Camping near Adelaide: top spots for a holiday
Camping is such a great family experience. You don't have to be a Leyland Brother loaded up with expensive equipment to do it either. You don't need a 4WD, you don't need a lot of money, you don't need a lot of time you just need to make the decision to do it!
Next step is to make sure you've got your camping "essentials". I wrote a post last year about camping with kids, and the things we recommend you take. You can read it here.
And then, you need to work out where to go. Of course South Australia is FULL of amazing places to go camping. From the beautiful coastline of the Yorke Peninsula to the rugged outback of the Flinders Ranges, but if you don't have enough time to venture out that far we've put together a list of spots for camping near Adelaide, within 2 hours drive, that you can try these school holidays. Just make sure you check for availability before you go.
Woodhouse Adventure Park
Camping is open to the public at Woodhouse Adventure Park. Less than 30 minutes up the freeway, Woodhouse provides a safe and convenient space for the experienced camper, or those just starting out.
There are numerous un-powered camping areas, complete with shared campfire circles (seasonal use) and adjacent Basecamps which have been fitted with deluxe creature comforts including toilets, hot showers, hand dryers, vanity mirrors and power points for your hairdryer.
Plus, your camping fee also includes access to the awesome onsite activities including an obstacle course, giant maze, tube slides, bouldering challenge and disc golf!
Caravans, campervans and camper trailers all welcome!
Deep Creek National Park (around 90 mins from Adelaide)
For a proper bush camping adventure, Deep Creek National Park is hard to beat.
Just over an hour from Adelaide, you’ll find peaceful campsites tucked into the bush, spectacular coastal views and plenty of trails to explore.
For a great family camping escape, our picks are Stringybark Campground, Trig Campground, Tapanappa Ridge and Cobbler Hill. Each spot offers something a little different, but all give you that brilliant switch-off-from-the-world feeling that makes camping at Deep Creek so good.
Why we love it: Bush camping, amazing scenery and plenty of walking and exploring right on your doorstep.
www.parks.sa.gov.au/parks/deep-creek-national-park
image credit @acquiredaesthetics
BIG4 The Bend Holiday Park Tailem Bend (around 75 mins from Adelaide)
Looking for a camping trip with a little more going on? BIG4 The Bend Holiday Park at Tailem Bend is a great option for families wanting to combine camping with all the attractions of the Murraylands.
The park is close to The Bend Motorsport Park, while the Murray River and Tailem Bend township are also nearby. It’s a handy base for a weekend away and gives families the option of bringing the caravan, camper trailer or staying in accommodation.
Why we love it: A great combination of camping, the Murray River and one of SA’s biggest motorsport attractions.
Marion Holiday Park - 20 minutes from Adelaide CBD
This is the best 'staycation' in Adelaide in our opinion!
Marion Holiday Park really does have it all - great camping sites if you want to go in the caravan or tent plus TONS of different cabin and villa options. You won't need to leave the park, as it has everything you and the kids will ever need including a pool, waterpark, playground, jumping pillow, cafe, outdoor cinema, games room and even bowling lanes!
Mount Crawford Forest (around 60 mins from Adelaide)
If you’re looking for a proper bush camping experience without driving for hours, Mount Crawford Forest is a great option. Surrounded by native forest, there are several camping areas to choose from, making it a fantastic spot for families who want to get away from the city and enjoy a quieter weekend outdoors.
There’s plenty to explore during the day, with bushwalking, cycling, wildlife spotting and exploring the surrounding forest. It’s particularly beautiful in winter when the forest is green and cool.
Why we love it: A genuine bush camping experience that’s still close enough to Adelaide for an easy weekend escape.
(image chalks campground. credit ForestrySA)
Woodhouse Adventure Park
Camping is open to the public at Woodhouse Adventure Park. Less than 30 minutes up the freeway, Woodhouse provides a safe and convenient space for the experienced camper, or those just starting out.
There are numerous un-powered camping areas, complete with shared campfire circles (seasonal use) and adjacent Basecamps which have been fitted with deluxe creature comforts including toilets, hot showers, hand dryers, vanity mirrors and power points for your hairdryer.
Plus, your camping fee also includes access to the awesome onsite activities including an obstacle course, giant maze, tube slides, bouldering challenge and disc golf!
Caravans, campervans and camper trailers all welcome!
Deep Creek National Park (around 90 mins from Adelaide)
For a proper bush camping adventure, Deep Creek National Park is hard to beat.
Just over an hour from Adelaide, you’ll find peaceful campsites tucked into the bush, spectacular coastal views and plenty of trails to explore.
