Camping, hiking, and bushwalking (hiking off marked trails) are the best ways to experience Australia’s wilderness. Camping outside designated campsites is usually not permitted near campgrounds, trailheads, or picnic areas. But while bush camping lacks amenities, it’s often free; in some cases, permits (up to $12) may be required. Bush camping is usually only allowed in specific sections of parks—check with a parks office or ranger before setting up camp. As tempting as it may be, avoid camping on sandy creek beds, as rains can turn your convenient camping spot into a raging river with little warning.
Campers should be careful to leave no trace of human presence. A portable stove is a safer (and more efficient) way to cook than using vegetation to build a campfire. If you must make a fire, keep it small and use only dead branches or brush instead of cutting down live plants. If there are no toilet facilities, bury human waste at least 15cm deep and 50m from any water source or campsite (paper should be carried out or burned with a lighter). Always pack and carry your garbage in a plastic bag until you reach a trash receptacle.
Two excellent web resources for travelers planning camping or hiking trips in Australia are www.camping.com.au and the Great Outdoor Recreation Pages (www.gorp.com). Hiking Tropical Australia, by Lew Hinchman and John N. Serio (Grass Tree Press; US$16) provides planning tips, directions, and trail descriptions. For topographical maps of Australia, contact Geoscience Australia (☎02 6249 9111 or 1800 800 173; www.ga.gov.au), or write to G.P.O. Box 378, Canberra, ACT 2601. Local visitors centres provide information on park-specific camping and wildlife, and have maps and brochures.
Australia has its share of long treks for the adventurous. Established in 1970, the Bicentennial National Trail stretches for 5330km through Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. For the less adventurous, the 220km Larapinta Trail winds from Alice Springs into the West MacDonnell ranges. The Overland Track , perhaps Australia’s most famous trail, connects Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair through 80km of World Heritage wilderness in Tasmania. For highlights of Australia’s bushwalks, see Discover Australia.
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