Deep Creek Conservation Park

Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Closures and safety

This park is closed on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger and may also be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger.

You can determine the current fire danger rating by checking the Fire Ban District map on the CFS website.

Check the CFS website or call the CFS Bushfire Information Hotline 1800 362 361 for:

• Information on fire bans and current fire conditions
• Current CFS warnings and incidents
• Information on what to do in the event of a fire.

Listen to your local area radio station for the latest updates and information on fire safety.

Deep Creek Conservation Park Headquarters
Phone: (+61 8) 8598 0263

Victor Harbor Natural Resources Centre
Phone: (+61 8) 8552 0300 

For booking enquiries: DEW.FleurieuOnlineBookings@sa.gov.au

Late autumn and early spring are the best times to experience the park, go camping and observe the array of wildlife and native flora in full bloom. Temperatures during this time of year make it comfortable to hike the network of walking trails within the park.  

Winter and early spring provide opportunities for whale watching.  Each year whales migrate to the comparatively warmer South Australian coast from Antarctic waters to mate and calve.

Summers are dry and hot with temperatures ranging between 30 to 35 degrees making it more challenging for walking. A responsible approach to bushwalking is a must during summer months and in winter months when track conditions can be slippery.

The park is located 108km south of Adelaide. Access is via Main South Road from Adelaide or Range Road from Victor Harbor.

All roads within the park are unsealed.

The Boat Harbour Beach track and the Blowhole Beach track are 4WD only.  2WD vehicles are not permitted to access the 4WD tracks and fines apply.

• Park maps

Parks are for all to enjoy, we would love to hear from you about your experience in nature. You can share your comments, pictures and videos with us and others by tagging @NationalParksSA on Facebook,  Instagram or email us.

Facilities 

Parking

There are no dedicated accessible parking spaces in Deep Creek Conservation Park.

Toilets

There is an accessible toilet located at Stringybark campground.

See and do

Camping

There are accessible campsites available at Stringybark campground. For more information please get in touch with the Deep Creek Conservation Park Headquarters on (+61 8) 8598 0263.

Assistance dogs are permitted in most public places and are therefore welcome in South Australia’s parks and reserves. Assistance dogs must be appropriately restrained on a lead and remain under your effective control at all times while in a park or reserve.

As per the dogs in parks and reserves policy, if the dog is not an accredited assistance dog, they must be trained to assist a person with a disability to alleviate that disability and meet standards of hygiene and behaviour appropriate for a dog in a public place. However, refusal may be given if the person with the disability is unable to produce evidence the dog is an assistance dog with the appropriate training.

Before taking your assistance dog into a park that does not normally allow dogs, it is highly recommended that you contact us so we can provide you with the latest information on any potential hazards within specific parks that may affect your dog. Please contact the park via the contact details provided under the contact tab or call the information line on (+61 8) 8204 1910.

Dogs are not permitted in this park.

Discover which parks you can walk your dog in on our find a park tool or read 12 dog-friendly walks in Adelaide Parks by Good Living for inspiration.

There are a variety of facilities available within the park.

Toilets, water (non-potable) and fire pits are available at all campgrounds (excluding Eagle Waterhole).  Stringybark campground has hot showers available. Picnic tables are available at Cobbler Hill picnic area, Trig and Stringybark campgrounds and at the Tapanappa Lookout.

• Check out Deep Creek from a drone on the Good Living blog.
• Check out Nature Play SA's 40 things to do in Deep Creek Conservation Park.
• Discover 10 things to see and do at Deep Creek on the Good Living blog.
• Explore what other nature and outdoor activities are available in this area on the South Australia Tourism website.  
• Mobile phone coverage can be patchy and unreliable in this park, especially if you are in low-lying areas.
• Parks management plans
• Trails SA
• SA Marine Parks
• Important: Collection of firewood within National Parks is prohibited.

Take a virtual tour of the rugged coast, steep cliffs, campgrounds and sweeping panoramic views of Deep Creek Conservation Park.

• Georama virtual tour

Phytophthora (fy-TOFF-thora), otherwise known as root-rot fungus, is killing our native plants and threatens the survival of animals depending on plants for food and shelter.

