We have decided to try our first free camp. We were going to hit Tannum Sands for a night but the other caravan patrons talked us out of it. "Too many sand flies" they said, "the little one will get eaten." On their recommendation we decided to try free camping. The town of Benaraby is between Gladstone and Miriam Vale and the Boyne River runs under the bridge linking the townships. There were a number of big shaded trees, tables and chairs, clean toilets and cold showers and windy conditions kept the heat and mozzies at bay. We were set up by 12pm and wondering how to pass the time. Plenty of fellow travellers called in for a pit stop and we were happy to sit in our camp chairs and observe the others. Zane took Stella for a ride down to the river and by 530 we were having dinner and ready for bed by 7pm. A few caravans had set up for the night but it seemed pretty quiet for a free camp. We went to bed and for the next few hours we could hear people rolling in for the night.
The following morning we counted 17 other campers including tents, cars, vans, trailers and caravans. There were around 7 when we went to bed! In summary our first free camping experience was great. It was a little noisy being next to the highway and having people roll in throughout the night but that was to be expected and didn't really bother us. We will definitely be looking for more of these options as we continue on our adventure.
Thanks to the town of Benaraby for a sweet free camp.
The following morning we counted 17 other campers including tents, cars, vans, trailers and caravans. There were around 7 when we went to bed! In summary our first free camping experience was great. It was a little noisy being next to the highway and having people roll in throughout the night but that was to be expected and didn't really bother us. We will definitely be looking for more of these options as we continue on our adventure.
Thanks to the town of Benaraby for a sweet free camp.