The best ranch campgrounds near Goolwa, South Australia

Pitch your tent or roll up in a swag—ranch camping around Goolwa puts you right in the thick of South Australia’s working farmland. With over 30 ranch stays to choose from here, you’ll sleep within earshot of livestock, under wide southern skies. Nights start at just $20, with the average spot landing at $39 per night. Most sites offer a toilet and shower, and you can light a campfire at many—just check local fire bans first. You’ll spot kangaroos at dusk, swim in nearby creeks, or set out for a morning hike across rolling paddocks. Breakaway Farmstay (294 reviews) is the local favourite for families and solo adventurers alike, while Green Pastures Retreat (25 reviews) and Waitpinga Ridge | Creek Camp Site (24 reviews) draw those after a quieter spot. Don’t forget your torch, and be ready for a dawn chorus from the resident magpies.

99% (428)

Top-rated campgrounds

Pitch your tent or roll up in a swag—ranch camping around Goolwa puts you right in the thick of South Australia’s working farmland. With over 30 ranch stays to choose from here, you’ll sleep within earshot of livestock, under wide southern skies. Nights start at just $20, with the average spot landing at $39 per night. Most sites offer a toilet and shower, and you can light a campfire at many—just check local fire bans first. You’ll spot kangaroos at dusk, swim in nearby creeks, or set out for a morning hike across rolling paddocks. Breakaway Farmstay (294 reviews) is the local favourite for families and solo adventurers alike, while Green Pastures Retreat (25 reviews) and Waitpinga Ridge | Creek Camp Site (24 reviews) draw those after a quieter spot. Don’t forget your torch, and be ready for a dawn chorus from the resident magpies.

99% (428)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Breakaway Farmstay

99%

(599)

11km from Goolwa · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Waitpinga, SA

Great location, best opportunity to spend time on the farm amongst the animals and nature. We are a small Farmstay in the heart of the Fleurieu Peninsula just out side Victor Harbor in Waitpinga. Powered and unpowered sites have use of bathroom facility. Waggon Flat campers do not have access to facilities. Limited Telstra ph service and wifi. And For Something New, Your welcome to visit our Onsite Distillery. Moo's Distillery is open Friday's to Sunday to taste new and vibrant Gins. If your hungry also try a pizza for Dinner. ***** We welcome you to make a booking with us at Breakaway Farmstay but when booking please make sure all your details are correct. So we do not have to decline the booking due to incorrect details. Also after you have placed a booking please check your messages to see if we have responded to you at some stage. We look forward to seeing you at Breakaway Farmstay Check in from time from 1.00pm. Check out is strictly 10.30 unless pre organised with management. Close to anything you would like to do in this fantastic part of the state of South Australia. From fishing to surfing to long walks on the Heysen Trail or wine tasting and whale watching, there is everything here you would ever want to do. On the farm you will be able to see our animals which include Sheep, cows, chooks, ducks, goats, alpaca - all are very hungry and looking for pats! Sorry we don't allow pets. Campfires permitting (depending on local fire restrictions). All Rubbish is to be taken home by campers, with the policy of what you bring you take home and leave nothing. Scroll down for Map of location. Check in time from 1.00pm. check out by 10.30am.

2. Sunset Rocks Farmstay

99%

(34)

58km from Goolwa · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mount Barker Springs, SA

Sunset Rocks Farmstay: Creekside Camping & Permaculture Experience Discover the tranquility of Sunset Rocks Farmstay, a 20-acre gem nestled in the rolling hills of Mount Barker Springs. Our unique property features Mount Barker Creek flowing through it, creating picturesque creekside campsites perfect for nature lovers. Our property is a unique haven nestled against dramatic cliffs and a burbling creeks. A really special camping experience. ***ALL KIDS UP TO 18 STAY FREE *** CAMP FIRES: - ok out of fire ban season. ## No fires after Nov 15 2025. ## Experience the charm of an evolving permaculture farm, home to friendly sheep, playful lambs (August - November), alpacas, chickens, and fruit trees, all while surrounded by the beauty of native Australian wildlife. Our campsites offer stunning creekside views, with some situated directly on the water's edge. Enjoy the soothing sounds of the creek and the rustic charm of our natural setting. Your hosts, certified Permaculture Designers, are dedicated to environmental preservation, ensuring a sustainable and enriching experience for all guests. The property is designed to provide a peaceful escape, allowing you to reconnect with nature. Local Attractions: Sunset Rocks Farmstay is ideally located for exploring the Adelaide Hills region. Discover nearby Ngeringa Vineyards, wander through the Laratinga Wetlands, or hike to the summit of Mount Barker for breathtaking views. Explore the SteamRanger Heritage Railway, browse the Adelaide Hills Farmers Market, and sample local flavors at Howard Vineyard and Prancing Pony Brewery. The historic town of Hahndorf, with its charming shops and restaurants, is also just a short drive away. Farm Activities: Immerse yourself in farm life by meeting our animals, exploring the land, and learning about permaculture practices. Children can enjoy kayaking in the creek's rock pools, while nature enthusiasts can enjoy scenic walks. We encourage guests to respect and enjoy the environment: we have a range of native animals on the property including blue tongue lizards, possums, brown and red bellied snakes, heaps of birds including kookaburras and often a kangaroo or dozen!

