Coorong National 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.

Coorong National Park Information Office

Phone: (+61 8) 8575 1200

Natural Resources Centre - Mount Gambier

Phone: (+61 8) 8735 1177

For online bookings enquires please email:

DEW.SEOnlineBookings@sa.gov.au

The weather is mostly warm and dry during summer and autumn – it’s easy to travel on the roads, great for camping and perfect for beach lovers.

The park is located 200km south east of Adelaide. The park is accessible via Meningie and Kingston off the Princes Highway. If you are arriving from the south, enter the park via Kingston. The Coorong Northern Lagoon can be accessed by boat via the Murray Mouth or by road via the Princes Highway to Narrung or Meningie.

• Park maps

Dogs are permitted at below the high water mark at Ocean Beach only. Your dog must be transported directly to and from the beach inside a vehicle. Dogs are not permitted in the waters of the Coorong Lagoon, including the area between the Murray Mouth and the Goolwa Lock.

Please ensure you:

• Keep your dog under control and on a lead no more than two metres in length.
• Stick to designated walking trails.
• Bring disposable bags to clean up your dog’s faeces (please be aware there are no bins in national parks).

Dogs are not permitted in other areas of the park.

Discover other 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.

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.

There are a variety of facilities available within the park, including campgrounds, toilets, picnic tables, walking trails and boat ramps. 

• 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.

• Remote area travel information
• Parks management plans
• Trails SA
• SA Marine Parks

Outback Road Report

1300 361 033 (24-hour automated service)
Northern and Western South Australian Outback Roads Temporary Closures, Restrictions and Warnings Report

• 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.

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. 

Take a virtual tour of this park. Get a taste for the beauty of the Coorong at sunrise, the walking trails, the Jacks Point pelican observatory and more.

• 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

The Coorong is of enormous cultural significance to the Ngarrindjeri people, with ancient mounds of discarded shells revealing archaeological evidence of Aboriginal campsites over thousands of years. ‘Kurangk’ (meaning ‘long narrow neck’) is the name given to the area by the Ngarrindjeri people. Ngarrindjeri involvement in cultural heritage is linked with current management of the park.

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.

• Joining a boat tour and cruising from Goolwa to the mouth of the Murray River and the Coorong.
• Viewing the pelican breeding grounds from the Jack Point Observatory between August and February. Pelican Point and Mark Point are also great viewing spots for these majestic birds. Take your binoculars with you.
• Camping among the Pink Gum forests at Salt Creek from where you can visit the historical salt lakes and take the Ngrugie Ngoppun Walk.
• Follow in the footsteps of Storm Boy, Fingerbone and Mr Percival with the Storm Boy inspired itinerary.

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

• Chinaman’s Well Historic Site Journey to Gold Walk (1 hour return, 1.3km)

  Explore the Chinaman’s Well historic site to find the stone well and associated quarries, learning the history of the gold rush.

• Godfrey’s Landing Walk - only accessible by boat (1 hour return, 3km)

  A great wildlife walk, this trail takes you through the sand dunes from the Coorong Lagoon to the ocean beach.

• Jack Point Pelican Observatory Walk (20 mins return, 1.2km)

  A great walk for families winding through the dunes to a viewing area overlooking pelican breeding islands.

• Lakes Nature Walk Trail (1 hour loop, 3km)

  A gentle, pleasant walk past ephemeral lakes, through mallee scrub and over low sand dunes.

• Ngrugie Ngoppun Walk (1 hour 15 mins loop, 2.5km)

  This means ‘good walk’ in the Ngarrindjeri language. This short loop offers wildlife viewing and access to some local history.

Moderate hikes

• Nukan Kungun Hike (2 days one way, 25km)

  This 25km trail is great for school and walking groups. It starts from Salt Creek and links some of the more popular trails in the park, concluding at the 42 Mile Crossing campground. From the campground you may continue over the sand dunes to the ocean beach, a further 1.3km. Secluded bush campsites are also dotted along the trail.

