Beach camping near Coonawarra with wildlife watching
South Australia’s Red Centre is the state’s best-kept secret for wine lovers.
- Coonawarra
Popular camping styles for Coonawarra
Beach camping near Coonawarra with wildlife watching guide
Overview
Famous for their limestone-rich red soils—they don’t call it the Limestone Coast for nothing—Coonawarra’s patchwork vineyards are a striking sight. It’s not just the landscapes that are unique: the bold red wines are some of South Australia’s most distinctive, making this a top destination for wine lovers. Wine tasting is the number one pastime, and there are 25 cellar-door wineries to choose from, along with the scenic Vine to Wine walking trail. Campers have limited options in town, but you can park your motorhome at the caravan park or enjoy a glamping experience in a luxury bell tent.
Where to go
Southern Ocean Drive
South of Coonawarra, Mount Gambier is the gateway to the Limestone Coast and the starting point of South Australia’s Southern Ocean Drive. The epic road trip covers more than 940 kilometres, linking the lakes and lagoons of the Limestone Coast with the ocean views and vineyards of the Fleurieu Peninsula, then continuing all the way to the wildlife reserves of Kangaroo Island.
Canunda National Park
Jagged limestone cliffs, secluded surf beaches, and vibrant offshore reefs make up the wild coastline of Canunda National Park, just an hour’s drive from Coonawarra. Bushwalking, birdwatching, and sea fishing are all popular pastimes, after which you can take to the water to surf or snorkel. There are six campgrounds in the park, with a mix of powered and unpowered sites, some right on the beachfront.
Limestone Coast Lakes
When to go
Spring and summer are the most popular times to visit Coonawarra, when wildflowers speckle the countryside, and the vines are in full bloom. Time your arrival for the month-long Cabernet Festival in October, or combine a summer visit with a road trip along the coast. Don’t worry about missing out if you visit out of season—the town also hosts a winter wine festival in July.
