The best camping near Coffin Bay National Park

Jagged sea cliffs tumble down into crashing waves and near-deserted beaches along the shores of Coffin Bay. Jutting out from the southwestern corner of the Eyre Peninsula, the wild and sea-weathered landscapes of Coffin Bay National Park are a feast for explorers. Bring a 4WD to reach the sheltered bays and surf beaches at the far tip of the peninsula, set out on foot along the Black Rocks Hike or Whidbey Hike, or take to the water to canoe, sail, snorkel, or scuba dive. Six campgrounds are dotted around the park, most of them accessible only by 4WD.

• Best for 2WD access: Yangie Bay Campground is the only spot with access for caravans and campervans, and has 19 unpowered sites.
• Best for beach views: Pool Campground has tent sites in a sheltered bay just a short stroll from the beach. 
• Best for backcountry campers: Sensation Campground has unallocated tent sites with zero facilities.

1. Advance bookings are required for all campgrounds.
2. You can book online via the South Australia National Parks and Wildlife Service website up to 12 months in advance. 
3. Campsites can book up fast during peak season (December-Feb), especially over weekends and school holidays. Book at least three months in advance to avoid disappointment.

Four seasons of outdoor activities draw adventurers to Coffin Bay year-round. Summer visitors make a beeline for the beach, and the westerly winds mean that temperatures can be much cooler than nearby Lincoln National Park. In spring, wildflowers brighten up the headlands, while winter is a great time for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

• Coffin Bay National Park is about a 40-minute drive west of Port Lincoln along the Flinders Highway. The entrance to the park is along Coffin Bay Road. The Yangie Bay area is accessible by 2WD, but beyond there, you’ll need a 4WD.
• Both per-vehicle entrance fees and camping fees apply. All fees must be paid online before arrival. 
• Park facilities include toilets, picnic areas, and a kayak launch. Bring everything you need with you, including camping supplies, food, and drinking water. Mobile phone coverage is patchy.
• Partial or total fire bans are often introduced from November through April, and wood fires and solid fuel fires are prohibited at these times. The risk of bushfires is severe, so keep an eye on the park website and always follow the latest guidelines.
• There are accessible restrooms, campsites, and picnic areas at Yangie Bay.