The best lakeside camping near Encounter Bay

·

Looking for an adventurous getaway near Encounter Bay, South Australia? Check out Hipcamp, where you'll find over 100 camping options tailored to your preferences. Whether you're into paddling, off-roading, or surfing, there's something for everyone. And with popular amenities like showers, campfires, and potable water, you'll have all the comforts you need. Don't just take our word for it - check out top campsites like Tarlee - Serenity (194 reviews), Breakaway Farmstay (158 reviews), and Pymbroke (96 reviews). With prices starting as low as $8 per night and an average price of $25 per night, you'll be able to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

91% (123) 11 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Encounter Bay

Milang Farm Camp

1. Milang Farm Camp

91%
(44)
40km from Encounter Bay · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
We have 43 beautiful acres half way between Goolwa and Strathalbyn. We are located walking distance from lake alexandrina, we’re there are plenty of activities to do such as fishing, boating, and more. There is abundance of wildlife with our resident mob of kangaroos stoping by daily it’s a bird watchers paradise. This site is a 4 minute walk from the main house and is completely private. The property has its own private road so plenty of room for kids to ride their bikes, we have horses and cows that guests are welcome to feed over the fence. Dogs are welcome lots of room for them to run around, we also have paddle boards for hire. The town of milang has its own mini mart and cafe and on weekends the train museum is open for viewing. Must be self contained and leave no trace.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$25
 / night
Coorong Island Retreat

2. Coorong Island Retreat

87%
(113)
63km from Encounter Bay · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging
Staying at the Coorong Island Retreat, you’re a guest of nature – slumbering, playing, and exploring the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong - the region embodies all of nature’s brilliance and boasts a breathtaking scenery, and remarkable Australian wildlife. Around the property there are options to venture out on a boat, bushwalking on nature trials, biking to Coorong, 4WD off-roading at Coorong National Park or tasting adventure at Langhorne Creek. It is ideal for boating – it’s a fishers and birdwatchers paradise. Coorong Island Retreat is suitable for self contained campers with their own toilet/shower facilities. Family groups, camp fires (Fire Danger Season Restrictions Apply) and well behaved pets are welcome. Please note, we have unfenced livestock (Sheep and Alpacas) at the property. around the camp sites. This property is often gets windy, there's a space between tree groves that is shielded from wind, however, it may only allow 2 or 3 tents/ swags. It's a rural property, expect a weeds within the pastures.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$49
 / night
Humpy Springs

3. Humpy Springs

39km from Encounter Bay · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Humpy Springs is a serene retreat just 3 minutes from McLaren Flat, nestled in the foothills of the locality known as "The Range," which stretches northeast from Willunga Hill toward Kangarilla. From this vantage point, enjoy sweeping views across the Southern Vales wine region all the way to the coast. Multiple cellar door wineries are within a 5-minute drive, along with breweries, dining, and all the services McLaren Vale has to offer, just 7 minutes away. The campsite sits on one of the hills with a predominantly north-easterly aspect, overlooking gullies and gum trees. Due to its elevation, some times of the year can be windy, so it’s best to check forecasts before arrival. The highlight of Humpy Springs is a natural spring-fed freshwater lake, accessible by a short bush walk down steep hills or by 4WD via approved tracks. Swim or kayak at your own risk, with a pontoon and ladder for easy access. Kayaks can be hired for the duration of your stay. This lake is a peaceful sanctuary, surrounded by rugged hills, ducks, and occasionally grazing kangaroos. It’s our favorite feature, offering calm and tranquility at every visit. For those who enjoy bushwalking or hiking, a track leads to the top of the hills, revealing stunning views over McLaren Flat, Blewitt Springs, and out to Moana and the coast. The hike takes roughly an hour, mostly gentle with a short steep 50-meter section near the lake. The sites are natural, with no amenities provided, so campers must be self-sufficient. There is space for camp trailers and caravans, ideally pulled by 4WD vehicles due to the topography. Firewood is available at a minimal cost—please advise when booking so it can be calculated based on nights and guests. Humpy Springs offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and tranquility. Spend your days exploring the lake, walking the trails, or visiting local wineries, and your evenings relaxing under gum trees, listening to birds, and watching the sunset. Come experience our piece of paradise and make lasting memories in this unique corner of the Southern Vales.
Pets
from 
AU$37
 / night
Kuitpo Winter Wetlands Sanctuary

