There’s nothing quite like toasting marshmallows around a campfire under a brilliant blanket of stars, then waking the next morning to a chorus of birdlife. Whether you want escape into a secluded campsite, or enjoy the comfort of a well-appointed caravan park, the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong region has numerous options for couples and families. Many sites are close to town with easy access to shops, restaurants and facilities; others are in natural bush settings with river frontage and a full range of activities. Some towns even offer free camping reserves with basic facilities.
Responsible Camping - take only photos, leave only footprints.
Some simple tips while camping in our beautiful region:
Leave it as you found it
If fires are permitted, please bring your own fire wood – please don’t damage local vegetation
Take your rubbish with you (if no bins are provided)
Protect Native Wildlife
Be considerate of others
If you end up at a free campsite near a small town, then it’s a nice idea to support local businesses by buying a few essentials, lunches or even just a beer before you leave! Don’t forget to give them a tag or a shout out on social media to boost tourism and support local businesses.
Fire Danger Season // When travelling in the regions, please ensure you're aware of the fire danger seasons and the restrictions applied on daily fire danger ratings, including othwer warnings issued by other emergency authorities. Find more info via cfs.sa.gov.au or phone the Information Hotline on 1800 362 361.
The Coonalpyn Caravan Park (also known as the Coonalpyn Soldiers Memorial Caravan Park) is a perfect spot for travellers to rest while on the busy Adelaide to Melbourne touring route.
Set amongst park like settings with ample shade the Coonalpyn Caravan Park offers a welcome rest for the weary traveller. During the warmer months travelers can cool down by taking advantage of the community swimming pool situated next door.
Within walking distance visitors can discover the spectacular silos (which were painted by renowned artist Guido van Helten in February 2017) and the Coonalpyn Arts Trail. Country hospitality is around the corner and at it’s best with good old fashioned service at the local hotel, bakery, coffee shop and quirky roadside waffle and jaffle shop.
The Caravan Park is also pet and RV friendly and offers discounts to CMCA Members wishing to utilize the unpowered sites.
Families travelling can keep the kids active and entertained in the neighboring park like surrounds which contains a playground with a 'Hoopinator', a BMX Track, seasonal swimming pool, BBQ
Park Features: 22 powered sites 20+ unpowered sites Ample shade Amenities Disabled Toilets Dump Point RV Friendly Pet Friendly CMCA Dollar Wise Park Cash only
Visit websiteNestled in the heart of the Mallee, with its serene location and proximity to popular regions including the Riverland and Murraylands, the Karoonda Tourist Park is the ideal destination for a stopover or short stay .
The park, managed by the District Council of Karoonda East Murray offers 2 modern Jayco Cabins, 1 eco cabin (completely solar and battery powered) and 12 powered sites. The park boasts a lovely lawned area amongst big gum trees, bathroom amenities block, with a brand new camp kitchen coming in early 2022!
It's also home to the national award winning Karoonda Silo Art, where you can experience Day and Night - Paint By Day and Permanent Projection by night!
Visit websiteKarte Conservation Park comprises of thick, low scrub covering steep sand dunes which rise up to 40 metres.
Picnic areas and campsites are located near the start of the trail and provide an opportunity to enjoy the park's vast expanse of wilderness. You may even encounter western grey kangaroos, echidnas or fat-tailed dunnarts.
There are three campsites available. Camping fees apply and permits must be purchased prior to arrival.
Campground features: - partial shade and protection from wind at some sites - access for 2WD and 4WD - suitable for tents, and selected sites are suitable for camper trailers and caravans. - facilities: long-drop toilets and picnic area - campfires allowed (seasonal fire restrictions apply)
Visit websiteAn Ideal location from which to explor the unique and ecologically rich ecosystems and 4WD tracks of SA's Mallee Parks.
Features: –Clean Amenities & Laundry –Camp Kitchen –Shady sites –Rain water –Roadhouse with petrol & take away food nearby –Swimming pool adjacent –Animal Park adjacent –Close to tennis court, lawn bowls, pubs, shops etc –Sites for large vehicles - please advise when booking –Pets allowed on leash