RV FEATURE
If you ’ re meeting friends at a free camp , best to arrive together rather than reserving a spot for them .
MUSIC AND NOISE
We ’ ve already mentioned managing the noise of a generator but there are many other sources of noise when free-camping that can annoy others .
Music is an obvious one . While there is nothing wrong with having a bit of music in the background , having it so loud that the whole campground can hear it is being unreasonable . While you might enjoy the latest from Eminem , your older neighbours may find his music offensive . You just need to be considerate of others .
Another thing to keep in mind is that , in the quiet of the outback , any noise will travel and sound louder than it might otherwise . If you ’ ve got a group together and you ’ re all enjoying a few bevvies , try to keep the festivities to a dull roar , especially late at night . 10.30pm is a good time to start dialling things down a few decibels .
RESERVING SITES
We once pulled up to a free camp in Queensland and started to reverse into what appeared to be a spare space when our neighbour told us not to park there as they were reserving the site for their friends . Now , as far as I ’ m concerned , when it comes to free camps , it ’ s first in , best-dressed , but not wanting to start a conflict , we obliged and moved to another site .
It ’ s not that I totally object to people wanting to be camped near their friends but at least be courteous about the situation and ask nicely . Or , better still , perhaps time your arrival with your friends so that you can sort out your plans together and not inconvenience others .
On the other side of the coin , be aware that many free camps do have allocated sites that are either booked online or through a site manager . You may be required to pay for a site and have one allocated to you before you park up . There will usually be a sign at the entrance to the camp indicating the arrangements .
Generators are a constant source of conflict among free-campers . Always observe time restrictions and place your generator so as to minimise noise impact on others .
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