While there is no shortage of grey nomads who are far from happy about online booking for national park campsites, there is no doubt that it seen as the way of the future.
For example, since introducing the system a little over 12 months ago, South Australia has heralded the innovation as a massive success.
“Online booking has not been discouraging visitation,” said a spokesperson for the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR). “In fact, positive changes in park visitation have resulted from online bookings, including a higher overall campsite occupancy rate.”
While most grey nomads don’t love the change, other groups appear more enthusiastic.
“There has been an increase in certain market segments such as young families camping in parks as they are able to book ahead and choose a site that best suits their requirements,” said the DEWNR. “This continues to change the dynamic of campgrounds and is encouraging the next generation of park visitors.”
Another sign that long-term caravanners and motorhomers are not as high on the priority list as they may once have been is the axing of the South Australian camping pass. It left some grey nomads like Tony and Monica Daly absolutely reeling.
When they bought their Avan cruiseliner in July, 2016, they found that – as they were on a pension – they could get a 12- month pass for $187. A few months later, however, as they prepared to set off, they were horrified to find the camping pass had been removed.
“We were looking forward to staying in South Australian parks but now spend time elsewhere like the free forest parks in Victoria,” said Monica. “It’s a thumbs down from us.”
The couple point to sheer economics as the reason.
“If we had spent 200 days camping in parks on the pass, it would have cost less than a dollar per night … fantastic value,” said Monica. “If you say it is an average of $15 per night now, over 200 nights it would be $3,000 … I don’t imagine spending anywhere near that on accommodation!”
She is saddened that the changes have effectively kept them out of South Australian parks, and from contributing to surrounding communities.
“I can’t help but think of the money we have spent in Victoria instead which goes straight into rural and regional economies,” she said.
The South Australian Government though remains unrepentant.
“Visitors wishing to camp in parks are able to purchase casual camping permits online or from booking agents, which cost between $11 and $29 per night depending on the park and the facilities,” said a DEWNR spokesperson. “This is still a very affordable alternative to a caravan park or motel accommodation.”
And how much of the fee goes to the ‘Booking Agents’ and how long before they complain and put the booking fees up?
I thought we the public owned and paid for the parks in our taxes.I could fill a big page with lovely little caravan parks in QLD at least that I can stay for $29 that give you hot showers flushing toilets etc.Most N/P only have dirty long drops and cold showers.Aah well like Monica said it is the little towns around the parks that are going to suffer, I for one will not use them. Stevo.
It’s only $6.35 a night to camp in National Parks in QLD