As Easter approaches, South Australians are once again demonstrating their love for the outdoors as they make preparations for camping trips across the state.
With many of the most popular campsites already booked to 80-100% capacity, campers are advised to secure their spots soon, while several campsites in the Murray lands and Riverland regions have reopened after recent floods, providing additional options for those seeking last-minute bookings.
According to the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), up to 72 campsites will reopen for the Easter period at Chowilla Game Reserve, Danggali Conservation Park, Murray River National Park, and Loch Luna and Moorook Game Reserve.
The NPWS reports that the state’s unique and world-class national parks are attracting a growing number of visitors, and it is encouraging to see them enjoying the parks in such numbers.
In a statement, Susan Close, a representative of NPWS, said, “We want people to enjoy our parks and reserves, but to also make sure they help to preserve their natural beauty so future generations can enjoy them as well.”
The NPWS is urging visitors to the parks to follow marked roads to the campgrounds and to watch out for fallen trees and limbs, as many sandbars have shifted and moved after the recent floods.
“The parks are looking different now the floodwaters have receded, and there are some fallen trees and limbs, many of which will become great native fish and reptile habitat,” added Benita Dillion, an NPWS District Ranger.
Visitors are also reminded that small campfires will be allowed in NPWS parks as of 12.01am on Thursday, April 6th.
For those parks where campfires are permitted, visitors must bring their own wood, as the collection of wood from parks is prohibited.
In addition to the reopened campsites, private campground owners and operators in the nearby area are also gearing up for an influx of Easter campers.
While some of the most popular private campgrounds are already fully booked, others are still accepting last-minute reservations.
Campers looking for last-minute bookings during Easter can still secure spots from Monday at parks including Acraman Creek Conservation Park, Fowlers Bay Conservation Park, Gawler Ranges National Park, Yumbarra Conservation Park, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, Innamincka Regional Reserve, Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park, Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park, Witjira National Park, Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park, Flinders Chase National Park (Harvey’s Return), Coorong National Park, Ngarkat Conservation Park, and Deep Creek Conservation Park.
However, campers are advised to book their spots as soon as possible, as available sites are expected to fill up fast.
The NPWS website provides the latest information on which parks have fire restrictions, and the Department for Infrastructure and Transport’s outback road warnings or the NPWS website provide advice around road closures following heavy rains in some parts of South Australia.
As South Australians continue to embrace their love of the outdoors this Easter, the state’s national parks and private campgrounds are offering an array of opportunities for families and friends to enjoy quality time together in nature.
Whether they choose to visit one of the state’s popular parks or a lesser-known gem, visitors are encouraged to follow park rules and regulations and help preserve the natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.