The best campgrounds near Rapid Bay, South Australia with campfires

Hidden along the north shore of the Fleurieu Peninsula and hemmed in by soaring limestone cliffs, Rapid Bay makes a scenic stopover for intrepid campers. Once you’ve dug your toes in the sand and cooled off with a swim at Rapid Bay Beach, admire the views with a stroll along the Rapid Bay jetty, or head out to snorkel and scuba dive in the bay—known for its endangered Leafy Sea Dragon and numerous shipwrecks. Snag one of the unpowered sites at Rapid Bay Campground, or check into a holiday park or caravan park in nearby Second Valley, Yankalilla, or Normanville.

97% (598) • 23 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Rapid Bay

Hidden along the north shore of the Fleurieu Peninsula and hemmed in by soaring limestone cliffs, Rapid Bay makes a scenic stopover for intrepid campers. Once you’ve dug your toes in the sand and cooled off with a swim at Rapid Bay Beach, admire the views with a stroll along the Rapid Bay jetty, or head out to snorkel and scuba dive in the bay—known for its endangered Leafy Sea Dragon and numerous shipwrecks. Snag one of the unpowered sites at Rapid Bay Campground, or check into a holiday park or caravan park in nearby Second Valley, Yankalilla, or Normanville.

97% (598) • 23 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Rapid Bay

1. The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

98%

(659)

30km from Rapid Bay · 13 sites · Tents, RVs

The Scrub Campsite located in remnant vegetation (14 minutes from Victor Harbor ) is a rustic self check in campsite as the owners do not reside near the campsite. Campers choose their site in the designated camp spots. Sites are not allocated unless by prior arrangement. Persons under 18, youth groups, school groups or scout groups etc. are not permitted to book at the campsite. A communal camp kitchen, water tanks and compost toilet is available for campers use. Fire pits are located at each site. Campers will be advised of fire bans. Wood can be purchased from the self service white ibc container for $15 for 20kgs. Please adhere to the camp rules which are posted at each campsite. The campsite is located on the Heysen Trail and close to many Lower Fleurieu Peninsula beaches and attractions. The popular Belicious Cafe is a 45 minute walk. Whole campsite bookings can be made by contacting the owners. We ask that campers respect all other campers, the land that they are camping on and follow the campers motto - Leave nothing but your footprints. Once booked you will receive a text outlining the camp policies and instructions.

2. Willow Glen Alpaca Farm

100%

(58)

72km from Rapid Bay · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

195 Silver Lake Road. Mylor Book directly and save: willowglenalpacas.weebly.com/Booking Willow Glen is set in the Adelaide Hills on 10 acres, close to Hahndorf and bordering the Onkaparinga River. The property is a private farm with 2 dams and views extending across the valley. There are a number of suitable locations to for bush camping. Site access is limited to dry weather and vehicles with single axle camper trailer or tent. Vehicles with higher ground clearance are more suitable. The River Upstream is the flattest of the campgrounds if you require a completely level site for your vehicle. A number of alpacas and sheep share the camp grounds. Sites suit bush camping with limited amenities. Potable water is available upon request but there are no toilets or services on site. There are a number of great wineries in the area all with excellent food and produce you can enjoy. Close to: Hahndorf - 5 min drive Stirling - 10 min drive Mount Lofty - 15 min drive Tour Down under (TDU) - passes at the end of the road several wineries Campers must be self contained with their own camping toilet and water and take all rubbish with them upon departure. Due to the livestock on site dogs unfortunately are not allowed. 1. Fires are only permitted outside of fire ban days 2. Nearest toilets are in Mylor. Please do not do number 2's in the bush or leave toilet paper around. 3. Please leave the site as you found it (remove rubbish etc.) 4. Please plan to arrive in daylight hours as campsites are unmarked and can be difficult to locate at night 5. Please be respectful of neighbours and avoid playing loud music.

from

AU$59

/ night

3. Milang Farm Camp

91%

(44)

74km from Rapid Bay · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

We have 43 beautiful acres half way between Goolwa and Strathalbyn. We are located walking distance from lake alexandrina, we’re there are plenty of activities to do such as fishing, boating, and more. There is abundance of wildlife with our resident mob of kangaroos stoping by daily it’s a bird watchers paradise. This site is a 4 minute walk from the main house and is completely private. The property has its own private road so plenty of room for kids to ride their bikes, we have horses and cows that guests are welcome to feed over the fence. Dogs are welcome lots of room for them to run around, we also have paddle boards for hire. The town of milang has its own mini mart and cafe and on weekends the train museum is open for viewing. Must be self contained and leave no trace.