This introduced fungus can be found in plant roots, soil and water. Help stop the spread by using hygiene stations, staying on tracks and trails and by complying with all Phytophthora management signs.

• Phytophthora brochure

Plants

Deep Creek Conservation Park preserves the largest portion of remnant natural vegetation on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Even the easiest of walks will surprise you with views  and native vegetation that will take your breath away.

Animals

Look out for kangaroos, echidnas or some of the 100 bird species that can easily be heard or spotted in the park.

Every year, between May to October, southern right whales gather along the southern coastline of Australia to mate and calve. Deep Creek Conservation Park offers ideal vantage points to see these majestic creatures, so if you are visiting during whale season, keep an extra keen eye on the ocean.

Flora and fauna species lists

To download flora (plants) and fauna (animals) species lists for this park, use the 'Create Simple Species List' tab under 'Flora Tools' or 'Fauna Tools'  in NatureMaps. 

The Aboriginal people of the southern Fleurieu Peninsula fall into two language groups, the Kaurna and Ngarrindjeri. Dreaming stories from both groups illustrate a deep spiritual connection to the land.

The creation of land formations on the Fleurieu Peninsula are illustrated through dreaming stories. The Kaurna dreaming story of Tjirbuk highlights the creation of the western side of the Fleurieu Peninsula.

The Ngarrindjeri focus on Ngurunderi, who, while on his journey, created many landforms which we can now see along the River Murray and the south coast. These landforms were made while he was travelling along the river and coastline in search of his two wives, who had run away from him.

Aboriginal peoples have occupied, enjoyed and managed the lands and waters of this State for thousands of generations. For Aboriginal first nations, creation ancestors laid down the laws of the Country and bestowed a range of customary rights and obligations to the many Aboriginal Nations across our state. 

There are many places across the State that have great spiritual significance to Aboriginal first nations.  At some of these places Aboriginal cultural protocols, such as restricted access, are promoted and visitors are asked to respect the wishes of Traditional Owners.

In places where protocols are not promoted visitors are asked to show respect by not touching or removing anything, and make sure you take all your rubbish with you when you leave.

Aboriginal peoples continue to play an active role in caring for their Country, including in parks across South Australia. 

• DEW Park management
• DEW Aboriginal partnerships

We have picked the brains of our park rangers to find out what they would recommend you see and do whilst visiting this park.

• Taking in the views of Kangaroo Island from the Cobbler Hill Picnic Area.
• Spending an afternoon walking the Deep Creek Waterfall Hike from Tapanappa Lookout.
• Fishing at Blowhole Beach.
• Seeing kangaroos feed at dusk at Tapanappa Ridge or along the Aaron Creek hiking trail.
• Lunching at Stringybark Walk or Aaron Creek picnic area.
• Camping under the stars at one of the bush campgrounds.
• Watching for whales as they migrate east during the winter months.
• Challenging yourself on the difficult Aaron Creek Hike and being rewarded by stunning views.
• Have a go at the 10 things to see and do at Deep Creek from the Good Living blog.
• Check out Nature Play SA's 40 things to do in Deep Creek Conservation Park.

Bushwalking is a fantastic way to connect with nature, keep fit and spend time with family and friends. South Australia's national parks feature a range of trails that let you experience a diversity of landscapes.

Easy walks

• Stringybark Loop Walk (30 min loop, 1.5 km)

  A short, relatively flat walk through old growth stringybark forest. There is a lot of wildlife in this area of the park. Close to the popular Stringybark campsite, this walk is ideal for families. The walk starts at the picnic ground near park headquarters on Tapanappa Road.

• Forest Circuit Walk (1 hr return, 2.6 km)

  This is a fairly flat and easy stroll through tall stringybark forest. This is a lovely morning or late afternoon walk. In autumn you may see fog settle among the trees. In late winter and early spring you will see a profusion of wildflowers. The trail starts from Stringybark Campground, opposite site 10.

• Goondooloo Ridge Walk (2 hrs return, 4 km)

  This trail along Goondooloo Ridge offers spectacular views of Backstairs Passage. Along the way you can often view large mobs of kangaroos grazing in the open fields, or resting under eucalypts. This walk begins at the Aaron Creek picnic area located on Blowhole Road, 15 metres from Goondooloo Cottage.

