The New South Wales Government released a consultation paper outlining proposed reforms to camping policies in national parks across the state, sparking interest and concern among 4WD tourers and outdoor recreation groups.
The proposed changes, announced by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), aim to modernize the booking process, standardize fees, and improve campground management.
The consultation paper, titled Improving Camping in NSW National Parks, was developed following feedback from more than 200,000 visitors and campers. NPWS says the proposed framework would deliver a more consistent and equitable camping experience while helping manage increased visitation and pressure on park infrastructure.
“The current camping fee system has not been reviewed for many years and is not designed to manage issues experienced in modern campgrounds,” the document states, as reported by 4×4 Australia.
The overhaul would streamline the way users reserve campsites, set fees based on amenities and demand, and enforce penalties for no-shows to improve access for others.
Under the new model, fees would be determined by site-specific factors such as remoteness, available facilities, and usage levels.
While some remote bush camps are expected to remain low-cost or free, the plan does not lock in any final pricing.
NPWS also intends to tackle the issue of “ghost bookings,” where campers reserve spots and fail to show up. A revised system would include improved cancellation and refund policies, along with measures to ensure unused sites are made available to others.
National park visitation has surged nearly 50%, with over 1.8 million overnight stays recorded in the past year, placing increasing strain on infrastructure and staffing.