Free Camping Near Penong SA At Cohens Old School Site

Free camping at Cohens Old School Site near Penong on the Eyre Highway is perfect if you’re looking to break up your trip with an overnight stop.

Located just off the Eyre Highway between Penong and Bookabie in South Australia. Cohens Old School Site offers a great overnight stop for travelers looking to break up their trip. This great free camp provides an authentic slice of outback Australia. Chuck in some historical intrigue with plenty of nature. And it’s the perfect place for adventurers in search of free camping near Penong SA. Amanda and I stayed here on our homeward leg across the Nullabor as part of our big 2024 Great Central Road trip.

A Glimpse Into History

Cohens Old School Site stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of early settlers in the Eyre Peninsula. Originally built as a modest schoolhouse in the late 19th century. The site once bustled with the laughter of children and the hum of community events. As things in the area died down the school closed its doors, but the remains of Cohens school became a notable local landmark. Today the area is a place for travellers on the Eyre Highway to pull over and rest for a night or two. Preserving the heritage of the area while offering a free camp for modern explorers.

Remains Of Cohens Schoolhouse

Location And Accessibility

Strategically located near Penong, Cohens Old School Site is easily accessible from the Eyre Highway. Travelers can follow well-marked signs leading to this serene spot, which lies just a short drive from Penong’s iconic windmills and salt lakes. Its proximity to the highway makes it an ideal stop for those needing a break either before or after crossing the Nullarbor Plain.

Remains Of Cohens Old School Site

Bush Camping At The Ruins Of Old Cohen Public School

There are no toilets or other facilities. Campers must be self sufficient with their own toilet. Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace. Large flat area with some shade. Suitable for all size vehicles. Fires are are allowed.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Eyre Hwy, Penong, South Australia
GPS: -31.870960°, 132.884185°
Distance From Penong: 16km
Pet Friendly: Yes
Telstra Reception: Yes

Why Choose Free Camping Near Penong SA?

For many the appeal of free camping near Penong SA lies in its affordability and simplicity. Unlike crowded caravan parks, sites like Cohens Old School Site offer a back-to-basics experience. Here, campers can enjoy the simplicity of pitching a tent under open skies, cooking meals over a campfire and immersing themselves in the serenity of the Australian bush. Visitors can enjoy the peace of the Australian bush, complete with its unique flora and fauna, without the distractions of commercialised camping grounds.

Plenty Of Room For Free Camping Near Penong SA At Cohens Old School Site

What To Expect At Cohens Old School Site

Camping at Cohens Old School Site is an experience that harks back to simpler times. The site features large and flat open spaces suitable for tents, camper trailers and caravans. While facilities are basic (read non-existent) the sense of freedom and connection to nature is just awesome. Visitors must bring their own supplies as the site operates on a self-sufficient basis.

Key features of the site include:

• A rustic, peaceful atmosphere.
• Opportunities for stargazing under the vast outback skies.
• Easy access to nearby walking trails and historical landmarks.

Penong Windmill Museum

Natural Beauty And Wildlife

The region around Cohens Old School Site is a showcase of Australia’s diverse ecosystems, featuring salt lakes that glisten under the sun, vibrant wildflowers in spring and habitats teeming with native wildlife such as emus and kangaroos. From vibrant wildflowers in spring to the unmistakable calls of native birds, the area offers a sensory feast for nature enthusiasts. Kangaroos are frequent visitors and the nearby salt lakes shimmer in the distance, creating a picturesque backdrop for campers.

Activities For Campers

While the simplicity of free camping near Penong SA is a draw in itself, there’s no shortage of activities to enhance your stay. Hiking trails meander through the bush, offering opportunities to explore the local landscape and spot wildlife. History buffs can delve into the site’s past, imagining the lives of students who once walked its grounds. For photographers, the sunsets here are legendary, casting golden hues over the open plains.

Practical Tips For Visitors

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay, campers should keep a few practical tips in mind:

1. Pack Essentials: As a free camping site, Cohens Old School Site lacks the amenities of commercial parks. Bring enough water, food and camping supplies.
2. Respect the Environment: Leave no trace of your visit to preserve the natural beauty and historical significance of the site.
3. Check Weather Conditions: The Eyre Peninsula can experience extreme weather. Stay informed and plan accordingly.

Free Camping Near Penong SA At Cohens Old School Site

Exploring Penong And Beyond

Cohens Old School Site is just the beginning of what the area has to offer. Penong known as the “Town of Windmills” is a short drive away and provides a great look at rural Australian life. Visitors can explore several nearby attractions:

1. Penong Windmill Museum: Marvel at a collection of restored windmills, including the largest working windmill in Australia. Amanda and I absolutely love windmills – in fact we play a roadtrip game called “Windmill”.
2. Cactus Beach: Known for its world class surf breaks it’s a hotspot for surfers and beach enthusiasts.
3. Lake MacDonnell: Famous for its striking pink and blue waters, this natural wonder offers excellent photo opportunities and a surreal landscape to admire.

The Appeal Of Free Camping

In a world increasingly defined by convenience and luxury the beauty of free camping near Penong SA lies in its basic freedom. Sites like Cohens Old School Site allow travelers to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature and history. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe deeply and appreciate the rugged beauty of the Australian outback.

Free Camping Near Penong SA At Cohens Old School Site A Lasting Impression

Whether you’re passing along the Eyre Highway near Penong SA or seeking a longer stay, Cohens Old School Site is a destination worth checking out. Its blend of history, nature and solitude makes it a standout choice for those in search of free camping near Penong SA.

At The Penong Windmill Museum

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions About Free Camping Near Penong SA At Cohens Old School Site