• Spring Wildflower Walk (2.5 hrs return, 5 km)

  A perfect nature walk. You'll see native wildflowers during late winter and early spring in this regenerating sclerophyll forest. The walk follows roads and fire trails so it is fairly flat and good for families. The trail starts at Stringybark Campground, opposite site nine.

Moderate hikes

• Deep Creek Waterfall Hike from Tent Rock Road (2 hrs return, 3.5 km)

  Incorporating part of the famous Heysen Trail, this hike takes you down to a year-round waterfall nestled in the heart of the park. Along the way you can see spectacular views of densely wooded hills. Although short, certain parts of this hike can be quite steep. The trail starts from the car parking area on Tent Rock Road.

• Deep Creek Cove Hike from Trig Picnic Area (2.5 hrs, 6.4 km)

  On this popular trail you'll have great views of the Southern Ocean as you wind your way down to the secluded cove where Deep Creek finishes its journey to the ocean. Be prepared to scramble over rocks to get down to the cove. The trail starts at the Trig Picnic Area. Follow Tent Rock Road past Trig Campground to the picnic area.

• Aaron Creek Circuit Hike (3 hrs return, 5.5 km)

  One of the park's hidden gems. This hard but rewarding hike takes you down to Aaron Creek through tall gums and scented wattles. In winter (the best time for this hike) you will pass a cascading waterfall. Be prepared for moderate inclines and some rock scrambling. The trail starts at the car park, 15m from Goondooloo Cottage, on Blowhole Creek Road.

• Talisker Silver Lead Mine Hike (2.5 hrs return, 6.4 km)

  This interpretive hike, in Talisker Conservation Park, guides you through a nineteenth century mining and ore processing operation. Learn about the ingenuity of the Cornish miners and their families as you walk through naturally regenerating bushland teeming with wildflowers and wildlife. The trail starts in Talisker Conservation Park, 9km west of Deep Creek.

Hard hikes

• Deep Creek Cove Hike from Tapanappa Lookout (2.5 hrs return, 3.4 km)

  A rugged coastal hike through steep terrain and dense vegetation with spectacular views of Deep Creek. Suited to experienced and fit bushwalkers. Be prepared to scramble over steep rocks on your way down to the cove. The trail starts at the Tapanappa Lookout. It can also be started from Tapanappa Campground (add 3km return).

• Blowhole Beach Hike (2.5 hrs return, 3 km)

  This trail winds down a steep hill to beautiful Blowhole Beach, a popular local fishing and surfing spot. From the picnic area at Cobbler Hill you'll have extensive views of Backstairs Passage and Kangaroo Island. This hike may seem easy on the way down, but on the return climb the incline is steep. The trail starts from Cobbler Hill Picnic Area, on Blowhole Creek Road.

• Blowhole Beach - Cobbler Hill Marrano Creek Hike (3.5 hrs return, 6.7 km)

  See excellent views of Kangaroo Island and The Pages Islands on this loop, which follows the Blowhole Beach Hike down to the beach, joins the famous Heysen Trail and follows it up to Cobbler Hill Campground and Marrano Creek. Take the main road to finish back at the Cobbler Hill Picnic Area. The trail starts from Cobbler Hill Picnic Area or Cobbler Hill Campground.

• Deep Creek Waterfall Hike from Tapanappa Lookout (3.5 hrs return, 7 km)

  See excellent views of Deep Creek amid the park's renowned thick vegetation and rugged terrain on this hike for experienced and fit walkers to the waterfall. The trail begins at the Tapanappa Lookout. Alternatively you can start from Tapanappa Campground (add an extra 3km return).

• Boat Harbor Circuit Hike (4 hrs, 7.3 km)

  Taking in part of the Heysen Trail, this unique hike has breathtaking views of Kangaroo Island, The Pages Islands and Tunkalilla Beach. Those prepared for a steep trail and rock scramble can take a small diversion off the circuit trail to Boat Harbor Beach, a rocky cove where Boat Harbor Creek enters the Southern Ocean. The trail begins on Tapanappa Ridge. Follow the road towards Tapanappa Campground and turn to the ridge on your left before reaching the campground. This hike does not start at Tapanappa Lookout.