Mountain biking is currently not permitted in this park. 

• Which parks can you ride in?

Experience camping under the night sky alongside salt lagoons and white sandy beaches at one of the park’s campgrounds. From the spacious, family-friendly 42 Mile Crossing campground to the secluded campsites along the Younghusband Peninsula, which are only accessible by boat, there are plenty of camping options.

Campsites must be booked prior to arrival to the park.

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

Tent camping

The campgrounds at the southern end of the Coorong provide the best shelter for tent camping. There are campgrounds with designated sites and toilets along the Loop Road, 42 Mile Crossing, 28 Mile Crossing and at Parnka Point.

Boat access only campsites

The Godfrey’s Landing camping area is accessible only by boat, and you will find other secluded campsites along the Younghusband Peninsula. Remember that navigating boats in the Coorong can be hazardous because of changing weather conditions, shallow water and rocky reefs.

Caravans

The camping areas best suited for caravans are 42 Mile Crossing, Parnka Point, Long Point and Mark Point. Sites in the park are not powered. Taking a caravan below 42 Mile Crossing is not recommended because of unpredictable terrain. Tea Tree Crossing is also not recommended for caravans – there’s a high risk of getting bogged and the water levels at the crossing are unpredictable.

Campgrounds

28 Mile Crossing campground

Suitable for: tents, camper trailers and caravans

Facilities: toilets

This campground is set amongst sand dunes that offer some protection. A walking trail from the campground leads to the beach.

42 Mile Crossing campground

Suitable for: tents, camper trailers and caravans

Facilities: toilets, non-potable water, picnic table and walking trail

This campground has large grassed area and is semi-sheltered by vegetation. A walking trail from the campground leads to the beach. Campsites are unallocated.

Barker Knoll campground (boat/canoe access only)

Suitable for: tents

Facilities: walking trail

This campground is only accessible by boat or canoe and is located on the edge of the Coorong Lagoon.

Godfreys Landing campground (boat/canoe access only)

Suitable for: tents

Facilities: toilets, non-potable water, shelter, small boat ramp and walking trail

This campground is only accessible by boat or canoe and is located on the edge of the Coorong Lagoon.

Kartoo Road (4WD)

Suitable for: tents and camper trailers

Facilities: none

There is seven camp sites spread along the Kartoo Road (4WD only). Camp sites are located on edge of Coorong Lagoon.

Long Point campground

Suitable for: tents, camper trailers and caravans

Facilities: toilets, picnic table, small jetty and small boat ramp

This campground has five camp sites available and offers great views of the Coorong Lagoon.

Loop Road campgrounds

Suitable for: tents, camper trailers and caravans

Facilities: toilets and walking trails

There is 20 campsites across four campgrounds that are spread along the Loop Road. Camp sites offer a bush camping experience in a natural setting.

Mark Point campground

Suitable for: tents, camper trailers and caravans

Facilities: boat ramp

This campground has two camp sites available and offers great views of the Coorong Lagoon.

Ocean Beach (4WD)

Suitable for: tents

Facilities: none

Camping is allowed along the beach between the high and low watermarks, and within the designated campsites indicated by wooden posts and poly fencing between Tea Tree and 42 Mile Crossings. Ocean Beach is only accessible by 4WD and experience in sand driving is recommended.

Parnka Point campgrounds

Suitable for: tents and camper trailers

Facilities: toilets, non-potable water, boat ramp and sheltered picnic tables (located at Parnka Point)

There is 13 campsites across two campgrounds. Camp sites overlook the Coorong Lagoon and some offer shelter provided by trees.

Tea Tree Crossing campground (4WD)

Suitable for: tents and camper trailers

Facilities: none

This campground is only accessible to 4WD vehicles. There is a large grassed area which has some shelter provided by vegetation. The campground can only be accessed from the mainland during summer due to high water levels in the Coorong Lagoon during winter. At other times, the campground may be accessed by via the 42 Mile Crossing and the ocean beach (subject to weather and beach conditions). Campsites are unallocated.

