Looks like the end of free camping at Burra Gorge

It does if you copy/paste into your browser. (EO's link-maker truncates long links ...).

"EO's link-maker truncates long links ..."....Only if you paste link directly into post - use the add Link function. It, not surprising, works.

Same link posted using "Link"

ABC Article

Cheers
Greg

I think Red Banks CP may be free due to benign neglect :). There is Caroona Creek CP just North of there, which also has free camping, and it is not even listed on the Parks SA web-site.

The trend of national park fees is up, so I think it is likely that a new park will have fees.

And I don't mind that. But $31/night at Mambray Creek Campground, for example, is a bit too steep, I think.

We are National Park volunteers through Friends of the Great Victoria Desert and Friends of the Simpson Desert Parks, so we pay no normal Park fees anywhere in SA.
What goes around comes around.
Cheers,
Peter
OKA196 motorhome

He seems to be reading between the lines which are rather thin and lack substance.

I camped there earlier this year (on a through trip to NSW) twice. Both times were extremely crowded by the early evening (people just kept arriving). There were a number of (verbal) altercations when late comers set up directly in front of others who had been there for hours (at least two of these situations were the result of ridiculous actions- people setting up on thin strips only a meter or so in front of others).

I've also camped there a few times where it was a pleasant and peaceful place, as well as once when the whole camp had to put up with one group insisting upon all listening to their musical tastes.

Not sure a bit more control via National Parks would be unwelcome at times, though I do agree the fees being charged now (park entry fees + camping costs) are ridiculous.

I would hope some more focus on the indigenous background of the area will be highlighted.

Cheers,

Mark

That land has always been owned by pastoralists and always open to the public.

We used to go swimming there as young kids over 50 years ago and back then no fences and you had access to the large pool and deep water.

Then over the decades as the word got out how special the area was, fences were erected and access to the large pool was made out of bounds and more and more restrictions.

It is not unusual for resource companies to buy pastoral properties where they have an interest. Makes life easier for them. And they may lease it back to the original owner, sometimes at a peppercorn rent.

As far as reducing access and the donation of the land to Parks is concerned, this is a glass half full or glass half empty issue.
The previous owners could have closed it completely to reduce their public liability risks. The new owners could have done the same. They didn't and they should be praised for that, instead of being criticised.

Like Stephen, I visited regularly from about 60 years ago. Last time was about 5 years ago and it is unlikely we would return, preferring some of the lesser known spots.
Cheers,
Peter
OKA196 motorhome

Well spotted Mark, will definitely improve amenities for all.