Status of Caravans and Camp Trailers in W.A. National Parks

Our Australian camp trailers, from small camp trailers to tent camp trailers are made for Australia.

With regard to the question of whether it is permissible to take our Quantum supercamper into W.A. Parks we advise as follows.  The only questionable National Park is Purnululu and the following information has been received regarding entry to this park.

To:  AUSTRALIAN OFF ROAD CAMPERS

I have been forwarded your email regarding camper trailers in DEC parks in WA. Whilst I cannot comment on other Parks in the Kimberley there are rules that apply to camper trailers in Purnululu National Park only.  Previously the rules at Purnululu were that no caravans were permitted within the Park, although off road trailers were. With the ongoing development and improvements of a range of good off – road caravans DEC decided to review this policy. Earlier this year DEC engaged a consultant to provide a set of guidelines that we could work to. The attached sheet is a summary of their recommendations (there were several more). Please be assured that no preference is given to any one brand of caravan. Thank you for your query and I hope the attached is satisfactory, if you have any more questions please do not hesitate to call.

Regards,

Ben Tannock

A/PVS Leader Kimberley Region

PO Box 65 Broome 6725

Ph: 9195 5500 Fax 9193 5027

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Purnululu National Park Vehicle Access Guidelines

Please do your bit to help protect Purnululu National Park’s fragile environment by heeding the following advice. By doing so, you will not only be protecting yourself and the roads but also the natural wonders you’ve travelled so far to admire.

Only off-road, four-wheel drive vehicles with high clearance and low range gears are permitted in Purnululu National Park.

• SINGLE AXLE off road or heavy duty trailers, caravans and other towable units ARE permitted in the park.

• DUAL AXLE trailers, caravans and other towable units ARE NOT permitted into the Park and will be asked to leave.

Dual axles are not permitted for several reasons:
1.    Dual axle units damage the park’s fragile tracks. The rear wheels on the second axle are unable to turn left or right with the tow vehicle when cornering. Consequently the second axle gets ‘dragged’ around corners rather than following the tow vehicle in the direction of travel. This ‘drag’ effect cuts up and damages tracks and, even in a short period of time, makes tracks rougher and more difficult to traverse.
2.    Dual axle units are generally wider than single axle units. Several sections of the park’s tracks are not sufficiently wide enough to permit two of these caravans passing each other safely – even if the drivers did see each other coming.

Advice for driving in Purnululu National Park:

1. Engage four-wheel drive for the duration of the visit to the park.
2. While in the park, reduce tyre pressure by approximately 10 psi from normal highway pressure.
3. Observe the speed advisory signs.
4. All vehicles must proceed slowly and with caution at creek crossings, blind rises and sharp corners.
5. Be aware of wildlife and feral cattle, particularly at dawn and dusk, and if possible, do not drive in the park after dark.
6. In case of breakdown or recovery, visitors should be aware that roadside assistance is only available at Kununurra or Halls Creek and visitors are responsible for any costs incurred
7. Be aware that you are travelling on an ungazetted track and that insurance companies are unlikely to cover any costs for accident, injury or vehicle recovery.

Drivers with single axle off road caravans or other towable units should also note:

1. Proceed DIRECTLY to your camping area after registering at the Ranger Station.
2. Trailers must remain in the camping area until departure and are NOT permitted on other tracks within the park.
3. The tow vehicle must comply with the load ratings of that vehicle and of the trailer and the tow bar.
4. Consider towing training prior before visiting the park.