Osprey Bay Campsite

Osprey Bay is a medium-sized campground located beside the Osprey Sanctuary Zone of Ningaloo Marine Park. The shoreline forms part of a special purpose zone where shore-based fishing is allowed. The site also provides 4WD access for launching small boats and kayaks from the beach.

Osprey Bay Campsite is one of the standout campgrounds on the Ningaloo coast, with big, well-spaced sites right by the water, spotless long-drop toilets, and unreal snorkelling straight off the beach. It’s off grid (bring drinking and shower water), can be windy with little shade, and dogs aren’t allowed (national park rules).

Overview

  • Online bookings are essential and must be made in advance
  • Each booking covers one site only – no shared bookings for groups
  • Bookings can be made:
    • Up to 180 days in advance
    • On the day of arrival, subject to availability and internet access
  • Stay duration limits:
    • 14 nights if any part of your stay overlaps with WA school holidays
    • 28 nights at other times
  • Education providers, tour operators, or event organisers must contact Milyering Discovery Centre for approval

Video Guide

Video courtesy of Donna Buckingham

Interactive Satellite Map

Why Stay at Osprey Bay?

  • Scenic beachside campground with access to both fishing and marine sanctuary zones
  • Ideal for kayaking, boating, and wildlife viewing
  • More spacious than smaller sites, with a mix of quiet and generator-friendly areas

What Visitors Say About Osprey Bay Campsite

People consistently describe Osprey Bay as one of the best campsites in WA, mainly because the reef is right there. Reviews mention crystal-clear water and easy snorkelling with lots to see: turtles are the big headline, plus colourful fish, starfish, stingrays, coral and the occasional reef shark if you’re lucky. A few mention a kayak trail that leads to great coral, and there’s also a spot to launch a small boat or tinny.

The campground itself gets strong praise for how it’s run. Multiple visitors call out:

  • large, clean, level sites with good spacing
  • long-drop toilets that are modern, cleaned daily, and notably “no smell”
  • helpful volunteer camp hosts and a tidy, well-organised feel
  • picnic tables near the foreshore overlooking the bay

It’s a proper off-grid stay though. People note there are no showers and you need to bring your own water for drinking and washing. Mobile reception is limited or patchy, which many see as part of the appeal.

The main practical downside mentioned is exposure: there’s very little shade and wind can rip through, so securing awnings properly is a must. A couple of campers also recommend drill-in pegs because the ground can be hard. If you’re choosing a site, some suggest the front row for ocean views, while others note the back row is still excellent.

Overall: if the goal is reef time from camp, space between sites, and clean facilities with minimal fuss, Osprey Bay comes up as a favourite again and again.

Osprey Bay Campsite Map – Cape Range National Park

Osprey Bay Campsite Map Cape Range National Park

Site Details

Campsites

  • 46 unpowered campsites spread across two sections
  • Compacted gravel surface
  • Generator use is permitted only in the northern area (check campsite info when booking)
  • Sites vary in size and proximity to the beach – consult the map before booking

Facilities

  • No-flush pit toilets
  • Picnic tables and benches (some sites have shelters, others are unsheltered)
  • No drinking water or hygiene facilities available
  • No bins – all rubbish must be carried out
  • Milyering Visitor Centre (9am–3.45pm daily, closed Christmas) is on the way from Exmouth

Campground Rules

  • Campfires are not allowed at any time
  • Pets and other domestic animals are not permitted
  • Generators:
    • Allowed only at designated sites between 8am and 9pm
    • Check your selected site before booking if generator use is needed
  • Do not dispose of toilet waste in campground facilities – carry it out for proper disposal at a designated dump point

Fees

  • A per-person camping fee applies
  • A per-vehicle park entry fee also applies (trailers and camper trailers excluded)
  • All fees are payable online by Mastercard or VISA
  • No booking fee
  • Cancellation or booking change fees may apply, particularly during peak periods:
    • 4–19 July
    • 26 September – 11 October

Access and Location

  • 77 km from Exmouth via Murat Road and Yardie Creek Road
  • The site is accessible to 2WD vehicles in dry conditions, but roads may vary – always check before travelling
  • Refer to Main Roads WA Travel Map for current access info

Safety and Preparation

  • No water, power, or emergency facilities at the campground
  • Prepare for:
    • Extreme heat from December to April
    • Tropical cyclone season (November–April)
    • Storms between May and October
  • Bring:
    • Drinking water, food, fuel, medications, and first aid
    • Weather-appropriate clothing and shelter
  • Check Emergency WA for fire danger ratings and alerts before travelling

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