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NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service plans camping overhaul
Words Hema Maps Editorial Pics Supplied
The New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service is proposing a massive overhaul to its campsite booking system to end ‘ghost bookings’ and it wants feedback from you! Keep reading to learn more about the plans and how you can have your say.
Diamond Head Beach in NSW's Crowdy Bay National Park is a popular camping destination (Credit: Aedan O'Donnell)
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is taking significant steps to address the persistent problem of ‘ghost bookings’. These occur when campers reserve more sites than they need without cancelling them or showing up, leaving others unable to book. This issue has become increasingly problematic as the popularity of park visitation continues to grow. In the 2023–2024 period alone, there were 1.8 million overnight stays recorded across 365 campgrounds in NSW. This surge in demand has made ghost bookings a major concern that needs immediate attention.
The NPWS’s primary goal is to make the booking process fairer and more straightforward for all campers. By eliminating ghost bookings, they aim to ensure that everyone has a fair chance of enjoying the natural beauty of NSW’s national parks. This change is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the camping experience and ensuring that all campers can access the sites they desire.
The new tiered camping fee system
One of the most significant changes proposed by the NPWS is the introduction of a new tiered camping fee system, overhauling the current camping fee system. This system will implement a sliding scale based on the facilities and services available at each campground, as well as seasonal demand. Campgrounds with amenities like barbecues, hot showers and other services will have different pricing compared to more basic sites. This approach ensures that campers only pay for the level of service they receive, making the pricing structure more transparent and equitable.
The tiered system will also consider seasonal demand. During peak seasons — when the demand for campsites is higher — the booking fees may be adjusted accordingly. This dynamic pricing model aims to manage the flow of visitors more effectively, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and that no one is unfairly disadvantaged.
Improved camping at Wombeyan Caves Campground, NSW (Credit: D Parsons/DCCEEW)
Facilities and services influencing pricing
The new fee structure will consider the range of facilities and services available at each campground. For instance, a campground equipped with modern conveniences will be priced differently from a more rustic site. This differentiation allows campers to choose a site that fits their needs and budget.
By aligning fees with the services provided, the NPWS aims to create a more transparent and understandable pricing model. Campers will have a clear understanding of what they are paying for, which will enhance their overall experience. This approach also incentivises the maintenance and improvement of campground facilities, as better amenities at more modern campgrounds can justify higher fees.
Seasonal demand and its impact on fees
Seasonal demand plays a crucial role in the new fee structure. During peak periods — such as school holidays and long weekends — the demand for campsites often exceeds supply. To manage this, the NPWS plans to adjust fees based on seasonal requirements. This dynamic pricing strategy helps balance the flow of visitors throughout the year, ensuring that the parks are accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
By implementing seasonal pricing, the NPWS can encourage off-peak visitation, which helps reduce pressure on the parks during the peak season and other busy times. This not only enhances the visitor experience but also aids in the preservation of natural resources. Campers who are flexible with their travel dates can take advantage of lower fees during off-peak periods, making camping more affordable and accessible.
Communal firepit at Rummery Park Campground in NSW's Whian Whian State Conservation Area (Credit: Shari May/DPIE)
Encouraging cancellations: refund policy changes
To further address the issue of ghost bookings, the NPWS is introducing a new refund policy. Campers who need to cancel their reservations will be eligible for refunds of up to 80 per cent. This generous refund policy is designed to encourage campers to cancel their bookings if their plans change, rather than leaving the sites unused. By making it easier and more appealing to cancel, the NPWS aims to free up sites for other campers, ensuring that more people can enjoy the parks and the popular campgrounds within them.
The refund policy is a crucial component of the overall strategy to improve the booking system. By providing a financial incentive to cancel, the NPWS hopes to reduce the number of unused sites and make camping more accessible for everyone. This change reflects a commitment to fairness and transparency in the booking process.
Feedback and consultation: shaping the future of camping in NSW
The proposed changes are not made in isolation. The NPWS has engaged in extensive consultation and public feedback from more than 200,000 campers and national park visitors. This collaborative approach ensures that the new system reflects the needs and preferences of the camping community. The feedback gathered has been instrumental in shaping the proposed changes, making them more responsive to the needs of campers. And there’s still time to give your feedback, just head here: haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/camping.
This public consultation process marks the most significant update to national park camping arrangements since 2017. By involving the community in the decision-making process, the NPWS demonstrates a commitment to transparency and inclusivity. The feedback-driven approach ensures that the new booking system and fee structure are not only fairer but also more aligned with the expectations of the camping community.
Dead Horse Gully Campground in NSW's Sturt National Park (Credit: John Spencer/DPIE)
To view the full proposal and to share your opinion on the new proposed policy, head here: haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/camping. But make sure you provide your feedback prior to 26 May 2025, as this is when the feedback lines will be closed.
We at Hema Maps love this new proposal and support all initiatives that could end ghost bookings and open up camping spots for keen tourers.
Further reading and resources
If you’re planning a camping trip to the wonderful and varied state of New South Wales, we recommend the following products to enhance any NSW trip:
New South Wales Handy Map — $11.95
New South Wales State Map — $15.95
Where to Camp Guide Australia — $64.95
Camps 12 Standard Edition: Free & Budget Sites (A4) — $82.97
New South Wales Explorer Pack — usually $139.74, currently $119.74
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