The Adelaide Hills are a camping paradise and home to some of the best caravan parks in the country. Spend your time cuddling with koalas, trying some of Australia’s best wines and enjoying true tranquillity. You can choose between luxurious caravan parks or more laidback campsites close to the Adelaide Hills, which are perfect for those on a budget looking for a cheap option.
On a camping road trip? Find the best caravan parks in South Australia in our complete guide.
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Where are the Adelaide Hills?
The Adelaide Hills are a picturesque region in the Mount Lofty Ranges in South Australia. The Hills are situated approximately 15 kilometres east of Adelaide, extending from the eastern suburbs of to the Barossa Valley in the north.
The region is known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills, fruit farms, and abundant wildlife. It is also home to several charming towns and villages, such as Hahndorf, Stirling, and Mount Barker, which offer a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Wine-making is an important tradition here, making the Adelaide Hills a prime destination for those who love to enjoy fine wines and visit vineyards.
Overall, the Adelaide Hills are a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Headed to the East Coast next? Here are our favourite must-visit beaches and best free campsites.
Map of the best caravan parks in the Adelaide Hills
The Adelaide Hills is a large region, and you’ll find a variety of good caravan parks towards the north, even if you’re on a budget. Here are some of our favourites at a glance.
Top tip: Click the icon in the top right corner to add this map to your own Google Maps so it will always be with you on the go.
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Free camping in the Adelaide Hills
If the cheap caravan parks on the list below aren’t in your budget, you should consider these free camping sites close to the Adelaide Hills. Their facilities might be basic (or non-existent), but they’re still a great option if you want to save money. Keep in mind that the sites below are located outside of the Adelaide Hills, and it may take some time to drive there.
- Palmer Cricket Ground Camping: This cricket ground can be used for camping, although it may be more difficult on the weekends when sports events are on. Bathrooms are available.
- Monteith Rest Area/Old Princess Hwy Rest Area: Basic gravel parking area without amenities. The town of Murray Bridge is located close by.
- Rest Area Moppa Road: Small, road-site camping without facilities. Good to stop for one night of camping if you’re looking for a free caravan park north of the Adelaide Hills.
Is wild camping allowed in the Adelaide Hills?
Like in many parts of the country, wild camping is a bit of a grey zone in South Australia and the Adelaide Hills. It’s not officially permitted, but if you use common sense and are inconspicuous, it’s definitely possible. This, of course, mostly applies for those camping with a car or an unmarked van and wild camping is generally not recommended for large RV setups or tents.
Make sure to follow local laws and regulations, avoid disturbing local communities and only park somewhere if there are no “no camping” signs. The Adelaide Hills are a popular tourist destination, and with a variety of cheap caravan parks around, you might not have to take the risk of wild camping if you’re on a budget.
Our tip: Read our complete guide to wild camping in Australia here if you’re still unsure about the topic.
Best caravan parks in the Adelaide Hills
Find the best caravan parks in the Adelaide Hills with anything from cheap options for budget campers to luxurious holiday parks around the area.
1. Belair National Park Holiday Park
Belair National Park Holiday Park is located, as the name suggests, in Belair National Park, which is a popular destination for hiking, camping, or having a picnic. This is Australia’s oldest national park and the eighth-oldest in the entire world. The Holiday Park offers several campsites with and without electricity for guests who wish to bring their own tents or caravans.
The campsites are set in beautifully landscaped grounds and provide easy access to a range of facilities and amenities, including a swimming pool, playground, barbeque area and many more. This is one of the best pet-friendly caravan parks close to Adelaide, so guests are welcome to bring their furry friends along.
What makes this park special is its proximity to Belair National Park. The holiday park is located on the edge of the national park and offers easy access to many hiking trails, picnic areas, and other attractions. The park is also home to a range of native animals, including kangaroos, emus, and parrots, which can often be spotted from the park grounds.
This campsite is located just a short drive from the charming town of Belair, which offers a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Other popular attractions in the Adelaide Hills, such as Mount Lofty Summit, are also within easy reach.
Belair National Park Holiday Park is a great choice for camping enthusiasts looking for a comfortable and convenient base to explore the Adelaide Hills region. With its beautiful surroundings, excellent facilities, and prime location, the park provides everything guests might need for a relaxing but adventurous holiday.