For a great family camping escape, our picks are Stringybark Campground, Trig Campground, Tapanappa Ridge and Cobbler Hill. Each spot offers something a little different, but all give you that brilliant switch-off-from-the-world feeling that makes camping at Deep Creek so good.
Why we love it: Bush camping, amazing scenery and plenty of walking and exploring right on your doorstep.
www.parks.sa.gov.au/parks/deep-creek-national-park
image credit @acquiredaesthetics
BIG4 The Bend Holiday Park Tailem Bend (around 75 mins from Adelaide)
Looking for a camping trip with a little more going on? BIG4 The Bend Holiday Park at Tailem Bend is a great option for families wanting to combine camping with all the attractions of the Murraylands.
The park is close to The Bend Motorsport Park, while the Murray River and Tailem Bend township are also nearby. It’s a handy base for a weekend away and gives families the option of bringing the caravan, camper trailer or staying in accommodation.
Why we love it: A great combination of camping, the Murray River and one of SA’s biggest motorsport attractions.
Marion Holiday Park - 20 minutes from Adelaide CBD
This is the best 'staycation' in Adelaide in our opinion!
Marion Holiday Park really does have it all - great camping sites if you want to go in the caravan or tent plus TONS of different cabin and villa options. You won't need to leave the park, as it has everything you and the kids will ever need including a pool, waterpark, playground, jumping pillow, cafe, outdoor cinema, games room and even bowling lanes!
Newland Head Conservation Park (Waitpinga Campground) – 70 minutes from Adelaide
Located on the southern coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula, a popular spot for surfing, fishing, hiking and camping. A short walk to the beach from the campground, there are 15 unpowered sites available. Toilets and a large communal gas barbecue area are provided.
Unpowered site fees are nice & affordable and you can book online here!
Image credit @adamburkephoto
Brownhill Creek Caravan Park – only 7kms from Adelaide CBD (you could basically walk there)
This one is only 7kms/20mins from CBD. Set on 25 acres in Mitcham. There are powered sites and grassed camping/unpowered sites. And you can even stay in a cabin if you chicken out of tenting. Powered and unpowered sites available.
There is a playground, pool and cafe on site!
Visit their website here
Kuitpo Forest (Chookarloo) – 45 minutes from Adelaide
The beautiful Kuitpo Forest, located a stones throw from Meadows and McLaren Vale, a fave spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether it be for the camping or hiking trails, there will be something here for everyone. Located 1.5 km north of the Kuitpo Forest Information Centre with access from Brookman Road via Fire Gate CK1 you will find the main camping area here at Kuitpo, Chookarloo Campground and Picnic Area.
Visit their website by clicking here for all the info about camping.
While you are there, make sure you book a time to have a climb at TreeClimb Kuitpo Forest!
Discovery Parks Hahndorf (around 30 mins from Adelaide)
A great base for exploring the Adelaide Hills with powered and unpowered sites for tents, camper trailers and caravans, plus plenty of space to relax after a day exploring. Think fresh country air, easy access to local wineries, farm gates and family attractions, and the convenience of being just a short drive from Adelaide. Pack the tent, grab the kids and make a weekend of it!
Roonka Riverfront Camping, Blanchetown (around 100 mins from Adelaide)
For a classic Murray River camping experience, Roonka is well worth knowing about. Located right on the Murray, it’s a great destination for families who love getting out on the water, fishing and enjoying a slower-paced weekend.
Bring the boat, kayak or fishing rods and make the most of the river. Traditional campers can pitch a tent under the stars. There are also powered and unpowered sites for caravans and motorhomes, glamping bell tents set up and ready to go. No matter where you stay, you will have access to camp kitchens, BBQs, hot showers, and all the facilities you need, plus the billabong, trails, and outdoor fun right on your doorstep. Adventure, comfort, and nature tick all the boxes.
Why we love it: Riverfront camping with plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating and relaxing by the water.
Adelaide Hills 4WD Park
Located in Callington, around an hour from the CBD The grounds at are filled with beautifully maintained sites with the Billabong being our personal favourite. Undercover BBQ facilities, 6 playgrounds, a flowing creek and Billabong to explore and 4WD tracks for the beginner to the expert level, grab the kids and get back to nature at Adelaide Hills 4WD Park!
Levi Adelaide Holiday Park – 4kms from Adelaide
It doesn't get much closer than this! Levi Adelaide Holiday Park is perfect if you have an event on in the city but you don't want to stay in the CBD, or if you want to play tourist in your own town.
Swim in the pool, take a walk along Linear Park, let the kids play on the playground.... they have cabins and campsites for all group types and are pet friendly!
