Ultimate 3-Week Road Trip Around South Australia

Your South Australia road trip kicks off in style with a stunning coastal stretch to Port Lincoln, often dubbed the seafood capital of Australia. This route sets the tone for this campervan adventure: wide open roads, dramatic ocean views, and loads of hidden gems along the way. 

Breaking this up over a few days means you can take your time and break it up with a few classic outback-meets-coast stops. Along this route, be sure to pull over in Port Augusta, the gateway to the Flinders Ranges, and soak up its rich Indigenous history and arid landscapes. Further along, Whyalla offers a dose of coastal charm and is a great place to stretch your legs with a walk along the jetty or grab a bite with sea views. 

Once you roll into Port Lincoln, it’s time to swap road dust for sea spray. This laid-back town is bursting with marine adventures. Daredevils can head out on a shark cage diving expedition to witness Great Whites up close (from the safety of a submerged cage, of course), while animal lovers might prefer swimming with playful sea lions instead. 

For something a little more low-key, don't miss Mikkira Station, which is home to the only wild koala colony on the Eyre Peninsula. The sight of koalas lounging in ancient Manna Gums just a short drive from town is one of those pinch-me moments that really make a road trip in South Australia special. 

Keen to kick back by the water? You’ve got great campervan hire accommodation options in Port Lincoln. Port Lincoln Tourist Park is a top choice, offering prime waterfront views and a range of amenities. Or, for a more nature-rich stay, book a spot at one of the Lincoln National Park campgrounds, surrounded by rugged coastlines, granite headlands, and crystal-clear bays. This is perfect if you want to spend a bit of time exploring the Lincoln National Park, including Boston Bay–the largest natural harbour in Australia. Just keep in mind that motorhomes aren’t permitted on 4WD tracks within the park, so stick to the 2WD-friendly zones. 

You won’t be racking up the kilometres during this stretch of your South Australia road trip, but don’t let the short distance fool you — the drive from Port Lincoln to Coffin Bay is packed with scenery worth savouring. This part of the Eyre Peninsula feels a little slower, a little quieter, and a whole lot special. 

Coffin Bay is all about coastal beauty and seafood indulgence. The standout attraction? World-famous oysters. Seriously, these are as fresh as they come. Hop on a Coffin Bay Oyster Farm Tour where you’ll wade through glassy waters and slurp oysters straight from the sea; you won’t taste anything like it again. 

Nature lovers, don’t miss Coffin Bay National Park. It’s a wild and windswept wonderland of dramatic cliffs, crashing surf beaches, and sheltered turquoise bays. Whether you’re hiking coastal trails or just enjoying a beach picnic, this park is the kind of place that makes you want to linger. 

As for where to park up for the night, Coffin Bay Caravan Park is a breezy, comfortable base with everything you need for a couple of relaxing days. Prefer something a little more off-grid? The Yangie Bay Campground is unpowered but full of peaceful bush vibes and perfect for those wanting a more rustic camper experience. 

Now it’s time to push west into the wild western edge of the Eyre Peninsula, where things start to feel a little more remote and a whole lot magical. This stretch of the south-west Australia road trip showcases the kind of rugged coastline and ancient geology that makes Australia road trips so unforgettable. 

First stop, Elliston. This sleepy seaside town hugs the stunning Waterloo Bay and is perfect for a lunch stop, quick swim, or even a walk along the dramatic clifftop trail. Further up the road, pull in at Murphy’s Haystacks: a set of surreal, dome-like granite boulders that have been sculpted by wind and time. They’re great for a photo op or a mindful wander around this prehistoric-feeling site. 

Before reaching Streaky Bay, stop at Point Labatt Conservation Park. This is one of the only places on mainland Australia where you can spot Australian sea lions chilling out on the rocks below. Bring binoculars if you’ve got them! 

When it’s time to settle in, Streaky Bay Foreshore Tourist Park is a well-loved motorhome base with calm waters and great fishing. For something more rustic, Tractor Beach camping (aka Cape Bauer Campgrounds) offers peaceful beachfront camping.  Just note the limited amenities and arrive early to grab a spot. 

After a few blissful days on the coast, it’s time to head inland and explore the rugged beauty of the Outback. This part of your campervan journey brings you into the heart of South Australia's volcanic past; think ochre-hued earth, dramatic rock formations, and silence that stretches for miles 

Your main destination is the incredible Gawler Ranges National Park, home to the ancient and otherworldly Organ Pipes. These towering columns of basalt rock were formed over 1.5 billion years ago by volcanic eruptions, and they’re just one of many jaw-dropping geological features in the park. If you're wondering whether it's worth going to Australia for 3 weeks, this surreal landscape is a solid yes. 

If you’re travelling by motorhome or camper, there are a couple of great options for staying overnight. Mt Ive Station offers both powered and unpowered sites, along with a true taste of Outback station life. Alternatively, the more remote Yandinga Campground gives you a peaceful, basic bush camp vibe. Just make sure the weather is dry so that the road is accessible. 

After a few days immersed in red dirt and wide skies, it’s time to head back toward civilisation, and Port Augusta is the perfect re-entry point. As a gateway town to the Outback and the Flinders Ranges, it combines practicality with a few surprising attractions. 

