The number of free campers at popular spots in Crescent Head over the holidays has improved compared to recent years, but locals say it's still an issue.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The main areas of concern for free campers and illegal parking is the foreshore carpark, Willow Street carpark, Rankine Street and at Big Hill carpark.
Crescent Head resident Gail Ryan said the issue has improved from last year's holiday period.
"I've noticed that it has been a lot quieter this year, there hasn't been much surf and the drought and fires may have had an impact on people holidaying here," Gail said.
"There has still been illegal parking and free campers, but in the main carparks, there has been less numbers than previous years.
"Feedback we have received is that rangers have been moving people on," Gail said.
"We just want to work with council on this issue and if they have employed more rangers then that's great."
While numbers of free campers have reduced in the main carparks around the village, in a letter to the Argus, one resident wrote the campers have just moved sites to more residential areas.
"It appears to me that now an active ranger has been employed to patrol the no overnight camping on the foreshore, campers are migrating into residential areas of the village. Namely, one area opposite my home," they wrote.
Posts on Facebook regarding free campers have also been mixed this year, with some locals commenting "where's the ranger?" on a photo of campers parked at Big Hill on one Facebook page, while a post on a separate page has praised the council ranger for moving free campers along.
In a statement released by Kempsey Shire Council, they said having more rangers over the holiday period has helped ease the number of people setting up unathorised camp sites at Crescent Head.
Council's manager development and compliance, Graham Snow, said rangers have been actively patrolling the Macleay's holiday spots.
"In 2019, council was able to employ two more rangers, leading to an increase in resources and capability, particularly during the summer holiday periods," he said.
