Now into May, there’s been plenty happening on the camping front across Australia. From cyclone recovery and campground upgrades to some temp closures and rule changes, we’ve pulled together the latest updates. Here’s what’s happening on the road right now.
Cyclone Update
Exmouth Shire, WA
After Cyclone Narelle wreaked havoc back in late March, the hard work of recovery for locals has been ongoing during April. We’re happy to hear that Bullara Station after much effort was looking forward to reopening on May 1st.
Road closures into Exmouth were lifted on April 8th and some National Parks have reopened for Day use by locals. If you have campground bookings in the area, from late April through May, stay up to date on the Exmouth Shire web & Facebook pages as well as WA Parks & Wildlife for campground reopenings. https://www.facebook.com/WAParksWildlife
Litchfield Safari Camp is open after 3.5m of rain and survived Cyclone Narelle!! Only weeks away from opening the NEW FRONTIERS CAFE and GRILL!!
Status Change
Stratford, NSW
Stratford South Rest Area NSW (south of Gloucester) has just changed over to a Day Use area after recent signage was erected stating No Camping, No Overnight. We think it’s still a good spot to pull up for a short stay if you need a break for a few hours. There’s a large parking area, toilets, park, tables and playground. Thanks to Caroline Stace for this update and pic.
Macksville, NSW
The Macksville Lions Parking rules in Ferry Street 24 hour have recently changed, so I called the Ranger to find out the latest. He said that there is clear signage in place for the new parking and that it is on a trial, due to earlier misuse. He advised to check signs when you arrive to avoid a fine. Here’s the new rules:
● Caravans are no longer permitted only campervans under 6 metres or small RVs
● No parking in Long Vehicle Bays, they are reserved for boat trailers
Disappearing Dump Point?
Bingara NSW … If you’ve been driving around Bingara wondering if the dump point vanished into thin air? Nope — it’s just gone for a short stroll up the road. The old Cunningham Park Dump Point has officially retired and moved house! You’ll find it about 500m further up Keera Road, heading towards the Water Treatment Plant. Same job, new address and it can now service two vans at a time. Note the new name & location: “Bingara Dump Point” 29.86260° S, 150.58050° E
… And just in case you’re in the other end of town — there’s still a handy dump point at the southern end of Riddell Street near the old Saleyards.
Pub Round-up
Albury, NSW
The Original Ettamogah Pub near Albury, NSW has updated its contact details, with a new phone number 0404 293 399 and new email address. Word on the street is there are some exciting upgrades brewing behind the scenes … but we’ll keep that just between us for now. If you’re planning a visit you’ll find all the new details on our CAMPS App.
St Lawrence, QLD
The St. Lawrence Hotel is closed and has been sold, however there are whispers it may reopen with new owners but nothing confirmed as yet. We’ll keep an eye on this one, 👀but if you have any local intel, please share in our Facebook Group I Love Camping Australia Wide.
Qld/NSW Border
Camping just got better at the Hebel Hotel & General Store! Powered sites are now available for $22 per night, while unpowered camping remains free. It’s the perfect excuse to pull up, enjoy a hearty meal or a cold drink, and soak up some classic country hospitality in this little outback gem near the NSW/QLD border.
Re-opened
Proserpine, QLD
Great news for travellers — the Proserpine RV Stop has been officially reopened. After an extended closure, this much-needed stop is set to welcome visitors back to Proserpine, giving a boost to local shops, cafés and services. And with the stunning Whitsundays right on the doorstep, who could resist? It’s still free 48 hrs and pet friendly on lead. And a dump point as well!
Upgrades & Improvements
Cockle Creek, TAS
Some upgrades are happening at Catamaran Campground, Cockle Creek in Tassie The campsite and boat ramp will be taking a short break from April 15 to July 31 while improvements are carried out. You can still camp and access toilets at other nearby Cockle Creek campsites during this time, and Southport is the closest boat ramp with parking, jetty and dual ramp access.
Tara, QLD
Roseaville Farmstay is now offering powered sites and hot showers, while still keeping things beautifully budget-friendly – just $15 per couple for unpowered sites and $20 per couple for powered. A great little upgrade without the price hike.
Kunghur, NSW
Misty Mountain Kunghur, NSW now has 4 powered sites in addition to the many unpowered sites that dot this pretty location halfway between Murwillumbah and Kyogle. It is popular so make sure you pre-book!
Jarrahdale, WA
In southern Western Australia, The Jarrahdale Old Mill campsite has a new name. It’s now known as the Jarrahdale RV Short Stay. Located in one of Western Australia’s oldest timber towns, with a rich colonial history, scenic jarrah forests, and lots of heritage charm.
Temporary Closures
Warwick
DJs Caravan Park in Warwick was closed in March for renovations. It is still closed and we will update you as soon as they re-open.
Branxton, NSW
Branxton Oval RV Park is closed by the shire for maintenance until further notice. They have no known date for reopening yet, but will re-open once works are completed.
Trail Notes
Kendenup, WA
The Kendenup Agricultural Hall – The Caretaker has a new phone number 0418 298 985.
Goondiwindi, QLD
The dump point at the Ampol Truck Stop (previously the Caltex) on Boundary Rd in Goondiwindi is closed. The dump point not far away at Redmond Park (pictured below) is still available though and there is a a beaut picnic and parking area there.
Shiralee Clydesdales, QLD
Shiralee Clydesdales at Nankin has closed and we wish them well for the future.
A last minute update:
The record floods in Daly River, Northern Territory have forced the temporary closure of businesses along this stretch of the river including Sinclairs Fishing Retreat, Daly River Bush Camp, Banyan Farm Tourist Park, Daly River Barra and others. All are in the process of recovery and hoping to welcome tourists back mid June. Woolianna on the Daly expects to reopen July 1st. So please call ahead before visiting. Once re-opening occurs every dollar spent will help support the ongoing recovery and rebuilding effort which will be much needed by the area.
Missed the April 2026 updates? Catch up here [Click here]
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