If you need a secure, simple and budget-friendly place to spend the night while travelling along Western Australia’s coastline in a motorhome or campervan, the Francis Street RV 24-hour car park in Geraldton is a good choice. The best part is that it is exactly in the middle of town, so if you need anything, everything is close by. This park is one of the most popular free camping spots along the route. Here’s a quick guide to know before you get here.
Who Can Use Francis Street RV Car Park—Understanding the Rules
There are a few clear rules about who can stay at Francis Street RV park. The workers ensure the areas are neat, well kept and ready for the travellers. Which is why the park isn't open for everyone.
Only self-contained and roadworthy vehicles are allowed in the park. It means that your campervan or RV must be able to have its own fresh water supply, toilet and waste storage.
There are a few options about automobiles; like which are accepted in the park. You can carry campers and motorhomes with built-in toilets and showers. Also your caravans must be fully set up with their own facilities.
Fifth wheelers are also allowed if they have all the essentials.
A few rules about the cars which this park does not allow. Cars who have rooftop campers are not allowed. Trailers that don't have their own facilities are not welcomed here. Tents and any kind of ground camping is not simply accepted.
It is important to follow these rules to avoid fines or being asked to leave because the rangers often check the site to make sure everyone is following the rules. These rules keep the free stay area pleasant for all travellers.
How Long Can You Stay at Francis Street RV Car Park
At Francis Street RV Park you can only stay for up to 24 hours, which means it is designed only for short stays. You cannot stay here for more than one night. As it is a 24-hour RV park, it is not meant to be used as a long-term campsite. It only offers travellers a safe place to rest before hitting the road again.
The best thing here? It’s free! You are not asked for permits here. It is a free of cost and stress-free option, which makes it famous with first-time travellers on a budget. Who comes first gets served first.
Facilities at Francis Street RV 24-Hour Car Park
In spite of being a basic no-thrills car park, it features some major amenities, which are of great importance to the RVers. It is a kind of convenient pit stop instead of a full-service campground.
Assigned parking places
About 8 to 9 pre-designated parking areas are specially assigned to the RVs. They can accommodate most standard-size vehicles and the parking, which is important, needs to occur within the lines.
Public Toilets
Convenience toilets will be available nearby. And only self-contained vehicles can be anchored at the car park. These could be closed at night.
Bins
There are waste bins in the park available, where you can dump your waste easily.
Water Taps
This is where you can replenish your fresh water store, a life-essential piece in any road journey.
Mobile Reception
If you require good mobile phone and internet reception, the site has good reception for a variety of providers so it is a decent place to work or watch something online.
Pet-Friendly
Your furry friends are welcome to stay here as well. All you must do is remember to keep them on a lead.
A Few Things to Watch Out for Francis RV Park
The Francis Street RV 24-Hour Car Park is an excellent free facility, but nevertheless there are some critical things to look out for:
A very good free facility is the Francis Street RV 24-Hour Car Park, though there are things to watch out:
Community responsibility
These free stays are preferably reviewed on a regular basis by the local council. Keep the place clean and follow all regulations and be considerate so this fantastic facility is available to other travellers in the future also.
Weather considerations
Geraldton could be breezy particularly in the summer afternoon. Put valuables under lock and leave outside valuables and cheerfully plan outside but watch weather conditions.
Parking requirements
Parking of Vs should be facing forward in or in marked bays. You would be required to follow the given parking plan in order to avert non-compliance issues.
Site condition
The ground is flat, smooth and well-kept. This is a consideration to make when deciding on where to park especially, during summer.
Power planning
You have to bring your own source of power because no mains power is available. Be sure to schedule your use of the battery or carry portable power.
Because of no power hookups available, travellers can use solar panels or portable power stations. Quiet, compact units like the BLUETTI Apex 300 or AC200L will keep your fridge, lights and devices running overnight without disturbing the neighbours. They’re perfect here where generator use isn’t allowed.
BLUETTI Apex 300 – Compact Power for Short RV Stays
The BLUETTI Apex 300 RV power solution brings reliable, plug-and-play power to any RV. Six AC outlets and a versatile DC panel run everything from air conditioners and ovens to Starlink, fridges, and lights. With its built-in TT-30 port, it also works as mobile shore power for the whole your RV.
For extended off-grid travel, pair it with the DC Hub for seamless 12V/50A integration, delivering up to 700W DC output across your RV. Silent, emission-free, and expandable, the Apex 300 ensures comfort and energy independence wherever the road takes you.
BLUETTI AC200L: Offering the Adventure to Go More Places
The BLUETTI AC200L is the dream to have off-grid power for full-time vloggers or families with greater power needs. This 2048 Wh capacity unit has enough power to drive laptops during remote working hours, induction cookers with gourmet camp meals, coffee machines during In morning routines, and even some smaller appliances such as blenders or hair dryers.
When paired with portable solar panels the AC200L is a complete off-grid power system perfect for longer stays at bush camping sites or multi-day travelling expeditions. The advanced battery management system ensures long-term reliability and the LCD shows real-time power consumption and remaining capacity.
What’s in the Neighbourhood of Francis Street RV Car Park
One of the best things about the Francis Street Car Park is its location. Everything you need is within walking distance so you can park and leave your vehicle and explore the city on foot.
Food and Supplies: The park has access to food supplies just a short walk away. You'll find many takeaways, cafes and major supermarkets like IGA and Big W near it. The park’s location is ideal for stocking up on groceries or grabbing a quick meal.
Recreation points: A lot of beautiful Geraldton foreshore and beach points are easily accessible through this park. Great for a stretch of the legs, to enjoy the views, or to take a swim.
Essential Services: Within a short drive you can find fuel stations and a laundrette so you can fill up your vehicle and do some washing before you continue on your journey.
Things to Consider Before Staying at A RV Car Park
The first thing is to check the legality of the area. They must have official sources. You are staying with your luggage in a camper van or a motorhome, you need to check the security of the area for that. Francis car park is totally a safe place to stay.
Also, check the park’s facilities and amenities. Because you may require a lot of things while you are on your adventure. Not all parks accept every type of camper van or motorhome so this must also be considered while searching for a park to stay.
Vehicle size and space is also an important factor when checking for your stay at a RV park. Some parks do not allow you to stay at nights, so check before your stay.
It is a plus point if a park offers you a disposal dump option for your waste. So this is another thing you need to consider. Always respect the park’s rules and practices if you want to get a space there.
FAQs
Does the Francis Street RV 24-Hour Car Park actually offer free parking?
Yes, it's free as long as you don't stay more than 24 hours and your RV meets the rules.
Is there always access to drinkable water?
Yes, you can get water just double-check it before filling your tanks
Are generators allowed?
No, generators aren't allowed here.
Can I make a reservation in advance?
No reservation - First-come, first-served.
Are any kind of dogs permitted?
Dogs are allowed, they must be well trained and under control.
