Open sites are the most common site in all areas except the coastal fringe and regions like the Sydney Basin where numerous rock shelters were used. Undoubtedly there are campsites in these areas, but dense vegetation makes them hard to see. Open sites can be found on riverbanks, plains, hillsides, crests, ridges and saddles. They are usually in a reasonably level position near fresh water. Places with many resources, such as river margins generally have more open sites than places with fewer resources.
Open sites are difficult to detect as they can be large and scattered.
They may also be buried by deposits which can reach a metre or so in depth. Vegetation may be growing over the site or it may be obscured by leaf litter. All Aboriginal sites are significant to Aboriginal people because they are evidence of the past Aboriginal occupation of Australia and are valued as a link with their traditional culture. They also have a scientific significance and can provide information about stone technology. Undisturbed open sites can be excavated to reveal hearths containing charcoal which can be used to date the commencement of Aboriginal occupation of a site and its environment.