Popular campground reopens with major upgrades

Mambray Creek at Mount Remarkable National Park, near Melrose in the Mid North, reopened on 1 December after a $2.5 million upgrade.

The works have modernised the much-loved campground, which was built in the 1980s, while retaining the feel and experience that makes it one of SA’s favourites.

Campers and caravaners will have access to 49 camping sites, including 11 double sites and 4 drive-through sites, within the main campground. Upgrades include:

• Two fully accessible amenities buildings each comprising 6 showers with hot water and 5 toilets, and a 4-cubicle toilet block for day visitors.
• More spacious campsites, including improved access for caravans, motorhomes, and campervans.
• A camp kitchen with food preparation and dishwashing facilities.
• A new day visitor area.
• New picnic furniture and shelters throughout the site.

Mambray Creek is the most visited SA campground managed by National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), averaging about 11,000 bookings each year.

National Parks and Wildlife Service Southern Flinders and Mid North District Ranger Danny Doyle said the campgrounds were a much-loved part of Mount Remarkable National Park, and the upgrades ensured the site would be enjoyed by future generations.

“The improved accessibility means the campground is no longer just for campers with swags and tents but is now a whole new destination for people with caravans, camper trailers or even motorhomes," he said.

“This upgrade has improved the camping experience for a whole variety of visitors while not losing the magic appeal of this much-loved campground.

“Visitors can enjoy fantastic campground amenities, including new bathroom facilities where they can even enjoy a hot shower on crisp early mornings.

“More spacious sites will allow campers extra privacy to responsibly kick back with a beer or a glass of wine and enjoy themselves their beautiful surroundings."

The project was funded by the Australian Government in partnership with the South Australian Government and supported by Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife.

The Australian Government funding, totalling $5 million for the entire Remarkable Southern Flinders project – also supported projects in Mount Remarkable National Park, such as the 38km Epic Mountain Bike Trail and 20km of new trails at Willowie.

Other partners include Regional Development Australia Yorke and Mid North, District Council of Mount Remarkable, Port Pirie Regional Council, Northern Areas Council and the Nukunu Wapma Thura Aboriginal Corporation.

In addition to the Mambray Creek project, 9 campsites were upgraded at nearby Baroota Ruins campground, which includes 3 double campsites and one triple campsite.

While Mambray Creek is an amazing location to visit, campers are also encouraged to consider visiting other NPWS campgrounds during the summer holidays.

Campsites at numerous popular parks – including Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, Murray River National Park and Beachport Conservation Park – are filling up fast, so make sure to visit parks.sa.gov.au/find-a-park to find dozens of other great sites to explore.