4. Kuitpo Winter Wetlands Sanctuary

100%
(13)
40km from Encounter Bay · 7 sites · RVs
Hello! We would love to share the Winter Wetlands Sanctuary in Kuitpo with you. The little sanctuary has been specifically designed to accommodate Campervans and Self-driven motorhomes WITH ON-BOARD TOILETTING & GREY WATER TANK. Please understand that our business model licence and insurance policy has stringent conditions attached to it. *WE ARE ONLY ABLE TO ACCEPT SELF-DRIVEN CAMPERVANS/MOTORHOMES THAT ARE 7.5m OR LESS IN LENGTH* They must be equipped with their own toilet facilities and grey water reservoir due to governmental zoning regulations. Do NOT book unless you have your own toileting amenities and grey water tank. No human waste policy applies. If you have to cancel your booking because you do not meet these requirements, you will NOT be refunded. It is out of our hands. Our Insurance policy disallows the following:- *NO CARAVANS, TRAILERS, OR TENTS.* *NO CHILDREN* *NO PETS* Now that THAT is all said: Forest Gate B&B has been receiving guests on the property for nearly 40 years and the Winter Wetlands is a small private sanctuary that we share with our guests who enjoy both privacy and open air. We run a small mixed farm in the Adelaide Hills, and over the past 10 years, have been developing this little safe haven in the Southern corner of our property. We are trying to encourage the proliferation of local wildlife that everyone can enjoy both now and in the future. The Winter Wetlands is NOT a 'caravan park'. It is a small, private, sanctuary, which is at it's best in the cold wet Winter months when the pond/ dam comes to life. Guests can kick back around the campfire overlooking the dam, as they listen to the crickets and frogs in the evenings. There is a resident Western Grey kangaroo, many possums (both ring-tail and brush-tail), native burrowing rats, koalas and an occasional wandering echidna (if you are lucky enough to see one). There's a plethora of birdlife, including favourites such as blue wrens, fairy wrens, and a resident family of white-winged choughs. The Sanctuary caters for a maximum of seven bookings (2 guests per booking) at any one time. Usually, you will have the Sanctuary all to yourselves. There are many little picnic spots. We request that guests leave no sign of visitation, and take all waste with them. CAMPERVAN SITES: As stated previously, regulations only allow the following: *SELF-DRIVEN CAMPERVANS OR MOTORHOMES THAT ARE 7.5m OR LESS IN LENGTH* *NO CARAVANS, TRAILERS, OR TENTS.* We have 7 independent, unpowered, sites that are suited for Class A or B campervans or motorhomes ONLY. ACCESS: There is easy, main road access into the 'Winter Wetlands Sanctuary' from Brookman road. GPS: -35.21694, 138.6970. There is a clearly marked, one-way, loose stone road that leads to all available sites. Look for the reflectors on the big gum trees on Brookman Rd, and the gate with the notice of Conditions of Entry denoting the way in. COMMUNAL AREAS: The communal shelter shed, picnic areas, and two communal camp fires offer a variety of places to relax and watch the local birds enjoy the area. NEARBY FEATURES include: - Directly across the road from the Heysen Trail in the beautiful Kuitpo Forest. - 3-4 minutes to exceptional SA wineries including K1 (4 mins down the road), and Perrini (in the nearby township of Meadows) . - Near Echunga Goldfields (Jupiter creek) (20 km away), and Prospect Hill (4 km away) for fossicking. - Kuipto Forest TreeClimb is only 2 km up the road and has thousands of visitors per annum. - Easy access to tourist townships of McLaren Vale (15 mins), Hahndorf (25 mins), Mt Barker (25 mins) and Willunga, which is well known for its Saturday Morning Market (15 mins). - Facilities such as Pharmacy, Medical clinic, Petrol Station, Hotel, and Bakery can be found in Meadows, only 5 mins away. The Winter Wetlands are fully fenced ensuring privacy. In the interest of the wellbeing of local wild life, nearby stock, and neighbours, we ask that you do not play loud music at night. WASTE: NO HUMAN WASTE. Guests staying in the Winter Wetlands must have self contained toilet facilities and grey water tank. There is a Waste Dump Point in Meadows (6 km away) near the footy oval (Brooks street rec. ground, GPS: -35.180278, 138.76). SIZE RESTRICTIONS: Due to the nature of the vegetation in the Winter Wetlands, and manoeuvrability of vehicles, size restrictions apply. Sites will suit campervans (7.5 m or less), but will NOT be suitable for caravans. Caravans, trailers and tents are NOT permitted. UNSUITABLE for CHILDREN and PETS: Forest Gate is a working farm. There are regularly livestock in the paddocks adjacent to the Winter Wetlands. There is also an open dam and a communal fireplace in the Winter Wetlands. Due to our insurance policy, we can not allow children or pets. Therefore, stays in the Winter Wetlands are only available to adults.
from 
AU$31
 / night

