Experience camping and exploring Eucla Western Australia, Australia where the ruins meet the ocean and history tells its story in the sands.

In September 2024 Amanda and I checked out trip to Eucla Western Australia, Australia. We camped the night at the Old Telegraph Station Campground. We spent more than half a day and the evening visiting the many historical sites.

History Of Eucla Western Australia, Australia

Eucla began as a vital communication hub in the late 19th century. The Eucla Telegraph Station, built in 1877, was a key link in the intercolonial telegraph line that connected South Australia and Western Australia.

By the 1920s, Eucla faced problems from a rabbit plague and encroaching sand dunes. These issues forced the town to relocate closer to the highway and the telegraph station was abandoned. These days the ruins of the station are a reminder of the challenges faced by early settlers.

Abandoned Eucla Telegraph Station Ruins

Exploring The Eucla Telegraph Station

One of the highlights of our visit was a walk to the Old Telegraph Station ruins. It’s a short trek through the sand dunes that have partly buried the old buildings. What was left of the station gave us a sense of how isolated life must have been for the people who lived and worked there.

The surrounding dunes are constantly shifting, making the site feel unique and ever-changing. We spent time walking around, taking photos and soaking in the quiet atmosphere.

The Beach And Jetty

Eucla’s coastline is simple but beautiful. We walked along the beach and visited the remains of the old timber jetty, which was once used for transporting goods. The jetty is weathered and partially collapsed, but it’s still a striking sight.

The beach is also a good place for wildlife spotting. You might see seabirds and sometimes kangaroos are nearby. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for taking photos or just enjoying the sea breeze.

Old Wooden Jetty At Eucla Western Australia Australia

Essentials: Fuel and Food

We refuelled at the Eucla Roadhouse, which is the main stop for travellers. It’s a convenient place to top up your fuel, buy snacks and grab basic supplies. After that, we had breakfast at the Eucla Motel. The food was simple but tasty and the café is a good spot to take a break.

Outside the motel, we found a geocache hidden near the big whale statue. If you’re into geocaching this is a fun little challenge to add to your visit.

Camping Options in Eucla, Western Australia, Australia

Whether you’re looking for a basic bush camping experience or a spot with modern amenities, Eucla, Western Australia, Australia, offers a range of camping options to suit different preferences and budgets. On our trip, Amanda and I camped at the Old Telegraph Station Campground, but we also explored other options for travellers passing through this historic area.

1. Old Telegraph Station Campground
   This basic camping spot was our choice and it offered a peaceful stay with direct access to the telegraph station ruins. The lack of facilities means you need to be self-sufficient, so bring plenty of water, a portable toilet if needed and other essentials. The setting is simple but atmospheric with soft sand underfoot and a quiet, remote vibe. It’s perfect for history buffs or those looking to immerse themselves in Eucla’s unique landscape.
   Location: Near the ruins of the Eucla Telegraph Station
   Cost: Free or a small voluntary donation
   Facilities: None (no toilets, showers, or powered sites)
   How to Book: No booking required; first come, first served
2. Eucla Caravan Park
   The Eucla Caravan Park is a convenient option for travellers who prefer some creature comforts. Located near the Eucla Roadhouse and the Eucla Motel, it’s ideal for those wanting easy access to fuel, food and supplies. We stopped by to check it out and the park is clean and well-maintained. It’s a great option for families or travellers with caravans who need powered sites. The park’s proximity to the highway makes it a popular stop, so calling ahead during peak travel seasons is a good idea.
   Location: Adjacent to the Eucla Motel, just off the Eyre Highway
   Cost: Powered sites $25–$30 per night / Unpowered sites Approximately $20 per night
   Facilities: Showers and toilets – laundry facilities – powered and unpowered sites – drinking water
   How to Book: Call the Eucla Motel directly or book on arrival
3. Border Village Caravan Park
   While technically across the state border, the Border Village Caravan Park is a short drive from Eucla and offers similar amenities to the Eucla Caravan Park. It’s a great alternative if Eucla’s sites are full or if you want a change of scenery. The caravan park is part of a larger roadhouse complex, so you can also stock up on fuel and supplies. It’s a practical and comfortable option for travellers continuing their journey across the Nullarbor.
   Location: 12 kilometres east of Eucla, just across the South Australian border
   Cost: Powered sites $25–$35 per night / Unpowered sites: $20–$25 per night
   Facilities: Showers and toilets – Laundry facilities – BBQ area – Small general store – Playground for kids
   How to Book: Walk in or call Border Village directly
4. Nullarbor Bush Camps (DIY Camping)
   For those seeking a more rugged camping experience, there are plenty of opportunities for bush camping in the surrounding area. If you’re travelling with a fully self-contained setup, you can pull over at various spots along the Eyre Highway and set up camp. Always ensure you’re on public land or have the landowner’s permission and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment.
   Cost: Free
   Facilities: None
   How to Book: No booking required

