Camping Albany: Our favourite camping spots around Albany
If you’re exploring the southwest of Western Australia as part of a road trip, you’ll quickly discover that there are plenty of options when it comes to camping Albany.
After spending just over a week exploring the region, driving up and down the coast and trying several different campsites ourselves, we put together this guide with everything we wish we had known before arriving.
We generally try to avoid caravan parks because they’re not really our style. We prefer quieter, more off-grid places closer to nature. But after several weeks on the road, sometimes laundry facilities and a long hot shower sound pretty appealing.
Unfortunately, during our time in Albany the weather wasn’t great, so we decided to spend a few nights at a caravan park in town to do some work. After more than a year travelling around Western Australia and staying in countless campgrounds, it turned out to be our least favourite experience. It was by far the dirtiest place we’ve stayed.
Because of that, this guide focuses on the Albany camping options we actually enjoyed. Places outside of town that were a much better experience.
Before we get into our favourite camping spots, here’s probably the biggest thing we’ve learned while camping Albany: it’s busy.
Many campgrounds around Albany are accessible to both 2WD and 4WD vehicles, which means they fill up quickly. We rarely arrive at campsites early in the day, and because of that, we missed out on a few locations. If there’s one piece of advice we’d give, it’s to arrive before mid-afternoon whenever possible.
➤ If you’re planning a road trip through the southwest, make sure you also check out our Western Australia guide and our complete list of Things to do in Albany.
Free Camping Albany
Although free camping in Albany town isn’t allowed, you’ll be happy to know that there are still free camping Albany options around.
East Bay Campground and Betty’s Beach are probably the most popular Free camping Albany spots. But these free camps are located 30 to 45 minutes from Albany itself, which means you’ll need to drive a little further in exchange for a free camp.
The free camps in Albany are limited and very popular, so we recommend arriving before mid-afternoon if you want to secure a spot.
Our favourite camping spots in Albany
Shelley beach Campground
Without a doubt, Shelley Beach was our favourite place for camping Albany.
Located within West Cape Howe National Park, about 40 minutes west of Albany, a beautiful scenic dirt road brings you to Shelley Beach. The campground itself is simple, but it has incredible coastal scenery.
During our visit, the ocean was too rough to swim, and many people were fishing from the beach. Shelley Beach is east facing, meaning you’ll wake up watching the sunrise over the water.
Facilities
- Toilets
- Beach access
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Incredible ocean views
Good to know
- It’s part of a national park, so you’ll need a WA National Parks Pass
- Dogs are not permitted
- Not suitable for caravans or camper trailers
- Suitable for tents, small campervans and 4WDs with rooftop tents
- Camping is $15 per night
- Rangers collect fees in site
If you’re looking for a more nature-based Albany camping experience, this one is hard to beat.
East Bay Campground
East Bay campground is located about 45km east of Albany, and has direct access to one of the region’s most beautiful beaches.
The campground is quite small, with fewer than 10 informal campsites spread among low coastal vegetation. The road is technically 2WD accessible, but the access track is steep and has limited turning space making it unsuitable for caravans and larger motorhomes.
It’s a very small campsite that fits only under 10 vehicles, located within Eucalypt Mallee shrubland with direct access to the beach. Although it’s 2WD accessible, it’s not suitable for caravans or large campervans due to the steep nature of the access road and limited turning within the campsite area.
When we arrived at the campsite around 4pm, every campsite had already been taken. Luckily, we found a little side track nearby and ended up with an incredible camp overlooking the coast. It actually turned out to be one of our favourite nights around Albany.
Facilities and rules
- Free camping
- Maximum stay of 7 nights during peak season
- Beach access
- Dogs permitted
- No fires allowed
- Camping on the beach is prohibited
Because of its limited capacity, East Bay is one of those Albany camping spots where arriving early really makes a difference.
Betty’s Beach
Betty’s Beach was the one location we were genuinely excited about, but unfortunately we never had the chance to stay there.
When we visited, the campground was closed due to the annual commercial salmon fishing season. Every year the area closes around mid-February and usually reopens on 1 May, so it’s worth checking current conditions before planning your trip.
I was so disappointed because this was one of the Albany Camping spots I had looked forward to most.
Facilities
- 6 campsites
- Long-drop toilets
- Dogs are permitted
- 7 night stay limit
- No fires allowed
If you do visit outside the seasonal closure, Betty’s Beach definitely deserves a spot on your list.
Albany Rifle Club Campground
If you want to stay close to town while still avoiding a traditional caravan park, the Albany Rifle Club is worth considering.
This campground is located just outside Albany, about 10 minutes from town.
It’s perfectly positioned for exploring Torndirrup National Park, known for its famous attractions like The Gap, Natural Bridge, Misery Beach and the Bald Head Walking Trail.
The campground is run by an 80 year old volunteer caretaker, so don’t expect fancy facilities.
Costs
- Unpowered sites: $30 per night
- Powered site with water: $40 per night
Facilities:
- Hot showers
- Powered and unpowered sites
- Close to town
- Perfect location for exploring Torndirrup National Park.
A few things we wish we knew before camping Albany
After spending time in the region, these are the tips we would give you when you’re heading there:
Arrive Early
Many of the (free) camps are relatively small and can fill up before mid-afternoon.
Check seasonal closures
Places like Betty’s Beach close during the commercial salmon fishing season.
Expect wind
Albany is famous for its beautiful coastline, but it can also be incredibly windy. This will make or break your camping Albany experience.
Explore beyond town
We had the best Albany camping experiences outside the town centre. If you don’t mind the drive, explore beyond town. If you’re looking for convenience and being close to town, it’s worth checking out Albany’s caravan parks. But when you do, read their Google reviews first, so you don’t end up in the same caravan park as we did.
Best time for Camping Albany
It’s important to know that the weather in Albany can change quickly. Even during our visit, we experienced strong winds, rain and cooler temperatures, so being prepared makes a huge difference.
In our opinion, autumn and spring are the best times for camping Albany. Between March and May, and September to November, temperatures are mild, the crowds are smaller and conditions are generally more comfortable for exploring the region.
Summer is one of the busiest times to go camping in Albany. The warmer weather attracts many tourists, and campsites fill quickly.
No matter when you visit, we recommend packing for all seasons. Albany’s weather has a reputation for being unpredictable, and it’s not uncommon to experience sunshine, wind an rain all in the same day.
Should you consider Camping Albany?
We liked Albany, but we didn’t love it. Yes, the beaches are beautiful, there are some epic walking trails, but it’s accessible for everyone. We like going off the beaten path, exploring off-grid, and avoiding locations where every 2WD has access to…
If you are planning your own trip, we hope this Camping Albany guide helps you choose the best spot for you.
Plan your Albany trip
If you are heading to Albany, start with our Things to Do in Albany Guide. And for more detailed information, read through:
Camping Albany FAQs
Is there free camping in Albany?
There is no legal free camping in town, but there are free camps outside of town. Betty’s Beach and East Bay Campground are two popular free camping options near Albany. Keep in mind that campsites are limited and often fill up early.
What is the closest campground to Torndirrup National Park?
The Albany Rifle Club is one of the most convenient places to stay if you’re planning to explore Torndirrup Nation Park, Misery Beach and the Bald Head Walking Trail.
What is the best time for camping Albany?
Autumn and spring are ideal. Temperatures are mild, crowds are smaller, and conditions are generally more comfortable for camping. Summer can get windy.
Can you camp on the beach in Albany?
No. Camping on the beach is generally not permitted in Albany. Designated camping areas are provided nearby.
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