The best forest campgrounds near American River, South Australia

Forest camping around American River puts you in the thick of Kangaroo Island’s eucalypt woodlands—expect koalas overhead and the chatter of honeyeaters at dawn. With over 40 forest sites to choose from, you’ll find everything from basic bush clearings to spots with showers and campfires allowed. Prices start at just $10 a night, with most sites averaging around $30. Travellers often rave about places like The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley (382 reviews) for its quiet trails and abundant birdlife, or Alma's Hem Amphitheatre and Retreat (175 reviews) for its sheltered pitches among the sheoaks. Keen on fishing, bushwalks, or a bit of wildlife-watching? You’re in the right place—just keep an eye out for echidnas on the tracks. Pets are welcome at many sites, but always check the rules before you pack the lead.

98% (675)

Top-rated campgrounds

Forest camping around American River puts you in the thick of Kangaroo Island’s eucalypt woodlands—expect koalas overhead and the chatter of honeyeaters at dawn. With over 40 forest sites to choose from, you’ll find everything from basic bush clearings to spots with showers and campfires allowed. Prices start at just $10 a night, with most sites averaging around $30. Travellers often rave about places like The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley (382 reviews) for its quiet trails and abundant birdlife, or Alma's Hem Amphitheatre and Retreat (175 reviews) for its sheltered pitches among the sheoaks. Keen on fishing, bushwalks, or a bit of wildlife-watching? You’re in the right place—just keep an eye out for echidnas on the tracks. Pets are welcome at many sites, but always check the rules before you pack the lead.

98% (675)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

98%

(649)

74km from American River · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Lower Inman Valley, SA

The Scrub Campsite located in remnant vegetation (14 minutes from Victor Harbor ) is a rustic self check in campsite as the owners do not reside near the campsite. Campers choose their site in the designated camp spots. Sites are not allocated unless by prior arrangement. Persons under 18, youth groups, school groups or scout groups etc. are not permitted to book at the campsite. A communal camp kitchen, water tanks and compost toilet is available for campers use. Fire pits are located at each site. Campers will be advised of fire bans. Wood can be purchased from the self service white ibc container for $15 for 20kgs. Please adhere to the camp rules which are posted at each campsite. The campsite is located on the Heysen Trail and close to many Lower Fleurieu Peninsula beaches and attractions. The popular Belicious Cafe is a 45 minute walk. Whole campsite bookings can be made by contacting the owners. We ask that campers respect all other campers, the land that they are camping on and follow the campers motto - Leave nothing but your footprints. Once booked you will receive a text outlining the camp policies and instructions.

2. Alma's Hem Amphitheatre and Retreat

99%

(377)

72km from American River · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Inman Valley, SA

Located on Ramindjeri Country in the heart of the Fleurieu Peninsula, Alma’s Hem is a serene, private campground set by a winter creek on a working cattle farm. An abundance of bird life, wildlife and big night skies. Pitch your tent, swag or park your caravan or RV. Less than 1km from the the Heysen trail, giving you easy access to hikes. 15 minute drive from Victor Harbor for all your shopping conveniences. 20 mins to the stunning Carrackalinga beaches; Kayaking the Second Valley caves and beautiful drives to waterfalls, conservation parks and tourist attractions. Campsites are located on level grassy area. Flushing toilets, fire pit and firewood available. Perfect for a romantic getaway or for small and larger groups. Please note that our property has work dogs who live nearby and love to visit guests. When you arrive there is a map located on the right hand side of the driveway entrance with the sites marked. You are welcome to find your site get comfortable. We will welcome you at some stage! Please contact us if you'd like to book for more guests than listed and we will do our best to accommodate. Campground has shared facilities and respect of each other and the land is critical. We are a leave no trace site, which means everything you bring in you must take with you, which includes rubbish and broken things. The bins at the entrance are for residents only and as they are only collected fortnightly cannot cater for more than those who live here. Firewood can be brought in by you or we will provide wood for $30/night per site. Wood is not to be foraged from adjoining scrub as it is Heritage listed and to be left for habitat, ecosystem and your admiration only! We look forward to crossing paths! Best, Kylie and the Alma’s Hem Team

3. Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

100%

(13)

29km from American River · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Emu Bay, SA

Welcome to your dream destination!! We have two different locations available in Kangaroo Island with some options of sites in each. FIRST LOCATION: EMU BAY HIDEAWAY-30 hectares of peace, mainly vegetated with Kangaroo Island Narrow-leaved Mallee (Eucalyptus cneorifolia, a nationally-protected ecological community). Kangaroos and wallabies are in abundance. It has a wonderful feeling of remoteness and seclusion yet is so close to iconic Emu Bay. Those with 4WD may choose sites overlooking Shoal Bay towards Kingscote. Alternatively, you may set up camp anywhere on the property. There is even one under-cover position with a concrete floor for those concerned about the weather. There are no amenities so guests need to be 100% self-sufficient (including BYO drinking water and toilet) and leave no trace. It is a wild block and only five minutes from the iconic Emu Bay, where the white sandy beach runs for 4kms, most of which is backed by 10 to 20-meter-high dunes. It is one of the best beaches on the island with crystal-clear water. SECOND LOCATION: Farm Stay about 15 km from Emu Bay and 20km from the main town of Kingscote. This is an operating small sheep farm of over 100ha. For security reasons the exact location is not advertised, but will be disclosed upon arrival on Kangaroo Island. There are several beautiful sites. This location is fairly central to most KI visitor attractions. It is a secure place to set up camp and have peace of mind that your belongings will be safe while you are away from the site. The host takes care to situate sites to give campers the feeling of exclusiveness. NOTES; Check with me before lighting a campfire - this depends on the season and risk. Dogs are permitted if well controlled (register visiting dogs with local council). IMPORTANT: As I have very limited access to the Internet, It is preferred that if you have questions, you can text or call me, Rosalie, on 0490485123. Please note - all bookings MUST still go through the Hipcamp system, no exceptions. Kangaroo Island is serviced by regular ferry - check SeaLink for details. As the service requires advance bookings, please secure your passage to the island before booking your site. Thank you.

4. Nat and Stu's Place

96%

(14)

70km from American River · 1 site · Tent, RV · Karatta, SA

Come and see the resilience of the Kangaroo Island Aussie bush. This property was sadly burnt-out last year but is bouncing back stronger than ever. Use this as your secluded basecamp for exploring Kangaroo Island. This property offers nature walks, bush camp fires (seasonal), rain water from tank, with fishing, beaches just 10 min away. Isolated peace and walk amongst the wallabies, kangaroos, goanna, echidnas. Enjoy the Wild flowers (seasonal) and plan your days travel to the nearby National Parks and Tourist Attractions across Kangaroo Island. Toilet facilities available upon request Take a walks around the fence line and up the fire access track. See variety of native wildlife in its natural habitat

5. Meanfeat Downs

94%

(16)

27km from American River · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Bay Of Shoals, SA

A beautiful location 12 km from Kingscote and a shot drive from Kangaroo island brewery. 300m from the bay off shoals and around the corner from Emu bay Boxing bay and Turners Drive looking over Kingscote Harbour. The property abundant with wildlife, kangaroos, wallabies, goannas, echidna and passing koalas. The bird life is spectacular and never ending. You can choose your spot to nestle in to overlooking the bay, Wisagna hills or the range behind Emu bay.

6. Marron Bush Escape

91%

(41)

78km from American River · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Western River, SA

