The best river, stream, or creek caravan campgrounds near Melrose, South Australia

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking to park your caravan and camp near Melrose, South Australia by the river, you're in luck! We have over 220 available options that match your accommodation and activity/terrain preference. Our top campsites in the area include Catninga Camps & Accommodation (68 reviews), Eckert’s Old Place (45 reviews), and Heyson Base Camp (24 reviews). Our campsites offer popular amenities such as pets, campfires, and cooking equipment. And if you're looking for activities, we offer surfing, fishing, and wind sports. With an average price per night of $39 and options as low as $6, we're sure you'll find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

87% (224)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking to park your caravan and camp near Melrose, South Australia by the river, you're in luck! We have over 220 available options that match your accommodation and activity/terrain preference. Our top campsites in the area include Catninga Camps & Accommodation (68 reviews), Eckert’s Old Place (45 reviews), and Heyson Base Camp (24 reviews). Our campsites offer popular amenities such as pets, campfires, and cooking equipment. And if you're looking for activities, we offer surfing, fishing, and wind sports. With an average price per night of $39 and options as low as $6, we're sure you'll find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

87% (224)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Spear Creek Holiday Park

96%

(75)

34km from Melrose · 105 sites · Tents, RVs · Wilmington, SA

Spear Creek is more than just another Holiday Park. Set immediately adjacent to the Western slopes of the Flinders Ranges in the middle of a 21,000 acre working sheep station providing privacy, security and an experience like no other. Spear Creek is located 25 kilometres south-east of Port Augusta, only 12km off Highway 1. Our eastern boundary follows the summit of the ranges north from Horrocks Pass, with walking trails through deep gorges to range top views of upper Spencer Gulf. The Holiday park is nestled amongst 600 year old river red gums adjacent to the ranges. You may meet any of the three different species of kangaroos, echidnas, or 85 species of birds including wedge-tail eagles and peregrine falcons who call Spear Creek home. The owner operators of this tourism business are fourth generation, whose families have been farmers and graziers on this land for over 130 years.

2. Catninga Camps & Accommodation

98%

(248)

40km from Melrose · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · Woolundunga, SA

Located between the Northern Flinders Ranges and the Southern Flinders Ranges, but only a quick 20 mins from full shopping and medical needs. Set with a backdrop of high mountain ranges, deep gorges and looking towards blue waters of Spencer Gulf, 'Catninga' is the perfect choice to give you a taste of the Flinders Ranges and some outback charm. We have stunning bush camping options including some powered sites; 'On Site Retro Caravan' or our 'Carriage BnB'; or 'Tiny House' (view separate listings to book these). Many hiking trails and nature walks. Our Peter Goode Gully Hike joins the Heysen Trail to take you to the top on Mt Brown. Selected farm animals to see and feed (please ask hosts before approaching any farm animals). Bush Camping Private bush campsites with no close neighbours located on the banks of a River Red Gum studded creek. Stunning scenery and beautiful sunsets. Enjoy our billion-star camping accommodation. Private long drop toilet available at each campsite. We have 'shower trees' at some bush campsites.

3. Echo Holiday Parks - Port Pirie

100%

(3)

42km from Melrose · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Solomontown, SA

Framed by the remarkable Southern Flinders Ranges, Echo Holiday Parks - Port Pirie beckons to travellers, inviting them to explore beyond the Park when embarking on a journey to further adventure into the iconic outback or taking time to immerse within the Park when seeking a calm holiday on the waterfront. The Park is right next to Solomontown Beach, which is great for leisurely strolls, a refreshing swim and fishing off the jetty. It is also only a short drive from the main street of Port Pirie, where guests can stock up on necessities, get a bite to eat, and discover the historic pride of the town. Experience a sense of place at Echo Holiday Parks - Port Pirie

4. Bendleby Ranges

100%

(17)

77km from Melrose · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Belton, SA

Bendleby Ranges is an adventure tourism destination, located on a working sheep and cattle station in the Flinders Ranges, an easy three and a half hours drive North of Adelaide. We offer serenity and tranquility in an unspoilt natural environment, with remote campsites nestled amongst gum lined creeks and set into the hills of the Bendleby Ranges. Private powered or un-powered campsites in the main camp ground are surrounded by native pines and located within walking distance to the Sunset Camp Kitchen. Affordable, well presented, quality accommodation decorated in country inspired styles are Crotta Homestead, Gumdale Cottage, Acacia Cottage and The Shearers Quarters. We are passionate about maintaining the natural environment and for the length of your stay all firewood is supplied. Relax and take in all the property has to offer - from 4wding, bushwalking, horse riding, mountain bike riding, incredible sunset views and some world class star gazing.

5. Horrocks Vale - working farm stays

100%

(1)

24km from Melrose · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nectar Brook, SA

A working sheep property that has over 100 years of Australian merino history. We are a self replacing Merino sheep property, nestled in the heart of the beautiful Flinders Ranges. This property is very unique as it’s close to services and has breath taking views with beautiful historical old red gums, very close to the Heysen trail and bike tracks. Only 8 kms out of the township of Wilmington. We provide all linen; sheets, towels & most basics, spices, tea, coffee, some toilet paper etc. you can enjoy some comforts of home.

