South Australia is a state of hardy four-wheel drivers and self-sufficient campers – and spectacular campsites. Whether you like camping in the heat of central Australia or the breeze of Bass Strait, our top 5 camping areas in South Australia will have you covered.

Cullyamurra Waterhole

Want to cool down at one of the most spectacular waterholes in the state? Cullyamurra Waterhole is a popular camping destination, and with good reason.

It’s in Innamincka Reserve, which is on the north-eastern border of South Australia. As you can imagine, it gets pretty hot around this area, and Cullyamurra Waterhole and the nearby Coongie Lakes are the only permanent water sources in the area.

While amenities are practically non-existent at the site, that’s all part of the charm. Rock up in your camper trailer or rig, set up camp, throw in a line and just enjoy. While this campsite is 2WD accessible, it’s best to have a 4WD to really explore the region.

Koolamon Camping Area

Flinders Ranges National Park is on the bucket list of every 4WD enthusiast in the country. And after a hard day’s exploring over the ridges and crests of this ancient region, even the hardiest driver will need a place to stop for the night.

While the more luxurious Wilpena Pound Resort draws the most visitors, the low-key Koolamon camping area feels like a home among the gum trees and is where we’d choose to park for the night.

Situated in the majestic Aroona Valley, the campsite is accessible to both 2WD and 4WD vehicles, but is not suitable for caravans. You’ll find toilets and wood fireplaces here, and very little else. Camping is beside a creek among the river red gums.

Memory Cove Camping Area

1. Step one: make sure you have a 4WD.
2. Step two: book a site throughs Parks SA.
3. Step three: collect the key.
4. Step four: turn up and enjoy one of the most spectacular camping areas in South Australia

Found at an isolated beach flanked by granite boulders in Lincoln National Park, Memory Cove camping area has only five sites, limited facilities, and there are fire restrictions.

But if that doesn’t faze you, this unassuming coastal campsite truly is something special.

Shell Beach Camping Area

Calling all self-sufficient campers.

Innes National Park, with its secluded beaches, wealth of activities and limited facilities, could be your camping heaven. Shell Beach camping area is on the park’s elevated north shores. The eight sites are tucked amongst vegetation, which offers some shade. You’ll need to bring basically everything with you as the only facility you’ll find at this camping area is a pit toilet.

The camping area is only a short stroll away from Shell Beach and the neighbouring Dolphin Beach, and you’ll also be in close proximity to all of the reasons people visit Innes National Park – the fishing, surfing, snorkelling and bushwalking.

West Bay Camping Area

While camping at West Bay, it can feel like you are the only human on an island of kangaroos. Welcome to Kangaroo Island.

The campsite is small and basic, and people generally camp here for the swimming, fishing and spectacular views over the water. See if you can spot the shipwrecks just offshore. They are a sobering reminder of just how dangerous this water can be, so stay safe when swimming at this unpatrolled beach.

Good quality tents are your home away from home and a must to really enjoy these wonderful destinations, check out our extensive range at Camping Australia.