solar Charging: 9.5H

Wall Charging: 7.5H

Car Charging: 7.5H

Solar Charging: 5H

Wall Charging: 5.5H

Car Charging: 6.5H

Output Ports

1*AC Output: 240V, 500W (peak 1000W); 2*DC Output: 12V⎓7A; 3*USB-A: 5V⎓2.4A; 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

1*AC Output: 230V, 200W (peak 400W); 3*USB-A: 5V⎓2.4A; 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

Working Hours

Phone(10W): 44H

Headlamp(20W): 22H

Electric PLB (100W): 4.4H

Satellite Phone (25W): 17.6H

Camera (20W): 22H

Portable Speaker(15W): 29.4H

Phone(10W): 20.4H

Headlamp(20W): 10.2H

Electric PLB (100W): 2H

Satellite Phone (25W): 8.2H

Camera (20W): 10.2H

Portable Speaker(15W): 13.6H

The Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station can charge low to high-powered appliances for hours. The power station is suitable for bush camping due to its impressive battery capacity of 518Wh, lightweight, foldable handle, easy-carrying design, and industry-leading BMS technology. It is remarkably portable, weighing only 6.4 kilograms.

Charging with the Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station will never require locating a wall outlet. Numerous alternative charging methods, including solar panels, automotive receptacles, and electric generators, guarantee that you will always be able to charge your equipment. The lengthy battery life of the Jackery Explorer 500 Power Station is its finest quality. Despite undergoing 800 charge cycles, the battery capacity of the power station will remain at 80%.

The Explorer 500 portable power station can withstand extreme cold and heat with exceptional resilience. A pure sine wave inverter and a high-quality integrated MPPT charge controller safeguard the power station against overcharging, overvoltage, and short circuits, among other hazards. Additionally, it produces no noise (46dB quiet, comparable to a human whisper), emits no fumes, and does not require gasoline, making it a renewable and environmentally favorable power source for bush camping.

jackery explorer 500 portable power station for bush camping

Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station

The Jackery Explorer 240 Portable Power Station, the entry-level model from Jackery, is the optimal power source for small appliances. The Explorer 240 power station is portable, weighing only 3 kilograms, and can be utilized while bush camping, trekking, or adventuring for the weekend. Its sophisticated safety features and streamlined appearance make it the device of choice among campers.

The Jackery Explorer 240 portable power station has a 240Wh lithium-ion battery cell. Its pure sine wave inverter and multifunctional outputs (1*AC outlet, 1*DC car connector, and 2*USB-A ports) enable the simultaneous operation of various devices. The operating temperature of the Jackery Explorer 240 Portable Power Station is 14 to 104°C (-10 to 40°C). The straightforward push-button operation guarantees that the portable power station can be utilized effortlessly by any individual.    

The SolarSoga 100W solar panel can recharge the Jackery Explorer 240 Portable Power Station in 5.5 hours because professional MPPT technology enables quicker solar recharge rates. Additionally, the portable solar solution can be powered via a vehicle outlet, generator, or wall outlet. It is well-known that the NMC battery of industrial grade contained in the Jackery Explorer 240 Portable Power Station has an exceptionally extended life. The intelligent display presents the input/output power and remaining battery life, facilitating a comprehensive assessment of the battery's condition.

jackery explorer 240 portable power station for bush camping

Jackery Explorer 240 Portable Power Station


How to Prepare for A Bush Camping?

Australia boasts abundant picturesque bush camping opportunities, with campgrounds in over 40 national parks and reserves. While camping can be done at any comfort level, from the most rudimentary to the most luxurious, there are several aspects to consider when arranging your campsite. There are numerous ways to achieve self-sufficiency as a camper. The following are some essential preparation guidelines for bush camping.

Prepare for Weather: Australia can experience peculiar weather patterns, which frequently reach extreme levels; therefore, it is critical always to be prepared. Ensure that your goods and attire are suitable for maintaining comfort in any given condition. Maintain a broad-brimmed hat and a breathable long-sleeved shirt, as the UV rays from the shrubbery can be especially damaging. Particular attention should be paid to the possibility of bushfires, as they pose a substantial threat in the summer.        

Plan Ahead: Things are not guaranteed when it comes to wilderness camping; therefore, it is prudent to prepare in advance. Know the location and amenities to which you will be granted access. Abysmal reception exists in the bush; therefore, a physical map is essential to avoid disorientation. Although it is possible to obtain an offline map on a mobile device, having a backup in the event of a deceased battery is always advisable. It is possible that certain bush camping areas lack amenities, so you must carry your water, fuel, food, toilet paper, and camping equipment.

Notice Wildlife: Australia is renowned for its varied fauna, frequently regarded negatively by our international counterparts. Crocodiles, snakes, and spiders constitute the primary predators of the Aussie bush; therefore, you must maintain continuous vigilance. Develop the ability to recognize and avoid these creatures and employ the necessary safety measures to safeguard yourself.

Ensure Local Regulations: Before bush camping in a region you visit, ensure that you are familiar with and abide by the local regulations. Local regulations regarding camping, campfires, and other activities may vary from region to region; therefore, it is crucial to conduct an online investigation before your trip to ascertain the applicable policies. The golden rule of camping is to consistently depart from your encampment in the same condition you found.

Know Your Limits: It is vital to be aware of one's boundaries, both physical and mental, as these may undergo modification while exploring the Australian wilderness. Prevent your ego from interfering with your safety. If you experience unease and uncertainty or encounter an unforeseen obstacle, pause to reevaluate and modify your strategy; alternatively, return home.


How to Start Your Bush Camping?

