The Government of South Australia recently implemented vehicle restrictions at Wauraltee Beach on Yorke Peninsula to protect the coastal environment and enhance visitor safety. But there are still plenty of places that offer free or budget camping in this beautiful part of Australia.
The Government of South Australia recently introduced new vehicle restrictions at Wauraltee Beach on Yorke Peninsula to protect the coastal environment and improve safety for visitors. Overnight camping is now prohibited at Wauraltee Beach, including Second Beach. In addition, large vehicles such as caravans, motorhomes and camper trailers are prohibited from entering the area at all times, day or night.
However, vehicles can still be used during the day for recreational purposes such as boat launches. This decision - supported by the Northern and Yorke Landscape Board, Yorke Peninsula Council and local community leaders - aims to prevent further damage to the fragile ecosystem caused by excessive vehicle activity.
The surge in offroad vehicles, spurred by social media, has led to environmental concerns such as:
- Disturbance to wildlife, including shorebirds such as fairy terns, eastern curlews, red knots and endangered hooded plovers
- Destruction of critical wildlife habitats, including breeding and feeding zones
- Damage to sand dunes, which are highly vulnerable to erosion and degradation
- Harm to cultural sites and significant artefacts
- The spread of weeds via vehicle tyres
- Compaction of sand, affecting natural processes and ecosystems.
The increased vehicle presence, particularly on long weekends, had also raised safety issues, especially for families with children.
Loads of other camping opportunities
Despite the changes, this beautiful part of South Australia offers a wealth of alternative camping options with beautiful beaches and recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, kayaking and walking along the 'Walk the Yorke' trail. Surrounded by water on three sides, thankfully Yorke Peninsula still has plenty of other camping and recreational opportunities within cooee of beautiful beaches. Other camping sites, including bush camps maintained by the Yorke Peninsula Council, offer affordable, natural experiences and a booking system is in place for better management of visitors. More information can be found here.
Sunset at Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park - Image: Robert Crack
With a variety of beaches and camping options, Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park provides an opportunity to escape from the crowds and enjoy the peace of nature.
Visitors can explore stunning coastlines, fish, surf or go bushwalking in this slice of paradise, with a chance to encounter local wildlife. Notable spots include Ethel Beach (home to a historic shipwreck), Dolphin Bay and Cape Spencer Lighthouse. Vehicle entry and camping fees apply. For further details, head here.
Cape Spencer Lighthouse Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park - Image: Robert Crack
Notable camping grounds and holiday parks on Yorke Peninsula
The peninsula is also home to a range of holiday parks that cater to different preferences. From powered and unpowered sites to luxury cabins, there’s a park to suit everyone. For more details on features and amenities, head here.
Black Point Camping Ground
A peaceful retreat featuring stunning beaches and a bay ideal for fishing, crabbing for blue swimmer crabs or simply just unwinding and doing not much at all. The site offers spacious campsites and easy access to boat ramps. Head here for information.
Barkers Rocks
This bush camp offers a blend of privacy and beach access, making it perfect for swimming, fishing and exploring nearby walking trails and 4WD tracks. More information can be found here.
Marion Bay Caravan Park
A charming bush camp with top-notch amenities, located just a short stroll from the beach and a five-minute drive from the picturesque and breathtaking Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park. Head here for details.
Yorketown Caravan Park
Nestled in lush gardens, this park serves as an ideal base for exploring the southern Yorke Peninsula, with access to scenic drives such as the Salt Lakes Trail and Water Towers Trail. For more information about this park, head here.
Point Turton Caravan Park
Set within a historic quarry, this park is perfect for boating, fishing and sailing, offering a sheltered spot for activities year-round. For more information, head here.
Port Rickaby Caravan Park
A picturesque park surrounded by coastal sand dunes, offering an excellent location for beach lovers and anglers. Head here for information.
Port Vincent Foreshore Caravan Park
Located in a tranquil coastal town, this park is perfect for those seeking relaxation or enjoying water activities such as snorkelling and paddleboarding. For details, head here.
Port Broughton Tourist Park
A well-equipped, family-friendly park featuring activities both for kids and adults, including a waterslide, playground and mini-golf. Head here for information and bookings.
In warmer months, the natural playground of Yorke Peninsula comes alive with activities. From hidden coves and rock pools teeming with sea life to reefs perfect for snorkelling, there’s something for every adventurer. The area’s renowned surfing and diving spots attract thrill-seekers, while vibrant wildflowers bloom in spring. The Coastal Way Road Trip (Edithburgh to Marion Bay) offers one of Australia's most scenic coastal drives, featuring rugged cliffs, stunning beaches and occasional views of wildlife such as dolphins and seals along kilometres of pristine coast.
Be sure not to miss the Tidal Pool in Edithburgh in the summer months. It’s the perfect place for a refreshing swim in invigorating salt water that is replenished daily by the Gulf St Vincent’s tidal movement. The surrounds also provide amenities, barbecue facilities and playgrounds for the kids.
If you find yourself in Moonta on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday on the hunt for a coffee, make a beeline for Coffee Barn & Gelateria. Grab a gelato or a sorbet too, while you’re here. And if you are keen for a taste of the rich Cornish heritage of the Yorke Peninsula, head to the Cornish Kitchen (also in Moonta) for a delicious Cornish Pasty.
Local events, such as the Stansbury Seaside Markets, add to the charm of the peninsula during the warmer season. For more details on upcoming events, places to visit and things to do, visit visityorkepeninsula.com.au, topoftheyorke.com.au and visitcoppercoast.com.au.
Stenhouse Bay Jetty Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park - Image: Robert Crack
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Main picture: Wauraltee Beach - Image: Jade Andrews