3. Waitpinga Ridge | Creek Camp Site

96%

(41)

12km from Goolwa · 1 site · Tent, RV · Waitpinga, SA

Waitpinga Ridge is a farm located on the Fleurieu Peninsula, 15min from Victor Harbor. The Creek Camp Site is tucket away surrounded by gums and adjacent to 35acres of land reseeded back to native bush. From this location you can explore the Fleurieu with ease. Hike parts of the Heysen trail along the Waitpinga Sea Cliffs. Enjoy a drink at Lost Phoenix Farm or Boho Farm. And if you are feeling a little bit adventurous, Waitpinga Quad Bike Tours is just around the corner! PLEASE NOTE: This is an unpowered site with no facilities. We accept self-contained travellers only, with their own toilet. There are no rubbish facilities, all waste is to be taken with you when you leave. Campers must adhere to fire ban regulations. ** 4whd access only during winter. Please note that the site is located next to a creek with free access to the flowing water, it may pose as a drowning risk for some.

from

AU$49

/ night

4. Aldinga Bay Bungalows

30km from Goolwa · 2 sites · Lodging · Adelaide, SA

Walk or ride along the beautiful Aldinga Sellick's beach, feed the ducks and chickens, enjoy our farm fresh eggs when the girls are laying, Say Hello to Bob and knuckles our family's Alpacas. See what's to pick from our veggie garden called Patch in the paddock, enjoy a beverage on the veranda while watching the sunset, wake up the sounds of the ocean and the bird life. BBQ in the courtyard or dine out at the many local restaurants like the Victory hotel or the Pearl. Visit the Willunga's farmers Market and grab yourself some organic ingredients to cook yourself a feast in our fully equipped Kitchen. Spacious 3 bedrooms 2 king beds 1 double.

5. Potters Hill Farm

100%

(7)

66km from Goolwa · 1 site · Tent, RV · Uraidla Summertown, SA

A small family run certified organic farm with a Pinot vineyard, views over piccadilly valley, and fruit orchard. Set behind the beautiful Mt Lofty Ranges in the Adelaide Hills and only 20 minutes from the city. Our farm has a Bernese Mountain Dog named Lotti, 6 ducks, 4 chooks, and a cat named Alfie. Surrounded on one side by National Park and the other by vineyards and plenty of wineries. The next township is just a few minutes away and has all the necessary needs (pharmacy, GP, pub, general store). Within 10 minutes you can rock climb or go swimming in a fresh waterhole. It’s a beautiful part of the world.

6. The Plateau Adventures

94%

(17)

73km from Goolwa · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Rockleigh, SA

Welcome to The Plateau Adventures — your gateway to an unforgettable off-grid escape on a stunning 100-acre property in the heart of Rockleigh. This is where the rugged beauty of rural South Australia meets the calm of total seclusion. Set atop the highest point in the region, The Plateau Adventures offers sweeping views of the Adelaide Hills and a peaceful, unspoiled natural environment. Whether you’re seeking stillness, solitude, or a back-to-basics outdoor experience, this is the place to switch off, slow down, and reconnect. This is a DIY camping experience, perfectly suited to self-contained travellers with RVs, caravans, camper trailers, SUVs, or 4WDs. There are currently no shelters, facilities, or amenities on-site, so it’s essential to come fully prepared with everything you need for your stay — from water and power to shade and comfort. What we do offer is space, nature and lots of it. Wake up to the sounds of native birds, breathe in crisp country air, and explore our working landscape filled with diverse flora and fauna. You can wander sheep trails, discover pockets of bushland, great for mountain biking too, or simply find your favourite spot to relax and take in the view. For those curious about farm life, we offer optional guided walks where you can meet some of our friendly animals and learn more about life on the land. Come ready to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of The Plateau, where the adventure is yours to create.