First, make a beeline for the Wadlata Outback Centre: a fantastic interactive museum where you can journey through the ‘Tunnel of Time’ and explore the rich natural and cultural history of the region, from ancient inland seas to Aboriginal stories and early explorers. 

For something a little more tranquil, head to the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden. This garden was designed to showcase the unique and hardy flora of Australia’s dry regions, and it’s both beautiful and educational. Plus, it’s a great spot to stretch your legs and reset. 

When it comes to where to stay, you’re spoiled for choice. BIG4 Port Augusta Holiday Park is a popular choice among campervan hire travellers thanks to its central location and great amenities. If you’re keen for a bit of a view, Shoreline Caravan Park offers waterfront sites with a stunning backdrop of the Flinders Ranges. 

During this leg of your South Australia road trip, it’s time to swap dusty roads for rolling vineyards as your road trip swings south into the Clare Valley, one of South Australia’s most charming wine regions. This lush landscape is all about gourmet experiences, boutique cellar doors, and slow, scenic days. 

Start your visit with a stop at Sevenhill Cellars, the oldest winery in the region and steeped in history. Founded by Jesuit priests in the 1850s, it's known for its aged reds and Rieslings, and there’s even an underground cellar and crypt you can explore. Another must-visit is Jim Barry Wines, a name synonymous with world-class Clare Valley Riesling and a testament to this region’s rise on the global wine stage. 

If you’ve brought bikes or fancy hiring one, don’t miss the Riesling Trail, a repurposed railway line turned cycle path that weaves between vineyards, cellar doors, and countryside towns. It’s a perfect way to take in the valley’s beauty at your own pace. 

Set up camp at Discovery Parks – Clare, just minutes from the main township and a great base for exploring the surrounding wineries. Or opt for the more tucked-away Clare Valley Caravan Park, nestled among vines for the ultimate wine country escape. 

Today’s leg of the South Australia road trip will take you into one of the most iconic regions in Australia: the Barossa Valley. A short and scenic drive from Clare, this area is rich with history, heritage vineyards, and some of the country’s best-known wineries. For food and wine lovers, this stretch might just be the most beautiful road trip in Australia. 

First up is Seppeltsfield Winery, one of the Barossa’s most historic estates, famous for its centennial collection of fortified wines and stunning estate grounds. Then, pop into Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop to sample some of her famous condiments, patés, and ice creams—perfect if you're planning a picnic lunch in the vines. 

If you're lucky enough to be passing through on a Saturday morning from 7:30 AM to 1:30 AM, make time for the Barossa Farmers Market. It’s a hub for local producers, with stalls selling everything from fresh-baked bread to handmade cheeses and seasonal produce. 

When it’s time to settle in, BIG4 Barossa Tourist Park is a favourite with motorhome travellers, offering spacious powered sites right in the heart of the valley. Alternatively, stay close to the action at Tanunda Caravan Park, which is an equally charming and comfortable base to explore the best of the Barossa. 

It’s time to swap the vineyard-dotted Barossa Valley for the cool, forested charm of the Adelaide Hills. This scenic drive is short but sweet, winding through valleys and villages that feel like something out of a European storybook. It's one of the most serene stretches of the entire South Australia road trip, offering the perfect mix of nature, local culture, and gourmet delights. 

Make your first stop at the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden. Spread across nearly 100 hectares, this garden is a mosaic of lush walking trails, hidden lakes, and exotic plants, making it a haven for photographers and peaceful souls alike. From there, head to Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, with its timber buildings, boutique shops, craft breweries, and hearty schnitzel lunches. 

Wildlife lovers should swing by Cleland Wildlife Park, where kangaroos, emus, and koalas roam free in a natural bushland setting. It's a relaxed and respectful way to get close to some of South Australia's most iconic animals. 

Stay overnight at Hahndorf Resort Tourist Park, just 20 minutes from Adelaide yet completely immersed in Hills charm, or opt for the peaceful Mount Barker Caravan Park, ideal if you’re looking to settle somewhere a little quieter with easy access to nearby attractions. 

From forest to sea, the drive south to Victor Harbor is one of the most visually satisfying legs of your campervan hire journey. As the landscape shifts from cool-climate vineyards to rugged coastlines, it’s time to switch gears to a classic Aussie beach holiday, just with a few unexpected gems along the way. 

A must-do is the iconic Granite Island. Linked to the mainland by a causeway, you can stroll across on foot or hop aboard the charming horse-drawn tram for a truly timeless experience. Keep an eye out for seals and, if you’re lucky, a little penguin or two. 

Then, stop into Urimbirra Wildlife Park for an easy-going afternoon with kangaroos, wombats, and other native animals before treating yourself at the legendary Port Elliot Bakery, which has become famous for its creative pies, fresh cream doughnuts, and flaky sausage rolls. 

You can roll into Victor Harbor Holiday Park for the night, close to the beach and town centre. Or, if you prefer something a little quieter with spectacular clifftop views, set up camp at BIG4 Port Elliot Holiday Park, nestled conveniently between Victor Harbor and Middleton.