A Guide to South Australian National and Conservation Parks.
With its vast array of national parks, South Australia is a fine destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From rugged mountain ranges to pristine coastal wilderness, South Australia’s national parks offer a wide range of experiences, each with its own unique charm.
Below are some brief details about some of the Parks that we particularly like here at Visit Australia with links to more details if you are enticed.
Coorong National Park
Location: Coorong National Park is situated 156 km southeast of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: This national park is a wetland of international importance and a haven for birdwatchers. The Coorong is a long, narrow ribbon of saline wetlands, dunes, and lagoons that stretches along the coastline. Its unique ecosystem supports over 200 bird species, including migratory shorebirds that visit the area. The ever-changing interplay of water and land in the Coorong creates a stunning landscape.
Activities: Coorong National Park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Fishing is a popular pastime, with an abundance of fish species to be caught. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be delighted by the opportunity to observe and identify a wide variety of birds. The park is also a great place for boating, kayaking, and taking 4WD tours to explore its diverse landscapes.
Flinders Chase National Park
Location: Flinders Chase National Park is located 112 km south of Adelaide, followed by a ferry ride to Kangaroo Island.
Highlights: Flinders Chase National Park, offers breathtaking coastal landscapes, unique geological formations, and an abundance of wildlife. Kangaroo Island is known for its pristine natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. Highlights include iconic landmarks such as Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, as well as the opportunity to spot kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, and various bird species.
Activities: The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail is a five-day, four-night trek that provides visitors with a chance to immerse themselves in the island’s stunning wilderness. Along the trail, hikers can enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery, explore unique geological formations, and encounter a rich variety of wildlife. The trail is well-marked and offers camping facilities along the way.
Article: Discover the Wonders of Flinders Chase National Park and Its Unique Wildlife on Kangaroo Island
Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park
Location: Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park is situated 460 km north of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: This national park is renowned for its impressive geological features, including the iconic Wilpena Pound and the Heysen Range. The rugged beauty of the Flinders Ranges, with its deep gorges, towering cliffs, and ancient fossils, is a major highlight of the park. The cultural significance of the Adnyamathanha people, the traditional custodians of the land, adds another layer of depth to the park’s heritage.
Activities: The park offers a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking is a popular choice, with numerous trails that showcase the park’s stunning landscapes and unique geological formations. Scenic drives provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the park’s beauty at a more leisurely pace. Cycling is another option for those who want to experience the park on two wheels. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to spot native animals, such as the yellow-footed rock-wallaby, in their natural habitat.
Article: Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park: Explore Ancient Beauty of Wilpena Pound
Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park
Location: Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park is located 300 km west of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: This coastal wilderness is teeming with native wildlife, historic sites, and breathtaking oceanic vistas. Innes National Park is characterized by its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and pristine natural beauty. Visitors can explore historic ruins, walk along the stunning coastal trails, and witness the power of the Southern Ocean crashing against the cliffs.
Activities: Innes National Park offers a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Bushwalking is a popular way to explore the park and take in the scenic views. Camping is available in designated areas, allowing visitors to spend more time immersing themselves in nature. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck from the beach or rock platforms, while surfers can catch some waves along the coast. Wildlife spotting is another highlight, with the chance to see emus, mallee fowl, and osprey in their natural habitat.
Mount Remarkable National Park
Location: Mount Remarkable National Park is situated 238 km north of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: The park is named after its remarkable mountain range, which offers panoramic views over Spencer Gulf. Mount Remarkable and its surrounding landscapes showcase the beauty of the Australian bush. The park is rich in flora and fauna, providing a habitat for kangaroos, emus, and over 100 species of birds. The diverse plant life includes eucalyptus woodlands and colorful wildflowers.
Activities: One of the main activities in Mount Remarkable National Park is hiking. The park offers a range of walking trails that cater to different fitness levels, allowing visitors to explore the unique landscapes and enjoy stunning views from the mountaintop. Wildlife spotting is a popular pastime, with the opportunity to encounter kangaroos, emus, and a variety of bird species. The park also offers picnic areas and scenic drives for those who prefer a more relaxed experience.
Murray River National Park
Location: Murray River National Park is located 240 km northeast of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: The park offers a unique river experience along the iconic Murray River, one of Australia’s longest rivers. The river and its surrounding wetlands provide a diverse ecosystem, supporting a rich variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the river, its red gum forests, and the tranquil backwaters. The park is also home to kangaroos, emus, echidnas, and numerous bird species, including colorful rosellas and cockatoos.
