From cozy nature retreats to rugged lakes near million-year-old landscapes, there’s an outdoor retreat for campers of every kind.
Travellers looking for that true rustic, artistic Australian experience should seek out the best in wildlife, gourmet food, wine and breathtaking Outback scenery. For all that, South Australia is an Australian state worth adding to your travel itinerary.
And if you’re looking to add a camping retreat to your Australian list, here’s the lowdown on how the state includes something for everyone.
For the paradise-seeker
If you’re looking for campgrounds that aren’t far from a stunning beach, hop on the ferry from mainland South Australia to Kangaroo Island. It’s the perfect place to get up close to native wildlife. Enjoy walking along secluded beaches like Vivonne Bay and check out some natural wonders on the island like Remarkable Rocks or Flinders Chase National Park, home to many endangered animal species, brilliant wild flowers and spectacular views over the Southern Ocean. Another great must-see is the Cape Willoughby Heritage Lighthouse, situated at the most eastern part of the island while offering exceptional panoramic views over the coastline.
Where to stay: Vivonne Bay Campground, Emu Bay Campground
For the Glamper
If you’re the camper who also prefers some of the comforts of home and fine wine and food, then camping in the Limestone Coast with its scenic campgrounds with luxurious tents set alongside some of Australia’s famed wineries could be for you. The region is a 500-km drive between two major cities, Adelaide and Melbourne. In addition to being Australia’s top producer of premium red wines (a prime reason guests travel there), the Limestone Coast is known for gourmet foods such as honey, pickled walnuts, lobsters and Wagyu beef. It’s a great spot to eat and buy authentic local food—so you don’t have to worry about roasting marshmallows every day during your stay.
Where to stay: Bellweather Wines Campground, Luxe Camping Mount Gambier
For the Off-The-Beaten Track Voyager
Looking for something different than the usual tent on a campground? There are a variety of parks in Eyre Penninsula region, such as the Gawler Ranges National Park, an ancient landscape with volcanic domes, rugged rock formations, red soil and distinctive crevices that are millions of years old. Wander through its deep gorges or visit The Ranges, commonly known as the “Organ Pipes”. Alternatively, you can camp in an underground dugout (below-ground residences in the Outback created as a way to combat the desert heat) in Coober Pedy. Coober Pedy is an entire town in an isolated area in the Outback that’s entirely underground—definitely an Instagrammable experience!
Where to stay: Gawler Ranges National Park Campground, Ribas Underground Campground
For the Cultural Curious
Camping in outback-ish regions like the Flinders Ranges gets travellers to ancient mountain ranges that span about 100 kilometres. Wilpena Pound in particular is home to the home to Adnyamathanha people, and has been for tens of thousands of years—try a guided bushwalk tour to capture this spectacular area, while also being part of an authentic cultural experience.
Where to stay: Wilpena Pound Resort, Cooinda Campground
Convinced that South Australia should be your next destination? Check out more awesome trips from the region here.
