I’ve always chased spots where the coastline meets wild nature, and my recent visit to Four Mile Campground in Fitzgerald River National Park was a dream come true. Nestled near Four Mile Beach with stunning escarpment views, this place delivered a rugged coastal escape that felt both remote and rewarding. With my 4WD packed and camping gear ready, I spent a few days exploring, and I can’t wait to share the journey.
The good
- Scenic coastal views and beach access
- Clean facilities with hot showers
- Sheltered BBQ area for cooking
- Wildlife and wildflower highlights
The not-so-good
- No drinking water available
- Booking required, often full
- Uneven camping ground
Fitzgerald River National Park, one of Australia’s largest national parks along the southern coast of Western Australia, is a biodiversity hotspot, and Four Mile Campground sits on its eastern edge near Hopetoun. Accessible by 2WD or 4WD depending on conditions, it’s a paid site ($15-$20 per person per night) with a $6 booking fee that draws those seeking solitude and natural beauty. The proximity to the beach and wildlife hooked me instantly.
About Four Mile Campground
Four Mile Campground in Fitzgerald River National Park is a 2WD/4WD coastal retreat near Four Mile Beach, offering 15 unpowered sites. Ideal for nature lovers, it features pit toilets, hot showers, and a camp kitchen, perfect for beachcombing, swimming, and stargazing. Enjoy escarpment views and wildflowers, with no water or pets. $6 booking fee applies.
Getting There and Accessibility
Getting to Four Mile Campground was a scenic drive with a smooth finish. I started from Hopetoun, taking Hamersley Drive, a sealed road that made the 10km journey easy in my 4WD. The drive took about 15 minutes, and the well-maintained access was a pleasant surprise, though I checked conditions as wet weather can affect side tracks.
The isolation was a big draw – I loved the quiet as the road wound through the park. Booking through the WA Parks and Wildlife Service website with the $6 fee was straightforward, and the campground’s popularity meant I planned ahead. It’s a route that promises a coastal getaway with minimal hassle.
The Campground Experience
Pulling into Four Mile Campground, I was greeted by a well-laid-out site with 15 campsites, offering a mix of privacy and proximity to Four Mile Beach. I chose a spot near the edge, where the view of the escarpments at sunset was breathtaking. Kangaroos hopped by regularly, and the sound of waves added to the wild feel.
The atmosphere was serene, with the ocean breeze and distant bird calls setting the tone. The pit toilets were clean and a short walk away, and the hot showers – a rare treat – were a welcome luxury after a day exploring. With no water, my 20L container was essential, but the camp kitchen with gas BBQ made cooking easy. Nights were clear, and stargazing was spectacular. It’s a balanced setup that blends comfort with nature.
Activities and Surroundings at Four Mile Campground
Four Mile Campground is a gateway to coastal adventures. I strolled along Four Mile Beach, combing for shells and enjoying the unpatrolled shoreline’s raw beauty. The shallow waters were perfect for a refreshing swim, and I waded in, savoring the solitude. The Hakea Trail nearby offered a gentle bushwalk, revealing stunning flora and fauna.
Birdwatching was a highlight, with parrots and honeyeaters flitting about, and my binoculars caught some great moments. The East Mount Barren lookout, a short drive away, provided panoramic views that were worth the effort. Stargazing by the camp kitchen at night, with the Milky Way overhead, was the perfect cap to each day. It’s a spot that invites both action and relaxation.
Practical Tips and facilities
Four Mile Campground offers a solid mix of basics and comforts. The pit toilets were well-maintained, a reasonable walk from most sites, and the hot showers were a standout, though water pressure varied. The camp kitchen with gas BBQ and dishwashing sink was a boon, but there’s no water or bins, so I brought my own supply and packed out rubbish.
Preparation is key here. I packed extra fuel, a portable stove as backup, and a first-aid kit for the remote setting. The sites, with 10 compacted gravel and 5 loose-gravel options, were mostly flat, though I chose carefully near the kitchen. No pets are allowed, preserving the ecosystem, and wheelchair access is limited to flatter zones.
Conclusion: Is Four Mile Campground Worth It?
What sets Four Mile Campground apart is its coastal seclusion and natural riches. The $15-$20 nightly fee per person (with $6 booking) is reasonable for the hot showers and camp kitchen, and the proximity to Four Mile Beach is a draw. I loved the wildflower displays in spring and the chance to swim or hike, making it a versatile escape. It’s not for pet owners or those needing full amenities – you need self-reliance – but for nature lovers, it’s a coastal paradise.
- My Thoughts: Four Mile Campground provides a scenic coastal escape in Fitzgerald River National Park, accessible by 2WD/4WD via sealed roads. Its 15 sites are ideal for beachcombing, swimming, and stargazing, with hot showers and a camp kitchen. No water suits self-reliant campers, and the wildflowers and views shine, though wet weather can affect access.
- Address: Four Mile Campground, Fitzgerald River National Park, Hamersley Drive, WA 6346, Australia
- Facilities: Pit Toilets, Hot Showers, Camp Kitchen, Gas BBQ
- Overall Rated: 7.6
Recommended Gear for Four Mile Campground
Tackling Four Mile Campground calls for gear that suits its coastal, remote vibe. A reliable set of recovery gear like the Maxtrax MK2 Recovery Tracks is handy for side tracks. Add some Tyre Tools to deflate and inflate your tyres before heading to the beach.
For camp life, a portable Camping Fridge is great to keep your food and beverages refrigerated, while a Water Container like a 20L tank ensures hydration. A set of bright LED Strip Lighting enhances those starry nights. This gear turns Four Mile into a cozy, coastal retreat for the prepared camper.