4. Rose Cottage Caravan Rest

100%

(1)

70km from Rapid Bay · 4 sites · RVs

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. Bradbury Nature Retreat

100%

(62)

70km from Rapid Bay · 1 site · Tent, RV

Dreaming of a retreat in the heart of the Adelaide Hills? Bradbury Nature Retreat is located on a stunning 11 acre property that offers glorious uninterrupted views all the way to Aldinga Beach (just ask the host to show you where you can find this secret view). The property is accessed via a private road so it is incredibly quiet and serene. Instead, get lost in the sound of wild-life all around you! Your campsite is surrounded by native trees and scrub so it’s not unusual to have kangaroos, koalas, and native birds like kookaburras and cockatoos stop by for a visit. Behind your campsite there's an organic fruit orchard where the chickens forage. The property also features paddocks with roaming sheep and an alpaca. Let the host know if you would like a farm tour or to join in feeding the farm animals. We only allow one group on our campsite at a time to ensure you have a peaceful and quiet stay. We are a small, family owned and run hobby farm. Eggs and other farm produce for sale on request when there is surplus. Campfires allowed when restrictions aren't in place (firewood available to buy at our wood stall). To learn more about us follow us on Instagram @bradbury.nature.retreat and don't forget to tag us in your camping photos! Experiences around Bradbury: • Our property is 5km from Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary, the home to countless Australian native animals and the only place on mainland South Australia where you can see the elusive platypus! • Just a 7-minute drive to both Between the Vines and Deviation Road Winery where you can unwind from a hard week at work with a sophisticated wine and grazing platter whilst surrounded by vineyards and beautiful bushland. • On the main street in Stirling you will find the artisan ice-creamery, chocolate and lolly shop, Hokey Pokey. Our favourite is their house-made ice-cream made with biodynamic dairy and local, seasonal produce! • If you’re looking for somewhere to go for dinner Bradbury isn’t far from the Aldgate Pump Hotel, the Stirling Hotel and the Crafers Hotel, just to name a few. • For the plant lovers, Tupelo Grove Nursery is a 7-minute drive away in the outskirts of Mylor. This family-owned nursery is a must see and is known to be the go to place for harder to find, unique plants!

6. Gum Park Beef Farm

100%

(19)

43km from Rapid Bay · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Gum Park is a working Cattle Property where our family lives and works full time. We also have a butchery on farm where we process our own beef and pork for sale at local farmer's markets. Gum Park is a certified organic farm, so no chemicals are sprayed on our pastures or anywhere within our property. Our property is at the top of the watershed, so we don't get run off from other properties nearby. We are situated 14 km from the centre of Victor Harbor on the top of Cut Hill. Other towns close by are Pt Elliot (9km) and Mount Compass (14km). The Hipcamp campsite is situated in a paddock setting, nestled up against native scrub.

from

AU$30

/ night

7. Currency Camping

100%

(23)

52km from Rapid Bay · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

This paddock is located close to the heart of Currency Creek. Camp close to the beautiful waterfall walk where you experience the grand viaduct structure first hand with its many years of history. Only 4klm outside of Goolwa to access the local pubs, wine, whisky tasting venues or even go cockling down at the mouth. This place is perfect to set up camp and wind down.

from

AU$27

/ night

8. NRMA Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park

100%

(1)

38km from Rapid Bay · 232 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Whoever said the journey matters more than the destination didn’t have adventure-hungry kids on the backseat. Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park is an hour’s drive south of Adelaide, so they’ll be appeased in no time. Whether it’s the beach, the heated pool or the pump track in their sights, there’s serious fun to be had. Choose from modern family accommodation or back-to-basics campsites – either way you’ll be a stone’s throw from the beach (and your pet is welcome, too). With the cafes and shops of Victor Harbor within walking distance, this is a family holiday made easy. And when it’s time to explore the endless beauty of the Fleurieu Peninsula, our friendly team is on-site to help plan your adventure. Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park is located on the Fleurieu Peninsula, an hour’s drive south of Adelaide. Nestled in a quiet corner where the Inman River flows into the ocean, the park provides uninterrupted access to the beach. The cafes and shops of Victor Habour are within walking distance, and Granite Island can be reached on foot or by bike.