Rapid Bay (90 mins from Adelaide)
One of our favourite drives with the kids is to cruise the fabulous coastline along our world famous Fleurieu Peninsula, exploring the little towns and hidden beaches along the way. A really pretty inlet with an unpowered campground located right near the beach with toilets and COLD showers (be warned) A great spot for fishing, swimming and diving.
image credit: @rosievh19
Newland Head Conservation Park (Waitpinga Campground) – 70 minutes from Adelaide
Located on the southern coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula, a popular spot for surfing, fishing, hiking and camping. A short walk to the beach from the campground, there are 15 unpowered sites available. Toilets and a large communal gas barbecue area are provided.
Unpowered site fees are nice & affordable and you can book online here!
Image credit @adamburkephoto
Brownhill Creek Caravan Park – only 7kms from Adelaide CBD (you could basically walk there)
This one is only 7kms/20mins from CBD. Set on 25 acres in Mitcham. There are powered sites and grassed camping/unpowered sites. And you can even stay in a cabin if you chicken out of tenting. Powered and unpowered sites available.
There is a playground, pool and cafe on site!
Visit their website here
Mount Crawford Forest (around 60 mins from Adelaide)
If you’re looking for a proper bush camping experience without driving for hours, Mount Crawford Forest is a great option. Surrounded by native forest, there are several camping areas to choose from, making it a fantastic spot for families who want to get away from the city and enjoy a quieter weekend outdoors.
There’s plenty to explore during the day, with bushwalking, cycling, wildlife spotting and exploring the surrounding forest. It’s particularly beautiful in winter when the forest is green and cool.
Why we love it: A genuine bush camping experience that’s still close enough to Adelaide for an easy weekend escape.
(image chalks campground. credit ForestrySA)
Adelaide Hills 4WD Park
Located in Callington, around an hour from the CBD The grounds at are filled with beautifully maintained sites with the Billabong being our personal favourite. Undercover BBQ facilities, 6 playgrounds, a flowing creek and Billabong to explore and 4WD tracks for the beginner to the expert level, grab the kids and get back to nature at Adelaide Hills 4WD Park!
Roonka Riverfront Camping, Blanchetown (around 100 mins from Adelaide)
For a classic Murray River camping experience, Roonka is well worth knowing about. Located right on the Murray, it’s a great destination for families who love getting out on the water, fishing and enjoying a slower-paced weekend.
Bring the boat, kayak or fishing rods and make the most of the river. Traditional campers can pitch a tent under the stars. There are also powered and unpowered sites for caravans and motorhomes, glamping bell tents set up and ready to go. No matter where you stay, you will have access to camp kitchens, BBQs, hot showers, and all the facilities you need, plus the billabong, trails, and outdoor fun right on your doorstep. Adventure, comfort, and nature tick all the boxes.
Why we love it: Riverfront camping with plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating and relaxing by the water.
Discovery Parks Hahndorf (around 30 mins from Adelaide)
A great base for exploring the Adelaide Hills with powered and unpowered sites for tents, camper trailers and caravans, plus plenty of space to relax after a day exploring. Think fresh country air, easy access to local wineries, farm gates and family attractions, and the convenience of being just a short drive from Adelaide. Pack the tent, grab the kids and make a weekend of it!
Burra Creek Gorge “World’s End Gorge” Camping area – normally a smidge over 2 hours from Adelaide.
Plenty of room and FREE! We’re talking starry starry nights, beautiful sunsets and sunrises, plenty of places to explore, fresh running water. A true camping experience!
More info here
image credit @32_3_window_coupe
Victor Harbor Holiday Park – 60 minutes from Adelaide
This has gotta be one of our favourite holiday parks in SA! There is so much to do, you won't even need to leave the Park!
Kids will love the swimming pools, waterslides, jumping pillow, mini golf, pump track, playground, go-karts, games room and the park is also only a 5 minute walk to the beach.
Victor Harbor Holiday Park – 60 minutes from Adelaide
This has gotta be one of our favourite holiday parks in SA! There is so much to do, you won't even need to leave the Park!
Kids will love the swimming pools, waterslides, jumping pillow, mini golf, pump track, playground, go-karts, games room and the park is also only a 5 minute walk to the beach.
Onkaparinga River National Park (Pink Gum Campground) – 45 minutes from Adelaide
Onkaparinga River National Park, a magnificent national park located on the way to McLaren Vale, offers everything you will need for that quick camping getaway. Location, wildlife, incredible scenery (from rock pools to cliff tops) and hiking trails. Just writing about it makes us want to go back. Pink Gum Campground offers 11 campsites of varying size depending on your group, all with their own fire pit and sitting logs. With your fee you also get access to the modern communal toilet facilities.
