Karratha Overflow RV Stop (CG)

In the heart of Western Australia’s dynamic Pilbara region, the Karratha Overflow RV Stop serves as a critical and intelligently designed haven for the modern nomad. It is not a destination in its own right, but rather a strategic “safety valve,” activated during the bustling peak tourist season when the region’s commercial caravan parks reach full capacity.
For the self-sufficient traveller arriving in Karratha after a long journey, only to be met with “No Vacancy” signs, this facility offers a profound sense of relief and security. Managed by the City of Karratha, its existence is a tangible expression of the region’s commitment to its official “RV Friendly Town™” accreditation, a program that signals a deep understanding and welcome of the touring community.

The stop’s unique location at the Karratha Golf Course presents a striking juxtaposition: the manicured, irrigated greens of the course set against the rugged, ancient landscapes of the Pilbara in the distance. This setting provides a temporary and convenient urban basecamp, allowing travellers to rest, resupply, and plan their exploration of the region’s vast natural and cultural treasures.
The facility is a key component of a sophisticated visitor management strategy. The Shire of Karratha has developed a multi-tiered system to cater to diverse travel styles, encompassing long-stay nature-based camps like Cleaverville and 40 Mile Beach, full-service commercial parks, and this essential overflow stop. This proactive approach ensures that visitor flow is managed effectively, preventing frustration and discouraging illegal camping, thereby protecting the delicate local environment while supporting a vibrant tourism economy.

FEES & BOOKINGS
Securing a place at the Karratha Overflow RV Stop is a formal process and not a “first-come, first-served” arrangement. This is currently a paid overflow area with limited bays available $16 p/night, booked at the Karratha Visitor Centre. This is only open when all caravan parks in the area are at full capacity.

The Mandatory Booking Protocol

All bookings for the overflow facility must be made directly and exclusively through the Karratha Tourism & Visitor Centre. This centralized approach ensures that the site is only opened when officially required and that all users are registered. Travellers can make bookings by visiting the centre in person or by telephone.
Booking Agent: Karratha Tourism & Visitor Centre
Location: De Witt Road, Karratha, WA 6714
Phone: (08) 9186 8055

Fee Structure and Stay Limits
The fee structure is straightforward, reflecting the site’s role as a short-term solution.
Cost: The site costs a flat rate of $16 per night. There is no indication of separate charges for extra adults or children, implying a single fee per vehicle, per night.
Maximum Stay: A strict maximum stay of three nights is enforced. This policy is a deliberate visitor flow mechanism. It ensures a high turnover of sites, allowing the facility to serve the greatest number of travellers during peak periods. The short limit encourages visitors to either secure a spot in a commercial park for a longer stay, transition to one of the region’s nature-based camps, or continue their journey, preventing the overflow area from becoming a long-term campground.
Permit Display: Upon payment, a permit is issued. This permit must be displayed on your caravan or RV at all times during your stay. This serves as proof of legitimate booking for council rangers who patrol the area.

FACILITIES
The Karratha Overflow RV Stop is designed for a specific type of traveller and vehicle. Its facilities are basic and predicated on the principle of self-sufficiency.

Prerequisites: The Self-Contained Mandate

The single most important requirement for using this facility is that your vehicle must be fully self-contained. The official guidelines explicitly define this as having your own on-board toilet. This rule is strictly enforced and means that the following are not permitted:
* Tents
* Camper trailers without toilets
* Minivans, station wagons, or similar vehicles not equipped with integrated toilet facilities

On-Site Amenities and Specifications

The amenities provided are minimal, reinforcing the need for self-reliance.
Site Type: The sites are unpowered and located on a hard-surface area, suitable for standard caravans and large RVs.
Site Dimensions: Each site is approximately 12m x 8m, providing ample space for a caravan and tow vehicle.
Rubbish Disposal: Rubbish bins are provided for the disposal of general household waste.

What  it is NOT Available

Travellers must be prepared for the absence of key amenities.
No Potable Water: There is no drinking water available on site. You must arrive with sufficient water supplies for the duration of your stay.
No Power: All sites are unpowered.
No Ablutions: There are no toilet or shower blocks. This is the primary reason for the strict self-contained vehicle rule.
No Sullage Point: While the overflow site itself does not have a sullage disposal point, the City of Karratha provides a network of public grey waste dump points throughout the region. A map of these locations can be obtained from the Visitor Centre or the council website.

GUIDELINES
Adherence to a clear set of rules is required to ensure the site remains a safe, clean, and pleasant environment for all users. These regulations are enforced by council rangers.

Campsite-Specific Rules

Pets: Pets are permitted at the overflow site but are required to be kept on a lead and under control at all times.
Generators: The use of generators is allowed, however, strict quiet hours are in place to ensure minimal disturbance to other campers. Generators must be switched off between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Fires: There is a strict no-fire rule at this location. No open fires of any kind, including cooking fires or portable fire pits, are permitted.
Conduct: As with all council-managed campgrounds in the region, antisocial behaviour is not tolerated.

Legal Framework

The City of Karratha enforces specific regulations regarding camping to protect the local environment and manage tourism sustainably.
Legal Camping Areas: Camping within the Shire is only permitted in registered caravan parks, designated nature-based camping grounds (such as Cleaverville and Gnoorea Point), and, when activated, this official overflow area.
Illegal Camping: It is an offence to camp in any other public area, including town parks, car parks, beaches, or roadside bushland. Doing so can result in an on-the-spot fine of $100. This regulation underscores the importance of using designated facilities like the Overflow RV Stop.

HOW TO GET THERE
The Karratha Overflow RV Stop is centrally located and easy to find.
Location: Karratha Golf Course (also known as Karratha Country Club)
Address: Searipple Road, Karratha, WA 6714

Travel Directions
From the North West Coastal Highway (Route 1), take the primary turn-off into Karratha onto Karratha Road. Continue on this road, passing the Karratha Tourism & Visitor Centre, which will be on your left. Proceed towards the Karratha town centre and follow the signage to Searipple Road. The entrance to the Karratha Golf Course will be clearly marked. Upon arrival, the specific area designated for overflow camping should be signposted, or directions will be provided when you make your mandatory booking at the Visitor Centre.

UPDATED25062025GW