Old Telegraph Station Campground Eucla

Choosing The Right Spot

The best camping option depends on your preferences and needs:

• For history and isolation: The Old Telegraph Station Campground offers proximity to the ruins and a peaceful atmosphere, but you’ll need to be self-sufficient.
• For comfort and amenities: The Eucla Caravan Park or Border Village Caravan Park provide powered sites, showers and access to other facilities.
• For offgrid adventurers: Bush camping along the Nullarbor is a great way to enjoy the wide-open landscapes, as long as you’re prepared.

Tips for Camping in Eucla

• Be Self Sufficient: Water and supplies can be limited, especially at free campsites like the Old Telegraph Station. Bring everything you need, including water, food and garbage bags so you can take your rubbish with you.
• Check the Weather: The weather in Eucla can be unpredictable. Bring layers for cooler nights and plenty of sun protection for the day.
• Plan Ahead: While the free and bush camping options don’t require bookings, caravan parks can fill up, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and autumn). Call ahead to secure your spot.
• Respect the Environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles, especially in remote areas, to keep the landscape clean and enjoyable for future travellers.
• Watch for Wildlife: Kangaroos and other animals are common, particularly at dawn and dusk. Be careful when driving as there are plenty of the hoppy buggers around.

Camping with History And Comfort

Camping in Eucla, Western Australia, Australia, offers a mix of historical intrigue, natural beauty and practical amenities. Whether you’re exploring the Old Telegraph Station, relaxing at a caravan park, or enjoying the solitude of bush camping, Eucla has something for every type of traveller. Amanda and I loved the variety and simplicity of camping here. It’s a great way to experience this unique part of the country while staying connected to its fascinating past.

Weather in Eucla

In September, the weather was mild, with daytime temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Nights were cooler, so we made sure to pack warm clothes. Spring is also a good time to see wildflowers in the area.

Things to Do in Eucla

Here’s what you can do while visiting Eucla:

• Walk to the Old Telegraph Station ruins
• Explore the beach and photograph the old jetty
• Find the geocache near the big whale statue
• Refuel and stock up at the Eucla Roadhouse
• Have a meal at the Eucla Motel café
• Look for wildlife in the dunes and along the coast
• Visit Border Village for extra amenities

A Side Trip to Koonalda Homestead

A short drive from Eucla is the Koonalda Homestead, a historic site on the old Eyre Highway. It operated as a roadhouse during the mid-20th century, serving travellers crossing the Nullarbor. Now abandoned, it’s known for its corrugated iron buildings and a nearby car graveyard. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into a different era of travel.

A Detailed Look at the Eucla Telegraph Station

The Eucla Telegraph Station is one of the most significant historical sites in this remote part of Australia. It was built in 1877 and played an important role in the Australian communication network. Located near the border between South Australia and Western Australia, the station was part of the intercolonial telegraph line, which connected Perth to Adelaide and beyond.

This isolated station was staffed by operators who manually relayed messages sent via Morse code. Back then it was a cutting edge communication system reducing the time it took to send messages across the country from weeks to seconds.

Walking The Dunes At Eucla Western Australia Australia

The Early Days: A Vital Link
In the late 19th century, Australia’s colonies were largely disconnected from each other. The telegraph line between Adelaide and Perth was a monumental project aimed at bridging this gap. The Eucla Telegraph Station was strategically placed about halfway along the line, making it a key repeater station. Operators decoded incoming signals, checked for errors and retransmitted the messages along the line.

This was no easy task. The station’s remote Location: meant supplies had to be shipped in via a nearby jetty and then transported to the site. The staff lived in basic conditions, isolated from the rest of the world apart from the messages they relayed.

Challenges and Decline
Despite its importance, the Eucla Telegraph Station faced numerous challenges. One of the biggest was the rabbit plague of the early 20th century. Introduced to Australia in the 1850s, rabbits multiplied rapidly, devastating vegetation across the Nullarbor Plain. With little vegetation left, the sand dunes around Eucla began to shift, encroaching on the town and eventually burying parts of the station.

Advances in technology made the telegraph line obsolete. By the 1920s wireless radio communications began to take over and the telegraph system was gradually phased out. The Eucla station was officially closed in 1927 and the town moved closer to the highway, leaving the original site to the mercy of the elements.

