*Want 15% off stays at this park, or a select handful of other Discovery Parks in South Australia? Look and book via THIS LINK and use code KIDSINADL25 towards the end of your booking. Valid for stays now to Nov 2026, t&c apply*
If you’re looking for a place where the kids drag you out of bed and straight into a kayak, Discovery Parks – Lake Bonney in Barmera is exactly that kind of family getaway. What an absolute Riverland icon for kids. I’d heard all the chatter before; “Lake Bonney this” and “Lake Bonney that” but now I honestly understand what all the fuss is about. Trust me, you’ll want to keep reading and add this awesome holiday and caravan park to your summer plans!
There’s accommodation to suit every budget at Discovery Parks – Lake Bonney. We stayed in a Deluxe 2 Bedroom Lakeview Cabin – sleeps 6. Yes, a little luxurious, but it still had that classic caravan park feel. Bunk beds for the kids, a queen bed that felt like sleeping on a cloud, and all linen and towels supplied, no need to lug it all from home. The shower was one of the best I’ve had anywhere, hot with strong pressure, almost like a back massage… and in a caravan park, no less. There was a TV in the lounge for a little wind-down time, but honestly, most of our time was spent outside, and rightly so.
The water activities here are next-level. We’re talking water bikes (I didn’t even know these existed), canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, pedal boats, and floating trampolines/ pontoon things for the kids to bounce on… we loved it all. I even had a go at 42 and can confirm it’s ridiculously fun. Hiring is straightforward but there’s a $20 cash bond, and each activity has time limits, so it’s worth asking the kids what they want to try first. Paddle boats go for $20 an hour, single canoes $18, double canoes $25, and water bikes $30. The first hire starts at 9:15 in the morning and the last one is 3:45 in the afternoon, and don’t forget life jackets. Safety first, always!
My top tip? Grab a pedal boat for two adults and two kids and head straight for the trampolines, you could happily spend hours out there.
There’s plenty of other fun to keep everyone entertained too. An epic splash park, a sparkling heated swimming pool (with another brand-new one being built while we were there), a playground, pedal carts, a bouncing pillow, a pump track, and a games room. Seriously, the list goes on.
Although our gorgeous cabin had everything we needed, we made the most of the camp kitchen, cooking a BBQ dinner and kicking off the next day with bacon and egg muffins for breakfast. Simple, easy, and totally family-friendly, and we even met some lovely people doing the exact same thing.
The park itself is huge, with heaps of powered sites for caravans and lakeside views that make it easy to see why it books out fast, especially in summer. Even on a slightly overcast day (we had a bit of rain while we were there), there’s still plenty of space to relax by the lake and enjoy a bit of calm while keeping an eye on the kids as they explore. Fishing is another draw, though we didn’t get a chance this trip. Staff were super friendly and helpful, giving great tips on everything from water sports to family-friendly spots to visit around the Riverland.
If you can tear yourself away (though why would you?), there are plenty of nearby options. Mallee Fowl Restaurant is just 15 minutes away and an absolute must for dinner, while Barmera has a handful of closer spots too. For a bit of adventure, there are walking trails, Loveday 4×4 Park, and Monash Adventure Park all within easy reach. Reception stocks basics like ice cream, sunscreen and snacks. If you’re self-catering, there’s a Foodland two minutes down the road, or come prepared. Please note: certain fruit and vegetables can’t be brought into the Riverland, check the SA Government website for current restrictions.
Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a week, Discovery Parks – Lake Bonney is fun, easy, and impossible not to love. We can’t wait to go again! The easy drive from Adelaide will take you around two and a half hours.
(Use code KIDSINADL25 for 15% discount until Nov 2026 t&c apply)
Discovery Parks – Lake Bonney
Location: Lakeside Dr, Barmera SA 5345
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