RVing and Nature: Best Activities for Wildlife Enthusiasts

It’s no secret the great island of Australia is special and different in many ways, with its vast, featureless expanses, pristine, isolated beaches, and humid rainforests. The range of habitats could scarcely be more varied, nor the diverse plethora of wildlife. As far as we’re concerned here at RV Parts Express, there is no finer way to visit areas of extreme natural beauty, teeming with fascinating wildlife, than to venture forth in a trusty RV. The freedom you have is second to none and, as long as the vehicle can handle the roads and you are fully kitted out, there’s almost nowhere you can’t feasibly go. Once you have acquired all the parts and accessories you need for a successful trip from RV Parts Express, it’s time to set forth and discover the very best wildlife experiences Australia has to offer. Here are some tips our experts were able to put together and a few of our favourite places to experience Australian wildlife at its finest:

Planning ahead

While it is technically possible to see almost all of Australia with your RV, it is probably not a practical endeavour without months to spare and limitless resources. Much more likely you will be making a series of shorter trips, so consider your options carefully and plan routes taking in as many target areas as possible with the time you have.

The freedom of wild camping

Those who feel happy to engage in a little 'wild camping' have the freedom of the whole glorious country available to them and a range of wildlife experiences that simply cannot be recreated elsewhere. There are extraordinary outdoor experiences galore to be had and many of them centre around the pursuit of unique wildlife. Adventure awaits those bold enough to get out there and find it and there is no better way to get in among the action; wild camping for RVers and nature lovers is a match made in heaven.

• Tip: If in doubt, scout it out!

Accessibility is generally not a problem but always approach dirt roads and narrow entrances cautiously in an RV. It's important to know you can get back out again so do plenty of planning ahead and ask around locally before venturing too far.

Heron Island

There are few experiences on this list more incredible than the annual gathering of hundreds of sea turtles, laying their eggs on the sandy beaches of Heron Island. There is also the option of visiting when the eggs are due to hatch, witnessing the tiny creatures battle their way to the relative safety of the ocean. A truly memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Fraser Island

This World Heritage-listed sand island is a pristine wilderness and home to many wildlife species. Stand on a bluff overlooking the ocean and watch dozens of tiger sharks circling below or keep your eyes peeled for wild dingoes.

• Tip: Be wary when encountering wild dingoes as they look cute but are unpredictable and potentially dangerous, especially in larger numbers.

Kakadu National Park

The savannah woodlands of Kakadu are home to a wide range of creatures, large and small. Be on the lookout for:

• Buffalo
• Wallabies
• Wild pigs
• Dingoes
• Saltwater crocodiles

The safest, most effective way to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat is by taking a professional, guided safari tour and cruising the seemingly placid, mangrove-filled waters.

• Tip: Whatever you do, don't go swimming!

Daintree rainforest

A stunning, iconic destination, the Daintree rainforest is teeming with life, including rare birds, reptiles, insects, and mammals of all kinds. Not to mention you will probably encounter kangaroos and maybe even beautiful cassowaries.

• Tip: There are a number of potentially dangerous creatures inhabiting this rich, flourishing location, so it is always advisable to take an experienced guide.

Great Barrier Reef

Thousands of individual reefs join together to make up the largest, most famous coral system in the world, and marine life thrives in huge abundance. Park the RV, dig out your snorkel and dive in to seek out some of the most stunning sea creatures anywhere on the planet. There are too many creatures to mention, but some favourites include:

• Clownfish
• Reef sharks
• Dugong (manatee)
• Manta rays
• Turtles
• Humphead wrasse
• Giant clams

Great Otway National Park

The densest concentration of koalas to be found anywhere in Australia is in this endlessly enticing, picturesque national park. Emerald-coloured canopies provide welcome shade and allow you to observe and interact with a wide range of flora and fauna. From stunning coastal areas to thick, lush forests, you will be constantly amazed by the sheer variety of views, habitats, and inhabitants. Not to be missed.

Alternative ideas: Volunteering

Those with more time to spare might consider offering their services as volunteers, or just a few spare dollars, in some of these and other locations. You may be able to offer assistance to places doing their best to conserve local wildlife and habitats, often on a very tight budget.

Final thoughts

We hope some of these suggestions have whetted your appetite to get out in your RV and explore the boundless wonders of such an incredible country. Be sure to act responsibly and plan ahead, Australia is blessed with an incredible range of climates and environments, not all of them friendly to the stranded traveller. Always:

• Take as much water as you can physically carry
• Bring a decent first-aid kit
• Be aware of your surroundings, and never park in areas that experience flash-floods
• Note the distance and directions of the nearest help
• Check potential temperatures
• Research any wildlife you might encounter
• Take plentiful supplies of sun/after-sun creams
• Plan and discuss as a group how you will act if things get out of hand

Satistically, you will be totally fine, but as the saying goes, 'expect the best, prepare for the worst'.

Contact us

Should you have any questions about our range of accessories and other products to enhance the experience of wild camping for RVers and nature lovers, please get in touch today. Alternatively, browse our extensive range of high-quality, innovative products at your leisure; we think you will find something exciting and game-changing ahead of your trip.