Caravan parks across Australia are experiencing a significant shift in their usual bustling atmosphere. This year, many of these destinations are far less populated than they were at the same time last year, largely due to concerns over fuel prices and availability. The situation has left some operators and regular travelers concerned about the long-term impact on the tourism industry.
Fuel prices saw a sharp increase following the conflict in the Middle East at the end of February. Although petrol prices have since returned to pre-war levels, diesel — which is essential for many long-haul travelers — remains expensive. This has led to a noticeable decline in travel activity, with caravan parks that were once filled with campers now appearing almost empty.
Annette Jones, owner of All Around Oz, a community dedicated to helping people plan road trips around Australia, has noticed this change firsthand. She and her husband Kev have been traveling the country for nearly three years and have observed a drop in activity. “It has been quiet on the roads,” Annette said, noting that even in Western Australia, where they are currently heading north toward Gibb River Road, the number of campers is significantly lower than usual.
During a recent visit to Ocean View Caravan Park in Onslow, Annette was surprised to find that she and her husband were among only a few vehicles parked there. “As we travel further north, the story is the same,” she wrote online. “The fuel fearmongering is really affecting our tourism industry.”
Audra Smith, president of the Shire of Ashburton, which manages the Ocean View Caravan Park, reported a 65% drop in bookings compared to last year. Businesses in the nearby Tom Price area have also seen a significant decline, with a 30% reduction in visitors compared to 2025. Smith noted that people are changing their travel habits, with more choosing not to travel at all or delaying their trips.
Usually, by this time of year, Onslow and Tom Price caravan parks would be full, with people waiting on lists to secure a spot. However, this trend is not holding true this season. Smith emphasized that the drop in visitor numbers is consistent across the entire region, including the broader northwest.
Kev mentioned that places like Cable Beach in Broome, which are typically difficult to access during this time of year, are now open without requiring any bookings. This is highly unusual under normal conditions, he added.
While high diesel prices and fuel concerns have played a major role in disrupting travel plans, Smith also pointed out that damage from Tropical Cyclone Narelle in late March affected Easter travel at the start of the season. “It really has set us back,” she said. Rural businesses have struggled to recover from the extreme weather event and have faced additional challenges due to the fuel crisis.
“We understand that people are cautious, but the level of concern doesn’t really match what’s happening on the ground,” Smith said. She emphasized that fuel is available in the Ashburton region, and there have been no fuel-related issues.
“We have fuel. Our towns are open. Our businesses are ready to welcome visitors,” Smith insisted. She argued that the fuel crisis has been overstated and that the concerns raised by travelers do not reflect the reality in rural Australia.
Smith noticed that some people who still want to travel are sticking to main roads and larger towns instead of venturing into regional areas. However, she stressed that it is crucial for travelers to support these regions, as the lack of visitors deeply impacts local communities.
Annette advises travelers to check local Facebook groups or contact tourist information centers in the areas they plan to visit to inquire about fuel supplies. “The rural communities need us more than ever,” she said. “You can’t put your life on hold.”
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