The best forest campgrounds near Edithburgh, South Australia

Pitch your tent among the pines and mallee scrub—Edithburgh’s forest campsites put you right in the thick of South Australia’s coastal woodlands. With 25 options in the area, you’ll find tent-only sites tucked under tall gums, with prices starting at just $10 and an average night costing $28. Local favourites include Meanfeat Downs (13 reviews), Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island (11 reviews), and Drifting Sands Quarter Horses (2 reviews). You’re covered for the basics—most sites allow pets, campfires, and have showers—so you can focus on fishing, spotting wildlife, or hitting forest trails. Don’t forget the mozzie spray, and watch for curious kangaroos at dusk.

99% (32)

Top-rated campgrounds

Pitch your tent among the pines and mallee scrub—Edithburgh’s forest campsites put you right in the thick of South Australia’s coastal woodlands. With 25 options in the area, you’ll find tent-only sites tucked under tall gums, with prices starting at just $10 and an average night costing $28. Local favourites include Meanfeat Downs (13 reviews), Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island (11 reviews), and Drifting Sands Quarter Horses (2 reviews). You’re covered for the basics—most sites allow pets, campfires, and have showers—so you can focus on fishing, spotting wildlife, or hitting forest trails. Don’t forget the mozzie spray, and watch for curious kangaroos at dusk.

99% (32)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

100%

(13)

60km from Edithburgh · 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.

2. Meanfeat Downs

94%

(16)

60km from Edithburgh · 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.

3. Drifting Sands Quarter Horses

100%

(7)

76km from Edithburgh · 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.

4. Longview Camp

100%

(1)

77km from Edithburgh · 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

5. Pear Tree Hollow

100%

(2)

77km from Edithburgh · 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

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,

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

W

Wayne

June 2025

9 m travel trailer

1 night at Meanfeat Downs

It was very windy at the start of our stay, but we were able to find a large flat site protected from the wind. The site was very good for solar which is important for us. The Hipcamp was close to all the sites in the north of Kangaroo Island. We enjoyed our stay that much we stayed an extra night.

N

Nikki

April 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

The property was nice and close to the local town, stunning views of the landscape, a lovely camp spot next to the creek (not running due to drought). Rosalie was a lovely host, very accommodating and welcoming. The campsite itself was set away in a private location so lots of space for the kids to explore, teeming with wildlife and some cheeky sheep, this is a perfect spot for experiencing KI in its natural state.

S

Simon

April 2025

Tent

With kids

11 nights at Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

Wow. A wonderful environment that provided the perfect escape and recharge. The position was perfect, the host helpful, knowledgeable and respectful. A hidden gem. Definitely would recommend to those wanting the true off grid escape for the whole family. We hope to be back.

S

Shaun

April 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Meanfeat Downs

We loved staying at Steve's property in Bay of Shoals. It was super spacious, tranquil, private, clean and had an abundance of curious wildlife nearby. It's also close to the brewery, distillery and various wineries. Lastly, we had an issue with our car during our stay and Steve came to our aid at short notice. Much appreciated!

B

Beth

April 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Drifting Sands Quarter Horses

We thoroughly enjoyed the natural, completely secluded and safe camping spot. Our children and pup spent hours climbing trees, chasing butterflies and star gazing. We loved the private setting, with our own entrance that weaved through paddocks of horses and kangaroos. A true nature lovers paradise - We will be back!

Would be spectacular in spring, but it was still a great spot

Chris

April 2025

1 m pop-up camper

3 nights at Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

Rosalie was a great host. Good directions and a friendly welcome. The site was perfect. Even though SA and Kangaroo Island is in drought, the site was picturesque and peaceful. Very quiet and at night very dark!! The campsite is on a working farm and the sheep loved to visit. The site is well located, only 20mins to Kingscote and many of the NE attractions.

Rachael

April 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With pets

4 nights at Drifting Sands Quarter Horses

Perfect, peaceful bush camp in a gorgeous valley. Still close enough to Victor Harbour & beaches. Mike & Belinda easy to communicate with, didn't hassle you once you find a spot. Have to mention the Belgium Waffle Cafe called "Belicious" on way into town. Bloody awesome feed!!

S

Susan

March 2025

9 m Class B

With pets

7 nights at Meanfeat Downs

We lived camping at Stephen's. Its a lovely location with beautiful Bay of Shoals and Emu Bay close by and only a short drive to Kingston. The land itself is accessible with views, plenty of space and wildlife. Communication was great and Stephen welcoming. Highly recommend.

G

Graeme

February 2025

5 m travel trailer

1 night at Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

Rosalie helped us out a lot on a particularly hot day. Found us shade under a shed on her property.

B

Ben

January 2025

5 m car

1 night at Meanfeat Downs

Beautiful property, dozens of kangaroos and wallabies everywhere. Multiple areas to pitch up so you can drive around and pick a good spot. All you need

S

Sally

January 2025

5 m car

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

We camped with an Outlook to the west so enjoyed beautiful sunsets. Very peaceful.

C

Catrin

January 2025

14 m Class B

With pets

5 nights at Meanfeat Downs

Stephen is a very kind and friendly host. His property is beautiful with lots of wildlife. Since you are on an island it get windy, choose your spot wisely.

Emily

January 2025

Tent

With pets

5 nights at Meanfeat Downs

Camping at MeanFeat downs was beautiful! Steve has a beautiful property and mostly central to everything we wanted to see! It was nice to come back to a quiet camp with wildlife right on your back door step! We would recommend and would stay again!

D

Debra

December 2024

1 m travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Meanfeat Downs

I love the camping on Stephen land it was so picturesque and very peaceful the view over the bay was amazing. The host Stephen was very helpful and friendly if you are visiting kangaroos island it a most place to stay .

M

Maïwenn

November 2024

Tent

3 nights at Longview Camp

Simple basic land, without electricity or toilets but drinking water available. Easy access, quiet and perfect location to visit the surroundings. Kangaroos will come to say hello to you at sunset and sunrise, perfect for nature lovers. Go admire the pelicans and black swans at sunset on the edge of the American River, just 5 minutes on foot.