9. SWAMPYS

100%

(3)

74km from Rapid Bay · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

A sand fire view with developing trees and native vegetation. We are 1km from. Lake Alexandrina. 1km from the township of Milang. Local wineries at Langhorne Creek and Currency Creek. 19 km to Strathalbyn, 30km to Goolwa and 45km to Victor Harbor. A lovely view of Mt Barker and the lower Lofty Ranges. We have 6 sites to choose from. Some walking trails being developed with more to come.. I have put bins out for you and put a tap on in the top corner for washing hands and dishes. Not for drinking. I have also got fire pits available for anyone who wants a fire. Some fire wood available, for a small fee.

10. Compass Country Cabins

100%

(1)

44km from Rapid Bay · 2 sites · Lodging

The Compass Country Cabins are located just a 50 minute drive from Adelaide, South Australia, in the midst of the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula. Mount Compass is located 15 minutes from Victor Harbor and Goolwa and the beautiful coastline there. Fully self contained & airconditioned accommodation in a peaceful bushland setting with ensuite bathroom, washing machine, kitchen, heating, cooling, bed, bath and kitchen linen, cutlery, crockery, TV and wonderful outdoor settings:

11. Ashbrooke Lodge

39km from Rapid Bay · 1 site · Lodging

Quiet country escape, 5 mins from the town of Victor Harbor and beautiful beaches.

12. Pinkgums Farmstay

49km from Rapid Bay · 1 site · Lodging

This is a Farmhouse with all the feels of comfy homestead. The property was originally a dairy and has the original ruins of the old homesteads. It is boarded by currency creek which flows with crystal clear water from spring all year round, which is a wondrous track to hike around and enjoy beautiful views of the inlets and creeks to the lower lakes. We have invited for you to bring your dog along but The pets are not allowed inside the house. The space This is a Farmhouse with all the feels of comfy homestead. The house was built approx 80 years ago by the farmers family. The big solid walls, are laid concrete by the farmer and his young son, from the materials on the property. It has recently been rewired and fully re plumbed all to make safe and usable. The floorboards are all sanded and polished and a new lick of paint has made the property fresh and inviting. The property was originally a dairy and has the original ruins of the old homesteads and dairy buildings from generations before. The property is now used for cattle and sheep and crops and is about 1000 acres. It is boarded by currency creek which flows with crystal clear water from spring all year round, which is a wondrous track to hike around and enjoy beautiful views of the inlets and creeks to the lower lakes. The farmhouse is surrounded by huge pine trees and gums, and there is an easy access turn around driveway and plenty of parking. The property is only a short distance from Goolwa , Middleton and Victor Harbor. In the future the plans are to have a veggie garden for tenants to pick from and chickens and ducks and small animals to associate with. There are cattle with calves and sheep in the neighboring paddocks. We have invited for you to bring your dog along but at this stage they will have to be tethered at all times so they do not escape and interfere with stock. This is for their safety as well. The pets are not allowed inside the house.