For more info visit Parks SA.
image credit @belairlife
Belair National Park Caravan Park – 15 minutes from Adelaide
How lucky are we to have such an incredible spot, right on our cities door step! What a way to spend a weekend. Explore the national park’s beautiful walking trails, let the kids run around on the epic playgrounds or just sit back and relax. With a heap of accommodation options including eco tents and you even have the option to sneak into a cabin if you want to leave the kids outside in the tent!
There is a pool, orienteering, disc golf and more all onsite!
Kuitpo Forest (Chookarloo) – 45 minutes from Adelaide
The beautiful Kuitpo Forest, located a stones throw from Meadows and McLaren Vale, a fave spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether it be for the camping or hiking trails, there will be something here for everyone. Located 1.5 km north of the Kuitpo Forest Information Centre with access from Brookman Road via Fire Gate CK1 you will find the main camping area here at Kuitpo, Chookarloo Campground and Picnic Area.
Visit their website by clicking here for all the info about camping.
While you are there, make sure you book a time to have a climb at TreeClimb Kuitpo Forest!
Onkaparinga River National Park (Pink Gum Campground) – 45 minutes from Adelaide
Onkaparinga River National Park, a magnificent national park located on the way to McLaren Vale, offers everything you will need for that quick camping getaway. Location, wildlife, incredible scenery (from rock pools to cliff tops) and hiking trails. Just writing about it makes us want to go back. Pink Gum Campground offers 11 campsites of varying size depending on your group, all with their own fire pit and sitting logs. With your fee you also get access to the modern communal toilet facilities.
For more info visit Parks SA.
image credit @belairlife
Port BroughtonTourist Park (2 hours from Adelaide)
A must-visit destination for caravanners and campers on the Yorke Peninsula. Port Broughton Tourist Park has drive-thru sites, ensuite sites and powered and unpowered sites available.
The kids will LOVE this park with it's waterslides and splash park, mini golf, pump track, ninja playground and more.
Levi Adelaide Holiday Park – 4kms from Adelaide
It doesn't get much closer than this! Levi Adelaide Holiday Park is perfect if you have an event on in the city but you don't want to stay in the CBD, or if you want to play tourist in your own town.
Swim in the pool, take a walk along Linear Park, let the kids play on the playground.... they have cabins and campsites for all group types and are pet friendly!
Rapid Bay (90 mins from Adelaide)
One of our favourite drives with the kids is to cruise the fabulous coastline along our world famous Fleurieu Peninsula, exploring the little towns and hidden beaches along the way. A really pretty inlet with an unpowered campground located right near the beach with toilets and COLD showers (be warned) A great spot for fishing, swimming and diving.
image credit: @rosievh19
Burra Creek Gorge “World’s End Gorge” Camping area – normally a smidge over 2 hours from Adelaide.
Plenty of room and FREE! We’re talking starry starry nights, beautiful sunsets and sunrises, plenty of places to explore, fresh running water. A true camping experience!
More info here
image credit @32_3_window_coupe
Belair National Park Caravan Park – 15 minutes from Adelaide
How lucky are we to have such an incredible spot, right on our cities door step! What a way to spend a weekend. Explore the national park’s beautiful walking trails, let the kids run around on the epic playgrounds or just sit back and relax. With a heap of accommodation options including eco tents and you even have the option to sneak into a cabin if you want to leave the kids outside in the tent!
There is a pool, orienteering, disc golf and more all onsite!
Port BroughtonTourist Park (2 hours from Adelaide)
A must-visit destination for caravanners and campers on the Yorke Peninsula. Port Broughton Tourist Park has drive-thru sites, ensuite sites and powered and unpowered sites available.
The kids will LOVE this park with it's waterslides and splash park, mini golf, pump track, ninja playground and more.
Brighton Beachfront Holiday Park
Beachfront camping at it's finest. The Brighton Beachfront Holiday Park is just 30 minutes from the CBD tucked away in one of the finest sections of coastline Adelaide has to offer (we think so anyway) Sites are spacious and there are plenty of family friendly amentities included in your site fee.
9 hole Mini golf, a great playground, games room, BBQ facilites and a camp kitchen will keep your family busy and happy during your stay!
Brighton Beachfront Holiday Park
Beachfront camping at it's finest. The Brighton Beachfront Holiday Park is just 30 minutes from the CBD tucked away in one of the finest sections of coastline Adelaide has to offer (we think so anyway) Sites are spacious and there are plenty of family friendly amentities included in your site fee.
9 hole Mini golf, a great playground, games room, BBQ facilites and a camp kitchen will keep your family busy and happy during your stay!
