South Australia is home to a range of scenic wonders. From natural hot springs in the desert, breathtaking views of mountain ranges to white sandy beaches, there are plenty of natural sights to take advantage of.
So, if you’re planning your next camping adventure but you’re worried about the cost, then not to fear! We have compiled a list of every free camping site to check out throughout South Australia.
Talia Caves Campground, Eyre Peninsula
If your inner explorer is itching to be free, then you need to check out the Talia Caves Campground. Surrounded by ancient limestone caves, this free camping site offers campers the opportunity to undertake a unique camping experience. At this location, you can set up camp at the edge of the caves and overlook a stunning view of the beaches that surround this area. Along with the chance to discover the caves themselves, you are welcome to rockfish or explore the intricacies of the sandstone cliffs.
Showers/Toilets: None.
Access: 2WD; Caravans (in good weather conditions).
Phone Service: No.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Fishing spots.
Time Limit: None.
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Coorong National Park, Coorong
Coorong National Park is a camper’s wonderland. Lined with saltwater lagoons, Coorong National Park is home to a whole host of outdoor activities such as boating, walking, fishing, bird-watching and more.
You can access Coorong Northern Lagoon by boat, via Murray Mouth. Otherwise, if you are traveling by campervan, you can access the campsite via Meningie and Kingston, turning off the Princes Highway.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: Caravans.
Phone Service: No.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Fishing spots; Kayak/ canoe spots; Picnic tables; Drinking water.
Time Limit: None.
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Innes National Park, Inneston
At Innes National Park, you will be spoiled with magnificent beaches, pristine waters and stunning views. Described as vast and spacious, this campsite will allow you to wander freely and explore to your heart’s content. Even if you prefer to stick close to the campsite, the natural delights that surround the area are a sight in themselves. However, if you are up for a little exploration, this free camping spot has a range of activities to enjoy. For instance, campers are free to head out to the tip of the Yorke Peninsula for some swimming, canoeing and fishing. Alternatively, you can choose to venture out to the Southern Spencer Gulf Marine Park or investigate the remains of the Ethel wreck.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: No.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: BBQ areas; Picnic areas.
Time Limit: None.
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Red Banks Conservation Park, Burra
Located 2 hours north of Adelaide, Red Banks Conservation Park is rich with cultural history. Throughout the area, there are signs from former inhabitants that date back to over 60,000 before it was deemed a conservation park.
At this free camping spot, campers can trek through the “Landscapes of Change” walking trail. Taking approximately two hours to complete, this trail will allow visitors to spot a diverse range of native wildlife, including kangaroos and wombats.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: No.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Picnic areas.
Time Limit: None.
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Murtho Forest Landing, Renmark
Roughly 3 hours east from Adelaide, Murtho Forest Reserve is situated in the heart of the Murray Region. This camping area is sat close to the Victoria border, offering perfect spots to swim and cool-off, boat as well as fish.
Surrounded by towering red gum trees, this campsite is covered with plenty of shade, so you can relax in comfort. Also, if you take a short hike up along the hillside you will enjoy a stunning view of the forest land below.
Showers/Toilets: No.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: No.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Pet-friendly; Boat ramp.
Time Limit: None.
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Hancock’s Lookout, Port Augusta
Located on the edge of Mount Remarkable, Hancock’s Lookout is a great spot for the whole family to enjoy. With a range of wildlife and facilities surrounding the campsite, there is plenty to do. Close to the site, there are many bushwalking trails that are accessible for many different ages and capabilities.
At Hancock’s Lookout, campers can rest in the shade and enjoy a stunning view of the sunset from the high ground of the Yorke Peninsula.
Showers/Toilets: No.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Pet-friendly; Picnic tables; Bins.
Time Limit: None.
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Hookina Ruins Campground
Located just five minutes away from Flinders Ranges, just off the Outback Highway, this free campsite gives you quick and direct access to some amazing lookout points.
From the Razorback Lookout, you can set your sights on the breath-taking burnt red-orange mountains that look absolutely striking during sunset. If you’re looking for fun things to do while staying at Flinders Ranges, there is a nearby airstrip that offers an outstanding view of the vast landscape. Or, you can even take a hike along the Black Gap – Heysen Trail.
Showers/Toilets: No.
Access: Caravans.
Phone Service: No.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Pet-friendly.
Time Limit: None.
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Horrocks Pass Bush Camp
If you’re looking for a free campsite that’s still relatively close to the Flinders Range, but has access to a few more extras, such as phone reception, Horrocks Pass Bush Camp is the go.
It’s located about 1 hour 30 minutes away from Flinders Ranges, but still keeps you close by so you can enjoy the amazing views and awesome activities that Flinders Ranges has to offer.
Showers/Toilets: No.
Access: Caravans.
Phone Service: Yes.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Pet-friendly; Fires permitted.
Time Limit: None.
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Kangaroo Island Free Camping
Kangaroo Island is an absolute must-see for your Big Lap! Skip the paid camping sites and head straight to this great free site that is sure to impress.
Located at Pelican Lagoon, just 35 minutes from Kingscote, this amazing site gives you direct access to the Chapman River for all your fun water sports, such as kayaking and canoeing. It is also close to Vivonne Bay, perfect for a nice dip in the crystal-blue waters.
Showers/Toilets: Yes.
Access: 2WD; Caravans.
Phone Service: No.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Pet-friendly; Access to non-drinking water.
Time Limit: None.
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World’s End Reserve, Burra Gorge Creek
A perfect spot for true nature enthusiasts, this camping ground is close to a number of walking tracks. There is also a vast array of Australian native wildlife to discover on your bush walks. You will see the likes of kangaroos, emus, and native birds. Remember though, don’t harm any native wildlife you come across and observe safely from a distance.
Showers/Toilets: Drop toilets.
Access: 2WD; Caravans; Big rigs.
Phone Service: No.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Picnic tables; Firepits; Bins.
Time Limit: None.
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Hettner Landing, Walker Flat
If you’re looking for a great place to relax with little to no interruption on your Big Lap, then this is the place for you!
Located 107km east of Adelaide and situated on the Murray River, the scenic views are enough to draw you in and make you never want to leave. Camping right next to the Murray River provides access to watersport activities, such as canoeing and kayaking (though there is no equipment to hire, you’ll have to bring your own). You can also swim and fish in the river! For nature enthusiasts, there are a number of native birds that commonly hang around this area, so look for them.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: Caravans; Big rigs.
Phone Service: Yes – patchy service with Telstra only.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Picnic tables; BBQs; Bins; Dump point; Non-potable water.
Time Limit: None.
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Holder Bend Reserve
Located 180km north-east of Adelaide, this campsite is also situated along the Murray River. A boat ramp is available with direct access to the Murray River for all your fishing and watersport needs. You can also do some birdwatching, with over 200 species native to the area.
Showers/Toilets: Toilets.
Access: Caravans; Big rigs.
Phone Service: Yes – patchy service.
Booking Required: No.
Other Amenities: Boat ramp.
Time Limit: 7-day limit.
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