Immerse yourself in nature
Showcasing the best of our protected natural heritage, the parks in the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast are the perfect reason to get outdoors and reconnect with stunning landscapes, extraordinary wildlife and the rugged beauty of Australian native plants.
Onkaparinga River National Park
Pick a hiking trail in the Onkaparinga River National Park and you’ll feel re-energised by the natural beauty of the magnificent scenery, the native wildlife including birds, koalas, kangaroos and possums and some of the region’s finest examples of untouched vegetation.
Nestled between the vineyards, the park is home to some stunning hiking trails and walking tracks with an abundance of natural beauty and wildlife. Recent additions to the park include camping grounds, a lookout, communal barbecue and seating areas ideal for picnics, as well as a new spring bridge at Old Noarlunga.
Family and friends escape
- Spot the wildlife. There’s plenty of native animals around the park, including kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, kookaburras, magpies and more. See how many you can spot with the family.
- Family BBQ/picnic. Enjoy a small walk with a barbecue and a picnic at the end. There’s two public barbecue areas in the park, at Chapel Hill Picnic Ground in the heart of McLaren Vale and Perry’s Bend in Noarlunga Downs. There’s also plenty of other seating and amenities, including Sundews Lookout, Pink Gum Campground or others north towards Clarendon.
- Stay the night. Camp with the family at Pink Gum Campground. With campsites and a shared kitchen area, toilet and fire pit, it’s the ultimate spot to camp with the family while still being five minutes from the township of McLaren Vale.
- Walk and wander. While there’s a selection of more challenging hiking trails throughout the park, the Punchbowl Lookout Trail is just an hour return and great for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Discovery awaits
- Take a hike. No matter whether you’re here on your own or travelling with a partner or friend, taking a hike can be the ultimate way to unwind. There’s plenty of hikes to choose from, ranging from half an hour or 45 minutes to 4 hours. To find out more and download maps, visit Parks SA
- Soak up the history. Keep a keen eye out for a few heritage ruins and remains throughout the park from historic homes and buildings originally constructed in the early 1800s.
Up for an adventure?
- Rock climbing. The gorge at the centre of the park is well known for its spectacular views and challenging rock faces, ideal for rock climbing. If you’ve brought your own gear, it’s open to anyone (with caution), but if you’d like to learn the ropes, ask the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre for tour operators offering beginners classes.
- Kayak or paddle board. Hire kayaks and paddle boards along the river at Port Noarlunga for a picturesque paddle along the Onkaparinga Gorge.
- Peddle the park. With trails throughout the park, marvel the natural beauty and fresh air, best enjoyed by mountain bike.
Aldinga Conservation Park
Comprising of a rare ephemeral freshwater wetland known as Aldinga Washpool and the Aldinga Scrub, this parkland is not only the protected home to a diverse range of rare flora and fauna, but it also holds considerable spiritual and cultural significance to the Kaurna people who today maintain their connection with Country.
Glenthorne National Park
One of Adelaide’s newest national parks, the precinct includes the Happy Valley Reservoir, which provides a unique picturesque escape combining adventure with family fun, offering views across the water to the hills. Enjoy the trails which are perfect for walking, running or mountain biking or relax at the grassy picnic area with shelters and BBQs. If you love a spot of fishing, bring your rod too.
Gemtree Eco Trail
Native birds, plants, animals and over 50,000 trees and shrubs are waiting to be discovered on the Gemtree Eco Trail and with takeaway picnic packs and wine from the Gemtree cellar door, exploring at your own relaxed pace is encouraged.
Video Credit - Fruitful Marketing
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