Camping near Esperance
This south coast beach town has wildlife, wildflowers, and white-sand beaches.
- Esperance
4 top campgrounds near Esperance
Camping near Esperance guide
Overview
On the southern cusp of the Golden Outback, Esperance is surely one of Western Australia’s most unique beach towns. Gleaming turquoise waters and powder-white sands stretch along the coast, while inland, lush forests and wildlife-filled lakes provide plenty of options for kayaking and bushwalking. Further afield, explore the idyllic islands of Esperance Bay and the beaches and wildflower meadows of the Cape Le Grand, Cape Arid, and Stokes national parks. Campers can check into a tourist park or caravan park in town, head to one of the national park camping areas, or snag a tranquil Hipcamp close to the beach.
Where to go
Cape Le Grand National Park
The undisputed highlight of a visit to Esperance is the neighbouring Cape Le Grand National Park, one of Western Australia’s most visited national parks. Head to Lucky Bay, where wild kangaroos hop along the white-sand beach, hike along the Le Grand Coastal Trail, then head to the beach to surf, fish, or boat. The park’s two campgrounds have unpowered sites suitable for tents, campervans, and camper trailers.
Esperance Bay
Take your pick of beaches along the shores of Esperance Bay or cruise out to explore the Recherche Archipelago, a collection of 105 islands that pepper the coast. Spot sea lions and fur seals on Cooper Island, go swimming and snorkelling at the beaches of Sandy Hook Island or fly over Middle Island to admire the bubblegum-pink lake. You can even rent a glamping tent or a luxury safari hut on Woody Island.
Fitzgerald River National Park
West of Esperance, Fitzgerald River National Park is a hotspot for whale-watching in the winter months. Alternatively, come in spring to admire the dazzling wildflowers or through summer to enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking at the many beaches and bays. The main campground has reverse-in unpowered sites for motorhomes and campervans, and there’s also a bush campsite.
When to go
Australia’s southwest coast avoids the extreme weather of the north, and average highs are a pleasant 26°C in Esperance in summer. Winters can be rainy and cold, but June through October is also whale-watching season along the coast, and August through November is wildflower season. The perfect compromise? A springtime visit in October or November means you can combine wildlife-watching with beach time.
