As owners of campers and caravans we all want to get the most out of our investment with as many nights camping as our lifestyle permits. As we thirst for those epic trips to iconic destinations that Australia is famous for, we often overlook many hidden gems in our own backyard. Adelaide is fortunate to be a city surrounded by some of the country’s best camping, much of which is within just a few short hours from the city. We’re about to take a closer look at some of the hidden treasures in the way of campsites that are within a comfortable Friday afternoon or Saturday morning drive to a weekend of relaxation and fun activities for the whole family.
Pink Gum Campground, picture by National Parks and Wildlife Service South AustraliaFleurieu Peninsula
Onkaparinga River National Park
A mere 30km from Adelaide you have the Onkaparinga River National Park which is ideally suited for quick weekend getaways even for those on a busy schedule being around a 40 minute drive for many Adelaide residents. Abundant native wildlife give the park a true bush feel with possums, kangaroos, koalas and birds a plenty. For the energetic there are shared use trails for hikers, mountain bikers and even horse riders. Once farmland there are heritage listed huts and ruins dating back to the 1880’s to explore and while you’re out and about, keep an eye out for echidnas and other wildlife. While hiking you can take in the breathtaking views from the clifftops or explore the valley’s permanent rock pools that are brimming with life and the Onkaparinga Gorge is epic.
Nearby just to the west are the wetlands of the Onkaparinga River Recreation Park. Here you can kayak or wander the boardwalks taking in the beauty of the area.
Parks SA Information
Camping Situated at the eastern end of the park, this campground has 11 campsites, including three that are suitable for caravans. The campground features an accessible toilet, washing-up facilities and fire pits for use outside the fire ban season. Most of the campsites are wheelchair accessible, they are on flat ground with a compacted gravel surface. Campsites 1, 2, 10 and 11 are closest to the toilets. The road slopes down to the toilets but is accessible by car. The toilet facilities are wheelchair accessible, with a 900mm door width and a fixed handrail alongside the toilet. Book and pay online where there are campsite descriptions and pictures to help you choose your site. Check out your guide to camping at Onkaparinga River National Park on the Good Living blog for useful insider tips and inspiration.
Photos Parks SA & Walking SA