What Remains Today
The Eucla Telegraph Station ruins are now a popular attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The buildings, made from limestone, are partially buried by sand dunes, giving the site a unique and almost surreal appearance.

When Amanda and I visited, we walked through the ruins, imagining what life must have been like for the people who worked there. The station’s thick limestone walls, now weathered and crumbling, are a testament to the craftsmanship of the builders.

You can still see remnants of the main office, living quarters and storage areas. Interpretive signs provide historical context, helping you understand the significance of what you’re seeing. The surrounding dunes add to the atmosphere, creating a sense of timelessness.

Visiting Tips
If you plan to visit the Eucla Telegraph Station, here’s what you need to know:

• Accessibility: The site is a short walk from the Old Telegraph Station Campground. Sturdy shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking through soft sand.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon is ideal, as the light is softer for photography and the temperatures are cooler.

Why The Eucla Telegraph Station Matters
The Eucla Telegraph Station is more than just a set of ruins. It represents an era of innovation and determination, showcasing how people overcame immense challenges to connect a vast and isolated continent. For Amanda and me, standing in the shadow of this once-thriving communication hub was a humbling experience.

If you’re travelling through Eucla Western Australia, Australia, make sure to take the time to explore this incredible piece of history. It’s a window into a time when technology, human effort and nature intersected in one of the most remote parts of the country.

Eucla Western Australia, Australia – Both Practical And Memorable

Our visit to Eucla, Western Australia, Australia was both practical and memorable. It’s a great stop for travellers on the Eyre Highway. It has a spot on mix of history, natural beauty and services like the Eucla Roadhouse and Eucla Motel. Whether you’re camping, exploring, or just passing through, Eucla has a little something for everyone.

– David & Amanda

Eucla Western Australia, Australia Photo Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions About Eucla, Western Australia, Australia

We visited Koonalda Homestead and experienced the remains of an abandoned Nullarbor icon. We camped and explored including nearby Koonalda Cave. Amanda and I recently camped for two nights at Koonalda Homestead just off the Eyre Highway on the Nullarbor. Koonalda Homestead is an iconic slice of history tucked away in South Australia’s Nullarbor Plain.

This leg of our roadtrip journey started after we’d camped near Eucla at the Old Telegraph Station Campground. The drive to Koonalda Homestead after leaving the Eyre Highway was a bit more exciting than usual with rough roads and whackjob overtakers along the way. Let me tell you about it.

Koonalda Homestead

The Drive to Koonalda Homestead

Leaving our campsite near Eucla we hit the Eyre Highway after breakfast at the Border Village Roadhouse. The road was long and straight as the Nullarbor tends to be with the occasional bit of roadkill to break the monotony. About 40km past Border Village, we reached the turnoff to Koonalda Homestead – marked by a small, easy to miss sign. From there it’s a 14km dirt road to the homestead itself.

The gravel road in is typical National Parks style that hasn’t seen any maintenance for a long time. It was as rough as guts, with corrugated sections that shook the bejeesus out of everything. We took it slow and steady, sticking to about 40-50 km/h to avoid shaking the car and caravan to bits. We’ve done thousands and thousands of kilometres on this kind of road over the years and have learned that a cautious approach saves you a world of trouble in the outback.

Unfortunately not everyone shares our patience. About halfway along the track an idiot in a big rig overtook us without so much as a call on the UHF. I continually check our mirrors but with the dust we were chucking up I didn’t see him coming. The dust cloud he kicked up was impressive and Amanda muttered a few colourful words as we waited for it to clear.

Three minutes later we found him pulled over on the side of the track. Turns out karma worked fast with this clown. Old mates’ caravan had lost a wheel. We slowed down and offered him a hand but he wasn’t in the mood for a chat. He just waved us on. He must have sorted it in some way shape or form as he wasn’t there the following day and we didn’t see his caravan or car in the Koonalda Homestead camping area.

Lesson of the day? Take it easy on these roads. They’ll catch you out if you’re not careful.

Kitchen At Koonalda Station

Koonalda Homestead: A Step Back in Time

When we finally rolled into Koonalda Homestead the landscape opened up to reveal the remains of this Koonalda Homestead and the wrecked car graveyard at this historic site. Built in the 1930s Koonalda was originally a sheep station before becoming a roadhouse on the old Eyre Highway. From the 1950s to the 1970s it was a lifeline for travellers crossing the Nullarbor, offering fuel, food and a bit of human connection in the middle of nowhere.

