Camping enthusiasts flock to Victoria’s public lands, seeking the tranquility and beauty of nature. However, the surge in camping popularity has unveiled a darker side to this outdoor haven. As families pitch tents and light campfires, the aftermath paints a troubling picture of neglect and irresponsibility.

Venturing into the wilderness, volunteers like Kelly Van Den Berg are met with a disheartening sight. The once-pristine campsites now lay littered with broken equipment, discarded trash, and a myriad of uncanny items. The surge in visitors, far exceeding the land’s carrying capacity, has stretched resources thin and unleashed chaos upon the serene landscape.

The government’s initiative to offer free camping across Victoria’s national parks was intended to promote accessibility and foster a love for the outdoors. However, the unintended consequences have surfaced as a result of insufficient monitoring and enforcement. Staffing cuts and industrial disputes have hampered the efforts to regulate camper behavior, leaving many areas vulnerable to misuse and neglect.

As concerns over the future care of public lands escalate, the need for sustainable camping practices becomes ever more urgent. Balancing the allure of free camping with responsible stewardship of the environment is crucial to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the natural wonders that Victoria has to offer. It is a call to action for campers to embrace the ethos of leaving no trace, preserving the beauty of the wilderness for all to enjoy.