• Aaron Creek Hike (6 hrs return, 11 km)

  The first section of this magnificent trail follows the Aaron Creek Circuit Hike, then into natural bushland. After a steep climb you'll look out to Kangaroo Island before descending into a small rocky cove. This hike is challenging but rewarding with steep sections and a rock scramble at the ocean end. Give yourself plenty of time. The trail starts at the car park on Blowhole Rd, 15m from the Goondooloo Cottage turn-off.

• Deep Creek Circuit Hike (7 hrs return, 10.9 km)

  This hike offers some of the best ocean and bush views in the park. It takes you to the waterfall and down into Deep Creek Cove. In wet weather it can be difficult to cross Deep Creek, do not try to cross when flooded. Best taken in a clockwise direction, this is the most challenging trail in the park. Suited to experienced, fit walkers. The trail can be started from Trig Picnic Area or from Tapanappa Lookout.

All campgrounds are accessible by 2WD (except Eagle Waterhole which is hike-in only). Stringybark, Trig and Cobbler Hill campgrounds can also accommodate caravans. Camping in Deep Creek is only permitted in designated sites in campgrounds.

Fees apply and you must book in advance.

• Book before you go

Stringybark campground

Suitable for: tents, caravans, camper vans and camper trailers

Facilities available: toilets, hot showers, picnic tables and seasonal camp fires* (in fire pits only)

Nestled amongst tall stringybark trees, this campground has 16 camp sites which offer plenty of shade and protection from the wind.

Trig campground

Suitable for: tents, caravans, camper vans and camper trailers

Facilities available: toilets, picnic shelter and seasonal camp fires* (in fire pits only)

Large flat campground with 25 camp sites offering plenty of open space.

Tapanappa campground

Suitable for: tents

Facilities available: toilets and seasonal camp fires* (in fire pits only)

The campground has 17 camp sites is within a short walk of the coastline and there are a number of walking trails nearby. There is some shelter provided for tents by the low coast vegetation.

Cobbler Hill campground

Suitable for: tents, caravans, camper vans and camper trailers

Facilities available: toilets and seasonal camp fires* (in fire pits only)

Located near Blowhole Beach, this campground has six camp sites available. Some of the sites offer shade and wind protection

Eagle Waterhole hike-in campground

Suitable for: tents (hike-in only)

Facilities available: hut shelter

This campsite cannot be accessed by vehicle. Camping is available for a maximum of 16 hikers. Wood fires are prohibited at all times.

 *Fire restrictions apply.  See fire safety

You can stay in self-contained accommodation ranging from rustic cottages to architecturally designed eco-retreats. The accommodation is managed by Southern Ocean Retreats.

Vehicle entry fee is included with accommodation booking.

Southern Ocean Retreats
Phone: (+61 8) 8598 4169
Southern Ocean Retreats website

Mountain biking is not permitted on walking tracks and trails within Deep Creek Conservation Park. However, bikes are permitted on vehicle roads and public roads within the park.

• Which parks you can ride in?

If you are looking to visit Deep Creek for educational purposes, you might like to check out our educational pack and the kids pack tailored to Deep Creek Conservation Park. This pack was developed for schools and families by park rangers and the Natural Resources Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges’ NRM Education team.

• Check out Nature Play SA's 40 things to do in Deep Creek Conservation Park.

Two 4WD tracks are available in this park. Jump in your 4WD and be rewarded with stunning coastal views across the eastern and western sections of the park. 

The Boat Harbour track 

This track winds  through stringybark forest with steep descents ending at a small carpark where visitors exit their vehicle and  walk to Boat Harbour Beach.  

The Blowhole Beach track 

This track has steep descent and rocky track providing access to a sandy beach  and distant views of Kangaroo Island.  

• 2WDs are not permitted access on 4WD tracks and fines apply.
• Expect varying road conditions on dirt roads especially as we go from dry to wet conditions.
• 4WD safety

Fishing is actively managed in South Australia by the Department of Primary Industries and Resources SA.
Check out these useful links before embarking on your fishing adventure:

• Recreational fishing regulations
• SA recreational fishing guide app
• Aquatic reserves

Want to help?

