As the sun sets over Bear Gully Campground, the usual buzz of campers and families is notably absent this summer. The State Government’s ambitious “free camping” initiative aimed to open up opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, but it seems to have hit a snag.

Mark and Naomi Greenwood, eager to pitch their tent for another night in the serene surroundings of Bear Gully, were surprised to find the campground half-empty despite the Parks Victoria website showing all sites as “booked out.” This scenario has been echoed across other popular sites like Wilsons Promontory, where a significant number of reserved spots have remained vacant.

While the government touts a surge in campsite bookings, the actual footfall tells a different story. With no financial repercussions for booking and not showing up, many reservations are left unclaimed, leaving fellow campers like the Greenwoods in a lurch.

The allure of free camping has undeniably attracted more bookings, but the challenge lies in converting these reservations into occupied sites. Experts suggest that incentivizing cancellations and enhancing booking systems could help salvage the situation.

Despite the initial hiccups, campers at Bear Gully believe that with some fine-tuning, the free camping initiative can still be a success. The idyllic backdrop of Bear Gully, nestled by the shores of Waratah Bay, remains a top choice for those seeking a unique camping experience amidst nature’s embrace.

So, as the campfire crackles and the stars twinkle above Bear Gully, the future of camping in Victoria hangs in the balance, waiting for a solution to fill the empty sites and revive the spirit of adventure under the open sky.