South Australia's diverse landscape and Mediterranean climate make it a popular tourist destination, but visitors don't need to shell out thousands of dollars for accommodation that offers panoramic views and an abundance of amenities. Instead, camping is an ideal way to get up close and personal with everything that's on offer, from beaches and crater lakes, to lush wine country and arid outback vistas – all for under $40 per night for two adults.
To make the most of the ever-changing scenery, hire a car in Adelaide, pack your tent and enjoy the scenic drive to one of these great campgrounds.
1. Discovery Parks – Barossa Valley
Just over an hour from Adelaide is the Barossa Valley, Australia's most renowned wine region. Home to over 150 wineries, the area is known for producing award-winning Shiraz, and every two years, a week-long festival is held to celebrate the thriving industry, the next of which is in April 2019.
Jan 23, 2018 at 1:18am PST
Barossa Valley is an ideal destination for those who appreciate good food and wine, but if you're watching your wallet you can save a bit of money on accommodation by staying at Discovery Parks – Barossa Valley. This well-equipped campground has around 150 powered sites and 60 unpowered sites, there are also economy cabins and deluxe cottages. The kids will love the swimming pool, playground and bouncy pillow, as well as the games room and inflatable water slide.
2. Adelaide Hills – Hahndorf Resort
If you're after a camping experience that feels like it's far from the city but is actually within 30 km of Adelaide, take the short drive to Hahndorf Resort. Set on 13 hectares of grassland, this holiday park offers unrivaled views of the Adelaide Hills.
Oct 2, 2015 at 11:57pm PDT
In regards to accommodation, there's something to satisfy everyone, from tenting or caravaning on grassy plots, to staying in a contemporary cottage or a spacious house with views of the lake. Hahndorf is overflowing with amenities and activities including a swimming pool, mini golf, fully-equipped kitchens, a giant chess set and conference facilities.
3. Stuart Range Outback Resort
For a real desert experience, pack your car with all the necessities you require for the 9-hour road trip from Adelaide to Coober Pedy, where you'll find the award-winning Stuart Range Outback Resort. Coober Pedy is a diverse and creative town, with art galleries, an opal mine and museum and cafes galore. Although the population is only around 3,500, approximately 45 nationalities are represented in the area.
Jun 14, 2016 at 8:01pm PDT
The campground has a large selection of accommodation options from landscaped grassy plots for those with tents, to 4-star apartments. Other than the expansive desert on your doorstep, there's an array of options to entertain the family including an outdoor barbecue area, playground, pizzeria and recreation lounge.
4. Discovery Parks – Robe
For a beach getaway, head south and drive three and a half hours from Adelaide to Long Beach, where the Discovery Parks – Robe campground and resort is located. Long Beach is a beautifully undeveloped stretch of sand, with gentle waves perfect for swimming.
Oct 6, 2015 at 2:23am PDT
The campground offers tenting options, as well as cabins and grassed caravan sites. If you get tired of the salty water, take a dip in the enclosed heated pool, then enjoy the adventure playground, which features a flying fox and multiple treehouses.
To get your camping trip started, hire a car in Adelaide then hit the road!