But when the new Eyre Highway was built further south in the late 1970s Koonalda’s days as a roadhouse came to an end. What’s left today is an almost fully intact homestead surrounded by endless plains and steeped in stories of resilience and isolation.

The first thing Amanda and I did was set up camp at the national park campground just a short walk from the homestead ruins. At $13 per night it’s a bargain and booking online was straightforward – although we suspect not everyone bothers. Make sure to book before you get to the Koonalda Homestead camping area as unless you have Starlink you won’t have an internet connection. The campsite is basic but well maintained with flat areas for tents and caravans and a few fire pits.

Inside The Abandoned Station Servo At Koonalda Homestead

Exploring the Old Homestead

After setting up we spent hours exploring the old Koonalda Station buildings. The main roadhouse structure is still standing. The servo with its old abandoned pumps makes for some awesome photos. Its weathered timbers, rusting tin roofs and old walls tell a story of survival in one of Australia’s harshest environments.

I found myself imagining the bustling days of the 1960s when travellers and truckies would have gathered here swapping stories over cups of billy tea. Amanda on the other hand was fascinated by the little details – old bottles, rusting machinery and remnants of old gardens scattered around.

The Car Graveyard And A Geocache

Not far from the homestead lies one of Koonalda’s best and most interesting attractions – the car graveyard. This sprawling collection of abandoned vehicles is a testament to the challenges of crossing the Nullarbor back in the day. Rusting sedans, utes and even quite a few trucks sit scattered like forgotten relics of the past.

While Amanda snapped photos of nature reclaiming these wrecks I set off on a geocaching mission. Somewhere in this mechanical graveyard, I knew there was a hidden cache. It took a bit of searching – and a lot of muttering when I walked through the car graveyard – but I finally found it tucked away under one of hundreds of sheets of corrugated iron. There’s something oddly satisfying about finding a geocache in such a remote and spooky spot.

Long Abandoned Vehicle At Koonalda Roadhouse

Koonalda Cave: A Cultural and Geological Marvel

Day two took us to Koonalda Cave, a must-see for anyone visiting the area. This enormous sinkhole has deep cultural significance for the Mirning people and is one of the oldest archaeological sites in Australia. Artefacts found here date back tens of thousands of years, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Nullarbor’s earliest inhabitants.

The cave’s entrance is fenced off to protect it, but just standing near the edge and peering into the darkness is enough to give you chills. I asked Amanda if the fence hadn’t been there if she’d fancied climbing in for a closer look. Her response? Yeah I won’t repeat it but I will say it contained a few references to “idiot”.

Koonalda Cave

The Hunt for the Koonalda Homestead Blowhole

Next on our list was the Koonalda Blowhole. Blowholes are natural vents in the limestone plains where air from underground caves escapes to the surface. Finding this one was a bit of an adventure in itself.

With little in the way of signage or directions we relied on a dodgy map and a lot of trial and error. After what felt like hours of walking around in circles searching we figured out we’d been standing next to it for an hour. It wasn’t what we were expecting!

While the Koonalda Blowhole wasn’t particularly active that day it was still a fascinating thing. Standing over a hidden cave system with air gushing up from below is pretty cool.

Driving the Old Eyre Highway

To round out our trip we decided to go for a drive along a section of the old Eyre Highway. This dirt track was once the main route across the Nullarbor and driving it is like stepping back in time.

The road was rough and rugged, but it had a charm all its own. We managed about 30 km before turning back. We’d have liked to go further however it was getting late in the day. There were a surprising number of relics to be found including the remains of a substantial set of tanks. There were also a couple more sinkholes / caves.

Driving The Old Eyre Highway Near Koonalda

The Koonalda Homestead Shearing Shed

The Koonalda Homestead shearing shed stands as a testament to the rugged ingenuity of early Australian pastoral life. Constructed with timber and corrugated iron, this weathered structure echoes the days when wool production sustained remote communities.

Once the lifeblood of the station, the shed housed shearers who laboured tirelessly in harsh conditions, helping to shape the economic heartbeat of the Nullarbor Plain. Today, the shearing shed offers visitors a glimpse into a bygone era, with its rustic charm and utilitarian design. Its proximity to the decaying Koonalda Homestead further enhances the site’s historical significance, capturing the resilience of outback life.

The Koonalda Homestead Sleeper Hut

The Koonalda Homestead sleeper hut is a stark reminder of the resourceful practices that defined life on the Nullarbor. Constructed from railway sleepers, the hut exhibits a pragmatic design tailored to the harsh, arid environment. These heavy wooden beams, once intended for rail infrastructure, were repurposed to create sturdy, insulated walls capable of withstanding extreme weather. The sleeper hut, located near the iconic Koonalda Homestead, offers a tangible link to the past, showcasing the ingenuity and adaptability of those who lived and worked in isolation. This modest structure embodies the resilience required to thrive in one of Australia’s most unforgiving landscapes.

