Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers some of the most stunning and serene camping spots in Western Australia. With pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and abundant wildlife, it’s the perfect destination for nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Australia’s west coast. From remote wilderness camping to more accessible sites with basic facilities, Shark Bay’s campgrounds offer a range of experiences. Here’s your guide to the best camping spots in Shark Bay for a coastal stay, where you can relax, explore, and connect with nature.
1. Francois Peron National Park: Big Lagoon Campground
Located within Francois Peron National Park, the Big Lagoon Campground offers a perfect blend of coastal scenery, wildlife, and outdoor adventure. The campground overlooks Big Lagoon, a series of sheltered, turquoise lagoons surrounded by the park’s famous red cliffs. It’s ideal for those who love water activities such as kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching, with easy access to the calm waters.
The campsite itself is basic, offering unpowered sites suitable for both tents and camper trailers. There are no toilets or showers, so it’s best suited for self-sufficient campers who come prepared. However, what the site lacks in amenities, it more than makes up for in stunning views and access to wildlife.
Tip: Bring your own drinking water and supplies, as there are no shops nearby. A 4WD vehicle is required to access this site, as the tracks through the park are sandy and rugged.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
2. Dirk Hartog Island: Remote Island Camping
For a true off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Dirk Hartog Island, Australia’s largest island and one of the most remote camping destinations in Shark Bay. The island is a national park and offers several secluded beachside campsites, where you can enjoy direct access to the Indian Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.
Urchin Point and Louisa Bay are popular camping spots on the island, perfect for 4WD camping enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, fishing, and exploring the island’s rich historical significance—this is where Dutch explorer Dirk Hartog made the first recorded European landing in Australia in 1616.
The campsites on Dirk Hartog Island are basic, offering only drop toilets, so visitors must be fully self-sufficient. The island can only be accessed by ferry or private boat, adding to the adventure of camping in such a remote location.
Tip: Book your ferry in advance, as limited spots are available. Bring plenty of supplies, including water, food, and fuel, as there are no shops or services on the island.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
3. Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort: Family-Friendly Camping
For those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience with facilities, the Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort is an excellent option. Located right next to the famous Monkey Mia Dolphin Experience, the resort offers powered and unpowered campsites, suitable for tents, campervans, and caravans. The campground provides access to modern amenities, including toilets, showers, laundry facilities, and even a swimming pool, making it perfect for families or those looking for a more relaxed camping trip.
Staying at Monkey Mia gives you easy access to daily dolphin interactions, where wild bottlenose dolphins come right up to the shore. The resort also offers guided eco-tours, kayak rentals, and snorkeling opportunities, allowing visitors to make the most of their time in Shark Bay.
Tip: Due to its popularity, especially during peak seasons, it’s recommended to book your campsite at Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort well in advance.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
4. Shelter Bay: Beachside Serenity in Steep Point
For those seeking a secluded beachside campsite, Shelter Bay in the Steep Point area is an idyllic choice. Steep Point is the westernmost point of mainland Australia and is famous for its rugged beauty, making it a favorite destination for fishing, 4WD adventures, and whale watching. Shelter Bay offers beachfront camping, where you can set up your tent or camper trailer just meters from the water.
Camping at Shelter Bay provides a peaceful retreat, with opportunities to explore the surrounding coastal cliffs, fish for Spanish mackerel, or simply relax on the pristine sandy shores. The campsites are unpowered, and there are basic toilet facilities available. Visitors should come prepared with all the essentials, including water, food, and fuel.
Tip: A 4WD vehicle is required to reach Steep Point and Shelter Bay. Permits are necessary for camping and can be arranged through the Department of Parks and Wildlife.
5. Tamala Station: Bush and Beach Camping
For a unique camping experience that combines bushland and beach, head to Tamala Station, a working sheep station that offers secluded campsites along the shoreline of Henri Freycinet Harbour. The station offers several campgrounds, each with its own distinct character. Whether you prefer camping on the cliffs with panoramic ocean views or directly on the beach, Tamala Station offers a variety of sites to suit different preferences.
Tamala Station is a great place for those looking to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in nature. The area is perfect for kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching, with the opportunity to spot pelicans, sea eagles, and even dolphins in the distance.
The campsites are unpowered and offer only basic toilet facilities, so campers should come fully prepared with supplies. The remote location ensures a tranquil and private camping experience.
Tip: Campgrounds at Tamala Station must be booked in advance. Make sure to bring plenty of drinking water and supplies, as there are no shops or services nearby.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
6. Little Lagoon: Close to Denham
Located just a short drive from Denham, Little Lagoon offers a picturesque and convenient camping experience. The lagoon is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking, with its calm, shallow waters making it an ideal place for families. While there are no formal campgrounds at Little Lagoon, you can set up your campsite in the surrounding area, taking advantage of the scenic views and close proximity to the town of Denham.
Camping near Little Lagoon allows you to enjoy both the natural beauty of Shark Bay and the amenities of Denham, including restaurants, shops, and the Denham Heritage Precinct.
Tip: Since there are no formal camping facilities at Little Lagoon, ensure you leave no trace by packing out all your rubbish and following the principles of sustainable camping.
7. Big Lagoon: Ideal for Water Lovers
Another gem within Francois Peron National Park, Big Lagoon is a stunning series of saltwater lagoons that offer an excellent base for boating, kayaking, and fishing. The campground at Big Lagoon provides easy access to the water, allowing you to launch your kayak directly from the shore and explore the network of lagoons.
The campsites are basic and unpowered, but the spectacular scenery and opportunities for wildlife watching more than make up for the lack of facilities. You may spot dolphins, dugongs, and a variety of bird species while exploring the lagoon’s calm waters.
Tip: Like other campsites in Francois Peron National Park, a 4WD vehicle is necessary to access Big Lagoon.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Final Thoughts
Camping in Shark Bay offers the perfect way to connect with the natural beauty of this World Heritage-listed area. From the rugged cliffs of Steep Point to the serene waters of Big Lagoon, each campsite provides a unique opportunity to explore Shark Bay’s rich landscapes and marine life. Whether you’re seeking a remote, off-grid adventure or a family-friendly coastal stay with modern facilities, Shark Bay has a camping experience to suit every traveler.
By choosing one of these incredible camping spots, you’ll wake up to breathtaking coastal views, be immersed in wildlife, and make lasting memories in one of Australia’s most extraordinary regions.