Boasting diverse wildlife and unique geological features, Wilsons Promontory is one of the most famous national parks in Victoria. For outdoor enthusiasts, the marine park is a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. If you want to explore the stunning landscape of Wilsons Prom more thoroughly, camping is also a great choice.
So what are the best Wilsons Prom campsites? How to prepare for Wilsons Promontory camping and what to do in the park? If you are having the same questions, this guide is the place to land. Just read on to find everything you need to know about camping at Wilsons Prom.
What Are the Best Wilsons Prom Campsites?
Camping in Wilsons Prom offers a unique sense of remoteness. You can enjoy the untouched natural beauty and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city. So which Wilsons Prom campground is the best? Just check out the top picks.
1. Tidal River Campground
Tidal River Campground is the main visitor hub for Wilsons Promontory National Park, and it is easy to access by road. This Wilsons Prom camping ground is a convenient base to explore the park because of its proximity to attractions like Norman Beach and Mt Oberon Summit Walk.
2. Refugee Cove Hiker Camp
Located in the heart of Wilsons Promontory, Refuge Cove Hikers Camp is another nice choice for camping. Breathtaking views of the coast, dense forest, and crystal-clear water of the cove surround the Wilsons Prom campsite, making it an ideal destination for both adventure and leisure.
3. Sealers Cove Campground
Sealers Cove Campground is a popular and appealing destination in the park. This camping ground boasts a beautiful golden beach with crystal-clear waters. Along with its sheltered location, Sealers Cove Campground offers a tranquil camping experience.
4. Oberon Bay Camping Area
Oberon Bay is a brilliant Wilsons Promontory camping area, which can be accessed via a well-maintained walking track from the Tidal River. Featuring stunning coastal scenery and a 2km long beach, Oberon Bay is a widely recommended destination for overnight hiking and camping.
5. Stockyards Campground
Located in native bushland, Stockyards Campground is the best destination to spot wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats. For dedicated outdoorsmen who are looking for a remote camping experience, Stockyards Campground is the best place to connect with nature.
How Do You Prepare for Camping at Wilsons Prom?
Now you know the best Wilsons Promontory camping sites, it’s time to plan a camping trip! So how to prepare for Wilsons Promontory camping? You will need to get a permit for overnight stays and prepare essential camping gear. Just read on to find more specifics.
1. Book Your Campsite
All camping and accommodation, including overnight hikes, require booking in advance. You can book your campsite and obtain a permit through the Parks Victoria website. Note that It’s free to enter Wilsons Prom National Park. For those looking for free camping Wilsons Promontory, there are some day-use areas, but overnight camping requires a permit at an additional cost.
2. Check the Weather and Conditions
Wilsons Prom can experience unpredictable weather, so check the forecast before you go. Be prepared for sudden rain or temperature drops, and pack accordingly.
3. Pack Camping Gear
Embarking your Wilsons Promontory camping can be super exciting. But before you go, ensure you have the right camping gear. Here is a checklist of essentials.
- Tent and Sleeping Gear: A reliable tent suited to the season, a warm sleeping bag, and a comfortable sleeping pad.
- Clothing: Layered clothing, waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, and appropriate cold-weather gear if visiting during cooler months.
- Cooking Supplies: A portable stove, lightweight pots and pans, utensils, and a reliable cooler or food storage system. If you want to keep perishables fresh longer, consider a compact portable fridge. Models like the EcoFlow GLACIER Portable Refrigerator are highly dependable and can keep items like cheese, meat, and drinks chilled, ensuring a worry-free experience.
- Temperature Control: Maintaining a comfortable temperature at your campsite can make all the difference. The EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner with Heater is a versatile choice. Its compact size fits easily into your camping setup, providing cooling on warm days and warmth on chilly nights, so you can enjoy the perfect temperature anytime during your stay.
- Food and Water: Enough non-perishable food for the trip, plus a water filtration system or enough water for drinking and cooking.
- Navigation Tools: Maps, a compass, or a GPS device to help you stay on track, especially if you venture into more remote areas.
- First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit including bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
- Lighting: Headlamps, lanterns, and extra batteries.
- Rubbish Bags: To ensure you leave no trace and pack out all trash.
- Battery Backup: Since many campsites have limited or no power access, consider bringing a portable power station as your camping battery. It’s a convenient solution for keeping phones, cameras, and small appliances running. For example, the EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max (1900) Portable Power Station can charge a variety of devices and even run small appliances, helping you feel at home even in the wilderness.
Pairing it with a solar panel for camping, such as the EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panel, is a smart way to keep your power station charged. That means you can stay longer and enjoy a sustainable power supply while camping at Wilsons Promontory.
4. Inform Someone of Your Plans
Let a friend or family member know your planned routes and expected return time. This is especially important if you’re going to remote campsites or hiking off the beaten path.
What Activities Can You Do While Camping in Wilsons Promontory?
Wilsons Promontory Camping offers a truly immersive wilderness experience. There are so many places and activities to explore. Here are more details.
- Hiking & Bushwalking: Wilsons Promontory has various hiking routes, including Sealers Cove hike, Mount Oberton summit hike, Prom Wildlife walk, Loo-Errn track, Southern Prom circuit, and more.
- Beaches & Coastal Activities: You can explore Squeaky Beach, Norman Beach, Picnic Bay, and Fairy Cove, enjoying activities like swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking.
- Wildlife & Nature: Wilsons Promontory is where you can observe animals in their natural habitats. You can look out for kangaroos, wallabies, emus, wombats, and other native animals.
Conclusion
With stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and wildlife encounters, Wilsons Prom is the most stunning national park to reconnect with nature. This post has introduced everything you want to know about Wilsons Promontory camping. Now you can pick a preferred site and venture into the great outdoors. Just don’t forget to bring those recommended essential gear to make your adventure more convenient and safer!
FAQs
When is the best time to camp at Wilsons Prom?
February, March, October, and November should be the best times for Wilsons Prom National Park camping. It’s also nice to camp in winter because you can have the entire park to yourself, and the chances of spotting wildlife are much higher.
Can you camp anywhere in Wilsons Prom?
No. You can not camp anywhere you like in Wilsons Prom according to its regulations. Camping is only allowed in designated Wilsons Prom camping grounds and you have to book in advance. A camping permit is always required for overnight stays, and even overnight hikers have to get a permit beforehand.
How much does it cost to camp at the Wilson Prom?
Day visitors can enter and enjoy the free camping Wilsons Prom. For those seeking Wilsons Prom accommodation camping opportunities, overnight hikers need to obtain a campsite permit at $13.60 AUD per person.
Can you have a campfire at Wilsons Prom?
No. Fires, including campfires and solid fuel BBQs, are strictly prohibited in Wilsons Promontory National Park at any time. You can not make a campfire even in the summer months. Moreover, no liquid fuel and gas camp stoves are allowed on the days of Total Fire Ban.