Price range: $30 to $50 AUD
Dogs allowed: Yes
Facilities: WiFi, pool, camping kitchen, laundry, kiosk, TV room and many more
Driving time from Adelaide: ~ 20 minutes
Address: XJQM+JX Belair, South Australia, Australia
2. The Mount Barker Caravan & Tourist Park
Mount Barker Caravan & Tourist Park is a spacious site, ideal for both tents and campervans. There is also a choice of accommodation for those who prefer to stay in a cabin or hut.
There is a communal kitchen, laundry facilities, a playground for children, and a barbeque area. This is a pet-friendly caravan park, so it’s for everyone travelling with their four-legged friend.
Mount Barker Caravan & Tourist Park is an ideal base to explore the Adelaide Hills and all they offer. Visitors will also enjoy how close the park is located to the town of Mount Barker, which has a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants if you need a change of scenery.
The friendly staff is happy to help you plan your stay and make the most of your time in the region. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or something in between, Mount Barker Caravan & Tourist Park is the perfect place to stay.
Price range: Starting at $39 AUD
Dogs allowed: Yes
Facilities: Playground, BBQ area, wifi, pool, dump point
Driving time from Adelaide: ~ 30 minutes
Address: WVQ6+6H Mount Barker, South Australia, Australia
3. Cudlee Creek Restaurant Tavern & Tourist Park
Stay at Cudlee Creek Restaurant Tavern & Tourist Park for a nature getaway surrounded by beautiful forests and wineries. The park is located in the picturesque town of Cudlee Creek, known for its charming rural atmosphere and natural beauty.
There are campsites with and without electricity, as well as cabins, and cottages, so there is something for everyone. The rates for the campsite start at $35 AUD per night for two people. The park’s facilities include a camping kitchen, laundry, playground, and barbeque area.
The park is located right at the Cudlee Creek Restaurant Tavern, which serves a range of delicious food and drink. The tavern is popular with locals and tourists alike and is known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious food. You absolutely have to have dinner here at least once during your stay.
Cudlee Creek Restaurant Tavern & Tourist Park is an ideal base to explore the Adelaide Hills and all they offer. The park is close to some of the region’s most popular attractions, including Cleland Wildlife Park and Beerenberg Strawberry Farm, which are great for a half-day excursion.
Price range: Starting at $35 AUD
Dogs allowed: Yes
Facilities: Laundry, wifi, camping kitchen, bar & restaurant, playground
Driving time from Adelaide: ~ 45 minutes
Address: 5R68+3P Cudlee Creek, South Australia, Australia
4. Shiloh Hills Park
Shiloh Hills Park is a charming and picturesque accommodation located on the edge of the Adelaide Hills region. The caravan park offers visitors a choice of cozy cabins or spacious campsites, which are suitable for both tents and campervans.
Shiloh Hills Park is renowned for its beautiful scenery, and the onsite cabins let visitors immerse themselves in the surrounding nature. Each cabin has its own deck with beautiful views of the nearby hills and woods. This is a top choice for a special occasion or weekend getaway from Adelaide. The campsites are spacious and well-maintained, offering a comfortable and convenient option for those who prefer to camp.
The accommodation at Shiloh Hills Park offers a range of facilities and amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. There are modern bathrooms and showers, a communal kitchen and dining area, and a fire pit to sit around in the evenings with others from the camp.
The park also has a number of walking trails where you can explore the surrounding countryside and spot local wildlife.
Price range: On request
Dogs allowed: Yes
Facilities: Games room, fire pits, camping kitchen, common area
Driving time from Adelaide: ~30 minutes
Address: XM4P+PP Ironbank, South Australia, Australia
Best caravan parks around the Adelaide Hills
If you’re looking for even more caravan parks, check out these camping options located north of or just a short drive from the Adelaide Hills.
5. Hahndorf Resort
The Discovery Hahndorf Resort is located in the heart of the picturesque town of Hahndorf and offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. The resort has something for everyone, from cozy cottages to spacious villas and flats. For guests who wish to bring their own tents or caravans, the resort also offers a number of different campsites with electricity.
Set on beautifully landscaped grounds, the resort has a range of facilities and amenities for guests to relax and unwind. These include a swimming pool, tennis court, playground and barbeque area. The resort also offers a range of activities and experiences for its guests, such as wine tastings, walking tours and visits to local attractions.
