Camping at Fraser

[Townie]

Hi everyone, I'm planning to take my 3 boys to Fraser later this year (around mid year) and would like some advice on where to camp and anything I need to plan for eg. permits etc.
As I understand it I'll need a beach permit (~$35), camping fees (~$90 depending where we stay) and barge fees (~$80 return). I realise there are a few camping areas there but interested to know people's preferences and why. I can chase up availability and facilities but wanting heads-up on people's experiences there.
Consideer that I will be travelling with 3 sons 11 to 16 yrs old. Possibly a mate and his family coming too (wife n son 11).
Plan so far is to stay 5 nights or thereabouts and camp in tents. Both parties competent sand driving with sound 4x4 vehicles and experienced campers.
School holidays is about the only time we can get there, some fishing, exploring and sight-seeing.
Opinions greatly appreciated :)
Thanks in anticipation,
Paul.

[TheRealAndy]

Plan to book exactly 3 months in advance for school holidays. The place fills up quick and EPA only let you book 3 months in advance.

If you are after comfort camping like hot showers and toilets etc. Then there are three good spots, Dundubara, Central Station and Waddy Point. These sites are also fenced so no need to worry about dingo's eating your food. In school holidays there are rangers permantly in these campgrounds too, so the will give you the speil about dingo's etc. My faves are Waddy point and Central Station. Personally I reckon Central Station is the go for first timers to fraser because there is som much to explore on the southern end of the island. Central is in the middle of a rainforest and is about half hour from the beach.

The beach camping on the eastern side is also good. There is nothing like waking up right on the ocean. You do have to be careful when it comes to dingoes though, as they will rip through your site to find food. When I beach camp I always keep all my food and rubbish in the car.

[Cheech]

Beach camping is the go. Last time there we set up at Cathedral beach, about 2k north of the shop. It is a bit of a hike up there, but you get less car traffic.