Looking for an adventurous getaway near Encounter Bay, South Australia? Check out Hipcamp, where you'll find over 100 camping options tailored to your preferences. Whether you're into paddling, off-roading, or surfing, there's something for everyone. And with popular amenities like showers, campfires, and potable water, you'll have all the comforts you need. Don't just take our word for it - check out top campsites like Tarlee - Serenity (194 reviews), Breakaway Farmstay (158 reviews), and Pymbroke (96 reviews). With prices starting as low as $8 per night and an average price of $25 per night, you'll be able to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

91% (123) 11 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Encounter Bay

Milang Farm Camp

1. Milang Farm Camp

91%
(44)
40km from Encounter Bay · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
We have 43 beautiful acres half way between Goolwa and Strathalbyn. We are located walking distance from lake alexandrina, we’re there are plenty of activities to do such as fishing, boating, and more. There is abundance of wildlife with our resident mob of kangaroos stoping by daily it’s a bird watchers paradise. This site is a 4 minute walk from the main house and is completely private. The property has its own private road so plenty of room for kids to ride their bikes, we have horses and cows that guests are welcome to feed over the fence. Dogs are welcome lots of room for them to run around, we also have paddle boards for hire. The town of milang has its own mini mart and cafe and on weekends the train museum is open for viewing. Must be self contained and leave no trace.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$25
 / night
Coorong Island Retreat

2. Coorong Island Retreat

87%
(113)
63km from Encounter Bay · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging
Staying at the Coorong Island Retreat, you’re a guest of nature – slumbering, playing, and exploring the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong - the region embodies all of nature’s brilliance and boasts a breathtaking scenery, and remarkable Australian wildlife. Around the property there are options to venture out on a boat, bushwalking on nature trials, biking to Coorong, 4WD off-roading at Coorong National Park or tasting adventure at Langhorne Creek. It is ideal for boating – it’s a fishers and birdwatchers paradise. Coorong Island Retreat is suitable for self contained campers with their own toilet/shower facilities. Family groups, camp fires (Fire Danger Season Restrictions Apply) and well behaved pets are welcome. Please note, we have unfenced livestock (Sheep and Alpacas) at the property. around the camp sites. This property is often gets windy, there's a space between tree groves that is shielded from wind, however, it may only allow 2 or 3 tents/ swags. It's a rural property, expect a weeds within the pastures.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$49
 / night
Humpy Springs

3. Humpy Springs

39km from Encounter Bay · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Humpy Springs is a serene retreat just 3 minutes from McLaren Flat, nestled in the foothills of the locality known as "The Range," which stretches northeast from Willunga Hill toward Kangarilla. From this vantage point, enjoy sweeping views across the Southern Vales wine region all the way to the coast. Multiple cellar door wineries are within a 5-minute drive, along with breweries, dining, and all the services McLaren Vale has to offer, just 7 minutes away. The campsite sits on one of the hills with a predominantly north-easterly aspect, overlooking gullies and gum trees. Due to its elevation, some times of the year can be windy, so it’s best to check forecasts before arrival. The highlight of Humpy Springs is a natural spring-fed freshwater lake, accessible by a short bush walk down steep hills or by 4WD via approved tracks. Swim or kayak at your own risk, with a pontoon and ladder for easy access. Kayaks can be hired for the duration of your stay. This lake is a peaceful sanctuary, surrounded by rugged hills, ducks, and occasionally grazing kangaroos. It’s our favorite feature, offering calm and tranquility at every visit. For those who enjoy bushwalking or hiking, a track leads to the top of the hills, revealing stunning views over McLaren Flat, Blewitt Springs, and out to Moana and the coast. The hike takes roughly an hour, mostly gentle with a short steep 50-meter section near the lake. The sites are natural, with no amenities provided, so campers must be self-sufficient. There is space for camp trailers and caravans, ideally pulled by 4WD vehicles due to the topography. Firewood is available at a minimal cost—please advise when booking so it can be calculated based on nights and guests. Humpy Springs offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and tranquility. Spend your days exploring the lake, walking the trails, or visiting local wineries, and your evenings relaxing under gum trees, listening to birds, and watching the sunset. Come experience our piece of paradise and make lasting memories in this unique corner of the Southern Vales.
Pets
from 
AU$37
 / night
Kuitpo Winter Wetlands Sanctuary

