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– The Principality of Hutt River –

Have you ever wanted to meet royalty? Well this is your chance! 😉 

The Principality of Hutt River (PHR) is a micro-nation right here in Australia. Approximately 1 hour 15 minute south of Geraldton and 55 minute north of Kalbarri. 

Founded in 1970 by H.R.H Prince Leonard. Leonard decided to turn his farmland in to his kingdom when a dispute with the government took place. This was over wheat production quotas.

H.R.H Leonard abdicated after 47 years, in February 2017 age 91. His youngest son H.R.H Prince Graham is now sovereign of PHR.

We were greeted by Prince Graham on our arrival. Giving us a tour of each building as he does with every visitor. He talked a lot about Leonard and his late mother. Also talking about the friendly connections they have in other country’s. One of whom designed their flag. Graham was very generous with his time and is happy to answer questions.

Tiny town

The Principality of Hut River has it’s own Government building/Post office.

Included in this building is the passport office. Get your passport stamped as you have entered another country. Otherwise if you don’t have your passport they can give you one for $4. After all not to many people in the world will have that stamp in their passports.

Additionally this building also houses heaps of memorabilia. For the most part gifts bestowed from others, by and large from abroad . However many photos and paperwork are part of Hutt Rivers history. 

Just as interesting is a non-denominational Church. Some great art work adorns the walls. You don’t have to be of religious orientation to appreciate the works. Aside from these you will find many other pieces of art displayed around the place. One of the royal family is a great artist and had drawn some lovely bird. As a result these were used for their stamps. 

An arcade housing a gift shop and memorabilia is opposite. In addition to  historical displays. 

H.R.H Graham pointed out a beautiful carved tea table that you pour tea on and it cascades down in to a cup. This is one of the many gifts they have received from other countries.

I asked about the royal passports as one was in a glass cabinet. They are classed as Diplomats as stated on the passport.

Price Graham mentioned the Leonard was once going through customs in another country. A guard with a gun gestured to him to follow him. Leonard was very concerned as they had a gun and didn’t speak English. The guard took him to the VIP lounge as he had Diplomat on his passport 😀

The Camp

All things considered, I don’t think you come here for the campsite itself. You come for the quirkiness of the place and the royalty. 

As you drive through the gates in to the Principality of Hutt River you pass Government buildings. As well as some farm buildings and equipment. Reminding you that this is a working farm.

To begin with the camp is basic but large. Offering some clean toilets and a shower.

A basic camp kitchen consists of sink, tables, chairs and BBQ. Next to this is a large fire pit for those cool nights.

Three old retro caravans are parked in the centre, almost like a quirky piece of art sculpture. However, maybe they are just old vans that have not been moved 😉

Parking spaces are large and there is a grass area. For this reason it’s a place you can stay whether you’re in a tent or a large motorhome.

The camp may not be the prettiest but for $5 pp it’s quiet and has some lovely sky’s above.

Trips to surrounding areas

Geraldton (1hr 15min drive)

Check out the islands or stroll along the foreshore. See the Gaol, the Lighthouse or the heritage Trails. Many shops to see, kids play areas and art down alleyways.

Kalbarri (55 minute drive)

You may see dolphins and humpback whales, Take some pictures at the Natural Bridge rock forms. Relax in one of the cafe’s opposite the stunning blue water.

Port Gregory (50 minute drive)

Go ocean Fishing or swimming in the protected natural harbour. Or check out the Pink Lake.

To summarize, despite it’s basic camp and run down appearance. The principality of Hutt River is worth a visit. Choose to come for a look around and drive on or camp for a night or two. But you should tick “visit a micro-nation” off your list, even if it wasn’t on it 😉

We all want to be king of our castle, and they are! Good on them!

• Location : The principality of Hutt River
• Click for Google map location
• State: Western Australia
• Pets: Yes
• Camp type : Basic
• Price : $5 per person – per night
• Water ? : Yes – If you ask they can help you
• Power ? : No
• Will suit: All sized vehicles
• Is it on Wikicamps ?: Yes
• Drive time to nearby shops: Maybe 50 minutes to Port Gregory
• WIFI (tested with boost): No
• Amenities : Toilets, Shower
• Other : Firepit, Camp Kitchen, Meet royalty, History,  Night Sky’s are lovely, 3km graded dirt road to get in there