6. Rocky River Off-Grid

78%

(9)

28km from Melrose · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Wirrabara, SA

This campsite is mostly flat with the Rocky River running through my property, surrounded with river gum trees and plenty of bird life including kookaburras and Corellas. The property is fairly central to the localities of Laura, Stone Hut, Wirrabara, Melrose and Wilmington. Port Pirie is about 50km away if you need any major conveniences or supplies. You will need to be self-contained with your own camping toilet/shower and drinking water supply. We grow veggies on our land - if you would like some for your campfire dinner please ask me. Campfires are allowed. Dogs welcome.

Stories from the community

L

Liz

2 weeks ago

10 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Horrocks Vale - working farm stays

We were privileged to be the first ever Hipcampers at Nikki's place. We were warmly welcomed to their farm and given lots of local info. We walked to the tower lookout on her farm and enjoyed one of the best views of the Flinders Ranges and Fitzgerald Bay. The flushing toilet and hot shower were sparkling clean. Leveling of caravans required, very peaceful and private spot.

M

Michelle

2 weeks ago

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Catninga Camps & Accommodation

I was in camp 5, with only 1 other camper visible off in the distance. The space looking down towards Port Augusta is huge. Unfortunately it was 32 degrees and extremely windy, and was not comfortable at all. Loads of flies. Luckily the big old gum tree provided shade. Any walks were out of the question. Once the wind dropped and the flies disappeared it was a pleasant spot to relax in. The sunset was beautiful.

G

Guilherme

2 weeks ago

4 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Spear Creek Holiday Park

Me, my partner and our cat had the best time possible at Spear Creek! All the staff was lovely, and helpful. We are very thankful for everything, and a honourable mention for Jordan and Anna, who made our 1 night there unforgettable! If you go there you must try the Dorper!!

J

John

3 weeks ago

4 m Class B

1 night at Spear Creek Holiday Park

Good facilities good staff. Good locatiion On the road from Wilmington to port Augusta good jump off for uluru.

A

Angel

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Catninga Camps & Accommodation

Such a beautiful spot- my partner, pup and I, had the most relaxing time enjoying the stunning views and privacy of Camp 1. Would love to come back again with the family as there is so much space on each site, the long drops were clean as, and we’d like to explore the hiking further as it was quite hot by the time we peeled our bottoms of the camping chairs, and the snakes were out to play! Thanks again Heather 🙌🏽

D

Dustin

November 2025

14 m travel trailer

1 night at Catninga Camps & Accommodation

What a great spot. Great hosts and an amazing outlook. Camp #5 is a neat bush setting and mountains in the background. Not far out of Port Augusta but you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere.

K

Katie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Catninga Camps & Accommodation

Helen saved me with a late check in as a national park campground nearby was unexpectedly closed. She was quick to respond with a booking request. property is easy to find. super spacious sites, heaps of room between you and others. Toilets. Property is on a rise so has a nice sunset view. And the icing on the cake, bush shower under a tree. What a treat.

S

Samantha

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Catninga Camps & Accommodation

Nice campsite. Clean and spacious. The toilet facilities were clean and well maintained.

Monique

October 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Catninga Camps & Accommodation

Absolutely stunning views, great secluded spot, lots of bird life to relax too. Wonderful hosts that went above and beyond for us. Close to Port Augusta if you need to go into a town but far enough away to for the peace! We will definitely visit again!!

K

Kelsie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Catninga Camps & Accommodation

Lovely spot. Felt private and quiet and has an amazing view. The nicest long drop toilet I’ve been to! We loved our stay.

M

Maria

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Catninga Camps & Accommodation

Such a lovely campsite with views of the mountains and cattle in the surroundings. Trees provided shade and the dry toilet was clean. Heather was also really accommodating and helped us out with what we needed. Definitely would recommend.

R

Rachael

October 2025

4 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Spear Creek Holiday Park

We had a fantastic stay at Spear Creek Holiday Park. The land is stunning, with views of the Southern Flinders Ranges. Our caravan site came with water and power, which made things super comfortable. The barista coffee cart, run by the lovely Anna, was a morning highlight (Melbourne coffee snob approved). We also picked up lamb from their farm as well as wine from the kiosk, which was stocked with essentials like milk and marshmallows—things we definitely would have needed if we’d stayed longer. Evenings around the fire pits were a perfect way to unwind. A great mix of outback adventure and creature comforts.

L

Lilly

September 2025

6 m travel trailer

1 night at Spear Creek Holiday Park

Beautiful place! Absolutely loved it would definitely come back! The amenities were lovely, the atmosphere was chill and relaxing, the host was very helpful for late check in

a

andrew

September 2025

8 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Spear Creek Holiday Park

Great location. Great bush walks. Powered sites are too small get an unpowered if you can .

E

Emma

September 2025

3 m Class B

1 night at Spear Creek Holiday Park

It was busy whenI stayed but had a really good feel to it. I didnt feel crammed in. The lady at checkin was super friendly.

p

paige

September 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

2 nights at Rocky River Off-Grid

We had a lovely 2 night stay. Wet on the second day, but peaceful, minimal traffic. Lots to do in Wirrabara and nearby Melrose. Host Paul was very welcoming.

G

Graham

August 2025

1 night at Spear Creek Holiday Park

This is a gem. Great open spaces. We were in tents. Staff who love their jobs. Magic location. Well priced. Coffee van!!