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Top 4WD Spots to Celebrate Australia Day

January 19, 2021

What could be more Aussie than the beach? 

Australia has more than 34,000 kilometres of coastline, so we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to sandy adventures. This Australia Day, explore some of the best spots this great nation has to offer for a 4WD and camping escape to remember. 

FRASER ISLAND, QLD

If you’re going to go beach camping, why not go big and start with the world’s largest sand island—Fraser Island, off Queensland’s coast. 

Home to 45 national park camping areas, this paradise attracts about 380,000 people each year. Dundubara, Waddy Point and Lake Boonmanjin some of the more family-friendly areas, while more remote camping spots (with fewer crowds) can be found further north of Indian Head.

Cruise along the shoreline of Seventy-Five Mile Beach, stopping at Maheno shipwreck, the candy-coloured cliffs of the Pinnacles and the rock pools known as Champagne Pools. Other island highlights include clear, rainwater filled Lake McKenzie, the peaceful Eli Creek, and the steep sand dunes at Lake Wabby.

Beached shipwreck on Fraser Island

PEBBLY BEACH, NSW

About 50km north of Coffs Harbour in New South Wales, tucked away in Yuraygir National Park is one of the country’s best beach camping spots. Pebbly Beach is ideal for fishing, walking, swimming and diving, and whale watching from the headland. 

Getting to this remote campground is as much an adventure as staying there. You’ll need to drive along the beach and cross a saltwater estuary at low tide. Make sure you’re 4WD-ready before you go!

CAPE HARDY BEACH, SA

For a more accessible spot, Cape Hardy in South Australia is perfect for anyone keen on a spot of fishing. Located on the spectacular Spencer Gulf on the south coast of South Australia, Cape Hardy Beach camping ground is located around a five-minute drive from the small town of Port Neill, so it’s easy to stop into town if you need to pick up supplies.

While fishing tends to be one of the top activities, you can also swim, surf and boat in the gulf. The campground offers beach access for boats and 4WDs, making it a good spot to launch a small watercraft.

FRANCOIS PERON NATIONAL PARK, WA 

The Shark Bay World Heritage area of Western Australia is one of the world’s greatest wilderness treasures. Located on a peninsula on the very western edge of our great nation, there are a number of incredible attractions in the area, including Monkey Mia, where you can get up close and personal with wild bottle-nosed dolphins each morning. 

For a 4WD camping adventure, though, it’s hard to beat Francois Peron National Park. This park is 4WD-access only and is an area of dramatic red cliffs, wildlife, and excellent fishing.

Note that the narrow tracks are soft sand and can be challenging in places, so access is not suitable for low clearance vehicles, caravans or boat trailers. Only 4WD camper trailers and single-axle trailers with small dinghies may be towed north of the Peron Heritage Precinct. And being a national park, remember that park entry and camping fees apply.

Empty beach in Francois Peron National Park

SANDY CAPE, TAS

Visiting the apple isle this summer? The rugged western side of the island holds one of Tassie’s greatest 4WD adventures, with beaches, headlands and rivers presenting challenges unlike anything on the mainland.

Located in the Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area, the Sandy Cape track provides outstanding coastal scenery and beautiful camping spots. The main campsites on the track are at Greenes Creek, Pedder River, and Sandy Cape. 

This area is best suited for experienced 4WD adventurers, with soft sand and river crossings claiming cars every year. Always travel with at least one other vehicle, stay close together, and take care.

Get More Out of Your Summer Adventure

Spend less time packing and unpacking, and more time enjoying your adventure. DECKED slide-out drawers are flexible, secure, and slide out at waist height, making it easier to get organised for your camping, fishing, or 4WD trip. 

Even better, DECKED systems are easy to install and can take up to one tonne on top, making it ideal to load up jet skis, surfboards, or heavy gear. Get the most out of your truck, ute or van so you can play hard and get out to enjoy your beach adventure this Australia Day.

Find your nearest DECKED dealer by phoning 0437 577 698 or visit www.deckedaustralia.com.au/pages/contact.


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