4. Kuitpo Winter Wetlands Sanctuary

100%
(13)
40km from Encounter Bay · 7 sites · RVs
Hello! We would love to share the Winter Wetlands Sanctuary in Kuitpo with you. The little sanctuary has been specifically designed to accommodate Campervans and Self-driven motorhomes WITH ON-BOARD TOILETTING & GREY WATER TANK. Please understand that our business model licence and insurance policy has stringent conditions attached to it. *WE ARE ONLY ABLE TO ACCEPT SELF-DRIVEN CAMPERVANS/MOTORHOMES THAT ARE 7.5m OR LESS IN LENGTH* They must be equipped with their own toilet facilities and grey water reservoir due to governmental zoning regulations. Do NOT book unless you have your own toileting amenities and grey water tank. No human waste policy applies. If you have to cancel your booking because you do not meet these requirements, you will NOT be refunded. It is out of our hands. Our Insurance policy disallows the following:- *NO CARAVANS, TRAILERS, OR TENTS.* *NO CHILDREN* *NO PETS* Now that THAT is all said: Forest Gate B&B has been receiving guests on the property for nearly 40 years and the Winter Wetlands is a small private sanctuary that we share with our guests who enjoy both privacy and open air. We run a small mixed farm in the Adelaide Hills, and over the past 10 years, have been developing this little safe haven in the Southern corner of our property. We are trying to encourage the proliferation of local wildlife that everyone can enjoy both now and in the future. The Winter Wetlands is NOT a 'caravan park'. It is a small, private, sanctuary, which is at it's best in the cold wet Winter months when the pond/ dam comes to life. Guests can kick back around the campfire overlooking the dam, as they listen to the crickets and frogs in the evenings. There is a resident Western Grey kangaroo, many possums (both ring-tail and brush-tail), native burrowing rats, koalas and an occasional wandering echidna (if you are lucky enough to see one). There's a plethora of birdlife, including favourites such as blue wrens, fairy wrens, and a resident family of white-winged choughs. The Sanctuary caters for a maximum of seven bookings (2 guests per booking) at any one time. Usually, you will have the Sanctuary all to yourselves. There are many little picnic spots. We request that guests leave no sign of visitation, and take all waste with them. CAMPERVAN SITES: As stated previously, regulations only allow the following: *SELF-DRIVEN CAMPERVANS OR MOTORHOMES THAT ARE 7.5m OR LESS IN LENGTH* *NO CARAVANS, TRAILERS, OR TENTS.* We have 7 independent, unpowered, sites that are suited for Class A or B campervans or motorhomes ONLY. ACCESS: There is easy, main road access into the 'Winter Wetlands Sanctuary' from Brookman road. GPS: -35.21694, 138.6970. There is a clearly marked, one-way, loose stone road that leads to all available sites. Look for the reflectors on the big gum trees on Brookman Rd, and the gate with the notice of Conditions of Entry denoting the way in. COMMUNAL AREAS: The communal shelter shed, picnic areas, and two communal camp fires offer a variety of places to relax and watch the local birds enjoy the area. NEARBY FEATURES include: - Directly across the road from the Heysen Trail in the beautiful Kuitpo Forest. - 3-4 minutes to exceptional SA wineries including K1 (4 mins down the road), and Perrini (in the nearby township of Meadows) . - Near Echunga Goldfields (Jupiter creek) (20 km away), and Prospect Hill (4 km away) for fossicking. - Kuipto Forest TreeClimb is only 2 km up the road and has thousands of visitors per annum. - Easy access to tourist townships of McLaren Vale (15 mins), Hahndorf (25 mins), Mt Barker (25 mins) and Willunga, which is well known for its Saturday Morning Market (15 mins). - Facilities such as Pharmacy, Medical clinic, Petrol Station, Hotel, and Bakery can be found in Meadows, only 5 mins away. The Winter Wetlands are fully fenced ensuring privacy. In the interest of the wellbeing of local wild life, nearby stock, and neighbours, we ask that you do not play loud music at night. WASTE: NO HUMAN WASTE. Guests staying in the Winter Wetlands must have self contained toilet facilities and grey water tank. There is a Waste Dump Point in Meadows (6 km away) near the footy oval (Brooks street rec. ground, GPS: -35.180278, 138.76). SIZE RESTRICTIONS: Due to the nature of the vegetation in the Winter Wetlands, and manoeuvrability of vehicles, size restrictions apply. Sites will suit campervans (7.5 m or less), but will NOT be suitable for caravans. Caravans, trailers and tents are NOT permitted. UNSUITABLE for CHILDREN and PETS: Forest Gate is a working farm. There are regularly livestock in the paddocks adjacent to the Winter Wetlands. There is also an open dam and a communal fireplace in the Winter Wetlands. Due to our insurance policy, we can not allow children or pets. Therefore, stays in the Winter Wetlands are only available to adults.
from 
AU$31
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top cities near Encounter Bay