One of the outstanding features of Discovery Hahndorf Resort is its central location. The resort is just a short walk from Hahndorf’s main street, which is home to a range of shops, cafés, and restaurants. You’ll also be close to a number of popular attractions nearby, such as the Beerenberg Farm, Hahndorf Academy, and Hahndorf Hill Winery.
Discovery Hahndorf Resort is an excellent place for anyone who needs a change of scenery. Sit back, relax and explore the rest of Adelaide Hills at your own pace.
Price range: Starting at $47 AUD
Dogs allowed: Yes
Facilities: Laundry, playground, camping kitchen, BBQ, dump point, wifi, mini golf
Driving time from Adelaide: ~ 25 minutes
Address: XQHX+7X Hahndorf, South Australia, Australia
6. Mount Pleasant Showground Caravan Park
The Mount Pleasant Showground Caravan Park is located just outside the Adelaide Hills region. There are tent sites as well as powered and unpowered RV sites. Larger motorhomes can also be parked here. The park is named after nearby Mount Pleasant, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
There are also many other attractions within easy reach of the park, including the historic town of Mount Pleasant and the nearby Mount Torrens Conservation Park.
The caravan and camping site has toilet facilities with hot water, a communal camping kitchen, laundry, and a dump point. A weekly market is also held here every Saturday morning, where you can buy fresh food and other local produce. An absolute must-do!
The park also has some walking trails where you can explore the surrounding countryside and see some of the local wildlife.
Price range: On request
Dogs allowed: Yes
Facilities: Hot showers, dump point, laundry, Saturday market
Driving time from Adelaide: ~ 1 hour
Address: 62FR+7P Mount Pleasant, South Australia, Australia
7. Douglas Scrub
The camping and caravan park at Douglas Scrub is only an hour’s drive from Adelaide and offers a range of accommodation types that are great for those on a budget. There are cabins to rent as well as campsites with or without electricity suitable for tents or caravans.
The campground also has a fully equipped communal kitchen, fire pit, picnic benches, lounge and bbq area.
This is a pet-friendly site as long as you keep your four-legged friend on a leash. Most of Douglas Scrub is wheelchair accessible, although the ground can become soft after heavy rains, so it’s best to call ahead to reserve a suitable spot if needed.
The park is particularly suitable for large groups, who can rent the main house, which sleeps up to 64 people. If you’re looking for a place for a big family reunion or camping event, this is the place to go in the Adelaide hills.
Our tip: This is one of the cheaper caravan parks close to the Adelaide Hills, so it’s best suited for budget campers.
Price range: Starting at $15 AUD per person
Dogs allowed: Yes
Facilities: Camp kitchen, recreation room, fire pit, picnic area, BBQ, volleyball field, climbing wall
Driving time from Adelaide: ~ 1 hour
Address: RH6X+J2 Blewitt Springs, South Australia, Australia
8. The Pink Gum Campground
The Pink Gum Campground at the Onkaparinga River National Park is a beautiful and peaceful place to spend a few days surrounded by nature. Located in the heart of the national park, the campground offers a range of sites for tents, caravans, and campervans.
The daily rate for a campsite, which can fit up to eight people, starts at $27 AUD and needs to be booked in advance. Unfortunately, this is not a pet-friendly caravan park.
The campground is named after the Pink Gum trees that can be found throughout the park, a type of eucalyptus with beautiful red flowers.
The campground offers a range of facilities, including toilets and showers, a camping kitchen, and a communal fire pit for roasting marshmallows and telling stories. Several walking trails wind through the surrounding bushland, offering stunning views and the chance to spot kangaroos and other animals
During your stay at the Pink Gum Campground, make sure to take some time to explore the rest of the Onkaparinga River National Park. The park is home to various native animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, and a range of bird species. There are also several lookout points where you can enjoy panoramic views of the park and the surrounding countryside.
Price range: Starting at $27 AUD
Dogs allowed: Yes
Facilities: Fire pit, toilet, showers
Driving time from Adelaide: ~ 45 minutes
Address: VH2W+5V Blewitt Springs, South Australia, Australia
9. Wirra campsite
The Wirra campsite and caravan park is located about an hour outside Adelaide’s city centre in the Para Wirra Conservation Park.