Activities: Murray River National Park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Fishing is a popular choice, with the opportunity to catch native fish species such as Murray cod and golden perch. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of birdlife along the riverbanks. Camping is available in designated areas, providing a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility of the river at night. Watersports, such as canoeing and kayaking, are also popular activities, allowing visitors to explore the waterways and appreciate the park’s natural beauty from a different perspective.
Naracoorte Caves National Park
Location: Naracoorte Caves National Park is located 336 km southeast of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to Australia’s most extensive fossil record. The park boasts a fascinating underground landscape with ancient caves that have preserved fossils dating back thousands of years. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the intricate chambers and learn about the park’s geological and paleontological significance. The Bat Centre within the park is an excellent spot to witness the colony of bent-wing bats that reside in the caves.
Activities: The main activity in Naracoorte Caves National Park is cave exploration. Visitors can join guided tours to marvel at the stunning limestone formations and gain insights into the park’s rich natural history. The park also offers walking trails that meander through the picturesque surroundings, providing opportunities to appreciate the unique flora and fauna. Birdwatching is another popular activity, with various bird species inhabiting the park.
Seal Bay Conservation Park
Location: Seal Bay Conservation Park is located on Kangaroo Island, 155 km south of Adelaide (followed by a ferry ride).
Highlights: Seal Bay is home to Australia’s third-largest sea lion colony. The park offers a truly unique wildlife encounter, allowing visitors to walk among the sea lions on the beach. Observing these incredible marine mammals up close provides an intimate understanding of their behavior and natural habitat. The park’s pristine coastal setting adds to the charm of the experience.
Activities: Guided tours are available in Seal Bay Conservation Park, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the sea lions and their conservation. During the tour, visitors can walk along the beach while a knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights about the sea lions’ social dynamics and their importance to the ecosystem. The experience allows for memorable interactions and the chance to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural environment.
Cleland Conservation Park
Location: Cleland Conservation Park is nestled in the Adelaide Hills, 22 km southeast of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: The park offers visitors the unique opportunity to interact with Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and emus, in their natural habitat. Cleland Conservation Park is known for its abundant wildlife, and visitors can observe and learn about these iconic Australian animals up close. The park’s natural beauty, with its lush vegetation and scenic landscapes, adds to the overall charm.
Activities: Hiking is a popular activity in Cleland Conservation Park, with a network of walking trails that allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse habitats and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area. Picnicking amidst the tranquil surroundings is another favorite pastime, providing a chance to relax and appreciate the natural environment. Scenic drives within the park offer opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the picturesque vistas of the Adelaide Hills.
Belair National Park
Location: Belair National Park is located 13 km southeast of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: As the second national park to be declared in Australia, Belair National Park holds cultural significance and is rich in history. The park showcases a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage, with diverse landscapes, walking trails, and historic sites. The native vegetation and wildlife contribute to the park’s unique charm, providing visitors with a glimpse of the natural wonders of the region.
Activities: Belair National Park offers a range of recreational activities. Walking is a popular choice, with walking trails that wind through the park, allowing visitors to explore its picturesque landscapes. Cycling is also a favorite activity, with dedicated trails that cater to cyclists of all skill levels. Horse riding is another option, providing a unique perspective as visitors traverse the park’s scenic trails on horseback. The park’s picnic areas provide a perfect setting for a leisurely outdoor lunch or a family gathering.
Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park
Location: Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is situated 700 km north of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: The park is centered around the largest lake in Australia, Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, which only fills with water occasionally. When the lake fills, it becomes a breathtaking spectacle, attracting diverse wildlife and creating stunning scenery. The contrast between the arid landscapes and the temporary inland sea is truly remarkable, offering a unique natural experience.
Activities: Exploring the park’s landscapes and the beauty of the lake is the primary activity in Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park. Visitors can take scenic flights to witness the vastness of the lake and the surrounding desert landscapes from above. The park also offers walking trails that provide opportunities to immerse oneself in the unique environment and appreciate the flora and fauna that have adapted to the arid conditions. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during the periods when the lake fills with water, attracting a variety of bird species.
Gawler Ranges National Park
Location: Gawler Ranges National Park is located 600 km northwest of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: The park is famous for its organ-pipe volcanic rock formations, which are a sight to behold. The rugged and ancient landscapes of Gawler Ranges National Park showcase the beauty of the Australian outback. The park’s diverse flora and fauna, including kangaroos, emus, and various bird species, add to its natural allure.
