Camping in Australia is a rite of passage for many of us—the crackle of the campfire, the chorus of kookaburras at dawn, and the thrill of sleeping under a blanket of stars.
But as any seasoned camper will tell you, the bush has its own set of rules—and sometimes, it throws a curveball that’ll make your heart skip a beat.
That’s exactly what happened to Jamie, a Sydney local and lifelong outdoorsman, on a recent trip to Turon National Park near Lithgow, New South Wales.
Jamie and his brother, both experienced campers, were setting up their tent in the pouring rain, late at night, when they stumbled upon a tiny but terrifying visitor: a male funnel-web spider.
Now, for those who aren’t familiar, the funnel-web isn’t just any old creepy-crawly. Thanks to its highly toxic, fast-acting venom, it’s widely regarded as the world’s deadliest spider.
And here’s a fun fact (or nightmare fuel, depending on your perspective): in all confirmed fatal funnel-web bites, the culprit has been a male.
These spiders are most commonly found in eastern Australia, especially throughout NSW, and they’re particularly active in wet conditions.
‘We were setting up our camp and my brother spotted it,’ Jamie said. ‘I thought, “holy crap”.’
But, showing the calm of a true bush veteran, Jamie wasn’t fazed. He and his brother have been camping since they were kids and know their spiders.
‘The males are more slender and shiny, while the females are fatter,’ Jamie explained. He reckons the spider was probably a male on the move, looking for a mate.
Despite the deadly reputation of the funnel-web, Jamie decided not to move camp. ‘They’re everywhere in the bush,’ he said. ‘You’ve just got to be aware.’
His advice to fellow campers? ‘Make sure your gear is in the car, don’t leave your shoes out, and check them before you put them on. We made sure we had our swags and tents zipped up and just guided it along to get it out of our camp, and we were fine from there. If you leave them alone, they will leave you alone.’
It’s a good reminder that, while Australia’s wildlife can be intimidating, most creatures are just going about their business. Jamie’s philosophy is simple: respect the bush, and it’ll respect you back.
Why are funnel webs so dangerous?
The Sydney funnel-web spider (Atrax robustus) is infamous for its potent venom, which can cause severe symptoms in humans within minutes.
The venom contains a toxin called atracotoxin, which attacks the nervous system. Before the development of antivenom in 1981, funnel-web bites were often fatal.
Thanks to modern medicine, fatalities are now extremely rare, but a bite is still a medical emergency.
Male funnel-webs are more dangerous than females, partly because they’re more likely to wander into human territory during the warmer, wetter months in search of a mate.
They’re also more likely to deliver a full envenomation when they bite.
How to stay safe while camping
Jamie’s encounter is a timely reminder for all campers, especially as extreme weather events become more common and can drive spiders and other critters out of their burrows. Here are some practical tips to keep you safe on your next adventure:
- Keep your tent zipped up: Always close your tent or swag, even if you’re just stepping away for a minute.
- Store shoes and clothes inside: Don’t leave boots, shoes, or clothing outside overnight. Shake them out before putting them on.
- Choose your campsite wisely: Stick to flat, open ground and avoid setting up near logs, rocks, or dense undergrowth where spiders might hide.
- Be extra cautious in wet weather: Funnel-webs are most active after rain, so be vigilant during and after downpours.
- Don’t panic: If you spot a spider, gently guide it away with a stick or other object. Most spiders, including funnel-webs, aren’t aggressive unless provoked.
Other bush dangers to watch for
Jamie’s trip wasn’t just about spiders. In three days, he and his brother encountered snakes, kangaroos, and a host of invasive species like pigs, wild cats, and goats.
‘Goats are everywhere,’ he laughed. It’s a reminder that the Australian bush is teeming with life—some of it more welcome than others.
What to do if you’re bitten
If you suspect a funnel-web spider has bitten you, don’t wait—treat it as a medical emergency. Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage, keep the affected limb still, and seek immediate medical help. The antivenom is highly effective, but time is of the essence.
Australian resilience and respect for nature
Jamie’s story is a classic example of Australian resilience and respect for the natural world. ‘You don’t have to be scared of them, they’re not out to get you,’ he said. ‘They’re always going to be out there, and just be aware.’
So, next time you’re packing for a camping trip, remember: a little knowledge and a lot of respect go a long way in the great outdoors.
Have you ever had a close encounter with one of Australia’s infamous critters while camping? What’s your best tip for staying safe in the bush? Share your stories and advice in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Also read: Is this ‘selfish’ camping habit ruining your getaway? Australian couple speaks out!