There are plenty of pitches to choose from, some with shade and some without. There is a basic communal kitchen, but without electricity, a BBQ area, some fireplaces and bathroom facilities. This is definitely a more basic campground and not comparable to big caravan parks like Discovery Hahndorf, close to Adelaide. Consider the Wirra campsite more of a bushcamp, best suited for those who want to enjoy some time in nature.
For only $24 per person, staying here is a decent deal if you want to explore the nature park and the Adelaide hills area. Just make sure to adjust your expectations and keep in mind that there are limited facilities.
Our Tip: If you show your booking for the camping site at the entrance to the conservation park, you do not have to pay an entrance fee.
Price range: $24 AUD
Dogs allowed: Yes
Facilities: Fire pit, BBQ, camp kitchen, sanitary facilities
Driving time from Adelaide: ~ 1 hour
Address: 8R4P+2F Yattalunga, South Australia, Australia
Best things to do in the Adelaide Hills
Make the most of your time in this beautiful part of South Australia and plan a complete itinerary for your camping trip to the Adelaide Hills. Here are our favourite things to do and see.
1. Head to Mount Lofty Summit
Mount Lofty Summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The summit can be reached by a short drive or a more challenging hike up the mountain. Once you’ve made it to the top, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal at the summit restaurant, as well as browse the gift shop and visitor center.
2. Visit Cleland Wildlife Park
Cleland Wildlife Park is a top attraction in the Adelaide Hills, home to a range of native Australian animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. Visitors can interact with the animals and even feed them, making it a great activity for families with children. The park also offers guided tours and educational talks, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn more about the local wildlife.
3. Try the best strawberries at Beerenberg Farm
Beerenberg Farm is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon on your camping adventure to the Adelaide Hills. Visitors can tour the large strawberry farm, sample the fruit, and purchase products from the on-site shop. It’s highly recommended you visit during the strawberry season during summer.
4. Visit the beautiful Hahndorf Village
Hahndorf is one of the top places to visit in the Adelaide Hills and should be at the top of your list for your camping trip. Known for its historic main street, filled with antique stores, art galleries, and quaint cafes and restaurants, Hahndorf is a German village that is perfect for an afternoon walk or delicious lunch.
5. Try the best wines
The Adelaide Hills are known for their excellent wines, with a range of wineries and cellars scattered throughout the region. Visitors can taste some of the region’s finest wines, learn about the winemaking process, and purchase bottles to take home. Absolutely make sure to do a wine tasting tour if you’re staying at one of the caravan parks in the Adelaide Hills.
6. Head to a brewery
The Adelaide Hills are home to a number of breweries offering a range of delicious craft beers and ales. Visitors can tour the breweries, learn about the brewing process, and sample a range of different beers. If you’re not a wine person, this is a great activity.
7. Visit Waterfall Gully
Waterfall Gully is a beautiful spot located in the Adelaide Hills, home to a series of cascading waterfalls. The area is popular for hiking, with a number of trails winding through the surrounding bushland. You can also enjoy a picnic at one of the designated areas, so make sure to bring lunch with you.
8. Go hiking
The Adelaide Hills have a range of hiking trails, ranging from short and easy walks to more challenging treks. Visitors can explore the beautiful bushland, taking in the stunning views and spotting native wildlife.
9. Go on a river cruise
Hop on board a traditional paddle wheeler and spend the day on the Murray River. You’ll cruise along, spotting kangaroos, pelicans and other wildlife along the way while your guide tells you all about the local history and what there is to see. This tour is a must-do and even includes a delicious lunch on the water.
Best caravan parks in the Adelaide Hills FAQ
Belair National Park Holiday Park, Cudlee Creek Restaurant Tavern & Tourist Park or The Pink Gum Campground if you’re looking for pet-friendly caravan parks close to the Adelaide Hills
Douglas Scrub and Wirra campsites are great if you’re looking for caravan parks close to the Adelaide Hills.
Stay at Mount Pleasant Caravan Park or Cudlee Creek Restaurant and Camping if you’re looking for a site north of Adelaide.
You should visit the local wineries, stop at Beerenberg Farm, Hahndorf and Mount Lofty Summit.
There are some free camping sites, but wild camping is technically not allowed. However, if you don’t draw attention to yourself, it may be possible in quieter areas.
If you’re looking for free camping close to the Adelaide Hills, you should stay at the Rest Area Moppa Road, Palmer Cricket Ground or Monteith Rest Area.
Did we miss anything?
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