Wreck campground

Suitable for: tents and camper trailers

Facilities: none

Only accessible during summer months, this campground has five campsites that offer shelter provided by tall trees.

Chainaman's Well

A walk around the intricate stone well, associated quarries and eating house ruins provides an insight into the history of the area when the Chinese passed through the Coorong during the gold rush era.

Godfrey's Landing

Accessible by boat from Goolwa and Hindmarsh Island, Godfrey's Landing offers a fascinating walk through the sand dunes of the Younghusband Peninsula to the ocean beach near the Murray Mouth.

Jack Point

Home of the largest breeding colony of the Australian Pelican, Jack's Point Observatory allows visitors to observe numerous birds flying back and forth to visit and breed on the nearby islands. Don't forget your binoculars!

Long Point

A jetty provides visitors with easy access to their boat to explore the Coorong. Long Point is also a great spot to go fishing as the sun sets over the Coorong lagoon on a calm evening.

Parnka Point

Parnka Point or 'Hells Gate' is the narrowest point between the northern and southern Coorong lagoon. It is noted for excellent views up and down the lagoon, and wading birds are commonly seen fossicking in the shallow and sheltered bays nearby.

Pelican Point

Pelican Point offers a great vantage point to see some of the wide variety of birdlife in the park. It is also where Lake Alexandrina enters the Coorong through the Tauwitchere barrage. There is no public access to the barrage.

Salt Creek

The longest walking trail in the Coorong (27km) starts at Salt Creek and extends south to the 42 Mile Crossing. This trail links four other interesting but shorter walks focusing on wildlife, scenery, sand dune systems and the early settlement of the Chinese. Designated camp sites are available along the nearby Loop Road.

42 Mile Crossing

42 Mile Crossing is the closest point for 2WD vehicles to access the beach. A pleasant 20 minute walk through the sand dunes along an easily accessible walking trail from the campground rewards you with the sight and sound of the endless Southern Ocean waves rolling onto the beach. To protect the breeding site of the hooded plover, access to the beach north of Tea Tree Crossing to the Murray Mouth is closed to vehicles from 24 October to 24 December each year.

With over 150km of lagoon and coastline to explore, the waters of the Coorong are ideal for boating, kayaking and canoeing. There are two separate bodies of water in the park – the Northern Lagoon (from Goolwa Barrage to Parnka Point) and the Southern Lagoon (Parnka Point to Salt Creek).

• Water safety
• Boating and canoeing in parks

There is excellent surf fishing along the Coorong Ocean Beach. The steep beach offers good access to deep gutters along the shore where fish hunt for food. Between the Murray Mouth and Long Point are good spots for boat fishing – try casting a line in the lagoon for the famous Coorong Mullet and Mulloway.

Please note:

• net fishers must have recreational licences
• you must observe bag sizes and limits
• there is currently no recreational collection of cockles allowed in the Coorong (regulations are subject to change).
• no fishing is allowed within 150m of the barrages.

Fishing is not allowed in marine park sanctuary zones. Coorong Beach South and Coorong Beach North sanctuary zones border Coorong National Park.

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

The Coorong is a birdwatchers’ paradise. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded in the park, including two rare species. Many different water birds visit the wetland, particularly in summer. The distinctive landscape is an internationally renowned breeding area for the Australian pelican and a refuge for ducks, swans, cormorants, terns, grebes and numerous species of migratory birds.

When bird watching, carry binoculars and a field guide to help with bird identification. Wear clothes that blend in with the surrounds and be quiet, particularly if birds are nesting. Do not approach or interfere with nests – this can cause birds to abandon them.

• Migratory wader birds of the Coorong and Lower Lakes

With its long and challenging beach drive, narrow crossings, and secluded campsites, the Coorong is one of Australia’s favourite four-wheel driving destinations.