To find out how you can help in this park or nearby, please visit Natural Resources Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges – Volunteering.

Want to join others and become a Park Friend?

To find out more about Friends of Parks groups please visit Friends of Parks South Australia.

You could join others to help look after a park. You can take part in working bees, training and other events.

Become a Campground Host

Combine your love of camping with doing a good deed by becoming a volunteer campground host in this park.

A campground host is a volunteer who stays at the park either for a specific peak period, like the Easter break or a long weekend, or an extended period of time (up to a few months) to support park rangers. 

If you are passionate about the environment, a keen camper, like to meet people from all around the world, and are a happy to help, then hosting could be right up your alley. 

• SA’s Campground Hosts Program

Between mid-May and late October whales migrate from sub-Antarctic water to the comparatively warmer waters of the South Australian coast to calve and mate.  While our whale visitors are mostly southern right whales, we also have sightings of sperm whales, humpbacks, blue whales and the occasional orca. 

Deep Creek Conservation Park offers ideal vantage points to see these majestic creatures, so if you are visiting during whale season, keep an extra keen eye on the ocean.

The international Trail Users Code of Conduct is to show respect and courtesy towards other trail users at all times.

Ensure that you:

• when hiking, wear sturdy shoes, a hat and sunscreen
• be aware of weather conditions and avoid walking during the hottest part of the day
• make sure you have appropriate weather proof clothing
• carry enough water to be self-sufficient
• please be respectful of other users at all times
• stay on the designated trails and connector tracks for your own safety, and prevent the spread of declared weeds to other areas in the park
• ensure someone knows your approximate location and expected time of return
• take appropriate maps.
• Walk, hike or trek - what's the difference?

When camping in a National Park, it's important to remember the following:

• Always let someone responsible know your travel plans, especially when travelling in remote areas. It's a good idea to let them know when you expect to return.
• Check the weather forecast before you leave, including overnight temperatures on the Bureau of Meteorology. Even during very mild weather, the nights can get very cold. 
• The quality and quantity of water cannot be guaranteed within parks. Please bring plenty of water and food to be self-sufficient.
• Always camp in designated sites (where applicable) - do not camp beneath trees with overhanging branches, as they can drop without warning. It's also a good idea to check that there no insect nests nearby.
• Check to make sure you're not camping in a natural waterway, flash floods can happen anytime.
• If camp fires are permitted, you must bring your own firewood, as the collection of firewood within National Parks is prohibited. Extinguish your camp fire with water (not sand or dirt) until the hissing sound stops.
• Ensure that you are familiar with the fire restrictions for this park.

Maintaining the legal distance from marine mammals such as whales, dolphins and seals is important, both for our safety and that of the animals.

The animals may be seriously injured if they are struck by a vessel or frightened young may become separated from their mothers. Even if there is no contact, coming too close can disrupt feeding, breeding and migratory behaviours.

Regular water users should make themselves familiar with all the rules for interacting with marine mammals by viewing the National Parks and Wildlife (Protected Animals – Marine Mammals) Regulations 2010.

In the Water

• Prescribed vessels (high-powered craft such as jet-skis, hydrofoils and boats used for water skiing or paragliding): Never closer than 300m.
• Other vessels (for example, cabin cruisers, yachts, ‘tinnies’, inflatables, kayaks, wind surfers and kite surfers): No closer than 100m.
• Other vessels within 300m of a whale: No anchoring; maximum speed 4 knots; maximum time 60 minutes.
• Swimmers (including surfers and boogie boarders): No closer than 30m.

On Land

• No closer than 30m (or 50m if the whale is distressed, stranded or entangled)

In the air

• Planes and remotely piloted aircrafts (drones) must be at least 300m from any whale or other marine mammal (additional Civil Aviation Safety Authority restrictions apply).
• Helicopters and gyrocopters must be at least 500m from any whale or other marine mammal.

 Special rules exist for:

• whale calves: all vessels and swimmers – no closer than 300m
• distressed, stranded or entangled whales: all vessels and swimmers – no closer than 300m

Can I have a fire or barbecue?