7. Green Pastures Retreat

98%

(30)

11km from Goolwa · 8 sites · RVs · Back Valley, SA

A woking beef and sheep property which ensures peace and serenity for your stay. Beautiful valley views plus lots of birdlife and native fauna e.g. kangaroos and echidnas. Enjoy the night sky and the stars. With only 6 sites in total you will have an exclusive and peaceful visit. Close to the Heysen Trail for great walking experiences, or lovely cycling routes. We also sell fresh free-range eggs. The only sounds will be of birdlife and maybe the odd farm animal sounds.

8. SWAMPYS

100%

(3)

37km from Goolwa · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Milang, SA

A sand fire view with developing trees and native vegetation. We are 1km from. Lake Alexandrina. 1km from the township of Milang. Local wineries at Langhorne Creek and Currency Creek. 19 km to Strathalbyn, 30km to Goolwa and 45km to Victor Harbor. A lovely view of Mt Barker and the lower Lofty Ranges. We have 6 sites to choose from. Some walking trails being developed with more to come.. I have put bins out for you and put a tap on in the top corner for washing hands and dishes. Not for drinking. I have also got fire pits available for anyone who wants a fire. Some fire wood available, for a small fee.

9. Drifting Sands Quarter Horses

100%

(7)

19km from Goolwa · 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.

10. Gum Park Beef Farm

100%

(17)

10km from Goolwa · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Port Elliot, SA

Gum Park is a working Cattle Property where our family lives and works full time. We also have a butchery on farm where we process our own beef and pork for sale at local farmer's markets. Gum Park is a certified organic farm, so no chemicals are sprayed on our pastures or anywhere within our property. Our property is at the top of the watershed, so we don't get run off from other properties nearby. We are situated 14 km from the centre of Victor Harbor on the top of Cut Hill. Other towns close by are Pt Elliot (9km) and Mount Compass (14km). The Hipcamp campsite is situated in a paddock setting, nestled up against native scrub.

11. Pear Tree Hollow

100%

(2)

19km from Goolwa · 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.

12. Compass Country Cabins

100%

(1)

20km from Goolwa · 2 sites · Lodging · Mount Compass, SA

The Compass Country Cabins are located just a 50 minute drive from Adelaide, South Australia, in the midst of the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula. Mount Compass is located 15 minutes from Victor Harbor and Goolwa and the beautiful coastline there. Fully self contained & airconditioned accommodation in a peaceful bushland setting with ensuite bathroom, washing machine, kitchen, heating, cooling, bed, bath and kitchen linen, cutlery, crockery, TV and wonderful outdoor settings:

Camper favorites near Goolwa

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Green Pastures Retreat

98%

(30)

11km from Goolwa · 8 sites · RVs · Back Valley, SA

A woking beef and sheep property which ensures peace and serenity for your stay. Beautiful valley views plus lots of birdlife and native fauna e.g. kangaroos and echidnas. Enjoy the night sky and the stars. With only 6 sites in total you will have an exclusive and peaceful visit. Close to the Heysen Trail for great walking experiences, or lovely cycling routes. We also sell fresh free-range eggs. The only sounds will be of birdlife and maybe the odd farm animal sounds.

SWAMPYS

100%

(3)

37km from Goolwa · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Milang, SA

A sand fire view with developing trees and native vegetation. We are 1km from. Lake Alexandrina. 1km from the township of Milang. Local wineries at Langhorne Creek and Currency Creek. 19 km to Strathalbyn, 30km to Goolwa and 45km to Victor Harbor. A lovely view of Mt Barker and the lower Lofty Ranges. We have 6 sites to choose from. Some walking trails being developed with more to come.. I have put bins out for you and put a tap on in the top corner for washing hands and dishes. Not for drinking. I have also got fire pits available for anyone who wants a fire. Some fire wood available, for a small fee.

Drifting Sands Quarter Horses

100%

(7)

19km from Goolwa · 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.

Gum Park Beef Farm

100%

(17)

10km from Goolwa · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Port Elliot, SA

Gum Park is a working Cattle Property where our family lives and works full time. We also have a butchery on farm where we process our own beef and pork for sale at local farmer's markets. Gum Park is a certified organic farm, so no chemicals are sprayed on our pastures or anywhere within our property. Our property is at the top of the watershed, so we don't get run off from other properties nearby. We are situated 14 km from the centre of Victor Harbor on the top of Cut Hill. Other towns close by are Pt Elliot (9km) and Mount Compass (14km). The Hipcamp campsite is situated in a paddock setting, nestled up against native scrub.

Pear Tree Hollow

100%

(2)

19km from Goolwa · 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.