Welcome to Marron Bush Escape, located in Gosse, in the Western River area (western end, near Flinders Chase National Park) of beautiful Kangaroo Island! This is a beautiful, remote, rural 250 acre private property, it is home to a number of sheep, features dams that have Marron and boasts the best that nature has to offer. Rest assured, you will not see any neighbours on this property; just picturesque landscapes everywhere you look! It is approximately a 1.5 hour drive from Penneshaw, where you get off the ferry. We offer powered and unpowered camp sites, as well as a bush, cabin. Camp fires (small) are allowed when fire restrictions allow. There is a fire pit that can be used when there is no fire ban, with barbecue plate and camp ovens for old-style bush cooking or cooking up your fresh organic Kangaroo Island Marron. There is a drop toilet at the back and external lights and an external kitchen sink with hot and cold water. There is one drop dunny and limited rain water (you are welcome to bring your own drinking water if you need extra). For your convenience, there are recycling and rubbish bins at corner of Snug and Colman’s Rd for all waste disposal. On half of our property we have sheep and lambs in the paddocks. Bring your camera, and you just might be lucky enough to see little lambs playing and even being born. We may also be shearing and invite you to see how this is done. The other half of the property is untouched natural scrub with grass and trees 12 foot tall. There are koalas, eagles, kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas and lots of other native animals and a creek with small waterfalls. In winter time the ground can be boggy, so a 4WD is desirable and will allow you to explore further. From the cabin, make your way down past the dams and go through the shiny gate at the bottom of the hill (please close the gate behind you). Here, you'll discover 125 acres of untouched Kangaroo Island wilderness with walking trails to explore. Keep an eye out for koalas, kangaroos, wedge-tail eagles, wallabies, large grass trees etc We also have two small lakes that you can have a picnic by or drop some Marron nets in for a fresh feed. There are weighing scales provided at the shed so you can pay for them. This is on an honesty system- so please do the right thing, as we have already been burnt from the fires. You must contact me if you wish to fish for marron prior to catching any. There are no shops or restaurants close by (stock up before arriving!) and you will need to travel down dirt roads but you will really have the opportunity to get off the grid, get back to nature and make memories in the stunning, untouched, Kangaroo Island wilderness! Local attractions include: Kelly Hill Caves Flinders Chase National Park Stokes Bay Cape Borda Lighthouse Middle River Western River

7. Drifting Sands Quarter Horses

100%

(7)

68km from American River · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Inman Valley, SA

Relax and unwind with beautiful picturesque panoramic views and the serenity of horse life. Powered and unpowered site available. We are an active horse stud and training facility where you’re welcome to observe the wonders of horse behaviour and other natural wildlife.

8. Longview Camp

100%

(1)

1.1km from American River · 1 site · Tent · American River, SA

Longview camp is a scrub block on picturesque Kangaroo Island, located at peaceful american river, overlooking the bay you can have a peaceful stay with close proximity to all Kangaroo Island has to offer. There is the oyster farm shop, Kingscote, Emu Bay, Stokes Bay and the world famous Flinders Chase National Park all at your fingertips from this amazing location

9. Pear Tree Hollow

100%

(2)

65km from American River · 3 sites · Lodging · Torrens Vale, SA

For couples who love nature, high above Inman Valley, tucked in a eucalyptus forest with stunning views for kilometres over the central Fleurieu Peninsula, Pear Tree Hollow is an early settler homestead and small farm that has 3 accommodation options- a cottage, a bell tent with caravan cabin, and a bell tent with shelter.

Camper favorites near American River

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Nat and Stu's Place

96%

(14)

70km from American River · 1 site · Tent, RV · Karatta, SA

Come and see the resilience of the Kangaroo Island Aussie bush. This property was sadly burnt-out last year but is bouncing back stronger than ever. Use this as your secluded basecamp for exploring Kangaroo Island. This property offers nature walks, bush camp fires (seasonal), rain water from tank, with fishing, beaches just 10 min away. Isolated peace and walk amongst the wallabies, kangaroos, goanna, echidnas. Enjoy the Wild flowers (seasonal) and plan your days travel to the nearby National Parks and Tourist Attractions across Kangaroo Island. Toilet facilities available upon request Take a walks around the fence line and up the fire access track. See variety of native wildlife in its natural habitat

Meanfeat Downs

94%

(16)

27km from American River · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Bay Of Shoals, SA

A beautiful location 12 km from Kingscote and a shot drive from Kangaroo island brewery. 300m from the bay off shoals and around the corner from Emu bay Boxing bay and Turners Drive looking over Kingscote Harbour. The property abundant with wildlife, kangaroos, wallabies, goannas, echidna and passing koalas. The bird life is spectacular and never ending. You can choose your spot to nestle in to overlooking the bay, Wisagna hills or the range behind Emu bay.