Bush camping in Australia is invariably excellent. Spending time camping with companions and the bonds you forge are both invaluable experiences. Additionally, spending time outdoors provides a much-needed respite from the fast-paced environment of the metropolis. Beginning your bush camping with a few fundamentals is essential for excursions that are successful, trouble-free, and easier to navigate.

How to Find A Bush Campsite

Once you have reached a secluded area, the next step is to locate an appropriate natural campsite. In contrast to the well-kept grounds found in most national parks and camping areas, you will likely need help to enjoy the level, unobstructed terrain, and clear skies.

State-run parks and reserves are prevalent in Australia, serving as the primary means for most people to engage in bush camping. Although specific activities may vary by state and park, they are all outlined in the Plan of Management for most wilderness areas in Australia.  

how to find bush campsites

Verify that your chosen park or trail has no legal restrictions or warnings that could halt or interfere with your untamed camping excursion. This can only be accomplished by approaching the authorities directly. Contrary to the advice of other campers and travelers, obtain information firsthand.

The Plan of Management shall designate permissible activities. Wild or woodland camping, self-supported hiking, low-impact campfires, off-trail camping, and so forth are a few examples. These are extremely useful for travel planning and determining activities that are permissible or prohibited. With that in mind, there are several essential qualities when searching for the ideal bush campsite.

How to Make A Campfire

For good reason, fire in Australian national parks and the wilderness is a contentious issue. Destroying bushfires, frequently caused by hikers and campers' inadequate fire management, have ravaged vast tracts of wilderness, agriculture, and communities.

However, despite a comprehensive understanding of fire-making techniques, gathering firewood in these isolated habitats can also result in enduring consequences for the local fauna. Reduce our environmental impact. This is one reason why national parks frequently provide or request that visitors carry fuel. 

  • Whenever feasible, cook over a campfire using a burner. Consider transporting a Jackery Portable Power Station outside to charge an electric stove or heater if a campfire is impossible.

  • Gather firewood from a broad area or while hiking to minimize your impact in a single location. Away from fallen logs, disturbed barking trees, trees with hollows, and other structures that animals and insects may use when searching for dead standing timber.

  • Maintain a modest campfire size; only enough fuel to bring water to a boil or prepare a meal is required.

  • Time must be spent preparing the fuel and tinder, as the effort begins even before the flame strikes. Destroy the ground beneath and around your fire.

  • Extinguish the fire methodically and comprehensively, distribute the remnants, and restore the campsite to its initial location. It should be unknown to others that you were present.

Leave No Trace

By limiting our environmental footprints, Leave No Trace fosters appreciation, awareness, and reverence for our natural and cultural heritage. When bush camping and investigating wilderness areas, we must adhere to certain LNT principles, including proper waste disposal, leaving no trace of discoveries, minimizing the impact of campfires, respecting wildlife, and camping on durable surfaces. Even those who have never camped in the wilderness before may be accustomed to the presence of restrooms at most campgrounds. Creating your lavatory in a remote location requires some adjustment time.


Where to Go Bush Camping in Australia?

Bush camping is among the most cost-effective methods of exploring Australia. Potential campers should be aware, however, that technically speaking, wild camping is prohibited across the entire nation, making locating locations difficult. The leading bush campsites in Australia are as follows:

best bush campsites in australia

1. Blue Mountains

At Ingar Campground on Kings Tableland, spend the night. On the Wentworth Falls to Woodford trail, this is a popular camping area, and after your trek, you can cool off with a swim at the nearby dam on Ingar Creek. Situated adjacent to the Wolgan River and surrounded by sandstone cliffs and eucalypt trees, Newnes Campground is an aesthetically pleasing area for free camping. The adjacent Glow Worm Tunnel and Newnes Shale Oil Ruins are easily accessible from this location. A three-hour hike is required to reach the Acacia Flat campground in the deep Blue Mountains, but the effort is well worth it if you're up for some wilderness camping.  

Location: Mountain range in New South Wales, Australia
Phone: 02 4751 7298
Website: Blue Mountains
When to Visit: All Year

2. Redhead Beach

Located approximately 17 kilometers south of Newcastle is Readhead Beach. It is one of the most beautiful shorelines in all of Australia. When the weather is favorable, the seemingly infinite dunes create the illusion of a desert. Particularly during the height of the season, you are sure to discover a secluded area due to the beach's expansive size. Yet, the most memorable experience will occur in the wee hours of the morning following your awakening. Redhead Beach boasts a breathtaking sunrise.   

Location: Beach in Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia

Phone: 02 4921 0333
Website: Redhead Beach
When to Visit: Summer to Autumn

3. Flinders Ranges National Park

An area tucked away in the heart of South Australia is teeming with picturesque gorges and rugged mountain ranges, as well as an abundance of wildlife, including the endangered yellow-footed rock wallaby. The park spans an estimated area of 95,000 hectares. Immerse oneself in the local fauna, cultural legacy, remarkable geological formations, camping prospects, and various pursuits, including forest camping. One can appreciate the serene ambiance of the Flinders Ranges by establishing a camp in Aroona Valley, Wilpena Pound, Brachina Gorge, or Bunyeroo Gorge. 
Location: 44 Wilcox Rd, Kenilworth QLD 4574 Australia
Phone: 0456 532 850
When to Visit: April to October


Final Thoughts

Frequently, bush camping is the only way to truly investigate Australia's remote and breathtaking landscapes, which likely explains its immense popularity. This page provides comprehensive information on bush camping in Australia, including its definition, necessary equipment, expedition planning, and the best bush campsites. Furthermore, for charging necessities while camping, consider bringing a Jackery Portable Power Station to your list of essentials.       

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