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Best beach side camping in South Australia

Cost Paid camping (exact fees – see Camps App)
Location Rapid Bay, Fleurieu Peninsula, SA – 100km south of Adelaide
Pet Friendly Yes
Campfires See Camps App
Facilities Flushing toilets, outdoor cold shower, BBQ, playground, boat ramp
Vehicle Access Grassy sites (check Camps App for access details)
In Camps App Yes – CAMPS red tick approved

Looking for the the best beach side camping in South Australia?  The tip is to arrive early to Rapid Bay Camping Area in South Australia. Located on the Fleurieu Peninsula, it is only 100 km south of Adelaide.

Our CAMPS Ambassadors called it a “little beauty”!

Manda said, “We had one and a half days of sunshine and we made the most of every minute.  We contemplated snorkelling the old jetty however Dan did a water temp test and was way too cold for Aria and I. He had a look around but didn’t see too much. 

“We wandered down to the cave too which is awesome, but we spent most of our time enjoying the water straight out from our van!”

Aerial view of Rapid Bay camping ground beside pristine coastal waters

And that is what it is like – the beach is a stone’s throw from the campground. 

A popular spot, and pet friendly, we are told scuba divers love it here to spot the leafy sea horse. Fishers love it here, too.

You’ll stay on grassy sites – there are flushing toilets but only an outdoor cold shower. You can walk to the pier and cliffs, there is a playground, boat ramp, mobile coverage and a BBQ.

Sunset view over the jetty and calm waters at Rapid Bay campsite

Others still say it is worth the money, because it is such a beautiful place with an amazing beach and “the best beach side camping in the area”. No wonder it has our CAMPS red tick of approval!

Images by Overland Exposure

Find sites like this and more nearby in the CAMPS guide booksCAMPS Pendium boxed set and CAMPS AUSTRALIA WIDE App.

If you would like order your own CAMPS Pendium, here is a special coupon code for you:

PENDIUM20

…and you’ll receive $20 off! Add the code into the checkout!

Download the Camps App for iPhone/iPad or Android

Download CAMPS Australia app on Apple App Store   Get CAMPS Australia app on Google Play Store

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Rapid Bay Camping Area from Adelaide?

Rapid Bay is located 100 kilometres south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula, making it an easy trip for a weekend getaway.

Can I bring my dog to Rapid Bay Camping Area?

Yes, this is a pet-friendly campground, so you can bring your furry friends along.

What facilities are available at Rapid Bay?

The campground has flushing toilets, an outdoor cold shower, BBQ facilities, a playground, and a boat ramp. There’s also mobile coverage available.

Is Rapid Bay good for snorkelling and diving?

Rapid Bay is popular with scuba divers who come to spot the leafy sea horse around the old jetty. The water can be quite cold, so check conditions before diving in.

What type of campsites are available?

You’ll camp on grassy sites right near the beach – literally a stone’s throw from the water.

Is there fishing at Rapid Bay?

Yes, Rapid Bay is popular with fishers. There’s a pier and boat ramp available for fishing access.

Do I need to book ahead for Rapid Bay?

The tip from CAMPS Ambassadors is to arrive early as it’s a popular spot. Check the Camps App for current booking details and requirements.

What can I do at Rapid Bay besides beach activities?

You can walk to the pier and cliffs, explore the nearby cave, use the playground, or simply enjoy the amazing beach views from your campsite.

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