13. Dees Villa

20km from Rapid Bay · 1 site · Lodging

This purpose-built Greek-inspired villa with sunset views as far as Kangaroo Island provides the perfect getaway retreat. One hour south of Adelaide, en route to Kangaroo Island, and close to McLaren Vale and lots of fantastic wineries. Situated in a secluded rural setting on an 80-acre horse stud. Dee's Villa is a short 10-minute drive to Normanville or Yankalilla. We are close to Myponga Beach, Lady Bay, and Carrickalinga as well as the popular Normanville beach. Dogs and Ponies welcome. The Villa is independent of our home, and is on its own 5-acre plot, nothing in your view except the occasional horse, the paddocks, and the sea. We have resident kangaroos and the occasional echidna that visit plus lots of bird life. We have hosted weddings, many anniversaries, and lots of special occasions plus guests who live in Adelaide and appreciate being able to hop in the car, drive for an hour and find themselves in our little bit of heaven, a real rural retreat but only ten minutes to two small towns with supermarkets, pubs, restaurants and most everything else you might need. You have the entire Villa, which is very private, a verandah out front to enjoy the view out to sea and Kangaroo Island, and a fully enclosed courtyard in the rear to chill and enjoy the sunshine. The Villa is also wheelchair friendly, all entrances are wide, including French doors to the lounge and both bedrooms, a very large double shower with sliding doors, a raised toilet for people with issues, two toilets, and a separate vanity area. It is ideal for two couples as there are two bathroom areas, one with a vanity and toilet and the other with shower, vanity, and toilet. We are pet-friendly and have a lovely shady paddock for your pony and an enclosed yard for your dog. We do allow pets inside but ask that you let us know if you intend to bring your pets with you. There is a cleaning fee if there is dog hair over furniture and soft furnishings, please bring their bedding and don't let them on beds and sofas.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A

Andy

2 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Willow Glen Alpaca Farm

First time here, camped by the river. Quiet. Clean. Well kept. Alpacas a bonus they definitely come and check on you at night. Recommend.

Jessica

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Willow Glen Alpaca Farm

Camped on the hill and had beautiful views of the rolling hills, dam, alpaca and sheep. Closeby to hanhdorf and a quick drive to mt lofty. Greeted by Rob on arrival who was accommodating and very easy communication. Would stay again.

Andrew

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Willow Glen Alpaca Farm

Very peaceful location, great place to switch off and recharge.

Perfect amount of shade and sun for the solar panels

Kristal

2 weeks ago

9 m travel trailer

With kids

4 nights at Bradbury Nature Retreat

I would 110% recommend Georgies private retreat. We are a family of 4 with a 21.6ft (9m) caravan and had the whole place to ourselves with enough room to turn the van around. Georgie greeted us with a big smile a had a friendly chat, but also gave us the privacy we needed. The kids had a great time searching the property for sheep, chickens and the alpaca. Our son helped water the orchard and was gifted eggs at the end. The ground is perfect for all camping including tents. Gravel road into the property, gated area perfect to keep the kids contained. Close distance to main tourist towns like Hahndorf, Mount Barker & Aldgate. We ran out of gas on Christmas Eve and it was a 10min drive to a petrol station so everything is pretty close. When we come back through we will be definitely staying here again, Georgie is a beautiful lady and so is her property. Thanks for the great chrissy presents Georgie and we will see you again soon.

E

Euan

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Quiet, sheltered, nice off road place to stay. Good family set up if you need, with lots of amenities

L

Leanne & Bradley

3 weeks ago

5 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Lovely and quiet. Perfect spot to relax. We will come again.

PETER

December 2025

7 m pop-up camper

With pets

1 night at Bradbury Nature Retreat

I wanted one thing, peace and quiet. I got exactly that, a wonderfully peaceful location. Georgie greeted us, then left us alone. Thankyou for having us, we will be back again.

Brad

December 2025

10 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Willow Glen Alpaca Farm

Such a beautiful location. Would have loved to have stayed another couple of nights. Hosts were very welcoming and helpful. Even allowed our kids to feed the Alpaca's. Would happily stay here again.

N

Nicole

December 2025

Tent

1 night at The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

A lovely piece of nature to camp in. Saw echidnas & tiny blue wrens. The camp kitchen was well provisioned with water & bbqs as well as cooking equipment. Nice & quiet - we were the only ones there. Would definitely camp there again.

Ilana

November 2025

Tent

1 night at The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Beautiful quiet spot and really thoughfully set up campsite. Stunning views over the hills with hundreds of birds. Was super easy to find with great signage! Camp fires available, camp kitchen, nice clean toilet. Everything we wanted! Thanks for having us.

