42 Mile Crossing Campsite

The 42 Mile Crossing campsite stands as one of the most accessible locations within Coorong National Park, situated two hours southeast of Adelaide. This remarkable spot offers direct access to the ocean beach, making it a preferred destination for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.

Getting there

Located 22 kilometres south of Salt Creek, the campsite is accessible via a well-maintained gravel road suitable for standard vehicles and bicycles. Clear signage marks the entrance from the main highway, leading to a spacious camping area that accommodates various camping setups.

Camping facilities

The camping ground presents multiple flat sites for self-sufficient camping, with natural protection from prevailing winds provided by low-growing mallee vegetation. Basic amenities include composting toilets and a water tank, though treating the water before consumption is recommended. The site implements a five-day maximum stay policy, ensuring fair access for all campers.

A 1.3-kilometre walking trail connects the campsite to the magnificent beach. While generally manageable, some sections of the track feature soft sand, making it advisable to walk along the edges where the ground is more compact. The ocean beach provides excellent fishing opportunities, with multiple access points available for 4WD vehicles.

Natural heritage

The surrounding environment holds significant cultural value, particularly within the sand dunes where Aboriginal shell middens remain visible. These ancient deposits contain countless cockle shells, offering insights into the traditional life of the Tanganikald people. The area lies within Meintenk Country, known to local Indigenous people as Thungyul.

Essential information

Advance online booking is essential for camping at 42 Mile Crossing. The nearest supplies can be found at Salt Creek, which offers basic provisions and fuel. For more comprehensive supplies, Meningie to the north and Kingston to the south provide additional services, including fresh water access and waste disposal facilities.

The site maintains year-round 4WD access to the ocean beach, though conditions can vary significantly during winter months. Vehicle access restrictions apply north of Tea Tree Crossing from 24 October to 24 December to protect nesting Hooded Plovers.

42 Mile Crossing represents an ideal base for exploring Coorong National Park’s natural wonders. The combination of convenient access, basic facilities, and proximity to the ocean beach creates an authentic Australian camping experience.

This destination particularly appeals to those seeking a balance between accessibility and natural immersion within one of South Australia’s most distinctive coastal environments

More information is available at https://friendsofthecoorong.org/42-mile-crossing-coorong/