The following is the statement issued to the Grey Nomads from the WA Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions regarding online booking issues:
Western Australia’s Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) manages more than 250 campgrounds within national parks and conservation reserves throughout WA.
Of these, sites in 67 campgrounds can be booked through DBCA’s Park Stay WA online booking service (https://parkstay.dbca.wa.gov.au/) with the rest non-bookable and operating on a first come, first served basis. This means there are options available for people who want to book ahead and secure accommodation in advance, as well as those whose plans are more spontaneous.
As Western Australia is a very large State and campers often travel several hundred kilometres to reach their destination, many campers need the security of being able to book campsites in advance to guarantee accommodation when they arrive. Being able to book in advance is important for those who cannot travel spontaneously due to work, family, or other commitments.
Changes made to Park Stay WA in July 2022 now allow people to create an account, make a booking, and then make changes or cancel the booking if needed. These changes give campers more flexibility should their plans change and make it easier for campers to change or cancel their bookings when required, allowing the campsite to be booked by another camper.
It is anticipated these changes will help reduce the number of bookings that are made but go unused when campers do not take possession of the site on the booked date.
DBCA is supported by volunteer campground hosts in more than 60 campgrounds across the State. These dedicated volunteers assist park rangers with visitor and park management by
welcoming campers, providing general information, maintaining facilities and creating a warm and welcoming environment for all to enjoy. Campground hosts and park rangers can help campers identify their booked campsite, should there be any confusion.
Travellers wishing to book popular campsites, particularly during peak periods when demand is high, are encouraged to book early and secure a booking before starting their journey where possible. Free Wi-Fi is provided at some campgrounds and visitor centres for campers to book on their own device. In some areas, campground hosts may be able to assist with making a booking.
For more information about camping in Western Australia’s national parks and conservation reserves, including campground availability at non-bookable campsites, visit: https://exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/camping