Marron Bush Escape

91%

(41)

78km from American River · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Western River, SA

Welcome to Marron Bush Escape, located in Gosse, in the Western River area (western end, near Flinders Chase National Park) of beautiful Kangaroo Island! This is a beautiful, remote, rural 250 acre private property, it is home to a number of sheep, features dams that have Marron and boasts the best that nature has to offer. Rest assured, you will not see any neighbours on this property; just picturesque landscapes everywhere you look! It is approximately a 1.5 hour drive from Penneshaw, where you get off the ferry. We offer powered and unpowered camp sites, as well as a bush, cabin. Camp fires (small) are allowed when fire restrictions allow. There is a fire pit that can be used when there is no fire ban, with barbecue plate and camp ovens for old-style bush cooking or cooking up your fresh organic Kangaroo Island Marron. There is a drop toilet at the back and external lights and an external kitchen sink with hot and cold water. There is one drop dunny and limited rain water (you are welcome to bring your own drinking water if you need extra). For your convenience, there are recycling and rubbish bins at corner of Snug and Colman’s Rd for all waste disposal. On half of our property we have sheep and lambs in the paddocks. Bring your camera, and you just might be lucky enough to see little lambs playing and even being born. We may also be shearing and invite you to see how this is done. The other half of the property is untouched natural scrub with grass and trees 12 foot tall. There are koalas, eagles, kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas and lots of other native animals and a creek with small waterfalls. In winter time the ground can be boggy, so a 4WD is desirable and will allow you to explore further. From the cabin, make your way down past the dams and go through the shiny gate at the bottom of the hill (please close the gate behind you). Here, you'll discover 125 acres of untouched Kangaroo Island wilderness with walking trails to explore. Keep an eye out for koalas, kangaroos, wedge-tail eagles, wallabies, large grass trees etc We also have two small lakes that you can have a picnic by or drop some Marron nets in for a fresh feed. There are weighing scales provided at the shed so you can pay for them. This is on an honesty system- so please do the right thing, as we have already been burnt from the fires. You must contact me if you wish to fish for marron prior to catching any. There are no shops or restaurants close by (stock up before arriving!) and you will need to travel down dirt roads but you will really have the opportunity to get off the grid, get back to nature and make memories in the stunning, untouched, Kangaroo Island wilderness! Local attractions include: Kelly Hill Caves Flinders Chase National Park Stokes Bay Cape Borda Lighthouse Middle River Western River

Drifting Sands Quarter Horses

100%

(7)

68km from American River · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Inman Valley, SA

Relax and unwind with beautiful picturesque panoramic views and the serenity of horse life. Powered and unpowered site available. We are an active horse stud and training facility where you’re welcome to observe the wonders of horse behaviour and other natural wildlife.

Longview Camp

100%

(1)

1.1km from American River · 1 site · Tent · American River, SA

Longview camp is a scrub block on picturesque Kangaroo Island, located at peaceful american river, overlooking the bay you can have a peaceful stay with close proximity to all Kangaroo Island has to offer. There is the oyster farm shop, Kingscote, Emu Bay, Stokes Bay and the world famous Flinders Chase National Park all at your fingertips from this amazing location

Pear Tree Hollow

100%

(2)

65km from American River · 3 sites · Lodging · Torrens Vale, SA

For couples who love nature, high above Inman Valley, tucked in a eucalyptus forest with stunning views for kilometres over the central Fleurieu Peninsula, Pear Tree Hollow is an early settler homestead and small farm that has 3 accommodation options- a cottage, a bell tent with caravan cabin, and a bell tent with shelter.

Stories from the community

L

Laura

2 weeks ago

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Serene. Lots of bird life. Appreciated having the compost toilet

I

Irfan

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

An absolute gem of a campsite! The scenery is breathtaking, with towering trees and a tranquil lake. The facilities are top-notch, and the staff are friendly and helpful. Perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers. We can't wait to return!