Activities: Bush camping is a popular activity in Gawler Ranges National Park, providing an opportunity to immerse oneself in the remote and tranquil surroundings. The park offers wildlife spotting opportunities, where visitors can observe and photograph native animals in their natural habitat.
Munga-Thirri—Simpson Desert National Park
Location: Munga-Thirri—Simpson Desert National Park is located approximately 1,000 km north of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: The park covers an expansive area of parallel sand dunes, making it a unique and iconic Australian desert destination. The vast landscapes of the Simpson Desert are characterized by its stunning sand dunes, desert vegetation, and diverse wildlife. It offers a challenging and remote 4WD adventure, making it suitable for experienced desert travelers seeking an unforgettable outback experience.
Activities: The main activity in Munga-Thirri—Simpson Desert National Park is 4WD exploration. Travelers can embark on adventurous journeys through the desert, navigating the challenging terrain and immersing themselves in the solitude of the outback. The park also offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, allowing visitors to encounter unique desert fauna and witness the resilience of life in such a harsh environment.
Lincoln National Park
Location: Lincoln National Park is situated 280 km west of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: This park is characterized by its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and offshore islands. The dramatic landscapes of Lincoln National Park provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including whales, dolphins, and various sea bird species, adding to its natural beauty and appeal.
Activities: Camping is a popular activity in Lincoln National Park, with designated camping areas that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful coastal surroundings. Bushwalking offers opportunities to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and encounter native flora and fauna along the walking trails. Fishing enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to cast a line, and watersports such as boating and sailing provide an exciting way to enjoy the park’s marine environment.
Witjira National Park
Location: Witjira National Park is located approximately 850 km north of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: Witjira National Park is famous for its Dalhousie Springs, a group of over 60 natural artesian springs. These springs form a desert oasis, providing a warm water haven in the midst of the arid landscape. The park’s unique combination of desert and water creates a remarkable contrast and attracts a variety of wildlife and bird species.
Activities: One of the main attractions in Witjira National Park is swimming in the warm waters of the Dalhousie Springs. Visitors can enjoy a rejuvenating soak in these natural hot springs, surrounded by the desert scenery. The park also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, allowing visitors to observe the diverse animal species that have adapted to the arid environment. Exploring the park’s walking trails provides a chance to appreciate the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this desert oasis.
Coffin Bay National Park
Location: Coffin Bay National Park is located 687 km west of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: Known for its remote coastal scenery, sand dunes, and long beaches, Coffin Bay National Park offers a picturesque coastal retreat. The park showcases stunning landscapes, including towering sand dunes and pristine beaches, creating a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its diverse marine environment is home to abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for fishing, boating, sailing, scuba diving, and windsurfing.
Activities: Fishing is a major drawcard in Coffin Bay National Park, with opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. Boating and sailing provide a great way to explore the park’s stunning coastline and enjoy the tranquility of the waters. Scuba diving and snorkeling allow visitors to discover the park’s vibrant underwater world, teeming with colorful marine life. Windsurfing enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to fly with the wind.
Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park
Location: Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park is located 660 km north of Adelaide in South Australia.
Highlights: The park features rugged mountains, towering granite peaks, and deep gorges, making it a paradise for bushwalkers and photographers. Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park showcases the stunning beauty of the Australian outback, with its dramatic landscapes and unique geological formations. The park is also home to the yellow-footed rock wallaby, an iconic Australian marsupial, and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Activities: Bushwalking is a popular activity in Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park, with a variety of walking trails that cater to different skill levels. These trails take visitors through breathtaking landscapes, allowing them to appreciate the park’s natural beauty up close. The park is a haven for photographers, offering numerous opportunities to capture the rugged mountains, expansive vistas, and unique flora and fauna. Wildlife spotting is another highlight, with the chance to encounter the yellow-footed rock wallaby and various bird species.
Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park
Location: Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park is located in South Australia, near the Murray River, approximately 160 km northeast of Adelaide.
Activities: The main activity in Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park is a guided tour of the Ngaut Ngaut rock shelter and cultural site. Visitors can join knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the history, traditions, and Dreamtime stories associated with the area. The tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Aboriginal heritage of the region and gain a deeper understanding of the local Indigenous culture.
Highlights: Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park is of great cultural and historical significance, as it is home to one of the most important Aboriginal cultural sites in Australia. The park contains Ngaut Ngaut, an ancient rock shelter that showcases evidence of human occupation spanning thousands of years. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the rich Aboriginal history and culture of the region.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S MANY NATIONAL PARKS AND CONSERVATION AREAS VISIT National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia
