Summerstar Guide to Camping Dos and Don’ts

Caravan parks are an excellent way to experience nature without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re staying in a campervan, caravan, or tent, caravan parks offer a unique combination of outdoor adventure and accessible amenities. However, like any camping experience, it’s essential to follow a few guidelines to ensure everyone has an enjoyable time. Here’s a list of dos and don’ts for camping at a caravan park:

Caravan Park Etiquette

Camping Dos at a Caravan Park:

1. Do Respect the Park’s Rules and Regulations
   Every caravan park has its own set of rules, which can vary depending on the location. Some might have quiet hours, specific areas for tent setups, or even pet regulations. Familiarise yourself with these rules on arrival to ensure you’re following the park’s guidelines.
2. Do Book Your Spot in Advance
   Caravan parks can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons so it’s always a good idea to book your spot ahead of time. This guarantees you’ll have a place to stay and gives you peace of mind. The last thing we want to do is disappoint you!
3. Do Keep Noise to a Minimum
   One of the biggest appeals of a caravan park is the opportunity to enjoy nature. Respect the peace and quiet of the park by keeping noise levels low, especially during the evenings. Avoid loud music, shouting, or noisy conversations, particularly in areas where other campers are trying to relax.
4. Do Use the Park’s Amenities Responsibly
   Shared facilities like kitchens, bathrooms, BBQ areas, and laundry rooms should be used responsibly, and don’t forget to clean up, leaving facilities clean for the person after you. For example, make sure to clean the BBQ after using, be mindful of how many people are waiting for a shower or laundry machine, and try to limit your time if others are waiting.
5. Do Keep Your Site Tidy
   Keep your campsite clean and organised, not just for your own convenience, but to avoid attracting wildlife. Dispose of rubbish properly, and store food securely in containers.
6. Do Be Friendly and Respectful to Fellow Campers
   A caravan park is a communal space, so it’s important to be considerate of your neighbours. Greet fellow campers with a smile, but also respect their privacy. If you’re traveling with pets or children, ensure they’re well-behaved and not disturbing others.
7. Do Protect the Environment
   Be conscious of your environmental impact. If the park is in a sensitive area, try to reduce your carbon footprint. Avoid disturbing wildlife, stick to walking paths, and don’t pick plants or flowers. Respect the park’s policies on waste disposal and recycling.
8. Do Ensure Your Vehicle is Parked Properly
   If you're traveling by caravan or campervan, make sure you park within the designated area. Some parks have specific spots for different vehicle sizes, so it’s important to park in the correct area to avoid blocking pathways or access to facilities

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Camping Don’ts at a Caravan Park:

Leaving fires attended are a big no-no!

1. Don’t Overcrowd Your Site
   While caravan parks are designed to accommodate various types of campers, overloading your site can make things uncomfortable for you and your neighbours. Ensure that your tent, caravan, or campervan fits within your designated area and that you’re not encroaching on neighbouring sites.
2. Don’t Leave Trash Behind
   One of the biggest pet peeves in any campsite or park is litter. Always clean up after yourself, and dispose of rubbish in the designated bins. Avoid leaving trash around your site.
3. Don’t Disturb Wildlife
   Caravan parks are often located in areas close to nature reserves or parks, meaning you may encounter wildlife. You should always admire wildlife from a distance and avoid leaving food out that could attract them (unless the park says it’s okay!).
4. Don’t Block Pathways or Roads
   Make sure your vehicle or equipment is set up in a way that doesn’t block park pathways, roads, or access to other campers. Blocking traffic or other essential pathways can lead to frustration for fellow campers and may even be against park rules.
5. Don’t Ignore Safety Guidelines for BBQs or Cooking Equipment
   Many caravan parks allow BBQs or cooking equipment, but they may have specific safety rules. Never leave BBQs or cooking equipment unattended, and make sure they’re cool before packing them up.
6. Don’t Bring Pets Unless Allowed
   Some caravan parks have strict rules regarding pets. If the park doesn’t allow pets, don’t try to sneak them in. Similarly, if pets are allowed, ensure they’re kept under control. Avoid leaving your pet unattended at the campsite, and clean up after them to avoid creating a nuisance for others.
7. Don’t Stay Longer Than Your Reserved Time
   Respect your booking and checkout times. If you need to extend your stay, pop in for a chat with our park staff to see if we can offer you late check-out. If there are no guests who are checking in right after you, that might be possible!
8. Don’t Ignore Park Etiquette
   While it may seem like common sense, some campers forget basic etiquette—like not walking through other people’s campsites or blocking access to shared amenities. Always be respectful of the space around you and of the people using the same facilities.

Stay with us at Summerstar Tourist Parks

Summerstar has 14 caravan parks through WA and SA, which means we’ve got you covered whether you’re headed north or south of Perth. Camping in a caravan park is such a fantastic way to experience the outdoors with the convenience of modern amenities. A little mindfulness and consideration during your stay can go a long way in creating a positive experience for everyone in the park. So, whether you’re staying for a weekend or a longer getaway, enjoy your time in nature and make the most of what our parks have to offer!