Discover the best free camping and RV‑friendly overnight spots across the Avon Valley. A quick guide to peaceful riverside stops, bush settings and convenient rest areas we’ve explored in the region.
Beverley
We always enjoy stopping in Beverley, especially for its beautiful nature reserve where I regularly check on the orchids. Like many small Avon Valley towns, Beverley offers a 24‑hour RV stop, and we’ve found it to be a peaceful, welcoming spot in a quiet township.
You can stay for up to 72 hours, and the area is well set up with picnic tables, toilets, shelters and bins. It’s an ideal stop if you’re self‑sufficient and want to explore the Avon Valley or Beverley itself. With its gliding club and growing astrotourism scene, the town has more to offer than you might expect from a small outback community.
Northam
Katrine Crossing Campground (also known as Katrine Viveash Reserve) is a lovely free camping spot in the Avon Valley, just 10 minutes from Northam and right off the Northam–Toodyay Road. The campground itself is a simple clearing among the trees, but the setting on the banks of the Avon River makes it feel special. Facilities are great for a free site — flushing toilets, water, picnic tables and good mobile reception. Some areas are a bit tight for caravans and not all sites are level, but we still found a comfortable spot for the night.
It’s an excellent overnight stop when exploring the Avon Valley. Just keep an eye out for the turn‑off, especially in the dark — it’s easy to miss! The entrance is just before Katrine Road, if you travel from Northam.
York
If you are looking for a free camping spot near York, we recommend Gwambygine Rest Area. It is 10km, south of York, and it is very lovely. The campground is spacious and set right along the Avon River Ascent, giving it a peaceful, scenic feel.
Facilities are great for a free overnight stop — flushing toilets, picnic tables, BBQs, shelter, bins and water, and it’s pet friendly too. The only downside is that fires aren’t permitted, but with the rain during our stay, we wouldn’t have had one anyway.
There’s a 24‑hour limit, which makes it perfect for a quick stop while exploring the Avon Valley region. It’s also very easy to find, located just 11 km south of York on Great Southern Highway.
A simple, convenient and comfortable place for an overnight stay.
