As caravan parks get snapped up ahead of the Christmas holidays, some Aussie councils are helping to meet demand by opening up their showgrounds to overnight caravanners for lower fees than traditional campgrounds.
For those passing through Ulmarra in northern NSW — situated near Yuraygir National Park and 150 kilometres from Byron Bay — there are now eight campsites for $20 a night for “self-contained” travellers wanting to stay long-term.
Those using the land must have access to a bathroom, but other than that, anyone can simply drive in, pop their cash into an envelope and deposit it into the dropbox before enjoying their stay. The funds will then be funnelled back into the community, with the move branded a “great idea” by locals.
The decision aims to provide an affordable option for caravanners and entice travellers to stop off and explore the area, boosting local tourism.
Yahoo News has reached out to Clarence Valley Council for comment, but online travellers and locals were thrilled with the simple accomodation.
“Can’t wait to use this facility. Ulmarra is the most beautiful town I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting,” one person said.
“Great news, been waiting soooo long for showground to open for RVs so to stay in my beautiful Ulmarra….thank you,” another commented.
Caravanners have ‘very economical’ options for travel
It’s not the only cheap option for caravanners wanting to travel over their Christmas break, with farm stays and other community-run camping grounds also available. The majority of these are ‘pay by night’ rates rather than ‘pay per person’ which is common at camping grounds owned by national parks or state governments.
“There are heaps of other campsites that aren’t run by National Parks… thousands are either community run, like a showground stay or one behind a pub, that people can enjoy,” Michelle Gilmore, owner of camping guide app Camps Australia Wide, told Yahoo News.
“There’s farm stays and caravan parks that might take a family rate, a price per site rather than a price per person. These are very, very economical,” she said.
There are ‘economical’ camping options for Aussies travelling in big groups. Source: Getty
These are particularly beneficial to families as each child can bump up the nightly cost. However, a flat rate per night makes the option more viable for Aussies battling cost-of-living pressures.
“People still get their Christmas holiday… and are spreading joy by supporting local towns,” Michelle said.
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