Victoria’s plan to introduce free summer camping from December 2024 to June 2025 has raised concerns about potential “ghost camping” issues at popular sites according to an yahoo news. Parks Victoria declined comment on strategies to prevent or minimize this problem. Ghost camping occurs when people reserve campgrounds but fail to show up, leaving spots empty. The initiative, aimed at boosting tourism and outdoor recreation, has sparked questions about its impact on campground availability.
The absence of booking fees during the free camping period has intensified worries. Michael Atkinson, an Australian adventurer known as Outback Mike, believes the problem will be exacerbated during this time because “people won’t even lose a booking fee if they don’t turn up.” This could result in genuine campers missing out on spots that have been reserved but remain unoccupied.
Queensland has recently introduced new rules to address ghost camping. Tourists who fail to show up for their bookings in national parks may face fines of $322.60 and potential maximum penalties of $3,226. Atkinson commends Queensland’s proactive approach, stating, “Queensland have brought in these rules to combat it and it’s good they’re trying to address it and at least they’ve acknowledged it because most national parks are burying their heads in the sand.”
Ghost camping significantly impacts travelers’ camping experiences and plans. Atkinson experienced its effects first-hand at a campground in Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales. After booking an alternative site, he found that only “one in five” spots were actually occupied, despite the campground reportedly being at capacity. Another Australian family shared that ghost camping “impacted our whole trip,” leaving them constantly rushed to reach their booked campgrounds.
For campground owners and operators, ghost camping can lead to lost revenue and inefficient resource allocation. The free camping scheme in Victoria has also raised concerns among local businesses, particularly those in the Caravan Industry Association of Australia. As the initiative unfolds, effective management of ghost camping will be crucial for the scheme’s success and the long-term health of Victoria’s camping tourism industry.