The best campgrounds in Kangaroo Island with campfires

Named after its native kangaroos—a species unique to the island—Kangaroo Island is every bit the wildlife-watching paradise that its name suggests. Whether you’re hiking along rugged coastal trails, surfing and snorkelling at its sandy beaches, or exploring the bushlands by 4WD, there are endless opportunities for wildlife-spotting and bird-watching. Unsurprisingly, Kangaroo Island camping is all about getting back to nature. Snag a spot at one of the island’s seven state-run camping areas (two have powered sites); check into a holiday park or caravan park, or enjoy year-round glamping by renting a cosy cabin, sea-view cottage, or a luxury safari tent.

98% (49)

Top-rated campgrounds

Named after its native kangaroos—a species unique to the island—Kangaroo Island is every bit the wildlife-watching paradise that its name suggests. Whether you’re hiking along rugged coastal trails, surfing and snorkelling at its sandy beaches, or exploring the bushlands by 4WD, there are endless opportunities for wildlife-spotting and bird-watching. Unsurprisingly, Kangaroo Island camping is all about getting back to nature. Snag a spot at one of the island’s seven state-run camping areas (two have powered sites); check into a holiday park or caravan park, or enjoy year-round glamping by renting a cosy cabin, sea-view cottage, or a luxury safari tent.

98% (49)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

100%

(13)

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)

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. Kangaroo Island Jump Off Road

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(16)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Inneston, SA

Edenvale Pastorals was originally established as a solider settlers farm, and later was purchased by the Wilmott family in 2001 and converted to regenerative cell grazing cattle farm. The farm was leased for a few years, up until the recent 2019-2020 bush fires. Since the bush fires our family has decided to move back onto the farm and start the rebuild. We will be continuing with the sustainable farming practices and want to give people the opportunity to stay and enjoy the west end. No need to bring your own tent, stay with up to three people in a suspended tent! We can also provide bedding. Should you have a group larger than three, where some people can bring their own gear, we have space for them too. We have a hot outdoor shower, and compost toilet. Pets are also welcome, however must not be in the tent, and must not harass the wildlife. The suspended tent sleeps 3 people maximum. If you have any additional people who bring their own camping gear they are welcome to book our other listing 'Jump Off Road Camp (own gear).' The surrounding paddocks are home to our cattle that pass through occasionally, and during the afternoons you have the opportunity to observe the abundant wild life that come to life, as well as a healthy bird life among the trees. On your stay you have the choice of enjoying the walks and hikes through out the De'mole river and Cape Torrens that are at your door step, go sightseeing in the national park, the De Tong Ling Stupa, Billy Goat water falls or even Western River Cove or just relax and enjoy the serenity of your suspended tree tent experience.Either way, we hope you enjoy what the west end has to offer. Flinders Chase National Park is 40km via bitumen road or 27 km via Shackle road. Keep up to date with road closures through Flinders Chase national park website. Cape Borda Light house is 23km from our farm, there are several hikes in that area such as the Ravine Des Casoars and Harveys return. Keep tabs on their website as the park is closed, however still accessible by foot from the gate. De Tong Ling Stupa is 20km from our farm and is open to the public to visit. Billy Goat waterfalls generally has water flowing through mid winter, but regardless is a beautiful easy hike that comes alive with fungus and orchids early winter and during spring. Be mindful we are 45 minutes from the closest fuel station, at Parndana, and most places close early so it would be wise to be well prepared before getting here. 15km of the road is dirt, just take it easy if you're in a 2wd, and be aware of eagles, kangaroos and wallabies. Please get in touch if you have any questions. We look forward to having you!

4. Rose Cottage Caravan Rest

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4 sites · RVs · Menzies, SA

Being on a farm surrounded by nature, with beautiful sunsets, rolling hills, and bushland is incredibly peaceful and rejuvenating. And having the amazing beach of Emu Bay just 10 minutes away adds even more to the charm of the location. It is a perfect blend of tranquility and natural beauty. Boer Goats and Australian White Sheep are the livestock we farm. At various times of the year we have baby goats and lambs, they are so adorable. There is also the opportunity to explore your creativity! Book a spot for the Charcoal and Chocolate workshops that we run at our art studio. Don't forget to check out the fine art prints, pottery and other unique items on display at the studio. It is sure to be a great experience! We welcome you to our farm to relax and enjoy.

5. Nat and Stu's Place

96%

(14)