Inside The Sleeper Hut At Koonalda Homestead

Weather and Camping Tips

In September, the Nullarbor weather was just about perfect. Days were sunny and mild, sitting around 20°C, while nights were cool enough for a campfire without being too chilly. But the Nullarbor is a place of extremes, so if you’re planning a visit at another time of year, be prepared for scorching summers or biting winter winds.

If you’re thinking of camping at Koonalda Homestead, here are a few tips:

1. Book Ahead: Reserve your spot online for per night.
2. Take It Slow: The road in is rough, so drive carefully and avoid rushing.
3. Bring Supplies: There are no facilities, so pack plenty of water, food and fuel.
4. Respect the Site: The homestead is fragile – look, but don’t touch.
5. Check the Weather: Plan for hot days, cold nights and potential storms.

Final Thoughts

Koonalda Homestead is more than just a camping spot – it’s a step back in time, a slice of Aussie history and a reminder of how resilient people can be. Amanda and I left feeling inspired, a little dusty and with plenty of stories to share. If you’re looking for an outback adventure with a healthy dose of Aussie history then Koonalda Station is a place to go.

Just remember: take it slow, book ahead and don’t be the bloke who loses a wheel on the track in. Safe travels and happy camping!

-David & Amanda

Camping With A Fire At Koonalda Homestead

Koonalda Homestead Photos

FAQs About Koonalda Homestead Camping And Exploring

Free Camping Caiguna East Bush Camp on the Nullarbor: Easy access, campfires allowed, lots of space and star filled night skies for free.

Caiguna East Bush Camp – A Hidden Gem Along the Nullarbor

The Caiguna East Bush Camp is one of those places you could easily miss if you weren’t looking for it. Just 5 kilometres east of Caiguna and marked by a rusted 44-gallon drum on the edge of the Eyre Highway, this unassuming entrance hides an expansive bush retreat. Amanda and I camped there during our September 2024 road trip and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our journey across the Nullarbor.

Free Camping On The Nullarbor

Navigating The Labyrinth

Turning off the highway, we were greeted by a network of tracks weaving through the bush. It felt a bit like entering a natural maze, but instead of dead ends, we stumbled upon private camping spots dotted throughout the landscape. The process of choosing a spot became part of the adventure. After ten minutes of leisurely exploration, we found the perfect nook—flat, quiet and far enough from the highway to drown out any residual traffic noise.

Caiguna East Bush Camp Is Spacious And Quiet

The camp itself is vast, offering plenty of room for vehicles of all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re in a compact campervan or towing a large caravan, you’ll find a spot that suits you. The beauty of this place lies in its tranquillity. We felt like we had the entire bush to ourselves, with only a few other campers tucked away in distant corners. It’s rare to find such a serene setting that’s still so accessible.

Free Camping On The Nullarbor At Caiguna Bush Camp

A Starry Night And The Joy Of A Campfire

We came prepared with firewood knowing that local supplies have usually been picked clean in well used free camps. As the sun dipped below the horizon we lit a modest fire and sat next to it well into the evening. The flames crackled and above us the sky put on a display of millions of stars. Amanda spotted a satellite streaking across the heavens but whether it was that or just a particularly determined shooting star who knows. The view was fantastic.

Free Camping On The Nullarbor At Caiguna East Bush Camp

Challenges In Paradise

Like any bush camp Caiguna East isn’t without its quirks. The flies during the day were relentless turning simple tasks into exercises in patience and endurance. Thankfully they retreated with the setting sun leaving us to enjoy the evening in peace. The other challenge was the rubbish. It’s disheartening to see rubbish left behind in such a pristine environment. Amanda and I took the opportunity to tidy up around our area but it’s clear that more campers need to take responsibility for their waste.

Free Camping On The Nullarbor At Caiguna East Bush Camp From Above

A Must Visit on the Nullarbor

The Caiguna East Bush Camp is more than just a convenient stopover; it’s a slice of Australian bushland that offers respite from the endless road. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with a group, it’s the perfect spot to reconnect with nature, take a breather and soak in the beauty of the Nullarbor.

Just remember to bring your firewood, a sense of adventure and a commitment to leaving no trace. The rusted drum at the entrance might not look like much, but beyond it lies a camping experience worth seeking out.

-David & Amanda

FAQs About Free Camping Caiguna East Bush Camp