The year-long trial of allowing camping at WA’s Yanchep National Park has been declared an overwhelming success … and a permanent campground is to be established there.
During the trial about 6,500 people stayed at the at the Henry White Oval at the park, which is located about 40 kilometres north of Perth. There were 10 camping sites available on bitumen for campervans or caravans, and 10 on the oval for tents. Visitors, who were allowed to stay up to seven nights, booked campsites online and received a code for the campsite entry gate when they arrived.
“Surveys have shown that the trial was well received and as a result, the decision has been made to develop a permanent campground,” said park manager Julia Coggins. “The survey results identified improvements that could be made to enhance the camping experience and these have been taken into account while developing the campground.”
The North Coast Times newspaper reports that the campground is the only facility currently operating in the north coast suburbs, with redevelopment plans yet to be finalised for the City of Wanneroo’s Quinns Rocks Caravan Park and the former Club Capricorn resort.
As part of the camping trial, the old ablution block was converted to include new shower stalls, a cable entrance gate and solar-powered boom gate were installed, and volunteer campground hosts were introduced.
Other upgrades include the planting of tuart seeds that have now grown to two-metre tall trees which provide shade.
Ms Coggins told the North Coast Times that the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (formerly Department of Parks and Wildlife) has also installed fencing and a fire pit.
“A Dump Ezy effluent dump point was also recently installed, and further upgrades are planned for the ablution block and a new barbecue shelter with gas barbecues and interpretative signage is planned for the site,” she said. “Road upgrades will eventually complete the planned infrastructure and give campers more opportunities to enjoy the unique environment at Yanchep National Park.”
National Parks always offer diversity of experiences but I would say that the Yanchep NP camping experience is truly one of the most rewarding we have enjoyed in our extensive travels around Aus’. The area is comfortable and well organised and the activities are second to none! I can see a need to expand capacity in time as the camp becomes known… but you couldn’t ask for a better campsite and the resident camp host was delightfully informative and helpful.
NO dogs won’t be goin so sad