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NSW National Parks Camping Fee Hike Sparks Outrage Among Campers

A recent proposal to increase camping fees in NSW National Parks has sparked outrage among Australians, especially families who view camping as an affordable way to enjoy the outdoors. The move, aimed at addressing issues like ghost bookings and overcrowding, has been met with criticism from campers like Michael Atkinson, a former Alone Australia contestant.

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Atkinson, known for his advocacy for fair camping practices, expressed his concerns on social media, highlighting the significant fee hikes planned for popular camping sites. The proposed fee increase, such as raising the cost from $6 to $54 per night at Thredbo Diggings, has raised eyebrows and drawn backlash from the camping community.

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The rationale behind the fee hike, as explained by NSW National Parks, includes the surge in park visitors and the need to deter disruptive behaviors. However, critics argue that the move could make camping unaffordable for many families, limiting access to public lands for recreational purposes.

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Many campers have voiced their dissatisfaction with the proposed fee increase, emphasizing the importance of maintaining affordable camping options for all Australians. Suggestions have been made to address issues like ghost bookings and overcrowding without imposing exorbitant fees that may exclude low-income families from enjoying nature.

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While some individuals support the fee hike as a means to curb entitled behavior at campgrounds, others believe that preserving access to national parks for all should be a priority. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact of the fee increase on the camping culture in Australia, where outdoor activities are cherished traditions.

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Michael Atkinson has encouraged fellow campers to participate in an online survey to provide feedback on the proposed fee increase. He has called for a reevaluation of the booking system and an expansion of camping facilities to accommodate the growing number of visitors, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in outdoor recreation.

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As the debate over camping fees in NSW National Parks continues, campers, conservationists, and policymakers are urged to find a balanced approach that ensures accessibility to public lands while addressing concerns related to overcrowding and disruptive behaviors. The outcome of this discussion will likely shape the future of camping experiences in Australia’s natural landscapes.

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