E

Ehsan

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Perfect facilities especially for kids, beautiful views, excellent kitchen area, shower, clean toilet, and so much more

j

josh

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Absolutely amazing little place to camp! Will definitely be booking another stay soon

Jacob

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Alma's Hem Amphitheatre and Retreat

Great quiet lovely spot. No complaints. Great views and plenty of space.

K

Kevork

October 2025

Tent

1 night at The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

I highly recommend to all campers, you gotta give it a try, they got many available camping sides around.

F

Freyja

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Great campsite with fantastic facilities : camp kitchen, composting toilet, fire pits and even chairs at every campsite! Very impressed, will come again for sure!

B

Brad

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

We had a great time. Loved th Billy Carts track so much that we went home and got our own!!

M

Matt

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Beautiful property with plenty of site options for views, privacy or protection from weather. Walking the property full of friendly cattle and rolling hills. Recommend staying if nearby.

R

Rodney

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

Group trip

1 night at Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

Beautiful spot at emu Bay hideaway on the flat as you come in the gate,

Jess

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

An awesome spot to camp! Felt very private even though other sites were in use. Great little firepit, table & chair set-up too. Would absolutely stay again.

m

michael

September 2025

Tent

1 night at The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

great location RIGHT on Heysen Trail between Victor Harbor end and Inman Valley just before Robinsons Hill rustic and secluded and fun Great place for locals with young families to relax for a weekend If have time on HT trail take detour across Mark’s property to “ Belicious Cafe” for some Belgian waffles and coffee , worth the few extra k’s then Rejoin at Robinsons up Parsons Road too cheers and thanks Mark👍

J

Jessie

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Lovely peaceful and private space to camp and have a little fire. Drop toilet nearby. Would recommend.

J

Jarrad

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

The kids and I spent an afternoon at this lovely campsite, spending the night in a tent. This was a first time booking a place through Hipcamp as I've only recently discovered the website and I was blown away by this lovely property and all the little touches around the place to cater for kids. We loved it and my kids are already asking to spend another night there. Thankyou Marc for a great stay.

J

Joel

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

We loved camping at the Scrub. It’s a beautiful area to camp in and the way the campsite has been set up is awesome - the toilet is great, the wood available for purchase on site is handy and the various seats, bikes and kids toys are fantastic. Marcus communicated everything really quickly and answered all our questions. We’ll be back for sure!

M

Marc

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pear Tree Hollow

We had such a wonderful stay at the T2 tent and shelter. From the moment we arrived, Peter and Michelle made everything so easy with their clear directions and warm hospitality. The walk into the tent was magical, with the forest path leading to a peaceful and beautifully set-up space. The tent was spotless, comfortable, and full of thoughtful touches that made our stay relaxing and enjoyable. We especially appreciated the attention to detail and how welcoming the environment felt — it’s clear a lot of care has gone into creating this experience. Peter was responsive, kind, and made sure we had everything we needed. We couldn’t have asked for a better host or a better location to unwind and connect with nature. Highly recommend this stay and would love to come back again! Marc

L

Lindsey

September 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Amazing gem of a getaway. Private, quiet and very relaxing. Maintained by the owners incredibly well with visits to restock the loo and firebox. Highly recommend.

A

Anthony

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Great camp sites with plenty of bonus extras like a gas bbq, games and kids toys, swings and tables and chairs. Marc was a great host who came to visit to check in and see if we needed anything else. Accepted electronic payment for firewood. We’ll definitely be back again soon.

B

Brad

September 2025

5 m car

With kids

Weekend Trip to Alma's Hem Amphitheatre and Retreat

We had a great time camping here over the weekend. The kids love running around with all the free space and collecting the perfect throwing stick for the dogs. Toilets were nice and clean. Cheers

I

Ian

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Alma's Hem Amphitheatre and Retreat

Absolutely fantastic farm stay 👍 There's a few very friendly and fun dogs on the property that my kids loved ! The bathroom facilities are brilliant and we will definitely be back again. Book the firewood it made a campfire so easy.