Wapma Thura-Southern Flinders Ranges National Park

Telowie Gorge

Carved over time by the flowing waters of Telowie Creek, this striking gorge cuts deep through the range, creating a dramatic landscape teeming with life.

As southern temperate and arid ecosystems meet, the gorge provides a rich habitat for diverse wildlife, including the most southern colony of yellow-footed rock-wallabies. In winter, the creek cascades from the gorge onto the plains, adding to the park’s natural beauty.

Whether you're exploring on foot or spotting wildlife in its natural setting, this rugged wilderness offers a true escape into nature.

More information can be found on the Parks SA website.

Wirrabara Forest

Established in 1877 as one of South Australia’s first forest reserves, Wirrabara Forest was created to ensure a sustainable timber resource for the state. Its name comes from an Aboriginal word meaning “a place of big trees,” and today, it remains a special destination in the Southern Flinders Ranges, just 210 km north of Adelaide and west of the Wirrabara township.

Recent upgrades to the Wirrabara Forest picnic area have made it an even more inviting place to visit, with new picnic shelters, BBQ facilities, and an upgraded amenity block with accessible toilets. The improved car park now offers more spaces, including accessible parking, resurfacing, and better traffic flow.

For those wanting to stay a little longer, Ippinitchie Campground provides a peaceful setting along Ippinitchie Creek, just 6 km west of Wirrabara along Forest Road. This small campground features 10 marked sites, with camping permitted in designated areas only.

Beyond the picnic and camping areas, the forest’s rich history comes to life at sites like the rehabilitated Old Nursery, offering insight into South Australia’s plantation forestry heritage. Visitors can also explore historic ruins dating back to 1877, providing a glimpse into Wirrabara’s early forestry origins.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the forest’s shared-use trails wind through native and pine plantations, perfect for bushwalking and cross-country riding. Both the Heysen and Mawson trails also pass through the park, making Wirrabara Forest a must-visit for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers alike.

More information and campground bookings can be found on the Parks SA website.

Nearby attractions:

Bundaleer Reservoir

Just a 40-minute drive from Clare, Bundaleer Reservoir Reserve offers a peaceful escape for outdoor enthusiasts. This smaller, scenic reservoir is ideal for fishing, kayaking, bushwalking, cycling, and picnicking, all set against a backdrop of tranquil waters and woodlands.

Three unsealed loop trails, ranging from 4.5km to 7km, wind through the reserve, taking in the dam wall, shoreline, and forested areas. The trails are shared by walkers and cyclists, while the reservoir itself is perfect for kayaking and canoeing.

Fishing is permitted with a license, and the waters are stocked with golden perch, silver perch, rainbow trout, and brown trout.

For those looking to relax, two picnic shelters near the kayak launch area provide the perfect spot to take in the scenery.

More information can be found on the SA Water website.