From Goolwa it is possible to access the very top end of the Coorong, but there is no vehicle access across the barrages or the mouth of the River Murray into the main areas of the park. Primary access into the park is via the Princes Highway from Tailem Bend.

The ocean beach is a gazetted road so speed restrictions apply. Standard road rules apply when driving anywhere in the Coorong, including the laws for speed limits, drink driving, vehicle registration, drivers licences and seat belts.

Be careful if driving on the beach, and only do so at low tide. Remember tides are unpredictable and can turn quickly. You may only drive on the beach between the high and low water mark. Do not take your vehicle off the designated tracks. Precious Indigenous sites can be damaged and wildlife threatened by off track driving, and fines apply.

Only registered motorbikes are permitted in the park. Quad bikes are not permitted.

To protect the hooded plover, the ocean beach track north of Tea Tree Crossing is closed to vehicles from 24 October to 24 December every year. This closure applies to the beach from Tea Tree Crossing to the Murray Mouth.

• 4WDriving safety

Want to help?

To find out how you can help in this park or nearby, please visit Natural Resources South East – 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

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.

Can I have a fire or barbecue?

• Wood fires and solid fuel fires are prohibited throughout the year.
• Ocean beach foreshores: wood fires or solid fuel fires are permitted between high water mark and low water mark other than on days of total fire ban. 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.

Before setting out, check the weather forecast. Weather conditions can change rapidly.

• Make sure your boat registration and your boat operator’s license are current.
• Check your boat – make sure it is seaworthy and that you have enough fuel for the return trip.
• Check that all the required safety equipment is on board and in good condition.
• Know your boating regulations and respect the right of others to enjoy the Coorong.
• No jet skis or hovercraft are allowed in the Coorong.

Be cautious when navigating the lagoon - it can be hazardous because of currents, choppy water, shifting sands, rocky reefs and shallow water. 

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

Do not climb on, or fish from slippery rocks. 

• Get coastal wise
• Kayak and canoe safety handbook

• Take extreme care when driving in the park – be aware of soft, shifting sands, blowouts and drop offs.
• Driving on the ocean beach is only permitted between the high and low water mark.
• When driving on the beach, it is best to do so at low tide. High tides and storms can cause sections of the beach to become treacherous. Check the tide times for your forward and return journey.
• When driving on sand, deflate your tyres to 105kPa (15psi) – or as appropriate for your vehicle. Take care when lowering tyre pressure as there is a risk you could roll a tyre off a rim. Also, remember that lower tyre pressure can mean a change in how the vehicle handles. Don’t forget to reinflate your tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure before leaving the park.
• Please consider other drivers by not obstructing the flow of traffic.

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 - place rubbish in the bins provided or take it 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.

Why does my dog need to be on a lead?

If your dog is off lead, it is more likely to impact on native wildlife and other visitors in a park and be at risk itself.

Risks to wildlife:

• Dogs off tracks will leave a scent in the bush that will keep wildlife away.
• Uncontrolled dogs may frighten wildlife and disrupt their natural behaviour.
• Some dogs will kill or injure wildlife.

Risks to other park visitors

• Dogs may be aggressive to other park visitors.
• Even friendly dogs can knock people over causing injury.
• Some people want to enjoy parks without dogs.

Risks to your dog

• Poison baits may be laid to control foxes. Baits can be fatal to dogs.
• Even if your dog is friendly, other dogs may not be.
• Your dog can catch parasites (such as fleas and ticks) from wildlife.
• Snake bites are a real risk in natural areas such as parks.
• Wildlife such as kangaroos and koalas will defend themselves if threatened by a dog and can cause significant injury to or the death of your dog.

Vehicle entry to this park is free, however fees apply for camping.

Campsites need to be booked prior to arrival.

Click through to 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

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.SEOnlineBookings@sa.gov.au

There are no other fees or permits associated with this park.