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The best camping near Melrose guide
Where to go
Mount Remarkable National Park
Just outside of Melrose, camping at Mount Remarkable National Park is a great way to immerse yourself in South Australia’s diverse natural beauty. Choose between rustic walk-in tent camping sites and campgrounds at Mambray Creek with amenities for camper trailers and caravans, like toilets, hot showers, and picnic areas. Bushwalking through the native gum tree forests is a popular activity here, as the network of trails is suitable for various ages and abilities. For longer hikes, try the 960-metre summit or the 3.2-kilometre Alligator Gorge Loop to admire ancient geology and fossilised rock patterns.
Telowie Gorge Conservation Park
With a number of walking trails meandering around its impressive gorge, Telowie Gorge Conservation Park is one of the best places in South Australia to observe a variety of unique fauna and flora. Keep a lookout for peregrine falcons ripping through the sky, as well as emus, wallabies, and kangaroos among sugar gums, acacia, and native pine next to the deep-cut gorge. Visit in spring to see blooming wildflowers. While the park does not offer on-site camping facilities, there are private Hipcamps and camping grounds nearby.
The Dutchmans Stern Conservation Park
North of Melrose, The Dutchmans Stern Conservation Park appeals to outdoor enthusiasts who want to rough it. There are no designated campsites—instead, campers can choose their own secluded spot to pitch a tent or swag among the park’s steep ranges, although walk-in camping is only permitted outside of the summer fire danger season. The 10-kilometre Dutchmans Stern Hike invites bushwalkers to explore scrubland and rugged open woodland to see views of Spencer Gulf and Lake Torrens. Spot red kangaroos and chestnut-rumped heathwren among the sugar gums and white cypress-pines, then settle into a campground right outside the park.
When to go
The most comfortable time of year to camp near Melrose is in spring and autumn. Temperatures are more moderate, allowing for pleasant bushwalking experiences. The natural scenery is at its most abundant during these shoulder seasons, particularly the spring wildflowers. For mountain biking fans, the annual Melrose Fat Tyre Festival in June can be a major draw as well. However, winter temperatures during this time can be a bit chilly.