• Wood fires and solid fuel fires are prohibited from 1 November 2018 to 30 April 2019.
• You must bring your own firewood, as the collection of firewood within National Parks is prohibited. 
• Gas fires and liquid fuel fires are permitted through the year, other than on days of total fire ban.
• Ensure you are familiar with the fire restrictions  for this park.

Closures and safety

This park is closed on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger and may also be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger.

You can determine the current fire danger rating by checking the Fire Ban District map on the CFS website.

Check the CFS website or call the CFS Bushfire Information Hotline 1800 362 361 for:

• Information on fire bans and current fire conditions
• Current CFS warnings and incidents
• Information on what to do in the event of a fire.

Listen to your local area radio station for the latest updates and information on fire safety.

Strong currents and rips can make swimming dangerous in this area.

Do not climb on, or fish from slippery rocks. 

When 4WDriving in the park, it is important to be aware of the following:

• Standard road rules apply when driving anywhere in the park, including the laws for speed limits, drink driving, vehicle registration and seat belts.
• Take extreme care when driving in the park – be aware of blind corners, crests and narrow two-way tracks.
• Observe all track and safety signs, especially 'No public access' signs.
• Do not take your vehicle off the designated tracks. Wildlife can be threatened and precious habitat and indigenous sites can be damaged by off track driving.
• Make sure you know what to do in the event of getting bogged and always carry a shovel.
• When driving on sand, deflate your tyres as appropriate for your vehicle. Don’t forget to reinflate your tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure before leaving the park. Take care when lowering tyre pressure as there is risk you could roll the tyre off its rim. Also, remember that lower tyre pressure can mean a change in how the vehicle handles.

Every national park is different, each has its own unique environment, it is important to be responsible while enjoying all the park has to offer.

Please ensure that you:

• leave your pets at home
• do not feed birds or other animals, it promotes aggressive behaviour and an unbalanced ecology
• do not bring generators (except where permitted), chainsaws or firearms into the park
• leave the park as you found it - there are no bins in national parks, please come prepared to take your rubbish with you. 
• abide by the road rules (maintain the speed limit)
• respect geological and heritage sites
• do not remove native plants
• are considerate of other park users.

• Important: Collection of firewood within National Parks is prohibited. Dead wood plays a vital role in providing shelter for animals and adding nutrients to the soil.

Vehicle entry needs to be paid prior to arrival.

Click through to the online booking page for vehicle entry fees.

Book Online

Book online to buy day entry for your vehicle.

FAQs about booking online

Book and pay in person

If you are unable to book and pay online you can do so, in person, at these booking agents across the state.

For online bookings enquiries please email:

DEW.FleurieuOnlineBookings@sa.gov.au

Camping

Campsites need to be booked prior to arrival.

The fees for camping vary from campground to campground, check the online booking page for more details about individual campgrounds and fees.

Book online

Book online to reserve your campsite up to 12 months in advance.

FAQs about booking online

Where can I book and pay in person?

If you are unable to book and pay online you can do so, in person, at these booking agents across the state.

For online bookings enquiries please email:

DEW.FleurieuOnlineBookings@sa.gov.au

Accommodation

You can stay in self-contained accommodation ranging from rustic cottages to architecturally designed eco-retreats. The accommodation is managed independently by Southern Ocean Retreats. Vehicle entry fee is included with accommodation booking.

If you intend to visit often, you may like to purchase any of the below park passes.

12 month vehicle entry for a single park

Is this your favourite park? If you visit more than five times a year, it's more economical to purchase a 12 month vehicle entry for a single park pass.

• Buy a 12 month vehicle entry for single park pass now
• Buy in person at a Park Pass outlet
• Park Passes FAQs

2 and 12 month vehicle entry for multiple parks pass

Are you wanting to explore a number of SA’s national parks? Purchasing a 2 or 12 month vehicle entry for multiple parks pass can offer you value for money and convenience.

The 2 and 12 month vehicle entry for multiple parks pass entitle you to vehicle entry for not just this park, but up to an additional 10 parks as well!

• Buy a Park Pass now 
• Buy a park pass in person
• Park Passes FAQs

School groups

School groups planning to camp in the park must book online to reserve a site by using the school booking form. 

Please note the school booking form is a request to book form and campsites are subject to availability. There are also limits on group size and site availability.

• School bookings form