Best camping spots on Kangaroo Island

Looking to escape reality with the best camping Kangaroo Island has to offer? If sandy white shores, crystal clear waters and dramatic landscapes are your cup of tea, then this is for you.

An oasis off the coast, the aptly named Kangaroo Island has long made the list as one of Australia’s bucket list destinations. It’s where adventurers scratch an itch, families take a break and friendly kangaroos, well…live. Located just shy of 15 kilometres from Cape Jervis, an hour and a half drive from Adelaide, the island is an icon in and of itself; its captivating coastline and culinary culture will leave a lasting taste on the palate—one of adventure!

While the island offers a range of accommodation, the most immersive way to experience this natural haven is to go camping on Kangaroo Island. 

Emu Bay

In search of a sandy stretch of coast to call your front yard? Look no further than Emu Bay Campground, where you can pitch your tent (or anchor the caravan) and enjoy one of the island’s most beloved coastal views. This popular beachfront campground is fully equipped with barbeques, a playground and sheltered picnic area. If you’re looking for something more to do, the Kangaroo Island lavender farm is conveniently located a short 2 minute drive from the campgrounds. Walk among rows of picturesque lavender before retiring to the cafe for an indulgent lavender scone or artisanal handmade ice cream.

Brown Beach

Overlooking Nepean Bay and just a 10 minute drive from the ferry terminal at Penneshaw, Brown Beach campgrounds is not only convenient, but quaint. Pitch a tent atop the shrub covered sand dunes for some of the best scapes of the southern side of the island and feel the  breeze brush through your hair. This site also accommodates caravans and offers creature comforts like toilets, a picnic area and barbecue—making it a perfect spot for the whole family, including your four-legged friends.

Brown beach itself is a hidden gem, perfect for a dip in its clear blue waters, a peaceful stroll or even for spotting dolphins dancing in the surf. Camping on Kangaroo Island doesn’t get much more tranquil than this.

American River

American River campground lies just a 30-minute drive from the Penneshaw ferry terminal (around the bay from Brown Beach), tucked away along the peaceful shores of Eastern Cove. A small general store and the renowned Oyster Farm Shop call this patch of the island home, with its humble facade boasting some of the nation’s best seafood. Here, you can expect to watch on as boating enthusiasts launch from the nearby ramp, with American River home to crabs, a variety of fish species, stingrays and dolphins.  The campground itself also accommodates caravans and pets, alongside essential amenities like toilets and barbeques.

Rocky River

If you’re really looking to leave the city lights, there's no better way to get properly acquainted with the rugged landscapes of Kangaroo Island than by setting up camp on its southernmost point, in Flinders Chase National Park, with a glamping experience. Arguably the most remote corner of this island, Flinders Chase is home to one of South Australia's most well-known natural wonders—the Remarkable Rocks. Here, you can experience an unparalleled escape into nature at Rocky River campgrounds with Wandering Souls Australia. The first of its kind on Kangaroo Island, the lavishly appointed tents will have you waking up to a symphony of native wildlife calls as the scent of eucalyptus fills your lungs.

Stokes Bay

Just a stone's throw from the island's north coast, but still feels a world away, is another beach campgrounds at Stokes Bay—the perfect location for secluded stays and world-class vistas. This beach was crowned Australia’s best in 2023 and is famous for the jewel in its crowns—a rocky tunnel that leads to a beachfront with spectacular sunsets and a quaint rock pool. You can expect both powered and unpowered sites with caravan access and facilities.

Vivonne Bay

Kangaroo Island is no stranger to an ‘Australia’s best’ award, which is what makes beach camping grounds so popular here. ,  Before Stokes Bay wore the crown, Vivonne Bay was once awarded ‘best beach in Australia’ - and it’s no surprise as to why.  Boasting a 6km ‘U’ shaped bay, vibrant aquamarine waters and silky white sand – the only difficult decision to make is whether to snorkel, surf or snooze. So, if you’re in the mood for world renowned beachside bliss, you’ll want to pitch your tent at Vivonne Bay Campground, just 45 minutes drive from Kingscote.

Getting to Kangaroo Island

While you can make your way over without one, a car is a convenient addition to camping on Kangaroo Island. If you aren’t bringing your own via the SeaLink ferry service, pick one up for hire upon arrival. Prefer to catch a view of the island from above? You can also arrive by sky, with QantasLink operating daily flights.

The true beauty of Kangaroo Island is well...that it’s an island. At dusk, no matter where you are, the sky will burn with fiery hues of orange and red, casting a warm glow over the water – and your soul. Looking to fill your days? Discover our complete Kangaroo Island itinerary.