The best waterside camping near Swan Reach guide
Where to go
Riverland
Swan Reach lies on the southern cusp of the Riverland, South Australia’s largest wine region. As well as wine tasting amid the vineyards, stop by riverfront towns like Renmark, Loxton, and Berri, paddle the wildlife-filled wetlands of Murray River National Park, or go hiking along red-gum forest trails. The Murray River is omnipresent, whether you want to boat, paddle, fish, or pitch your tent by the shore.
Barossa Valley
West of Swan Reach, the Barossa Valley is home to some of South Australia’s most prestigious wineries and idyllic countryside. Rent a bike to cycle the vine-clad hills, come in fall to admire the changing foliage, or spend the summer hopping between cellar doors, farmer’s markets, and farm-to-table restaurants—Barossa is a foodie paradise.
Adelaide Hills
Just a 1.5-hour drive from Swan Reach, the verdant slopes of the Adelaide Hills hug the eastern borders of Adelaide. Follow the winding country lanes to reach picturesque villages, pick-your-own-fruit orchards, and family-run wineries, or go bushwalking or cycling along miles of wooded trails. Campers will find plenty of options around the villages of Aldgate, Woodside, and Hahndorf.
When to go
Summertime (December through February) draws crowds to the riverbanks, but late spring and early autumn are also ideal times to cruise the Murray or enjoy water sports along the river. Temperatures climb into the lower 30s°C in summer, but winters tend to be mild, so you can camp in your motorhome or caravan all year round.