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

6. Roo Lagoon Homestead

1 site · Lodging · Newland, SA

We have completed the build of our Homestead after the devastating fires of January 2020 destroyed our original cottage. The Homestead consists of 2 separate units under one roof and is located in a lovely garden setting in the middle of the island. It is self-contained with the option of catering on request Unit 2 is fully set up for mobility-impaired and/or wheelchair access. We have limited Wi-Fi access and smart TVs. We are pet-friendly, so if your dog is well-behaved you are welcome. The space The Homestead consists of 2 separate units under one roof as we wanted to cater for large families or befriended families traveling together as well as individual people. We called unit 1 on the eastern side "Hammer's Cove" after a volunteer who helped us build for 7 months and called himself " The Hammer". Unit 2 on the western side is called Western River Cove after our favorite local beach. Each unit consists of a fully equipped kitchen for all your cooking needs, a fully operational laundry including a washing machine, dryer, and ironing options and several spacious living and dining areas. Each unit has 2 bedrooms with comfortable queen beds and French doors leading to the wide verandahs with a view of the countryside. Unit 2 is fully wheelchair accessible, the bathroom is open plan without barriers, and rails are installed. The bathroom in Unit 1 has a spacious shower alcove with modern amenities. The dining rooms are incorporated in the large kitchens, the living areas have extendable 2 1/2 seater lounges to cater to additional people as well as smart TVs and bookcases with games and books for all ages. The exceptionally wide verandahs surround the entire Homestead and provide 2 separate outdoor settings, a large gas BBQ, and several smaller seating options to enjoy the view from sunrise to sunset. This is a dream for entertaining and feeling at home away from home for any travelers. The Homestead is built adjacent to the AustralianRedGumGallery which is a fully operational woodturning studio and gallery where Jonny does his magic and creates amazing functional art. The gallery also has a pool table and dart board which our guests are welcome to use with care.

Stories from the community

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.

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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!

S

Shaun

April 2025

Tent

With pets

5 nights at Kangaroo Island Jump Off Road

Super private and tranquil, we loved our stay at Amanda's property. She's a great host who met us upon check in. An ideal place to explore the western side of the island from.

Chris

April 2025

5 m pop-up camper

4 nights at Kangaroo Island Jump Off Road

Ideal remote stay. Plenty of beautiful scenery and absolute peace and quiet. It was fantastic!!

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.

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.

Dale

March 2025

3 m pop-up camper

4 nights at Nat and Stu's Place

Great place. Secluded yet not too far from many of the main sites. Good facilities and great to have the shade of the shed. Would highly recommend it.

K

Katrina

March 2025

3 m pop-up camper

4 nights at Nat and Stu's Place

We loved the seclusion that this camp site offered and the kangaroos who regularly passed through. The verandah and bathroom facilities are an added bonus. . Lovely to see the bush regenerating well after the fire. Convenient location for Vivonne Bay and Flinders Chase National Park.

A

Adam

February 2025

Tent

With pets

5 nights at Nat and Stu's Place

We loved camping at Nat & Stu’s; it’s completely private except for the abundant wildlife, the large covered verandah area is a great plus, as is the flush toilet and rain tank water. Vivionne Bay is 10 minutes down the road where there is a great little cafe / general store, and it’s perfectly situated for everything the South Coast has to offer. It’s about 45 minutes to Kingscote, which is the biggest / best serviced township on the island.

Jim

February 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Nat and Stu's Place

Well equipped bush camp with 100 acres of regenerating bushland all to ourselves. Loved looking at all the different plants growing abundantly. Great having a long verandah and bathroom to wash up as well as rainwater. A great relaxing stay.

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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.

N

Na

January 2025

With pets

3 nights at Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

The host is very nice and welcoming, the location of cottage is easy to be found. We had a wonderful time in the cottage. We are happy to be the first guest of the cottage, we can find almost everything we need in it. It’s not a modern style living, but comfortable, pet friendly, kids can have a walk after dinner in the farm, thanks Rosalie for offering us the stay on Kangaroo Island!

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 .

J

Jo

December 2024

5 m pop-up camper

4 nights at Nat and Stu's Place

Nat & Stu’s place was very secluded. A lovely big verandah to shelter from the weather, and having access to the bathroom (toilet & hand basin) was all that I needed. I felt very safe, being there on my own while my husband completed the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. Lots of bird life & the occasional roo hopping through, loved it!!!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping in Kangaroo Island with campfires guide

Where to go

North Coast

A road trip along the north coast of Kangaroo Island will take you past soaring sea cliffs, sandy coves, and scenic vineyards. Stop to swim or fish along the white-sand beaches of Emu Bay, explore the rock pools of Stokes Bay, or hit the surf and check out the famous sunsets at Snellings Beach. There’s also great bird-watching around Western River and Pelican Lagoon.

South Coast

Outdoor adventures and wildlife-watching opportunities await along the south coast. Go sandboarding at the Little Sahara sand dunes, enjoy swimming and kayaking along the Harriet River, and spot sea lions at Seal Bay Conservation Park. Nearby, Murray Lagoon is known for its bird-filled wetlands, while Vivonne Bay and D’Estrees Bay are home to some of the island’s best surf beaches.

West End

Despite being ravaged by wildfires in 2019-20, the western coast is still the highlight of Kangaroo Island and home to some of its most scenic camping spots. Explore Flinders Chase National Park on a 4WD tour or hike the five-day Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, admiring famous viewpoints such as Admirals Arch and Remarkable Rocks along the way.

Dudley Peninsula

If you’re cruising to the island from the mainland, your first stop will be the ferry terminal at Penneshaw. Famous for its colonies of Little Penguins, which can be viewed on a night tour, the port town is also the gateway to the Dudley Peninsula. The eastern tip of the island is the spot to escape the crowds—head to one of the bushland camping areas along the Chapman River or snag a glampsite looking out over Hog Bay.