Compass Country Cabins

100%

(1)

20km from Goolwa · 2 sites · Lodging · Mount Compass, SA

The Compass Country Cabins are located just a 50 minute drive from Adelaide, South Australia, in the midst of the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula. Mount Compass is located 15 minutes from Victor Harbor and Goolwa and the beautiful coastline there. Fully self contained & airconditioned accommodation in a peaceful bushland setting with ensuite bathroom, washing machine, kitchen, heating, cooling, bed, bath and kitchen linen, cutlery, crockery, TV and wonderful outdoor settings:

Stories from the community

E

Emily

1 week ago

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Green Pastures Retreat

We loved our stay. Very peaceful and beautiful bird life 🌅

D

David

October 2025

12 m travel trailer

4 nights at The Plateau Adventures

Great views. Still very natural environment. Plenty of space between sites.

S

Sean

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Plateau Adventures

I absolutely loved camping at the plateau. Its such a beautiful serene place. Fantastic for the rugged style camping. The views are spectacular and Jarrod is such a fantastic host. Make sure you have a strong sturdy tent, I recommend a dome tent as the winds can get intense sometimes as your very high up. This style of camping is for experienced campers. I loved every part of it and I will definitely be going up there regularly.

P

Pip

October 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Drifting Sands Quarter Horses

Beautiful views. Cows and horses galore! Great walking trails and Mike was an excellent host. Very peaceful and quiet. Highly recommend!

K

Kate

October 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Drifting Sands Quarter Horses

A lovely horse stud surrounded by beautiful countryside. Mike was hospitable but not intrusive. Great to have power and a porta-loo.

K

Kirrily

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Waitpinga Ridge | Creek Camp Site

We very much enjoyed our stay at waitpinga ridge! Beautiful scenery, great communication from host, and a good location to travel to surrounding sites and walks etc!

E

Evan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Plateau Adventures

Very hospitable and friendly host. Lovely camping spots available with wonderful views.

A

Adam

September 2025

5 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Gum Park Beef Farm

We loved camping at Gum Park Beef Farm. The camp-site was really flat & easy to get in & out of. Plenty of birdlife & just a great spot to get away.

Gabby

September 2025

6 m travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Potters Hill Farm

Absolutely gorgeous property and incredibly welcoming family Would 100% recommend!

t

tom

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Waitpinga Ridge | Creek Camp Site

Beautiful spot - tucked away, with a pretty creek that you can explore and fall asleep to. And a little walk up the hill gives you views of the ocean. Alexandra was great at communicating with us ahead of the trip to make sure we knew where we were going and familiar with the spot before we arrived.

T

Trev

September 2025

10 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Waitpinga Ridge | Creek Camp Site

We have camped here a few times. We love that there is no phone reception and no facilities so it's all back to basics. Light a fire, play some board games or go for a drive to Victor Harbor. There is a little creek near the campsite for some soothing white noise all day long.

R

Rob

September 2025

7 m travel trailer

3 nights at Breakaway Farmstay

Great farm stay. Very relaxing and quiet. Nice and close to Victor Harbour. Toilet, shower facilities (both exceptionally clean), power, water made things easy. Phone reception and internet not great if this is an issue for you, wasn’t for us. Rob the host is a real gentleman. Loved watching the goats and the highland cows while having a drink by the fire each evening.

K

Ken

August 2025

10 m pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at SWAMPYS

Nice spot.Plenty of things to do nearby.We had our dogs with us and they loved it.

S

Sarah

August 2025

3 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Plateau Adventures

It’s the most beautiful hidden spot on top of a plateau, our second time back and we will be back again!

Z

Zoe

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to SWAMPYS

Such a great bush camp with motorbike track. Helpful and communicative host, peaceful and so much space. Rubbish bins provided as well as fire pits. Hard to find a place that allows motorbikes but this camp even has a motorbike track which provided hours of entertainment for the kids. We absolutely will be back, a new fave!

A

Andrew

June 2025

9 m pop-up camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Waitpinga Ridge | Creek Camp Site

What an awesome camp site, peaceful with a great fire on a night time

K

Katina

June 2025

5 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Breakaway Farmstay

Our family had an amazing time at Breakaway Farmstay. The kids were thrilled to feed the goats, and there was plenty of space for them to run and explore. Rob was incredibly helpful and welcoming and Moo’s gin distillery was a treat for the adults! We’ll definitely be back.

I

Irena

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Plateau Adventures

The property looked great and we can’t wait to return, however, on this occasion we had to cancel due to extreme weather conditions.

Penny

May 2025

3 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Waitpinga Ridge | Creek Camp Site

We loved our stay at Alexandra’s camp. The small creek that was running and the bird life was extra special along with the privacy that comes with being the only people camped there. Highly recommend this beautiful sanctuary