We usually take easy adventures, like driving to a resort, enjoying luxury, and exploring local spots in our car. But Western Australia’s rugged charm convinced us to try something new. We skipped the resorts and fully embraced Australia for the first time by heading down South in a 4X4 camper.
Taking the Plunge: Our First WA Camping Adventure.
We picked Adventure West 4×4 Rentals because their Ford Ranger campers are well equipped and seemed perfect for WA’s diverse landscapes. We also wanted to experience the true freedom of exploring WA with a 4X4 adventure. Our first stop was meeting their support team. They patiently showed us how to set up the tent and awning and use the cooking gear. They made sure we felt confident before we started our adventure.
Our road trip to Western Australia has begun! Just a reminder, these Rangers run on diesel. I jokingly told my wife as we drove, “Anyone who crashes into us is going to have a problem, not us!” The vehicle felt sturdy and durable, making us feel safe as we hit the road.
We stopped at McDonald’s on the Kwinana Freeway for a bite to eat, then continued driving until we reached our first destination –RAC Busselton Park. The campsite has excellent amenities for the whole family. After parking, we took some time to freshen up and relax before exploring the nearby beautiful Abbey Beach.
Exploring the Coast: Abbey Beach and Margaret River
Abbey Beach is beautiful. It has a wide, sandy shoreline to relax, soak up the sun, or take leisurely walks. The clear water looked inviting, so we had to dip our toes in. It’s a great spot for families, with plenty of open space and picnic areas.
Using our new cooking skills, we made our own “lunner” (lunch + dinner) at the camper. Cooking outdoors always makes food taste better. The kitchen setup in the Ranger was easy to use, and we enjoyed our meal under the stars. Our first real road trip in WA was nothing short of magical.
The next day, we decided to explore the Margaret River Region. First, we visited Rotary Park, which had a playground for our toddler. After letting our little one play, we went to the Old Settlement Museum. This place took us back 100 years and showed us how settlers lived. We were surprised to see familiar tools and household items, similar to those in Kerala, likely influenced by British colonialism. The experience was nostalgic and reminded us of how connected the world can feel, even when you’re thousands of miles away.
Taking Risks: The Boranup Forest Trail
As we embarked on the Boranup Forest Trail, we faced our next challenge—testing the capabilities of the Ford Ranger. We aimed to push the vehicle to its limits and see how it handled the forest’s rugged terrain and dirt roads. Despite the potential risks involved in such an adventure, the Ranger exceeded our expectations, navigating the uneven terrain effortlessly. It tackled rocks and gravel with remarkable ease, allowing us to feel like intrepid explorers as we ventured deep into the forest’s heart.
Ending at Forrest Beach: A Smooth Ride on the Sands
On our last day, we made our way to Forrest Beach, intending to put the Ranger through its paces on the sandy terrain. Having had previous experience with 4WD dune riding in the Middle East, I felt prepared for what lay ahead. The sandy conditions presented no obstacle, and the vehicle effortlessly maneuvered through the dunes, ensuring we didn’t encounter any issues with getting stuck. The Ranger comes with an ARB air compressor making deflating and inflating tyres very easy and quick. We savoured the morning at the beach before reluctantly packing up and embarking on our journey back home.
Conclusion: An Adventure to Remember
Our camping trip in WA with Adventure West 4×4 Rentals Ford Ranger camper was terrific. We had a lot of fun and saw beautiful sights. We also discovered a new appreciation for the outdoors. We learned that the journey itself is just as important as the destination.
We’re already planning our next trip in December, and this time, we’ll go further, stay longer, and embrace even more of the incredible WA outback. Until that day arrives, we’ll continue to daydream about those enchanting red dirt roads and magical starry nights!