C

Catherine

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Cute little getaway not far from Adelaide had a Ecco toilet and shower if you need 10 sites to choose from games to play wooden go carts swings fire pits at each site undercover communal are with 2 large bbq’s couch and table and chairs scattered around it’s has plenty of nature to see ducks on the dam bunnies and kangaroos hopping around cute little blue birds galas and white cockatoos true nature fix so close to home but you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere I highly recommend

T

Tyler

November 2025

7 m travel trailer

3 nights at Bradbury Nature Retreat

We loved camping here for 3 nights with our 2 dogs on Georgie’s property. It was the perfect spot for us. Under 1/2 hour to Adelaide and just over 1/2 hour to Maclaren Vale. Stirling (highly recommend) and Hahndorf very close by. Deviation Winery 5 mins away and very welcoming to dogs. Check out Uradila Hotel and bakery too. Adelaide Hills are just stunning so many quaint towns. Georgie and family are very welcoming and friendly hosts. Hope to stay here again.

L

Laura

November 2025

7 m Class A

2 nights at Bradbury Nature Retreat

Georgie was an amazing host and made us feel so welcome! It was a beautiful spot and we loved being in the bush and being near her beautiful alpaca and sheep. Her gift of flowers was a beautiful touch too 💖 it was lovely being by the fire and experiencing true peace and quiet.

L

Laura

November 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Serene. Lots of bird life. Appreciated having the compost toilet

I

Irfan

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

An absolute gem of a campsite! The scenery is breathtaking, with towering trees and a tranquil lake. The facilities are top-notch, and the staff are friendly and helpful. Perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers. We can't wait to return!

E

Ehsan

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Perfect facilities especially for kids, beautiful views, excellent kitchen area, shower, clean toilet, and so much more

D

Don

November 2025

4 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Currency Camping

Caleb the host was great with clear instructions and was very welcoming. The lake view site is the furthest from the road but you can still get some noise. Nice walks and views and extremely close to Goolwa. We’ll probably be back.

j

josh

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Scrub Campsite - Inman Valley

Absolutely amazing little place to camp! Will definitely be booking another stay soon

B

Ben&Aria

October 2025

7 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bradbury Nature Retreat

We had a great time! The spot was nice and flat looking out into the trees. Georgie is a fantastic host, we would definitely go again!

D

Daniel

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Bradbury Nature Retreat

Great camping spot, lovely hosts, very friendly and went the extra mile to check if I needed any extra firewood. Id recommend this place for sure.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Rapid Bay with campfires guide

Where to go

McLaren Vale

Foodies, wine lovers, and sunseekers are all welcome in McLaren Vale, one of South Australia’s most prestigious wine regions. In between wine tasting, swing by local farmers markets and farm-to-table restaurants to dine on fresh, seasonal cuisine, walk it off bushwalking or biking along the Coast to Vines trail, then cosy up around the campfire in the evening hours. Campers can take their pick of beachfront holiday parks, luxury glampsites, and national park campgrounds.

Fleurieu Peninsula

Stretching south of McLaren Vale, the Fleurieu Peninsula is the ideal destination for a long weekend from Adelaide, a family beach vacation, or a scenic coastal road trip. Surfers, snorkelers, and kayakers can explore the rocky coves and sea caves along the St Vincent Gulf shore, while the south coast towns of Victor Harbor and Goolwa are renowned for their wildlife-watching opportunities.

Kangaroo Island

Ferries and seaplanes set out from Cape Jervis at the tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula to Kangaroo Island, Australia’s third largest island. Wildlife-watching opportunities abound on the island, whether you’re marvelling at Admirals Arch and Remarkable Rocks in the Flinders Chase National Park, watching the Little Penguins in Penneshaw, or spotting seals and sea lions at Seal Bay. There are seven state-run camping areas to choose from, as well as several holiday parks and glamping options.

When to go

Summer is the busiest time to visit the Fleurieu Peninsula, when the vineyards are in full bloom and wildflowers speckle the coast. It’s often still warm enough for a beach day in late spring and early autumn, while winter visitors can make the most of the cooler weather with seaside hikes and seasonal whale-watching cruises along the coast.